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Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

1. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Hotel bello"
Italy
Davide
The price is NT$2,913
NT$3,224 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 19 - Sep 20
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

2. CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (53 reviews)
"Clean and comfortable lodging, I could recommend. Good location- easy walk to fish market. Can honestly say for the price was a good deal. "
Australia
Scott
The price is NT$878
NT$1,027 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
CJ Residence

3. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Everything was perfect and we enjoyed our stay very much. A special mention deserves the staff ,everyone we encountered was genuinely very kind and happy to help and make our stay memorable. The breakfast was amazing. Also the pool was very nice."
United Kingdom
Ines
The price is NT$2,768
NT$3,068 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 11 - Sep 12
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

4. Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (196 reviews)
"Helpful staff that let me check in early :)"
Australia
Brittany
The price is NT$718
NT$925 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 26 - Aug 27
Hotel Gaia 95

5. 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, (236 reviews)
"Hotel location is good"
Singapore
KIAN HEONG
The price is NT$1,763
NT$2,314 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 18 - Sep 19
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

6. Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (250 reviews)
"Great location. Able to walk to many locations and night food market next door."
Canada
Tamara
The price is NT$1,313
NT$1,496 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 12 - Sep 13
Mandarin Hotel

7. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (211 reviews)
"Hotel staff and facilities were excellent. The breakfast buffet was phenomenal—wonderful, personalized service from Encik Fauzi and the rest of the team and a wide selection of food options, including many local favorites!"
United States
Paul
The price is NT$3,513
NT$3,872 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

8. The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,000 reviews)
"I enjoyed my stay. The staff were friendly and the room was clean and comfortable.The breakfast served was very good. The location was very good too."
Australia
John
The price is NT$1,302
NT$1,537 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
The Klagan Hotel

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

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (96 reviews)
"I had great time during my trip, easy check in and out, walking distance to most places"
Canada
Zhen
The price is NT$907
NT$1,059 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

10. Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (602 reviews)
"I like this hotel very much. The room is spacious for the 2 of us. The beds, room and corridors are clean. The hotel is still being upgrading but we are not affected in anyway. The upgrading has improved the ambience. Buffet breakfast is also good. The location is so convenient for walking to Imago mall and the waterfront. But it’s really too hot for walking. So Grab is cooler!! Also the staff at front desk is so helpful and polite. Recommended 👍"
Singapore
BeeBee
The price is NT$3,269
NT$3,609 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 16 - Sep 17
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

11. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Comfortable stay at Dreamtel. Breakfast was good, staff was service-minded, and room was nice. The hotel has a central location. Good value for money."
Denmark
Anonymous traveler
The price is NT$957
NT$1,207 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 25 - Aug 26
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

12. Promenade Service Apartments

Promenade Service Apartments
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.6 out of 10, (460 reviews)
"Excellent stay and so quiet at night. "
United Kingdom
Janet
The price is NT$1,053
NT$1,216 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 24 - Aug 25
Promenade Service Apartments

13. Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (954 reviews)
"Great location."
United Kingdom
Michelle
The price is NT$2,224
NT$2,624 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Horizon Hotel

14. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Great location , rooms were spacious but very dated property needing updating . Carpets were stained . Buffet was very good with a good selection of local cuisine."
United Kingdom
Kingsley
The price is NT$2,969
NT$3,285 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

15. Qlio Hotel

Qlio Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (56 reviews)
"The hotel is in the city center. Had a great stay over there. "
Malaysia
Myona
The price is NT$920
NT$1,072 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Qlio Hotel

16. Walk In Hotel

Walk In Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (12 reviews)
"Nice and convenient.. great location"
Malaysia
Bahrinizam
The price is NT$1,000
NT$1,081 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 18 - Sep 19
Walk In Hotel

17. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (77 reviews)
"Clean and spacious room with very friendly staff."
Singapore
John
The price is NT$2,195
NT$2,449 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

18. Hotel DeLeeton

Hotel DeLeeton
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (91 reviews)
"Ok hotel for staying the night. For the price, it's worth it."
Saudi Arabia
Anonymous traveler
The price is NT$776
NT$916 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 14 - Sep 15
Hotel DeLeeton

19. Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (312 reviews)
"Shops nearby, good location."
United States
Sofía
The price is NT$852
NT$1,084 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 6 - Sep 7
Hotel Capital

20. Signature Inn

Signature Inn
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (4 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$493
NT$611 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 26 - Aug 27
Signature Inn
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.

Compare popular hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet friendly
WiFi included
Deluxe Double Room (CJ 1) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board (on request)
CJ Residence
2.5 star property
9.6
Exceptional
53 reviews
View
Deluxe Room | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group
4.5 star property
9.8
Exceptional
37 reviews
View
Grand Double Room | Premium bedding, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace
ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.8
Exceptional
6 reviews
View
City Double Room (AC 9) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board (on request)
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
96 reviews
View
2 restaurants; breakfast, lunch, and dinner served
Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,001 reviews
View

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.

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.

Karambunai

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

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.

Likas

Likas is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can plan an outing to Likas Stadium and Likas Sports Complex while you're in town.

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 Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market while you're in the neighborhood.
Where is the best hotel for a stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveler data, Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu is one of the top choices for your stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This hotel offers 2 bars and a restaurant. Other good choices for your stay in the neighborhood include Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu and Hyatt Regency Kinabalu.
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 Centre Point, Kota Kinabalu Central Market, and KK Plaza. You could also plan a visit to Imago Shopping Mall or Gaya Street Sunday Market while you're in the neighborhood. 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.

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