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Search Hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu

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Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1001)
"Staff were very friendly and helpful. However, this is an older hotel and for a similar price you could stay at some of the newer hotels in KK."
Australia
Nicholas
The price is Rp1.425.588
Rp1.580.259 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (975)
"Good hotel and friendly staff"
United Kingdom
Michael
The price is Rp1.462.451
Rp1.620.070 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1002)
"Helpful staff"
Singapore
GRAHAM ANDREW
The price is Rp1.462.451
Rp1.620.070 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Jan - 10 Jan 2026
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (216)
"Overall facilities are clean and convenient to downtown. "
Hong Kong SAR China
Yuet Ying
The price is Rp844.971
Rp1.116.841 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1000)
"Very friendly staff Cleaning room every day with fresh towels "
Canada
Susan
The price is Rp1.515.871
Rp1.677.765 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Dec - 17 Dec
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

Oikos Poshtel

Oikos Poshtel
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.6 out of 10, Good, (13)
"Booke dthe family room for a friend and I. Had a great bathroom.very modern, a window, very comfy and cute. Would def stay again. Great value ad X rs from shopping centre and a top massage centre (Siam) in the same building)."
Australia
Larissa
Oikos Poshtel

Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu

Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (372)
"Friendly and helpful staff, good amenities, convenient location"
Australia
FOON
The price is Rp603.396
Rp692.292 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jan - 7 Jan 2026
Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu

The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1002)
"Love the buffet breakfast, so much to choose from. Pools are great, close to other dining. This is our second visit and we will definitely be back again"
Australia
Lisa
The price is Rp2.128.979
Rp2.339.921 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Dec - 17 Dec
The Magellan Sutera Resort

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (599)
"overall quite nice, be aware that the hotel is right on the landing route to KKIA, so you can hear the planes flying right above your heads all day long"
Taiwan
SHU-WEI
The price is Rp1.624.945
Rp1.795.565 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (48)
"Great location, clean and comfortable rooms with a lovely pool."
Australia
Elise
The price is Rp1.104.962
Rp1.233.983 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Dec - 16 Dec
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (896)
"Spacious rooms and great location. Starting to show it’s age though. "
Australia
Steven
The price is Rp2.445.881
Rp2.682.175 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Grandis Hotel

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (196)
"Great location and certainly easy to access to the food."
Thailand
Thosaphol
The price is Rp1.990.558
Rp2.190.426 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Dec - 21 Dec
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Sabah Oriental Hotel

Sabah Oriental Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.0 out of 10, Good, (304)
"Very good hoteal to stay with family."
Malaysia
Haris Shariman
The price is Rp699.610
Rp796.234 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Jan - 13 Jan 2026
Sabah Oriental Hotel

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (590)
"Great value hotel with great facility. Location is also good, very central to shops and restaurants. Highly recommended!"
United Kingdom
jack tak hau
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Service Apartments

Promenade Service Apartments
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.6 out of 10, (453)
"Excellent stay and so quiet at night. "
United Kingdom
Janet
The price is Rp310.770
Rp376.256 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Dec - 16 Dec
Promenade Service Apartments

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (145)
"Great hotel for vacation"
Singapore
Carol
The price is Rp1.415.734
Rp1.569.617 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Dec - 18 Dec
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B

Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B
4.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (35)
"Shops nearby "
Malaysia
Kok Ken
The price is Rp1.233.334
Rp1.372.625 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B

The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1000)
"Property in Great area ,very safe and will book in there again Can Recommend"
United States
Gustav
The Klagan Hotel

Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (950)
"Staff were exceptionally friendly & helpful. Reasonable room rates for what is available. Good breakfast. Walkable to shopping atea"
Australia
Jude
The price is Rp1.591.110
Rp1.759.023 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Horizon Hotel

Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (306)
"comfortable beds & pillows"
Hong Kong SAR China
Yin Shan
The price is Rp585.265
Rp731.266 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Dec - 17 Dec
Hotel Capital
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Find the best Downtown Kota Kinabalu areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Learn more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Aru

Beaches and abundant dining options are well-reviewed features of Tanjung Aru. Make a stop by top sights like Tanjung Aru Perdana Park while you're exploring the area.

Karambunai

Karambunai is popular for its pristine beaches, and you might make a stop by Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, a top place to visit in the area.

Kampung Air

Unique features of Kampung Air include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Kompleks Asia City or Sedco Square while you're exploring the area.

Alamesra

While Alamesra may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like 1Borneo Hypermall and Likas Stadium.

Likas

You'll appreciate the shopping during your time in Likas and you might want to plan a stop by Likas Stadium and Likas Sports Complex while you're in the area.

Top Downtown Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Top reasons to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu

  • Bustling Shopping Centres: Explore vibrant shopping centres and local markets for unique finds and souvenirs.
  • Stunning Harbour Views: Enjoy picturesque views at the bustling harbour, perfect for a leisurely stroll or sunset watching.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through art galleries and traditional cuisine at charming restaurants.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in a variety of family-friendly attractions, ensuring fun for all ages.
  • Adventurous Outdoor Pursuits: Discover nearby thrilling activities and breathtaking hikes for adventure enthusiasts.

Find great hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

In Downtown Kota Kinabalu, you'll discover a diverse selection of accommodation options, from comfortable hotels to budget-friendly hostels and backpacker lodgings. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly amenities, business facilities, or a city-themed getaway, there’s something for everyone. Many hotels offer free Wi-Fi and stunning views, ensuring a delightful stay in this vibrant coastal city.

  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Nestled in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu, the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu stands as a beacon of luxury and comfort. This 5-star hotel caters to discerning travellers seeking an upscale experience, whether for business or leisure. Families are particularly well catered for, with amenities including a children's pool, babysitting services, and cribs provided at no extra charge. Guests can unwind at the on-site dining options or enjoy stunning views of the sea from their rooms, making it an idyllic retreat for those looking to indulge.
  • Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel: Embracing the spirit of adventure, the Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel offers an exhilarating stay for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Located in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, this 5-star property is surrounded by opportunities for outdoor activities, including horse riding, kayaking, and rock climbing. The hotel is designed with families in mind, providing essential amenities such as child-friendly pools and cribs. With its adventure-themed offerings and sumptuous accommodations, it's the perfect base for those wishing to explore the natural beauty of Sabah.
  • Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre: The Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre is a sophisticated 4-star hotel that caters primarily to business travellers. Its strategic location offers easy access to the city's commercial hubs, making it an ideal choice for corporate stays. The hotel features modern facilities, including meeting rooms and high-speed internet, ensuring a productive environment. Guests appreciate the stylishly designed rooms that provide a comfortable and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a busy day of meetings or sightseeing.

Where to stay near Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions and romantic spots. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Asia City, explore atmospheric streets lined with charming shops, and indulge in local cuisine at the Australian Place. With a variety of accommodation options, you can easily find a comfortable stay. Arrival in Kota Kinabalu is seamless, making it an ideal base for discovering the friendly vibes and relaxing experiences the region has to offer.

  • Kota Kinabalu: As the capital city of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Nestled between the South China Sea and the majestic Mount Kinabalu, the city is a hub for travellers seeking family-friendly, business-oriented, and city-themed experiences. The bustling shopping centres and malls cater to all your retail desires, while nearby parks and marinas provide opportunities for relaxation and leisure. With visitor numbers peaking during July to August and December, the city buzzes with life, making it an ideal destination for socialising and exploration.
  • Pusat Bandar: Just 483m from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar is a thriving village that captures the essence of local life. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business-friendly environment, the area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the culture. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant public markets and shopping centres that showcase local produce and crafts. The charming streets and parks offer a lovely setting for leisurely strolls, while lookouts provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Similar to Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar experiences peak visits between July to August and December.
  • Sinsuran Kompleks: Located adjacent to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Sinsuran Kompleks is a lively village that caters to adventurous souls and families alike. With a focus on outdoor activities, the area boasts shopping centres and malls that provide a delightful shopping experience. The proximity to mountains and tourist precincts makes it an exciting spot for exploration and adventure, particularly for those keen on hiking or enjoying scenic lookouts. Like its neighbours, Sinsuran Kompleks sees a rise in visitors during the summer and festive months, ensuring a bustling atmosphere throughout.

Things to do in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant blend of family-friendly activities, shopping experiences, and business opportunities. Visitors can explore bustling shopping centres and a local public market, while also indulging in breathtaking hikes and art galleries for a touch of culture. For those seeking thrills, there are adrenaline-pumping activities available nearby, ensuring a memorable trip filled with diverse experiences.

Shopping

In Downtown Kota Kinabalu, you can explore Kompleks Asia City and Plaza Wawasan for a vibrant shopping experience filled with various businesses and family-friendly activities. Don't miss the Gaya Street Sunday Market, where you can find unique souvenirs and enjoy the lively city atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Likas Stadium, where you can engage in various sports activities. For a more tranquil experience, the Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai offers scenic outdoor golfing, while the luxurious Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club provides a serene retreat amidst lush landscapes.

Adventure

At the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, challenge yourself with thrilling climbing walls, perfect for adrenaline seekers. Bukit Padang offers scenic hiking trails amidst lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers. For the ultimate thrill, experience the exhilarating Zip Borneo zipline course, soaring through the treetops in an outdoor adventure.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Downtown Kota Kinabalu with a visit to the lively Waterfront, where you can enjoy drinks at popular bars like the Hakka Restaurant & Bar. For a laid-back vibe, explore the local night markets offering delicious street food and unique crafts.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Kota Kinabalu

To save money during your visit to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider travelling in March, May, or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on sites like Expedia can yield significant savings. Saturdays are generally the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays tend to be pricier. Additionally, use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly options and combine hotel bookings with flights and activities for better package deals. Don't forget to explore free attractions and utilise public transport for cost-effective travel around the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Downtown Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is an excellent choice for family, city, and business-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as the bustling harbour, vibrant tourist precinct, and stunning mosques. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying outdoor experiences, making it a delightful destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure amidst a lively urban atmosphere.

  • Sutera Harbour: Experience the tranquil beauty of Sutera Harbour, where you can relax on sandy beaches and enjoy stunning waterfront views. This vibrant harbour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic charm, making it an ideal spot to unwind.
  • Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: A lively outdoor precinct, the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is perfect for families seeking a pleasant stroll or picnic. With beautiful views of the sea and various recreational facilities, it’s a great place to connect with nature and enjoy local street food.
  • Sabah State Mosque: Located a mile from Downtown, the Sabah State Mosque showcases exquisite architecture and rich cultural heritage. Its serene atmosphere invites visitors to appreciate its intricate design and learn about the local Islamic traditions.

Best time to go to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is conveniently accessible via Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), situated 6.4km away. A notable accommodation option is the 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, located 3.2km from the airport, offering transfers and shuttles for easy access. Another excellent choice is the 5-star Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, positioned 6.4km from the airport, providing nearby access. Additionally, the 5-star Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is located 8.0km away and also benefits from nearby access to the airport. These hotels ensure a comfortable stay while being within a short distance of the airport, making your travel seamless.

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Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Travellers love the Downtown Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood for its beautiful island views, top seafood restaurants and major shopping area. Are you looking for Downtown Kota Kinabalu travel tips? Make sure that you visit Centre Point and Kompleks Asia City while you're in the neighbourhood.
Where is the best hotel for a stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Based on Expedia customer reviews, Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B is the highest ranked property in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This hotel is steps from Imago Shopping Mall, and offers 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Other top choices in the neighbourhood include CJ Residence and Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu.
How many hotels will I be able to find in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Expedia has 334 hotels and other accommodation options in Downtown Kota Kinabalu to choose from, making this an ideal home base for exploring the greater Kota Kinabalu area.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel bookings are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of check in. If your reservation is non-refundable, it might still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to get top deals in Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
What is there to do around this Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood?
Planning to do some shopping while in Downtown Kota Kinabalu? Consider Centre Point, Kompleks Asia City and Kota Kinabalu Central Market. You could also plan a visit to KK Plaza or Imago Shopping Mall while you're in the neighbourhood. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Kota Kinabalu include Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Anjung Samudera and Warisan Square. While you're out sightseeing, Local Fruits Market and Anjung Kinabalu are a couple of additional sights to visit in Kota Kinabalu.