Search Kota Kinabalu hotels

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Mount Kinabalu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Cultural Richness: Immerse yourself in local traditions at the Kaamatan Festival, celebrating Sabah's diverse heritage.
• Vibrant Waterfront: Relax and unwind at the KK Waterfront, a lively area perfect for dining and leisurely strolls.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy idyllic beach getaways, offering serene escapes and crystal-clear waters.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you seek a business-friendly environment, a family getaway, or a rejuvenating spa experience, you will discover the ideal lodging to meet your needs. Explore the best hotels and top resorts in Kota Kinabalu, where comfort and convenience await in this vibrant city surrounded by natural beauty.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: With a remarkable guest rating of 9.2, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu offers an exquisite resort experience for families and beach lovers alike. Nestled along the coastline, this property boasts direct access to the beach, providing a stunning backdrop for relaxation and recreation. Amenities tailored for families, including a children's pool and various safety features, ensure a family-friendly atmosphere. Guests appreciate the thoughtful services aimed at younger visitors, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a memorable family holiday.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Rated at 8.4, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu stands as a distinguished hotel option for families desiring a touch of luxury during their stay. Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, this property combines elegant accommodations with convenient amenities. Families can benefit from onsite childcare services, a complimentary crib, and a children's pool, making it easier for parents to unwind while ensuring their little ones are well cared for. The hotel’s luxurious ambiance and attentive service contribute to a memorable holiday experience.
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.4, The Pacific Sutera Hotel presents itself as an appealing resort option for families and beach enthusiasts. This property also features direct beach access, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days by the sea. Families will find various amenities designed for children, including a game room and childcare services, creating opportunities for both fun and relaxation. The hotel’s serene environment combined with its family-friendly facilities makes it an attractive choice for a delightful getaway.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, a vibrant city in Sabah, offers a delightful mix of urban charm and natural beauty. Explore the bustling downtown area, unwind at the stunning KK Waterfront, or embark on beach getaways that promise relaxation. For families and couples alike, this friendly destination provides a romantic atmosphere and budget-friendly experiences, making it perfect for an unforgettable holiday in Borneo.

• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Situated in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Downtown is a vibrant hub that pulsates with life and activity. This area welcomes a steady stream of visitors year-round, particularly peaking in August and December to January. It offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions and business amenities. You can enjoy shopping at bustling malls and local markets, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and sampling local cuisine. Notable landmarks include parks and modern educational institutions, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and exploration.
• Pusat Bandar: Pusat Bandar, a charming village within Kota Kinabalu, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient access to various amenities. Similar to Downtown, it sees a consistent flow of tourists, especially in peak months like August and December to January. Families and business travellers alike will appreciate the proximity to shopping centres and markets. The area also features lovely parks and wetland attractions, providing a refreshing natural escape amidst urban life. It’s a fantastic place to soak in local culture while enjoying the conveniences of city living.
• Tanjung Aru: Nestled along the coastline, Tanjung Aru is a picturesque neighbourhood ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and beach relaxation. This area attracts visitors particularly in April, July, and September, offering a vibrant atmosphere for families and beach enthusiasts. With access to luxurious resorts and private clubs, it is perfect for unwinding or indulging in recreational activities. The nearby harbour, marina, and stunning islands add to its appeal, making Tanjung Aru a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy Sabah’s natural beauty.

Things to do near 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 holidays. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture by attending the Kaamatan Festival, while Borneo guides provide insights for an enriching day itinerary. Enjoy the vibrant local scene as you explore this charming city.

Shopping

In the heart of Kota Kinabalu, you can explore the lively Handicraft Market for local souvenirs, while Suria Sabah offers a blend of shops and eateries. If you're up for a drive, 1Borneo Hypermall features a larger variety of retail options and dining experiences.

Recreation

Experience the serene atmosphere at the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort's spa, offering rejuvenating treatments surrounded by lush gardens. For outdoor adventure, trek through the stunning landscapes of Mount Kinabalu, where breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna await your discovery.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Zip Borneo, a zipline ropes course located 26km from Kota Kinabalu. Soar through the treetops, taking in the lush landscapes as you navigate exciting obstacles. The outdoor vibes and adrenaline rush make it a memorable adventure for thrill-seekers.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Waterfront Esplanade, where you can enjoy stunning views and lively bars. For a unique experience, visit the Night Market for local street food and entertainment, or unwind at the popular Sinsuran Night Market, filled with music and delicious delicacies.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kota Kinabalu

• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most affordable options and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save some money by combining your hotel reservation in Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of family, city, and business-themed holidays, featuring attractions such as mosques, urban parks, and the vibrant harbour. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy outdoor experiences. A must-see is Mount Kinabalu, which provides stunning views and hiking opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. This diverse destination caters to all types of travellers looking to explore the rich offerings of Sabah.

• Sutera Harbour: This picturesque harbour offers a stunning beach and scenic views, ideal for relaxation and enjoying the coastal ambiance. Visitors can indulge in various water sports or simply take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.
• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: A vibrant tourist precinct, the Esplanade is perfect for families seeking outdoor activities. With its lively atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a variety of food stalls, recreational areas, and picturesque views of the sunset over the sea.
• Tanjung Aru Perdana Park: This urban park combines city life with nature, offering expansive green spaces for family outings and recreational activities. Its well-maintained paths and playgrounds make it an excellent spot for picnics, jogging, or enjoying a leisurely walk.

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	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	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

Flying into Kota Kinabalu is convenient with Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located 6km from the city centre. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort, located 3km away, which offers airport transfers, and the Hilton Kota Kinabalu, 6km away, featuring various airport shuttle services. The Magellan Sutera Resort is another choice, situated 5km from the airport. For those considering alternative airports, Labuan (LBU) is 119km away, with hotels like Dorsett Grand Labuan, and Kudat (KUD), located 135km away, offers options like Kudat Golf & Marina Resort, all with accessible airport transportation services.