Find hotels in Kota Kinabalu from NT$697

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

• Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the pristine beaches of Kota Kinabalu, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Mount Kinabalu: Experience breathtaking hikes and stunning views at Malaysia's highest peak, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Vibrant Local Markets: Explore colorful markets offering local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious Malaysian street food.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich culture with local tours, traditional ceremonies, and historic mosques.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Discover numerous attractions and activities tailored for families, ensuring fun for all ages.

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Discover the diverse accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, where you can find everything from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses. Catering to both business travelers and families, the city offers a range of amenities, including spa experiences and convenient services. Whether you're looking for a comfortable hotel in Kota Kinabalu or a cozy guesthouse, you'll be met with warm hospitality and a perfect base to explore this beautiful destination.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Experience luxury at its finest in this 5-star resort, renowned for its stunning beachfront location. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru caters to adventure seekers and families alike. The resort offers a plethora of exciting activities, including snorkeling, parasailing, and boat tours, ensuring an exhilarating stay. Families will appreciate the range of child-friendly amenities such as a playground, mini golf, and babysitting services, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: This elegant 5-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, making it an ideal choice for families and business travelers. Situated in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, the Hyatt Regency offers a blend of comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy a family-friendly environment with amenities like a children’s pool and complimentary cribs. The hotel’s business facilities are well-equipped, providing a seamless experience for those traveling for work while ensuring relaxation and leisure options for families.
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Another stunning 5-star resort rated 8.4 out of 10, The Pacific Sutera Hotel is perfect for families looking to relax by the beach. This property provides direct access to sandy shores and features a children’s club, playground, and babysitting services for added convenience. With its serene atmosphere and a variety of recreational facilities, families can enjoy quality time together while creating lasting memories amidst a tropical paradise.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, a charming city in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and romantic vibes. Explore the vibrant local markets, unwind at stunning beaches, and savor delicious Malaysian cuisine. Nearby attractions showcase the breathtaking beauty of Borneo, perfect for nature lovers. With friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere, Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a memorable vacation filled with adventure and cultural experiences.

• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Nestled in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Downtown is a vibrant neighborhood that serves as the city's commercial hub. Here, you can immerse yourself in a bustling atmosphere filled with shopping centers, markets, and modern college campuses. This area is particularly popular among families and business travelers, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and work. Enjoy the local parks and streets as you explore, and don't miss the chance to experience the rich cultural diversity that shapes this dynamic city.
• Pusat Bandar: Pusat Bandar is a charming village located within Kota Kinabalu, offering a welcoming experience for visitors. Like Downtown, it attracts travelers year-round, particularly families and business professionals. The village is well-known for its shopping centers and markets, providing a delightful mix of local goods and international brands. Nearby landmarks include parks and an environmental center, perfect for those who appreciate nature and sustainability. Pusat Bandar embodies a friendly atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy the local community vibe.
• Tanjung Aru: Tanjung Aru is a picturesque neighborhood known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. Ideal for families and beach lovers, this area offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy the nearby marina and harbor, or take a short trip to explore local islands. Tanjung Aru is also home to exclusive resorts and private clubs, making it a great choice for those seeking a luxurious escape. With a laid-back yet vibrant spirit, this neighborhood is perfect for creating unforgettable memories.

Things to do near Kota Kinabalu

Shopping

Kota Kinabalu offers various shopping experiences, including Warisan Square, which features local handicrafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to 1Borneo Hypermall for a wider selection of shops, dining options, and entertainment, all within a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

In Kota Kinabalu, immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere at the Mandara Spa, where you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments inspired by traditional techniques. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park offers spectacular snorkeling and island hopping, providing a blend of relaxation and adventure amidst stunning marine life.

Adventure

Zip Borneo is an exhilarating zipline ropes course located 26km from Kota Kinabalu. Experience breathtaking views as you soar through the treetops, feeling the rush of adrenaline in a vibrant outdoor setting filled with adventure and excitement.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu comes alive at night with vibrant spots like the Waterfront, where you can enjoy bars and restaurants with stunning views. For live music and a lively crowd, check out The Shamrock. If you're in the mood for dancing, head to The Loft for a fun atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers several ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Sutera Harbour and Mari Mari Cultural Village. For transportation, consider using local buses or Grab for affordable fares. To get the best hotel deals, plan your stay in March, May, or November, and book about a month in advance. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays are the most expensive. Utilize Expedia's filters to find budget-friendly accommodations and explore package deals that combine flights and activities for added savings.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kota Kinabalu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to choose your budget, preferred location, and other preferences. You can organize your search results by price, starting with the lowest rates, so you can find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you a list of sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is perfect for family, city, and business vacations, offering attractions like mosques, urban parks, and harbors. Travelers can enjoy a blend of culture and outdoor experiences, with highlights including the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront and the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, there are plenty of options to explore in and around this vibrant city.

• Sutera Harbour: Experience the serene beauty of Sutera Harbour, where stunning beach views and picturesque scenery create a relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or indulge in various water sports, making it a delightful spot for both relaxation and adventure.
• Sabah State Mosque: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Sabah at the Sabah State Mosque. This architectural marvel showcases intricate design and offers visitors a chance to learn about local Islamic traditions and practices, all set against a backdrop of tranquil gardens.
• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: Gather with family and friends at Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, a vibrant outdoor precinct perfect for evening strolls, picnics, and enjoying local street food. The lively atmosphere and beautiful sunset views make it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories.

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	Slightly High	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	Average	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

Traveling to Kota Kinabalu is easy with its main airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located 6km from the city. Nearby, you can find luxurious accommodations such as the 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort, just 3km away, offering airport transportation and shuttle services. The Hilton Kota Kinabalu, 6km from BKI, also provides various airport shuttle options. For those considering other airports, Lawas Airport (LWY) is 145km away, with options like Red City Hotel and Hotel Seri Malaysia Lawas nearby. Labuan Airport (LBU), located 119km from Kota Kinabalu, has hotels like Dorsett Grand Labuan and Tiara Labuan Hotel offering shuttle services.