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

Budget Hotels in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

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Check availability on Kota Kinabalu Budget Hotels

Tonight
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Tomorrow
Sep 30 - Oct 1
This weekend
Oct 2 - Oct 4
Next weekend
Oct 9 - Oct 11

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

A modern building with a glass facade, a pool area with a curved edge, and a view of the sunset over the water.
A modern hotel lobby with a large sofa, armchairs, a coffee table, and a view of the sunset over the water.
A modern kitchen with a central island, stainless steel appliances, and wooden cabinetry.
A modern gym with treadmills, stationary bikes, and exercise equipment. Large windows provide natural light and views of the outdoors.

1. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Thomas
P4,290
P4,786 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, large chandeliers, and a seating area.
A buffet with various food options, a counter with plates, and a modern interior design.
A modern bar area with a long counter, bar stools, and a television mounted on the wall.
A modern building entrance with glass doors, a blue carpet, and two lion statues.

2. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Japan
Genya
P3,156
P4,175 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 23 - Oct 24
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
A person in a modern indoor pool with clear glass walls, a tiled column, and a glass table with a drink.
A lobby with a blue sofa, yellow chairs, and a staircase.
Room
A gym with various exercise equipment, large windows, and a view of buildings.

3. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Canada
Kian Yung
P3,450
P3,880 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
A modern hotel corridor with a marble floor, dark wooden walls, and a large abstract artwork on the left.
A spacious living room with a modern sofa, a round coffee table, and a chandelier.
A modern hotel entrance with a glass facade, a visible staircase, and a sign for 'GRANDIS HOTEL'.
A poolside area with lounge chairs and a bar area.

4. Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
lana
P6,026
P6,662 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 7 - Oct 8
Grandis Hotel
A corridor with wooden doors and glass panels, leading to a room with a view of greenery.
A coffee shop with a sign that reads "FLOW COFFEE". Inside, there are tables and chairs arranged for customers.
A spacious gym with various exercise equipment, large windows, and a clean, modern design.
A modern hotel room with two beds, a round table with a vase of flowers, and a seating area with a chair and a table.

5. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United States
Raul Miguel
P4,378
P4,882 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
A modern restaurant with a central island, dining tables, and chairs.
A multi-story hotel with a rooftop bar, surrounded by a busy urban street at night.
A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and a TV screen displaying a hotel name.
A banquet hall with tables set for a formal event, a red carpet, and a city view.

6. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Taiwan
Joshua
P2,162
P2,335 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
A spacious lobby with modern seating arrangements, a large abstract wall art piece, and a view of the outdoors through large windows.
A spacious lobby with a wooden floor, a reception desk, and potted plants.
A rooftop pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by modern buildings and a clear sky.
A hotel room with three beds, a desk, a chair, and a TV.

7. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Kevin
P4,101
P4,582 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 29 - Oct 30
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
A hotel room with a bed, a window with a view of a cityscape, a wooden door, and a wall-mounted coat rack.
A compact minibar with a coffee maker, a glass, and a vase with flowers.
Two white towels with embroidered text and decorative flowers.
A hotel room with a large window, a clear view of the cityscape, a vase with flowers, and a table with a menu.

8. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Canada
Zhen
P1,709
P1,999 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
A spacious lobby with a grand piano, a curved sofa, and a reception desk.
A grand lobby with a grand piano, a curved sofa, and a chandelier.
The entrance to Jesselton Hotel with a classic facade, large glass doors, and a tiled ground floor.
A spacious lobby with a curved sofa, a chandelier, and a seating area with tables and chairs.

9. The Jesselton Hotel

The Jesselton Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Malaysia
Henn Kiew
P3,511
P3,945 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
The Jesselton Hotel
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sitting area with a bathtub, a large window with a view, and a wooden interior.
A swimming pool with metal railings, a wooden deck, and a view of buildings in the background.
A hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent sign at the top and multiple floors with illuminated windows.
A conference room with a wooden table, black chairs, and a view of the sea through large windows.

10. Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Michelle
P4,047
P4,776 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 13 - Oct 14
Horizon Hotel
View all properties

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Discover cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital of Sabah, offers a paradise of budget-friendly activities that will delight quality-seeking travelers. Begin your adventure at the stunning Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where you can take a short, affordable boat ride to explore beautiful islands like Manukan and Sapi, perfect for snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs. For a taste of local culture, visit the bustling Pasar Besar Kota Kinabalu, where you can wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce and local handicrafts, and savor delicious street food without breaking the bank. A trek up to Signal Hill provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding islands, and it’s free! Don’t miss the chance to explore the lush trails of the Kinabalu National Park, where you can enjoy both easy hikes and stunning flora and fauna at no cost. For accommodation, consider staying in the lively area of Gaya Street, where you’ll find a range of affordable hotels and boutique guesthouses. This area not only offers close nearby the bustling Sunday market but also creates an opportunity to experience the local community, with its friendly atmosphere and diverse dining options. With attentive service and comfortable lodging, Gaya Street is the perfect base for your Kota Kinabalu adventure.

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Travelers looking for affordable accommodations in Kota Kinabalu will find these top budget hotels to be excellent choices. Each offers essential amenities and great service without breaking the bank.Signel Hostel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Signel Hostel is a top-rated budget option in Kota Kinabalu, achieving an impressive review rating of 10.0. This hostel provides essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, making it a great base for travelers looking to explore the city without overspending.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include shared refrigerator and kitchenette facilities, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. The hostel also offers terrace access for relaxation, along with nearby street parking for convenience, ensuring a comfortable and budget-friendly experience.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.6 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.66 miles, Kompleks Asia City - 0.51 miles

Hotel 17

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Hotel 17 is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort and convenience in downtown Kota Kinabalu, a solid review rating of 8.0. Guests enjoy complimentary daily newspapers, free Wi-Fi, and toiletries, ensuring a pleasant stay without the extra costs.
  • Other amenities: In addition to budget amenities, Hotel 17 offers daily housekeeping for added convenience. The hotel features premium bedding and air conditioning to enhance guest comfort, while the concierge is always available to assist with local inquiries and recommendations.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.36 miles, Anjung Samudera - 0.75 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 0.62 miles

KK Times Square Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: KK Times Square Hotel is a fantastic option for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations with a rating of 8.0. The hotel provides a range of complimentary services, including 24-hour airport shuttle, free Wi-Fi, and daily newspapers, making it an excellent base for exploring Kota Kinabalu.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a room service option for convenient dining, as well as various transportation services such as area shuttle and airport transportation. Guests can also take advantage of self-parking and air conditioning for a comfortable stay.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Imago Shopping Mall - 0.82 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.99 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.28 miles

Seaview Capsule Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Seaview Capsule Hotel offers a unique budget experience for travelers in downtown Kota Kinabalu, with a review rating of 6.0. Guests appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, perfect for starting the day right without any added expenses.
  • Other amenities: The hotel boasts a prime location near the ocean and a shopping center, for added convenience for travelers. Additional amenities include self-parking, air conditioning, and a waterfront location, making it easy for travelers to enjoy the beauty of Kota Kinabalu.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.29 miles, Centre Point - 0.35 miles, Anjung Samudera - 0.4 miles

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"Easily THE BEST experience in Kota Kinabalu. Not just the best hotel, the best experience. Exceptionally well managed. The staff here is amazing and when you've come a long long distance (California) that is so so appreciated. There are lower cost hotels, but there is no better value than this Hyatt in KK. After 34 hours of flying, to arrive and know that I will be 100% taken care of, is invaluable. I have stayed here now five trips to Borneo, and every time, everything is perfect. Especially the cleanliness. My room is always pristine. The cleaners work super super hard to make sure of that fact. And as well the staff at the front desk is always smartly assessing and managing your stay. And at breakfast, just love the staff and chefs, amazing food, amazing service, again 100% taken care of. Many thanks to everyone. See you again soon! - AB from Santa Barbara, California"
Andrew 1-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"The pool area was lovely and the rooftop bar was fabulous. Friendly and helpful staff. Food by the pool was great."
Rebecca 6-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"위치적으로 매우 훌륭합니다. 가야스트릿과 DBKK선착장까지의 접근성이 좋고 주변에 식사가기도 좋고 관광지와의 거리도 매우 좋습니다."
tae seung 3-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Grandis Hotel
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Gym was in a separate building which was a little bit of a pain and yoga sessions were further still which wasn’t great"
Jyoti 3-night trip
Posted 4 months ago
The Magellan Sutera Resort

Frequently asked questions

What is Kota Kinabalu like for travelers on a budget?
Kota Kinabalu has a variety of cheap accommodations and places to visit, making it a great vacation choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions like Centre Point, KK Plaza, and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveler reviews, TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good choices for your budget-friendly stay include Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu and Signel Hostel.
How many low cost hotels will I be able to find in Kota Kinabalu?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet among Expedia's 18 budget hotels in Kota Kinabalu.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Kota Kinabalu?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Kota Kinabalu, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. 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?
Kota Kinabalu attracts visitors with its major shopping area and island views, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then make time for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. Check out the area's cultural spots like Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Centre Point.
How can I get to Kota Kinabalu and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Kota Kinabalu can help keep you on budget. The closest airport is 4 mi (6.5 km) away from the center in Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI). To see more of the surrounding area, hop aboard a train at Tanjung Aru Station or Putatan Station. You can find out about your water travel options at the marina.

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