Find hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

• Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Kota Kinabalu, perfect for relaxing and water sports.
• Vibrant Local Cuisine: Savor delicious local dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Malaysian culture.
• Adventurous Activities: Experience thrilling outdoor adventures in the natural beauty of Malaysian Borneo.
• Cultural Attractions: Explore impressive mosques, urban parks, and the vibrant local markets.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodging options, from budget guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Discover a range of accommodation options in Kota Kinabalu, from cozy guesthouses to well-equipped hotels, catering to every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway, a business-focused stay, or a relaxing spa retreat, you'll find the perfect spot. Notable options include Aaronl Homestay, along with accessible rooms to ensure comfort for all guests. Experience the vibrant charm of Kota Kinabalu and enjoy a memorable vacation in Sabah.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Nestled in a stunning beachfront location, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru offers a luxurious resort experience perfect for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. The resort features a water park, mini-golf, and playgrounds tailored for children, ensuring a fun-filled stay for the little ones. Parents can unwind at the full-service spa, which includes a hot tub and various massage treatments. With amenities designed for both leisure and family activities, this resort is a tranquil haven that blends luxury with child-friendly facilities.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: A premier choice for both business and leisure travelers, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a focus on comfort and elegance. This hotel is equipped with dedicated business amenities, including meeting rooms and on-site childcare services, making it ideal for families on a business trip. Guests can enjoy a relaxing pool designed for children, ensuring a family-friendly environment. With its blend of luxury and functionality, this hotel caters perfectly to those who appreciate both work and play.
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: The Pacific Sutera Hotel stands out for its combination of business, spa, and golf experiences. Guests can indulge in a range of spa services, from manicures to sauna treatments, while business travelers benefit from well-equipped conference spaces and meeting rooms. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site golfing facilities, which promise an engaging experience amidst beautiful scenery. With its comprehensive amenities and serene atmosphere, this resort is a perfect blend of work and relaxation, making it a great choice for a diverse range of travelers.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant mix of experiences for every traveler, from family-friendly adventures to romantic getaways. Explore the charming Alamesra neighborhood, known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable lodging options. Venture into Malaysian Borneo for thrilling outdoor activities, or simply relax and enjoy the city's unique vibes. With budget-friendly choices and diverse attractions, Kota Kinabalu is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

• Pusat Bandar: Nestled in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar serves as a vibrant village that attracts a steady flow of visitors throughout the year. Peak travel seasons occur in August and from December to January, while quieter months include April to May and November. This neighborhood is perfect for families and business travelers alike, offering access to bustling shopping centers and local markets. Notable landmarks include the scenic marina and inviting parks, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s urban charms.
• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Located around the central area of Kota Kinabalu, Downtown Kota Kinabalu is a lively neighborhood that promises diverse experiences. Like Pusat Bandar, it sees its busiest tourist numbers in August and December to January, with quieter periods in April to May and November. A hub for family outings and business activities, Downtown Kota Kinabalu features shopping malls and markets, providing plenty of options for retail therapy. Enjoy picturesque views from the marina and relax in nearby parks, making this area a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.
• Tanjung Aru: Renowned for its stunning sunsets and family-friendly atmosphere, Tanjung Aru is a delightful neighborhood located near Kota Kinabalu. This area experiences peak tourist visits in April, July, and September, with a slight lull in May and October to November. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Tanjung Aru boasts resorts and private clubs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Don’t miss the beautiful parks and marinas that enhance the area's charm, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable moments with family and friends.

Things to do in and around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and urban experiences, making it perfect for vacationers. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping centers, indulge in local cuisine, and unwind at private country clubs. For those seeking adventure, Sabah provides adrenaline-pumping activities that will elevate your trip. Whether you're traveling for leisure or business, Kota Kinabalu has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant shopping scene. Imago Shopping Mall features entertainment and family-friendly options. Gaya Street Sunday Market is perfect for local crafts and city vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore Downbelow Adventure Centre for unique outdoor gear and gifts.

Recreation

Likas Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts, featuring various facilities for athletic activities. For golf lovers, Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai provides a beautiful outdoor setting, while Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, located 20.9km away, delivers a luxurious golfing experience surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Adventure

The Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre offers thrilling climbing experiences right in Kota Kinabalu, perfect for adventure seekers. For breathtaking views, hike the Bukit Padang trail, immersing yourself in stunning scenery. Don't miss the exhilarating Zip Borneo zipline course, located 25.7km from the city, for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu's nightlife offers vibrant experiences, from sipping cocktails at the stylish Horizon Lounge to dancing at the lively 1Borneo Hypermall. For a more relaxed vibe, enjoy local brews at the Shamrock Irish Bar, where friendly faces and live music await.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is budget-friendly with free entry to attractions like Sutera Harbour and Mari Mari Cultural Village. For affordable transport, use the local bus system, taxis, or Grab cars. To save on accommodation, visit during cheaper months like March, May, and November, and book around a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Mondays are pricier. Utilize Expedia to find discounts and package deals that combine flights and hotels for added savings, including eco-friendly options for a sustainable stay.

• 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 enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort your results to display hotels from the lowest price to the highest, making it simple to find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Kota Kinabalu with 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 a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as beautiful mosques, vibrant urban parks, and bustling harbors. This city caters to travelers seeking both cultural immersion and urban adventures, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy a diverse range of activities.

• Sutera Harbour: Experience stunning beachfront views and a relaxing atmosphere at Sutera Harbour. This picturesque harbor offers a blend of scenic beauty and recreational activities, making it perfect for unwinding or enjoying water sports.
• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: This vibrant tourist precinct is ideal for families, featuring outdoor spaces for leisurely strolls and various food stalls. Enjoy the lively ambiance while taking in the beautiful sunset over the ocean.
• Tanjung Aru Perdana Park: A charming urban park that caters to families with its spacious green areas, playgrounds, and walking paths. Enjoy a blend of nature and city life as you relax by the waterfront and soak in the stunning views.

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	Slightly Low	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	Average	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

If you're planning to visit Kota Kinabalu, the main airport you'll fly into is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), situated 6.4km from the city center. Nearby, you can find excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, both 6.4km from the airport, offering convenient airport shuttles and transportation services. For a closer option, the luxurious Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is located just 3.2km away and provides reliable transfer services. With these hotel options, you'll have easy access to the airport, ensuring a smooth start to your vacation in beautiful Sabah, Malaysia.