Find hotels in Kota Kinabalu from NT$1,133

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Experience breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding natural beauty.
• Cultural Richness: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting mosques, parks, and engaging with friendly locals.
• Vibrant Shopping Scene: Explore lively shopping centers and exclusive private clubs for a unique retail experience.
• Delicious Cuisine: Savor diverse culinary delights that reflect the region's rich heritage and flavors.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a range of activities from hiking to relaxing on beautiful beaches.

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, where you can find options ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Whether you're traveling for business, seeking a family getaway, or indulging in a spa-themed vacation, there's something to suit every traveler's needs. Explore the best hotels in Kota Kinabalu and enjoy a memorable stay amidst the beautiful landscapes of Sabah, Malaysia.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Embracing a luxurious resort experience, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is perfect for travelers looking for adventure and relaxation. Nestled in the stunning backdrop of Kota Kinabalu, this 5-star property offers golf-themed experiences along with an array of exciting adventure sports. Guests can indulge in parasailing, snorkeling, and fishing right on-site, or explore hiking and biking options nearby. With its elegant accommodations and premium amenities, it's a destination where luxury meets thrill.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: A family-friendly haven, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu caters to both leisure and business travelers alike. This sophisticated 5-star hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere, complete with amenities designed for children, including a dedicated children’s pool and babysitting services. Business travelers will appreciate the convenient facilities that ensure a productive stay. Ideal for family vacations, the hotel balances comfort with functionality, making it a top choice for those traveling with loved ones.
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Offering a blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities, The Pacific Sutera Hotel is a prime choice for both business and leisure travelers. This 5-star resort features a children’s club, playground, and shared pool, ensuring that younger guests have plenty to enjoy. Parents can relax, knowing that babysitting services are available for a fee. With its elegant atmosphere and comprehensive amenities, this hotel promises a memorable stay for families seeking both comfort and sophistication.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of experiences perfect for any traveler. Explore the vibrant central city, where you can enjoy stunning sea views and friendly locals. Ideal for family vacations, romantic getaways, or business trips, Kota Kinabalu's inviting atmosphere ensures a relaxing stay. Discover nearby attractions that showcase the region's rich culture and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for your next holiday.

• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Situated in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Downtown is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a dynamic urban experience. This area sees a steady influx of travelers year-round, with peak visits during July to August and December. Visitors flock here for city-themed, business, and family experiences. Highlights include bustling shopping centers and local markets where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Nearby attractions such as the picturesque marina and serene parks provide a perfect balance of relaxation amid the city buzz.
• Pusat Bandar: Pusat Bandar is a lively village located within Kota Kinabalu, attracting visitors who appreciate its blend of business, family, and city-themed experiences. Like Downtown, it enjoys peak tourist seasons in July to August and December. The area boasts a range of shopping centers and vibrant markets, making it a great spot for retail therapy. Don’t miss the local parks and lookout points that offer stunning views of the surroundings, providing ample opportunities for family outings and leisurely strolls.
• Donggongon: Nestled in the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu, Donggongon is a charming village known for its sports facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. This area sees a diverse mix of visitors, particularly during its peak months of August and December to January. Donggongon offers a range of shopping centers and a private country club, creating an inviting environment for both leisure and business travelers. Local landmarks such as the sports facility stadium and marina enhance the village's appeal, making it a great destination for those looking to engage in sports or enjoy waterfront activities.

Things to do in and around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a diverse range of activities perfect for families, business travelers, and city explorers. Enjoy shopping at vibrant shopping centers and malls, while also exploring private clubs for a more exclusive experience. With various shopping options and city attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this lively Malaysian destination.

Shopping

Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant shopping scene. Visit 1Borneo Hypermall and Kompleks Karamunsing for a mix of entertainment and shopping. For a unique experience, check out the Gaya Street Sunday Market, where you can find local crafts and delicious street food. If you're up for a drive, explore more shopping options beyond the city.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at Likas Stadium, where you can enjoy various sports activities. For a unique outdoor experience, play a round at Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Alternatively, indulge in luxury at Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, offering exclusive amenities and breathtaking views.

Adventure

At the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, challenge yourself with various climbing routes in a vibrant, sports-oriented atmosphere. For breathtaking views, hike the scenic trails of Bukit Padang, surrounded by lush greenery. Experience the thrill of soaring through the air at Zip Borneo, a zipline ropes course located 25.7km from the city.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu boasts vibrant nightlife, with venues like the Waterfront Esplanade, where you can enjoy live music and stunning sunset views. The lively bars at Gaya Street offer a mix of local brews and cocktails, while the night markets provide a taste of Sabah's delicious street food.

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, business, and city vacations, offering attractions like mosques, urban parks, and the harbor. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences and outdoor activities, with highlights including the stunning night view of the city, the heart of Kota Kinabalu, and the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this vibrant destination has something for everyone.

• Sutera Harbour: Experience the serene beauty of Sutera Harbour, where stunning beach views meet picturesque scenery. This vibrant harbor offers a tranquil escape, perfect for relaxation or leisurely strolls along the waterfront.
• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: The Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is a lively tourist precinct, ideal for families. Enjoy outdoor activities, vibrant street performances, and local food stalls while soaking in the lively atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
• University of Malaysia Sabah: Visit the University of Malaysia Sabah, a modern institution that embodies the city's vibrant energy. The campus features contemporary architecture and lush gardens, offering a unique blend of educational and cultural experiences.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Average	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	Slightly High	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

When visiting Kota Kinabalu, the primary airport to fly into is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located 6.4km from the city. Nearby, you’ll find excellent accommodation options such as the 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, both conveniently situated 6.4km from the airport. The Magellan Sutera Resort is another luxurious choice, located 4.8km away. All these hotels provide transportation services to the airport, ensuring easy access for guests, with options including airport shuttles available on request. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful destination.