Kota Kinabalu hotels from HK$246

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

• Diverse Attractions: Experience a blend of cultural immersion, vibrant city life, and outdoor adventures, from bustling malls to captivating mosques.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Enjoy the scenic views and romantic sunsets that Kota Kinabalu offers, especially in its picturesque neighbourhoods.
• Thrilling Activities: Engage in a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities throughout the city and nearby Malaysian Borneo.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The city caters well to families, providing numerous fun and engaging activities for all ages.
• Affordable Accommodation: A wide range of accommodation options ensures a comfortable stay for every type of traveller.

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Discover a range of accommodation options in Kota Kinabalu, from hotels to guesthouses, catering to every traveller’s needs. Whether you're seeking business facilities, family-friendly services, or a relaxing spa-themed getaway, you'll find the perfect place to stay. With accessible accommodations and diverse options in Kota Kinabalu and nearby Semporna, your vacation experience is sure to be comfortable and memorable.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Nestled in a serene beachfront setting, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is a premier 5-star resort that caters to families seeking adventure and relaxation. With an array of exhilarating activities such as boat tours, parasailing, and snorkeling available on-site, this resort is perfect for the adventurous spirit. The hotel also boasts a full-service spa offering indulgent treatments including reflexology and body wraps, ensuring a rejuvenating experience. Families are well catered for with a dedicated children’s club, water park, and child-friendly pools, making it an ideal choice for a family getaway.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: This elegant 5-star hotel is strategically located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, appealing to both business and leisure travellers. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu offers luxurious accommodations alongside excellent amenities, including a pool designed specifically for children and babysitting services for added convenience. The hotel’s business facilities are complemented by a sophisticated atmosphere, making it a perfect venue for corporate events. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, while the hotel’s dining options provide a taste of local and international cuisine, ensuring a delightful stay.
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Located directly on the beach, The Pacific Sutera Hotel presents a luxurious escape for families and beach lovers alike. This 5-star resort features a stunning pool area, children’s playground, and arcade game room, ensuring that younger guests are entertained. Parents can take advantage of babysitting services while they unwind by the beach or enjoy the hotel’s exquisite dining options. The seamless blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities makes this hotel an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in a sun-soaked holiday.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of urban charm and natural beauty, perfect for families and couples alike. Explore the vibrant city centre with its friendly atmosphere, or venture to nearby Malaysian Borneo for thrilling adventures. Affordable accommodation options abound, ensuring a relaxing stay. Don't miss the chance to enjoy romantic sunsets and explore the welcoming neighbourhoods that make Kota Kinabalu a unique travel destination.

• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Nestled in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Downtown is a bustling neighbourhood that serves as a gateway to the city's vibrant culture. With a steady flow of visitors year-round, it particularly shines during peak seasons in July to August and December. The area is ideal for families and business travellers, offering a plethora of shopping centres and public markets. Notable local attractions include lively streets, serene parks, and a picturesque marina, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.
• Pusat Bandar: Pusat Bandar, a quaint village within Kota Kinabalu, is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and accessibility to urban conveniences. Visitor numbers are consistently high, especially from July to August and in December. This locale is favoured by families and business travellers alike, with numerous shopping centres and public markets to explore. Key highlights include inviting parks and lookout points that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, making it a delightful place to unwind after a day of activities.
• Donggongon: Donggongon is a charming village situated just outside Kota Kinabalu, celebrated for its eco-friendly and outdoor experiences. It attracts visitors primarily during the peak months of August and December to January. Families will appreciate the area's recreational offerings, including shopping centres and resorts. Nearby landmarks such as a sports facility stadium and a bustling marina provide ample opportunities for leisure and fun, making Donggongon a hidden gem for those seeking an adventurous escape.

Things to do in and around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, shopping centres, and private clubs, making it ideal for both leisure and business trips. For adrenaline seekers, the city boasts various thrilling activities across different areas, ensuring an exciting experience. Whether you're exploring bustling malls or enjoying the scenic beauty, Kota Kinabalu promises a memorable getaway filled with diverse attractions.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience in Kota Kinabalu, visit Imago Shopping Mall and Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, both offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore Gaya Street Sunday Market for local treasures and a bustling city atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Likas Stadium, where you can engage in various sports activities. For a serene outdoor experience, head to Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, offering stunning views and a relaxing golfing environment. Alternatively, indulge in luxury at Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, located 20.9km from the city.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Zip Borneo, a zipline and ropes course located 25.7km from Kota Kinabalu, offering exhilarating outdoor adventures. For climbing enthusiasts, the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre provides an exciting sports environment right in the city. Alternatively, hike Bukit Padang for stunning scenery and outdoor vibes.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu boasts a vibrant nightlife with venues like the lively Waterfront Esplanade, where you can enjoy open-air bars and live music. The popular Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort offers a sophisticated atmosphere with stunning views, while the bustling Night Market offers local delicacies and a lively ambience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers numerous ways for tourists to save money. You can enjoy free attractions such as Sutera Harbour and Mari Mari Cultural Village. For transport, consider using local buses or Grab for affordable rides. The best times to visit are March, May, and November for lower accommodation rates, while booking a month in advance often yields better deals. Look for last-minute offers on platforms like Expedia and aim to stay on Saturdays for better prices. Additionally, consider package deals that combine flights and hotels to maximise 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. 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 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, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, allowing you to easily find the most affordable hotels first. Moreover, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful mix of family, city, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore captivating mosques, relaxing urban parks, and bustling harbours. The attractions cater to those seeking cultural immersion, vibrant city life, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to experience the diverse charm of Sabah.

• Sutera Harbour: Experience the tranquil beauty of Sutera Harbour, where you can unwind on the soft sands and enjoy stunning coastal scenery. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for relaxation, water sports, or simply soaking in the sun.
• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: This vibrant tourist precinct offers a lively outdoor environment, ideal for families. Stroll along the promenade, indulge in local food stalls, or enjoy the sunset views over the sea, making it a perfect place for leisure and interaction.
• Tanjung Aru Perdana Park: A splendid urban park that combines nature with city vibes, Tanjung Aru Perdana Park is perfect for picnics, jogging, or enjoying family time. Its expansive green spaces and playgrounds provide a refreshing escape from urban life.

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

For your visit to Kota Kinabalu, you can fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located 6.4km from the city. Notable nearby accommodations include the luxurious Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, both offering exceptional services and easy access to the airport. The Magellan Sutera Resort, situated 4.8km away, also provides a serene retreat. Transportation options from these hotels to the airport typically include shuttle services, with various fees and schedules available. Whether you prefer a vibrant hotel or a relaxing resort, you'll find excellent choices close to your point of arrival.