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Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"clean"
Malaysia
Nur Azrin
The price is NT$2,216
NT$2,862 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 27 - Jan 28
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Nice large Room with views, Clean , Friendly Staff and very welcoming from Entrance to Exit."
Australia
Shankaran Pillay
The price is NT$2,532
NT$2,812 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"This is a very fine modern hotel located in the heart of Kota Kinabulu. We particularly appreciated the fact that it was a short walk to the restaurant row on the waterfront which offered outdoor seating and a variety of cuisines."
United States
Benjamin
The price is NT$3,046
NT$3,367 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (987 reviews)
"Very good."
Australia
Yifeng
The price is NT$3,827
NT$4,211 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 24 - Jan 25
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (196 reviews)
"Great location and certainly easy to access to the food."
Thailand
Thosaphol
The price is NT$5,503
NT$6,021 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (601 reviews)
"Hotel staff unprofessional "
United Kingdom
Jiarui
The price is NT$3,670
NT$4,042 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,000 reviews)
"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 NT$4,787
NT$5,248 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,001 reviews)
"Very friendly staff Cleaning room every day with fresh towels "
Canada
Susan
The price is NT$5,206
NT$5,701 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

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, (219 reviews)
"Overall facilities are clean and convenient to downtown. "
Hong Kong SAR China
Yuet Ying
The price is NT$2,024
NT$2,622 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 9 - Feb 10
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Signature Inn

Signature Inn
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3 reviews)
"Great location, 24/7 security that let ut in at night. Simple room but perfect for exploring the city."
Norway
Halvor
The price is NT$617
NT$744 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 26 - Jan 27
Signature Inn

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, (147 reviews)
"Spacious and clean. Feel calming from the fragrance of body care products. Good experience with this hotel. "
Hong Kong SAR China
Carol
The price is NT$2,561
NT$2,844 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

Hotel 7 Suria

Hotel 7 Suria
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (126 reviews)
"Convenient and nice Staff "
Canada
Kevin
The price is NT$925
NT$1,169 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 4 - Feb 5
Hotel 7 Suria

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (52 reviews)
"Room is clean and nee"
Singapore
Kim-Foo
The price is NT$2,495
NT$2,772 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 4 - Feb 5
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (898 reviews)
"Spacious rooms and great location. Starting to show it’s age though. "
Australia
Steven
The price is NT$2,563
NT$2,846 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 26 - Jan 27
Grandis Hotel

The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Property in Great area ,very safe and will book in there again Can Recommend"
United States
Gustav
The price is NT$1,188
NT$1,479 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 30 - Jan 31
The Klagan Hotel

Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (244 reviews)
"Staff was courteous and helpful. Room was super clean"
United States
Douglas
The price is NT$1,308
NT$1,490 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 11 - Feb 12
Mandarin Hotel

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (594 reviews)
"Great value hotel with great facility. Location is also good, very central to shops and restaurants. Highly recommended!"
United Kingdom
jack tak hau
The price is NT$3,141
NT$3,470 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

A Residence

A Residence
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Hotel very beautiful, clean, good staff"
Malaysia
Imran
The price is NT$1,201
NT$1,375 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 23 - Jan 24
A Residence

Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (950 reviews)
"Very clean and proper hotel with decent location and good area, really enjoyed our stay!"
Singapore
Keith
The price is NT$2,902
NT$3,213 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 26 - Jan 27
Horizon Hotel

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 reviews)
"Shops nearby "
Malaysia
Kok Ken
The price is NT$2,371
NT$2,639 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 25 - Jan 26
Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B
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 and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Tanjung Aru

Pristine beaches and ample 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

Visitors highly recommend Karambunai for its beaches, and you can make a stop by Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai while you're in town.

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

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Alamesra and surrounding area, you can visit 1Borneo Hypermall and Likas Stadium.

Kepayan

Kepayan might not have many top sights, but Sutera Harbour and Imago Shopping Mall are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Top Downtown Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Top reasons to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu

  • Vibrant City Life: Experience the lively atmosphere of Downtown Kota Kinabalu, filled with friendly locals, local markets, and a laid-back vibe.
  • Scenic Waterfront: Stroll along the Kota Kinabalu City Waterfront for stunning views, perfect for relaxation and capturing memorable photos.
  • Cultural Immersion: Dive into the local culture through delicious cuisine and historical attractions like the history museum.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy day trips to nearby recreational spots and activities showcasing Sabah's natural beauty.
  • Comfortable Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels, from luxurious to modern, ensuring a pleasant stay for all travelers.

Find great hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, perfect for every type of traveler. From the luxurious Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu to the modern Hyatt Centric, you'll find spacious rooms and top-notch amenities for business, family, or themed vacations. Experience the vibrant city while enjoying popular hotels that cater to your needs, ensuring a memorable stay in this beautiful destination.

  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: A premier 5-star hotel nestled in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is perfect for families and business travelers alike. This hotel features a range of child-friendly amenities such as a children's pool, babysitting services, and complimentary cribs. Guests can enjoy spacious, modern rooms with stunning views of the South China Sea, and indulge in on-site dining that offers both local and international cuisine. The hotel's strategic location makes it convenient for exploring the city's attractions, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both leisure and business experiences.
  • The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Embrace a family-friendly spa escape at The Pacific Sutera Hotel, a luxurious 5-star resort in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This resort boasts a fantastic array of amenities for children, including a children’s club, arcade room, and playground. Guests can unwind at the full-service spa, which offers a variety of treatments, or enjoy the outdoor pool complete with a waterslide. The hotel's inviting atmosphere and superb dining options make it a great choice for families looking to relax and rejuvenate while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
  • The Magellan Sutera Resort: Experience unparalleled luxury at The Magellan Sutera Resort, a 5-star gem situated in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. Tailored for business travelers and spa enthusiasts, this resort offers an extensive range of relaxation options, including an outdoor pool, hot tub, and various spa treatments. Guests appreciate the high-end accommodations and the serene environment that fosters productivity and relaxation. With its exquisite dining options and proximity to business hubs, The Magellan Sutera Resort provides an exclusive setting for both work and leisure.

Where to stay near Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Exploring Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant mix of experiences perfect for any traveler. Enjoy the bustling city center filled with friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for family vacations or romantic getaways. Don’t miss the stunning city views, local markets, and delicious cuisine that reflect the region's rich culture. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Downtown Kota Kinabalu has something special for everyone.

  • Kota Kinabalu: As the capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city that serves as your gateway to exploring the beauty of Borneo. Located on the western coast, it offers stunning views of the South China Sea and the majestic Mount Kinabalu in the background. The bustling downtown area features shopping malls, local markets, and parks, making it an ideal spot for family outings and urban adventures. Don’t miss the chance to explore the lively marina and indulge in fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurants. The city's rich cultural diversity adds to its charm, offering a unique blend of experiences for business travelers and vacationers alike.
  • Pusat Bandar: Situated just 483m from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar is a charming village that provides a more laid-back experience while still being close to the city’s hustle. This area is popular among business travelers and families, thanks to its convenient access to shopping centers and lively markets. You can stroll through local parks or enjoy the views from various lookouts. Pusat Bandar offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals, making it a great place to relax after a day of exploration in the bustling city.
  • Sinsuran Kompleks: Located right next to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Sinsuran Kompleks is a vibrant village known for its outdoor adventures and scenic spots. Perfect for those seeking a blend of excitement and natural beauty, this area boasts access to local shopping centers and is within reach of stunning mountains and lookouts. Whether you're interested in hiking or simply enjoying the picturesque views, Sinsuran Kompleks offers an array of activities for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

Things to do in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant mix of activities perfect for city-themed, business, and family vacations. Explore popular shopping centers and malls, enjoy window shopping, and embark on a city tour. Don't miss out on day trips to nearby recreational spots and outdoor activities that showcase the beauty of Sabah. Whether you're looking to relax or indulge in local culture, there's something for everyone in this lively urban environment.

Shopping

In Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Imago Shopping Mall offers a blend of entertainment and family-friendly vibes, while Suria Sabah Shopping Mall features a variety of shops in a lively atmosphere. Don't miss the Gaya Street Sunday Market for unique local gifts and souvenirs in a bustling setting.

Recreation

At Likas Stadium, enjoy an invigorating atmosphere with various sports activities and fitness sessions. Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai offers scenic outdoor golfing experiences, while Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club provides a luxurious retreat with top-notch amenities and stunning views for relaxation and leisure.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, where you can challenge yourself on various climbing walls in an exciting, sports-oriented atmosphere. For nature lovers, hike Bukit Padang for stunning scenery and adventure, or tackle the exhilarating zipline at Zip Borneo for a unique outdoor experience.

Nightlife

In Downtown Kota Kinabalu, vibrant nightlife awaits at venues like the vibrant Waterfront Esplanade, where you can enjoy live music and stunning sunset views. Head to the lively bars on Gaya Street for a mix of local and international flavors, ensuring a memorable night filled with fun and excitement.

*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 traveling in March, May, or November when hotel prices are typically lower. Book your accommodations at least a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest nights to stay, while Mondays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare prices and filter for eco-friendly hotels. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can lead to further savings, making your trip more budget-friendly.

  • 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search based on hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotel options available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay 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 ideal for city, business, and family vacations, featuring attractions like the harbor, tourist precinct, and history museum. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy outdoor activities. Don't miss a trip to Mount Kinabalu, stroll along the Kota Kinabalu City Waterfront, and explore various tourist spots that showcase the city's charm and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Sutera Harbour: Experience the serene beauty of Sutera Harbour, where stunning beaches meet picturesque scenery. Whether you're lounging by the shore or enjoying a leisurely stroll, this harbor offers a perfect blend of relaxation and breathtaking views.
  • Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: A vibrant tourist precinct, the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is ideal for families. Enjoy outdoor activities, local eateries, and cultural performances as you soak in the lively atmosphere alongside beautiful coastal views.
  • Sabah State Museum: Just 1.6km away, the Sabah State Museum immerses you in the rich culture and history of Sabah. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the state’s diverse heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

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

Traveling to Downtown Kota Kinabalu is convenient via Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located 6.4km away. Nearby, the Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, both rated 5-stars, offer excellent accommodations. The Hilton provides a range of airport transportation services, including a 24-hour airport shuttle and fees applicable for children. Additionally, the Magellan Sutera Resort, a 5-star resort just 4.8km from the airport, also offers easy access to the airport. Each hotel ensures a comfortable stay with convenient transport options to help you enjoy your vacation in this beautiful city.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Travelers love the Downtown Kota Kinabalu neighborhood for its beautiful island views, top seafood restaurants, and major shopping area. Are you looking for Downtown Kota Kinabalu travel tips? Be sure to check out Anjung Samudera and Centre Point while you're in the neighborhood.
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 offers 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Other top choices in the neighborhood include CJ Residence and AC Residence.
How many hotels should I expect to find in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Expedia has 326 hotels and other accommodations 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 reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to view the best deals in Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
For more information about changing or cancelling your trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.
What is there to do around this Kota Kinabalu neighborhood?
Planning to do some shopping while in Downtown Kota Kinabalu? Consider Anjung Samudera, Centre Point, and Kota Kinabalu Central Market. You could also plan a visit to KK Plaza or Imago Shopping Mall while you're in the neighborhood. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Kota Kinabalu include Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Warisan Square, and Local Fruits Market. While you're out sightseeing, Anjung Kinabalu and Kompleks Asia City are a couple of additional sights to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

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