Hotels in Sabah

Top reasons to visit Sabah

• Majestic Mount Kinabalu: A UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Vibrant Kota Kinabalu: Experience the lively city atmosphere, filled with markets, dining options, and cultural attractions.
• Stunning Islands: Explore beautiful islands like Gaya and Manukan, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Engage with local customs and traditions through festivals, markets, and heritage sites.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a plethora of activities from wildlife tours to thrilling night excursions.

Find great hotels in Sabah

Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Sabah, Malaysia, perfect for every type of traveller. From luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, you'll find options catering to business trips, family getaways, and beach holidays. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat in Sandakan or exceptional amenities, Sabah's hotels promise memorable experiences. Delve into hotel reviews to make an informed choice for your ideal stay in this stunning destination.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: This exquisite 5-star resort is a haven for beach enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, it offers direct access to pristine beaches and a plethora of on-site activities. Guests can indulge in various water sports such as kayaking, sailing, and waterskiing. The resort is family-friendly, featuring amenities like a supervised childcare service, arcade game room, and dedicated children’s activities, ensuring that younger guests are entertained while adults unwind. The lush surroundings and recreational options create an engaging atmosphere for an adventurous getaway.
• Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu: Nestled along the coastline, Shangri-La Rasa Ria also holds a 5-star rating and a guest score of 9.2 out of 10. Ideal for guests who enjoy golf and outdoor adventures, this resort provides direct beach access and various recreational activities. Golf enthusiasts can partake in themed experiences, while the nearby hiking and biking trails invite exploration of the stunning natural landscape. The family-centric amenities, including supervised activities for children, make the resort a delightful option for those travelling with family and looking to indulge in both relaxation and adventure.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: With a robust guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this 5-star hotel is an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. Conveniently located near Sabah’s attractions, it offers a range of services tailored to guests of all ages, including babysitting and child-friendly pool facilities. The hotel’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with modern amenities and a focus on comfort, ensures a pleasant stay whether you are in town for leisure or work. The attentive staff and well-appointed accommodations make this hotel a dependable choice for your Sabah visit.

Where to stay in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, is a captivating destination perfect for outdoor adventures and family vacations. Explore the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu, with its friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly options. Discover stunning natural landscapes, from breathtaking mountains to serene beaches, ideal for relaxation or romantic getaways. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Sabah promises unforgettable experiences and warm hospitality, making it an excellent choice for your next holiday.

• Kota Kinabalu: Nestled on the western coast of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu serves as the state's bustling capital. This vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures, offering a mix of urban and natural experiences. With a steady influx of tourists year-round, it peaks during August and the festive December to January period. Visitors flock here for family outings, business trips, and urban adventures. Notable attractions include the scenic marina and lively harbour, as well as parks perfect for a leisurely stroll. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the array of shopping centres and malls, while the nearby private country clubs provide a touch of luxury for those seeking relaxation.
• Sandakan: Located on the eastern side of Sabah, Sandakan is often referred to as the Nature City thanks to its proximity to lush landscapes and wildlife. Visitor numbers tend to rise in April, July, and September, appealing to families, outdoor adventurers, and business travellers alike. Sandakan boasts unique venues such as campgrounds and shopping centres, making it ideal for a diverse range of activities. Highlights include beautiful islands and enchanting parks, as well as island resorts that offer serene escapes. This city serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning natural reserves in Malaysia.
• Semporna: Semporna is a charming coastal town known for its exquisite diving spots and breathtaking islands, making it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The travel experience here is characterised by a laid-back atmosphere, with peak visitor times in February, September, and December. The town features vibrant public markets and educational centres that reflect the local culture. Semporna is in close proximity to idyllic islands and resorts, where visitors can indulge in the beauty of the surrounding turquoise waters. Its mosques add a cultural touch, enriching the experience for those wishing to explore local traditions.

Things to do in Sabah

Shopping

Near the city centre, you can explore Imago Shopping Mall, which features a variety of local and international brands. For a more traditional experience, visit the Handicraft Market, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs reflecting Sabah’s rich culture.

Recreation

The Mandara Spa in Kota Kinabalu offers a tranquil atmosphere with signature treatments inspired by local traditions. Enjoy holistic therapies and rejuvenating massages amidst lush surroundings. Alternatively, visit the Sabah Tea Garden for an immersive experience in nature, where you can unwind with tea tasting and guided tours through verdant plantations.

Adventure

At Zip Borneo in Sabah, experience the thrill of soaring through the canopy on an exhilarating zipline ropes course. Surrounded by lush greenery, this adventure venue offers an adrenaline rush while immersing you in the natural beauty of Borneo's vibrant landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Kota Kinabalu with a visit to the lively Waterfront Esplanade, where you can enjoy local bars and live music. For a more laid-back vibe, explore the rooftop at The Loft, offering stunning city views alongside refreshing cocktails.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sabah

When planning your trip to Sabah, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March, May, and November for lower accommodation rates. Booking your hotel about a month in advance typically yields the best prices, and checking Expedia’s last-minute deals can uncover even more savings. Saturdays are the least expensive nights to stay, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Additionally, utilise Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly hotels and combine your stay with flights and activities for better package deals, ensuring an affordable yet comfortable travel experience.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sabah are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Sabah about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sabah is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Sabah is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Sabah with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, is an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and family vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as national parks, mosques, and stunning islands. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region's rich culture and breathtaking scenery, with highlights including the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Whether you're seeking exhilarating activities or a serene escape, Sabah promises memorable experiences for every traveller.

• Mount Kinabalu National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can explore various trails, each offering stunning views of flora and fauna unique to the region, making it ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Mt Kinabalu: As the highest peak in Southeast Asia, Mt Kinabalu offers an exhilarating climbing experience. Adventurers can tackle its challenging trails, rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys upon reaching the summit, embodying the spirit of outdoor exploration.
• Sutera Harbour: This picturesque harbour features pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the shoreline, partake in water sports, or simply relax with stunning sunset views, creating a serene coastal escape.

Best time to go to Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sabah falls in December, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Sabah falls in January, October and November. October has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High