Kota Kinabalu Hotels

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

• Stunning Beaches: Kota Kinabalu boasts beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Majestic Mount Kinabalu: Explore the iconic peak, a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and local cuisine throughout the city.
• Picturesque Islands: Discover the idyllic Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, ideal for island hopping and snorkelling.
• Delightful Accommodations: Enjoy a range of hotels and guesthouses catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Discover a range of delightful accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, including hotels and guesthouses tailored to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat, a business-friendly environment, or a relaxing spa experience, the city's hotels offer a variety of services and facilities to enhance your stay. Explore the best hotels in Kota Kinabalu and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Sabah.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: A luxurious 5-star resort that caters to discerning travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and recreation. Nestled amidst lush landscapes, this hotel features a golf-themed experience, allowing enthusiasts to indulge in their passion right on the property. The extensive spa facilities offer an array of treatments including massages and reflexology, ensuring guests unwind in style. With a stunning pool area and a thrilling waterslide, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is perfect for those wanting an upscale escape infused with leisure and luxury.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: This elegant 5-star hotel is an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. Its central location in Kota Kinabalu makes it convenient for exploration, while the hotel itself provides a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, including a dedicated children's pool and babysitting services. The luxurious accommodation and sophisticated dining options make it a splendid choice for a balanced blend of work and leisure during your stay.
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: A stunning 5-star resort that embodies a family-friendly beach and golf getaway. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy sun-soaked days and refreshing sea breezes. The property is equipped with golf facilities, making it a haven for golf lovers. Children are well-catered for with a playground, arcade game room, and supervised childcare options, ensuring a fun-filled stay for the little ones. The Pacific Sutera Hotel combines relaxation and adventure, promising an unforgettable experience for families and beach enthusiasts.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sea views, offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation for families and couples alike. Explore the bustling city centre, indulge in local cuisine, or unwind on beautiful beaches. Nearby attractions like the picturesque islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and the majestic Mount Kinabalu ensure unforgettable experiences. Whether you're seeking romance or a family-friendly getaway, Kota Kinabalu is the perfect vacation destination for every traveller.

• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Nestled in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Downtown is a bustling hub perfect for a city-themed escape. With a steady influx of visitors peaking in July to August and December, the area is alive year-round. Here, you can indulge in retail therapy at various shopping centres and malls, while local markets offer a taste of traditional crafts and fresh produce. Notable landmarks include vibrant streets, serene parks, and the picturesque marina, which provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls or family outings. Experience the blend of urban life and natural beauty that defines Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
• Pusat Bandar: Known as the village centre of Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar presents a mix of business and leisure opportunities. Similar in visitor trends to Downtown, it attracts crowds primarily in July to August and December. The area offers a variety of shopping venues, from bustling centres to quaint markets, making it ideal for families and business travellers alike. Explore the local parks, scenic streets, and lookout points that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Pusat Bandar is a vibrant and dynamic place to experience the essence of Kota Kinabalu.
• Donggongon: Located a short distance from the city centre, Donggongon is a charming village that caters to a diverse range of interests, particularly in sports and family activities. With peak visitor numbers in August and December to January, it remains a popular destination throughout the year. The village boasts several shopping centres and even a country private club for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy sports facilities, including a stadium, while the nearby marina and harbour provide opportunities for water-based adventures. Donggongon seamlessly blends leisure and activity, making it a delightful addition to your Kota Kinabalu itinerary.

Things to do in and around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful array of activities perfect for families, business travellers, and city enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping centres and malls, as well as enjoy the amenities of private country clubs. With an abundance of city attractions and shopping options, Kota Kinabalu promises a memorable experience filled with local culture and leisure activities for everyone.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Kota Kinabalu, visit Imago Shopping Mall, a vibrant hub with entertainment options. The Handicraft Market offers local treasures, while Inanam Mall is perfect for family shopping. If you're up for a drive, explore additional shopping centres beyond the city limits.

Recreation

Likas Stadium offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for an energising workout or a leisurely stroll. Likas Sports Complex provides ample facilities for various sports activities amidst a lively community vibe. For a more serene experience, Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai combines golfing with stunning outdoor landscapes, ideal for relaxation.

Adventure

The Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre offers thrilling climbing experiences with a vibrant sports atmosphere right in Kota Kinabalu. For breathtaking views, hike the scenic trails at Bukit Padang. For an exhilarating rush, try the Zip Borneo zipline ropes course located 25.7km from the city.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Waterfront Esplanade, where you can enjoy live music and savour local delicacies. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Shamrock Irish Bar, known for its friendly vibe and refreshing drinks, perfect for mingling with both locals and fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kota Kinabalu

To save money during your visit to Kota Kinabalu, take advantage of free attractions like Sutera Harbour and Mari Mari Cultural Village. For transport, opt for the bus or use Grab for affordable rides. Plan your trip in March, May, or November for lower accommodation prices, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Saturday is typically the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia's tools to compare rates and consider package deals for flights and hotels to maximise savings while ensuring a seamless booking experience.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in 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: Booking a hotel in Kota Kinabalu about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kota Kinabalu is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Kota Kinabalu is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel reservation in Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family, city, and business-themed vacations, offering a variety of attractions including mosques, urban parks, and harbours. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy outdoor activities, alongside the stunning night views of the city. Don't miss the chance to explore the majestic Mount Kinabalu, a highlight for those seeking a unique and memorable experience in the heart of Kota Kinabalu.

• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this vibrant waterfront promenade, perfect for families. With its picturesque views of the sea and nearby islands, it's an ideal spot for picnics, evening walks, and local street performances.
• University of Malaysia Sabah: This modern university boasts impressive architecture and lush surroundings. Explore its educational environment and enjoy the city vibes that blend academic life with cultural experiences, making it a unique stop.
• Sabah International Convention Centre: A hub for business events, this venue features contemporary design and state-of-the-art facilities. It's an excellent example of Kota Kinabalu's growing reputation as a business destination, offering insights into the region's economic landscape.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kota Kinabalu falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kota Kinabalu falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	82.6°F (28.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kota Kinabalu

Flying into Kota Kinabalu is convenient with Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), situated 6.4km from the city centre. Among the top hotel choices nearby is the Hilton Kota Kinabalu, a 5-star establishment that offers a range of transportation services, including a 24-hour airport shuttle. Another excellent option is Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, also rated 5 stars, located the same distance from the airport. For a resort experience, consider The Magellan Sutera Resort, which is 4.8km from BKI. All these accommodations provide easy access to the airport, ensuring a smooth start to your holiday in Sabah.