Hotels & Accommodation in Kota Kinabalu

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Tomorrow
21 Oct - 22 Oct
This weekend
23 Oct - 25 Oct
Next weekend
30 Oct - 01 Nov

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu?

Properties are selected based on real traveller reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Kota Kinabalu on Hotels.com. These Kota Kinabalu hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveller experience. Last updated on .

1. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 320
R1 466 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Nov - 21 Nov
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

2. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R779
R1 038 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Nov - 15 Nov
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

3. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 609
R1 778 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

4. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
Tanjung Aru
R2 995
R3 575 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

5. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 494
R1 654 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 01 Nov
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

6. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 127
R1 257 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

7. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 375
R1 525 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

8. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 646
R1 817 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

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

CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R449
R525 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

10. Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 847
R2 035 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

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

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R450
R527 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

12. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 360
R1 509 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

13. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 224
R1 363 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

14. Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Tuaran
R1 971
R2 169 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

15. Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 922
R2 116 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Grandis Hotel

16. Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 055
R1 180 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

17. Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 018
R1 140 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Nov - 13 Nov
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

18. The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R728
R899 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
The Klagan Hotel

19. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
Gaya Island
R4 345
R7 155 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Nov - 15 Nov
Gaya Island Resort

20. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R945
R1 061 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
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The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R692 off
R1 384
per night
R3 070 total
includes taxes & fees
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Tuaran
R966 off
R1 931
per night
R4 252 total
includes taxes & fees
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R630 off
R997
per night
R2 234 total
includes taxes & fees
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
Kota Kinabalu
R1 759 off
R780
per night
R1 765 total
includes taxes & fees
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 727
per night
R3 811 total
includes taxes & fees
Sign in for extra savings
Grandis Hotel

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R448 off
R476
per night
R1 109 total
includes taxes & fees
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R859 off
R798
per night
R1 963 total
includes taxes & fees
The Klagan Hotel

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 094
per night
R2 444 total
includes taxes & fees
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
Gaya Island
R3 034 off
R3 080
per night
R6 895 total
includes taxes & fees
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R2 015 off
R1 768
per night
R3 899 total
includes taxes & fees
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

The Jesselton Hotel

The Jesselton Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R871 off
R943
per night
R2 117 total
includes taxes & fees
The Jesselton Hotel

Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
Gaya Island
R2 778 off
R3 241
per night
R7 081 total
includes taxes & fees
Gayana Marine Resort

Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R88 off
R450
per night
R1 144 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Capital

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R177 off
R798
per night
R1 963 total
includes taxes & fees
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R223 off
R447
per night
R1 046 total
includes taxes & fees
HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Tuaran
R1 078 off
R2 157
per night
R4 739 total
includes taxes & fees
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R660 off
R1 320
per night
R2 931 total
includes taxes & fees
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
Kota Kinabalu
R1 759 off
R780
per night
R1 765 total
includes taxes & fees
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R448 off
R476
per night
R1 109 total
includes taxes & fees
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R600 off
R949
per night
R2 131 total
includes taxes & fees
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 727
per night
R3 811 total
includes taxes & fees
Sign in for extra savings
Grandis Hotel

The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 095 off
R680
per night
R1 685 total
includes taxes & fees
The Klagan Hotel

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
Gaya Island
R3 034 off
R3 080
per night
R6 895 total
includes taxes & fees
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R992
per night
R2 223 total
includes taxes & fees
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

The Jesselton Hotel

The Jesselton Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R615 off
R922
per night
R2 072 total
includes taxes & fees
The Jesselton Hotel

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 677
per night
R4 238 total
includes taxes & fees
Sign in for extra savings
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R173 off
R1 639
per night
R3 620 total
includes taxes & fees
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
Gaya Island
R2 778 off
R3 241
per night
R7 081 total
includes taxes & fees
Gayana Marine Resort

Hotel Sixty3

Hotel Sixty3
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R687 off
R1 174
per night
R2 711 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Sixty3

Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
Gaya Island
R966 off
R4 345
per night
R12 605 total
includes taxes & fees
Gaya Island Resort

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R330 off
R1 320
per night
R1 466 total
includes taxes & fees
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
Kota Kinabalu
R664 off
R996
per night
R1 115 total
includes taxes & fees
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R228 off
R484
per night
R563 total
includes taxes & fees
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R992
per night
R1 111 total
includes taxes & fees
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R366 off
R1 160
per night
R1 294 total
includes taxes & fees
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R430 off
R798
per night
R982 total
includes taxes & fees
The Klagan Hotel

Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 922
per night
R2 116 total
includes taxes & fees
Sign in for extra savings
Grandis Hotel

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R55 off
R491
per night
R620 total
includes taxes & fees
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R876
per night
R1 275 total
includes taxes & fees
Sign in for extra savings
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R86 off
R1 639
per night
R1 810 total
includes taxes & fees
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

The Jesselton Hotel

The Jesselton Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R307 off
R922
per night
R1 036 total
includes taxes & fees
The Jesselton Hotel

Hotel Sixty3

Hotel Sixty3
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R1 251
per night
R1 441 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Sixty3

Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
Gaya Island
R1 598 off
R3 729
per night
R4 068 total
includes taxes & fees
Gayana Marine Resort

HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R125 off
R500
per night
R580 total
includes taxes & fees
HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

The Klagan Riverson Hotel & Residence

The Klagan Riverson Hotel & Residence
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
R178 off
R811
per night
R916 total
includes taxes & fees
The Klagan Riverson Hotel & Residence
Our prices for hotels in Kota Kinabalu are cheapest in September
Price trends for hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in October
Typical weather for Kota Kinabalu
October
High 29°C / low 26°C. Rainy most days.
View properties in October
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Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighbourhoods in Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu's Downtown Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood is loved for its shopping and swimming spots, and entices visitors with attractions, including Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.

Tanjung Aru

The Tanjung Aru neighbourhood is loved for its beaches and restaurants, and has lots of things to do and see, including Tanjung Aru Perdana Park.

Karambunai

The quiet area of Kota Kinabalu is loved for its beaches, and has lots of things to see, including Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai.

Kampung Air

Pusat Bandar's Kampung Air neighbourhood is known for its restaurants and offers lots of things to see, such as Kompleks Asia City and Sedco Square.

Top landmarks in Kota Kinabalu

A coastal cityscape with a sunset over the sea, featuring dense urban buildings and a clear sky.

Imago Shopping Mall

8.6/10 (662 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Imago Shopping Mall in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. Why not take a stroll along the marina and watch the sunset while you're here? Splash some more cash at Centre Point, Kota Kinabalu Central Market and KK Plaza.
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A table with a plate of food, a cup of coffee, and a view of a lake.
Photo by Jim Teo

Suria Sabah Shopping Mall

8.4/10 (503 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Suria Sabah Shopping Mall in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. Why not take a stroll along the marina and watch the sunset while you're here? Splash some more cash at Gaya Street Sunday Market, KK Plaza and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
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A crowded riverside dining area with tables and chairs, string lights, and flags.

Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

8.0/10 (87 reviews)
Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is worth a pic or two when discovering Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
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Gaya Street Sunday Market

8.2/10 (478 reviews)
If you like strolling among the stalls, you might want to head out to Gaya Street Sunday Market in Downtown Kota Kinabalu and take in the atmosphere. Why not take a stroll along the marina and watch the sunset while you're here? Splash some more cash at KK Plaza, Suria Sabah Shopping Mall and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
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Sutera Harbour

8.2/10 (291 reviews)
You can stroll along Sutera Harbour for relaxing water views when you're in Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
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1Borneo Hypermall

7.6/10 (250 reviews)
If you like shopping, take time out to go to 1Borneo Hypermall when in Kota Kinabalu. Why not take a stroll along the marina and watch the sunset while you're here?
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Kota Kinabalu Central Market

7.8/10 (375 reviews)
If you like haggling for the best price, you might want to head out to Kota Kinabalu Central Market in Downtown Kota Kinabalu and take in the atmosphere. Why not take a stroll along the marina and watch the sunset while you're here? Splash some more cash at KK Plaza, Gaya Street Sunday Market and Centre Point.
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Centre Point

7.8/10 (402 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Centre Point in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. Why not take a stroll along the marina and watch the sunset while you're here? Splash some more cash at KK Plaza, Kota Kinabalu Central Market and Gaya Street Sunday Market.
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Kota Kinabalu and related destinations

Kota Kinabalu, well known for its waterfront and parks, features attractions such as Centre Point and KK Plaza. This romantic city has something for everyone including sights like Kota Kinabalu Central Market and Gaya Street Sunday Market.

See all hotels in Kota Kinabalu
A mountain with a cloud formation over it.

Check out reviews of Kota Kinabalu hotels guests love

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

8/10 Good
"Great staff and lovely breakfast"
Linda 4-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Room was very clean and maintained well by the service staff. Breakfast was reasonable and staff was friendly"
Catherine 3-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

10/10 Excellent
"Very helpful and accommodating staff, lovely rooms and breakfast."
Paula 2-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"We stayed for one week and the room was very comfortable. The breakfast included was worth the extra fee. 24/7 Gym and laundry services available. Infinity pool was relaxing and has a great view of sea. Citadines is a popular meet up spot. We went on two tours and they picked us up right outside our hotel. There is a restaurant, massage spa, burger king, cafe and lemon tea shop in the same building."
Jason 7-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"Good location, very alert staff who demonstrated initiative in many small ways."
HweiChuen 4-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Sheraton Kota Kinabalu
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Gym was in a separate building which was a little bit of a pain and yoga sessions were further still which wasn’t great"
Jyoti 3-night trip
Posted 4 months ago
The Magellan Sutera Resort
K Hotel

K Hotel

8/10 Good
"Clean room, alot of restaurant and cafes are nearby."
Jovita 1-night trip
Posted 7 months ago
K Hotel
Hotel 7 Suria

Hotel 7 Suria

8/10 Good
"Located in the Suria mall"
Kee 2-night trip
Posted 8 months ago
Hotel 7 Suria

Frequently asked questions

Can I book a refundable accommodation option in Kota Kinabalu?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Kota Kinabalu, most hotels offer refundable* rates that you can book. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in Kota Kinabalu if I want a holiday rental instead of a hotel?
If you want to find a good alternative to a hotel, review our selection of 28 holiday homes. In addition, there are 164 apartments and 52 condos.
What will the weather in Kota Kinabalu be like during my visit?
Kota Kinabalu is a great place to visit any time of year with an average temperature of 27°C during the coldest months.
Why should I book my Kota Kinabalu hotel with Hotels.com?
There are lots of reasons to book your Kota Kinabalu trip with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels* gives you flexibility, our Price Guarantee ensures that you always get the lowest price, and you can earn rewards on every booking.

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Discover the Enchanting Harmony of Nature and Culture in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, is a vibrant coastal city that perfectly marries natural splendour with modern allure. Its enchanting islands and scenic marina offer idyllic spots for island-hopping and leisurely boat trips, while nearby natural parks beckon nature enthusiasts with lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. The city's cultural charm is evident in bustling markets and local culinary delights. Whether seeking tranquil luxury or an adventurous escape, Kota Kinabalu captivates with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich heritage.

Discover great hotels near Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu boasts a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from charming boutique stays to luxurious star-rated establishments. You'll find modern amenities, stunning views, and easy access to local attractions. Whether you prefer a beachfront resort or a city centre hotel, Kota Kinabalu offers options to suit every travel style and budget. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers near Kota Kinabalu:

  1. Gayana Marine ResortOpens in a new window: This stunning 5.0-star resort offers a remarkable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, making it an excellent choice for adventurous travellers. With a focus on providing exciting experiences, the hotel features various adventure sports options such as hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling, all designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including a children’s pool and onsite childcare services, ensuring a well-rounded experience for every guest. Positive sentiments highlight the superb staff, who provide helpful and friendly service, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the stay.
  2. Gaya Island ResortOpens in a new window: Boasting a sophisticated 5.0-star rating and an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this boutique hotel is perfect for leisure travellers seeking a beach-themed escape. With direct access to pristine beaches, guests can indulge in the serene coastal lifestyle while enjoying uniquely designed interiors that reflect local artistry. The hotel’s standout features include high-end dining options and chic lounge spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation. Reviewers consistently praise the hotel for its exceptional aesthetics and welcoming ambiance, making it a top choice for those looking to unwind in an exquisite setting.
  3. Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Manukan IslandOpens in a new window: As a comfortable 3.0-star hotel, this property offers a welcoming experience with a range of dining options, including a restaurant and bar lounge. With a solid guest rating, it serves as an ideal base for travellers who appreciate convenience and local flavours. The inviting atmosphere encourages social interactions and relaxation after a day of exploration. Guests highly value the hotel’s accessibility and the enjoyable dining experiences provided, confirming its place as a satisfying choice for those seeking comfort during their stay in Kota Kinabalu.

Top locations to stay in Kota Kinabalu

When visiting Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, consider staying in Pusat Bandar, Kampung Sembulan Baru, and Api-api Centre. Pusat Bandar offers vibrant nightlife and stunning natural parks, Kampung Sembulan Baru showcases local culture and charm, and Api-api Centre is ideal for shopping enthusiasts. For first-time visitors, Pusat Bandar is the best choice, providing easy access to key attractions.

  1. Pusat BandarOpens in a new window: Pusat Bandar is the vibrant heart of Kota Kinabalu, offering a fantastic blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. This bustling area is perfect for those who enjoy being in the thick of things, with numerous malls, local markets, and street food vendors to explore. You can easily visit popular attractions like the Atkinson Clock Tower and the waterfront, where the sunset views are simply stunning. Additionally, Pusat Bandar boasts a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while having easy access to transportation for further adventures around Sabah.
  2. Api-api CentreOpens in a new window: Api-api Centre is a lively hub for shopping enthusiasts and those seeking a range of entertainment options. This area is known for its modern shopping facilities and vibrant markets, where you can find everything from local handicrafts to trendy fashion. Additionally, the waterfront promenade offers lovely views and is a great place to unwind after a day of shopping. With various cultural attractions nearby, including art galleries and performance spaces, Api-api Centre is a fantastic choice for travellers wanting to experience the local vibe while enjoying a variety of dining and leisure options.
  3. Kampung Sembulan BaruOpens in a new window: Kampung Sembulan Baru offers a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for travellers looking to experience local life away from the busy city centre. This area features charming traditional homes and a warm community feel, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the culture. While it may not be as bustling as other areas, you can discover quaint local eateries and shops that showcase authentic Malaysian flavours. The nearby beaches provide a lovely escape, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea or exploring the coastal scenery.

Things to do in and around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu charms visitors with its blend of pristine beaches, lush forests, and inviting marinas. Enjoy boating, diving, and relaxing swims in nature’s embrace while exploring scenic parks and serene coastal landscapes. It's a perfect escape for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor excitement.

  • Sabah State MosqueOpens in a new window – Visit the stunning Sabah State Mosque, a beautiful architectural gem surrounded by serene landscapes. Known for its impressive dome and intricate designs, this mosque is a peaceful spot where you can take in the tranquil atmosphere and admire the artistry of its construction. The surrounding gardens invite a leisurely stroll, and you can appreciate the blend of Islamic architecture with the natural beauty that Sabah is famous for.
  • Upside Down HouseOpens in a new window – Step into the quirky Upside Down House, where everything is flipped! This architectural wonder offers a playful experience, allowing you to snap fun photos as you navigate through rooms that defy gravity. Marvel at the unique design and discover how everyday objects appear in unexpected orientations. It’s a delightful stop that’s sure to bring smiles and laughter, making it a memorable part of your Kota Kinabalu adventure.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Kota Kinabalu

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Kota Kinabalu are March, May, and November, when hotel prices are generally lower. For an enriching experience of the city's landmarks, history, and culture, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to explore key attractions such as the serene marina, engage in activities like boating and diving, and enjoy the stunning natural parks and islands. With plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and shopping, visitors can discover the beauty of Kota Kinabalu while enjoying great value for money.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Kota Kinabalu, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel options as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you secure savings. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, increasing your chances of finding the perfect stay. With updates on price changes and availability, you'll be well-positioned to book a spontaneous getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your dates might help you save on your stay at a Kota Kinabalu hotel. For those interested in distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears higher, we may suggest more affordable dates, which could help you find a better deal.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Kota Kinabalu's excellent public transport links, you might find a more affordable independent hotel further afield that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money. Opting for these alternative destinations could offer a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 79.9°F (26.6°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). January is usually the wettest month. January, August, and December are the peak travel months in Kota Kinabalu, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

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