A calm sea with a boat anchored near a small island.

Search Hostels in Kota Kinabalu

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation

  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in

  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Next weekend
Sep 25 - Sep 27
In two weeks
Oct 2 - Oct 4
In one month
Oct 16 - Oct 18
In two months
Nov 13 - Nov 15

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu hostels

A modern interior with a central spiral slide, seating areas, and a neon sign.

1. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social

TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (13 reviews)
"Enjoyable stay and a great budget property choice. Staff were all helpful, Wi-Fi good, rooms, although snug, more than adequate for sleeping and showering. The one thing that let the property down was the lack of options at breakfast. Everyday a different breakfast meal was given but you had no idea what it would be and didn’t have another option to choose if it wasn’t to your liking. That said, the quality of the food was good. Would happily stay at the property again if looking for somewhere...
United Kingdom
Wayne
The price is P2,457
P2,807 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 18 - Sep 19
TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
A modern kitchen with wooden countertops, a sink, and bar stools. There are shelves with kitchen items and a plant.

2. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu

Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
"Unique,very beautiful, clean and tidy....nice "
Malaysia
Imran
The price is P1,153
P1,399 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 17 - Sep 18
Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
A wooden structure with a covered roof and a staircase leading to an upper level.

3. Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel

Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
2.0 star property
Ranau
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (33 reviews)
"Very near to Poring Hot Spring Park. The hosts were very helpful and kind."
Singapore
Seok Lan
The price is P1,877
P2,368 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 17 - Sep 18
Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
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.
View all properties
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in
Sign in
Sign up, it's free

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Very comfortable and spacious room. Excellent breakfast. Friendly and helpful staff."
Carolyn 2-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Hostels information

Number of reviews
38
Accommodation
23 Hostels
Lowest Price
P1,399
Highest Price
P2,807

Frequently asked questions

Should I stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
Hostels are a great way to stay for a lower cost, so you can save more for fun things to do. We've heard good things about this destination's natural setting, including its island views and natural parks.
What is a hostel?
These dorm-style accommodations come in quite a few forms, but all of them have three main things in common, including low prices, a social setting, and shared rooms (though many have private options too).
What are the best hostels in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our customers' reviews, these Kota Kinabalu hostels have the best ratings: Signel Hostel - Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a TV in a common area, and multilingual staff. You'll find towels, showers, and hair dryers in all rooms. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu - Located steps from Imago Shopping Mall. Property features include free WiFi and an elevator. You'll find towels, showers, and hair dryers in all rooms. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social - Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a restaurant, and a bar. Rooms come with towels, showers, and bed sheets. Escape Backpackers KK - Property features include free breakfast, free WiFi, and tour assistance. Rooms come with towels, showers, and hair dryers. Capsule Inn - Located within a 20-minute walk of Imago Shopping Mall. Property features include free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk. You'll find towels, hair dryers, and coffee/tea makers in all rooms.
How many hostels can I expect to find in Kota Kinabalu?
If you're in the market for somewhere affordable to stay in Kota Kinabalu, one of Expedia's 16 hostels might be a great option for you.
When is the best time of year to stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
The weather is important when you want to venture out and explore, so here are some stats about the local climate: The hottest months are usually May and June with an average temp of 82°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 80°F. The rainiest months in Kota Kinabalu are January, November, December, and October, with each month seeing an average of 10 inches of rainfall.
What is there to see and do in Kota Kinabalu?
In general, Kota Kinabalu is known for its boating opportunities, snorkeling, and marina. Get out into nature with places like Kota Kinabalu Wetlands Centre, Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, and Sabah Agricultural Park. Cultural attractions include Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village. Locals like to shop at Centre Point and KK Plaza.
What's the best way to get to and around Kota Kinabalu while staying at a hostel?
Keep this information about transit options in and around Kota Kinabalu in your back pocket to make the most of your stay: You can search for flights to the closest airport, which is Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI), located 4 mi (6.5 km) away from the city center. When you're out and about, you may want to make use of public transit. Train stations including Tanjung Aru Station and Putatan Station make it easy to see more of the surrounding area.