Kota Kinabalu Holidays

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Your Kota Kinabalu Holiday

Book a Kota Kinabalu holiday package and get ready to experience the best of this city. Consider staying in the neighbourhood of Downtown Kota Kinabalu, which is good for bars and pubs, dining and markets. Every trip to Kota Kinabalu needs a well-designed itinerary. Fill yours with major attractions like 1Borneo Hypermall, Likas Stadium and Sabah State Mosque. Whoever you're escaping with and whatever your budget, your ultimate Kota Kinabalu holiday is just clicks away with Expedia.

Our guide on where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Find the best Kota Kinabalu areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Holiday

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family, city, and business vacations, offering a variety of activities such as shopping centres and private clubs. Visitors can explore exciting tour packages, engage in Sabah tours, hire knowledgeable guides, and embark on island hopping adventures or peaks excursions, ensuring a memorable experience in this vibrant city.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Kota Kinabalu, visit Suria Sabah Shopping Mall for a mix of entertainment and retail. The Gaya Street Sunday Market offers a vibrant local atmosphere, while the Kota Kinabalu Central Market is perfect for authentic souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out other shopping spots beyond the city.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Likas Stadium, where you can engage in various sports activities. Alternatively, visit Likas Sports Complex for a range of fitness options. For a more tranquil setting, Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai offers stunning outdoor spaces perfect for golfing and relaxation amidst nature.

Adventure

At the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, immerse yourself in a thrilling climbing experience surrounded by an energetic atmosphere. Explore Bukit Padang for a scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. Alternatively, enjoy the fun and excitement at Sinilou Kibambangan Water Park, perfect for family entertainment.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Start your evening at the lively Waterfront Esplanade for a mix of bars and restaurants. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the local pubs in the city centre, where you can enjoy live music and great company.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family, city, and business-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as mosques, urban parks, and harbours. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy outdoor experiences. Don't miss the chance to explore Mount Kinabalu and the stunning Kinabalu Park, both of which provide unique adventures within and around the city.

  • Sutera Harbour: Experience the stunning beauty of Sutera Harbour, where you can relax on picturesque beaches and enjoy scenic views. This vibrant harbourside destination offers a range of activities, from water sports to leisurely strolls by the waterfront, making it a perfect spot for unwinding and soaking in the tropical atmosphere.
  • Sabah State Mosque: Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Sabah State Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. This iconic mosque, with its majestic dome and intricate designs, provides a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of Islamic art and heritage.
  • Borneo Marine Research Institute: Discover the fascinating marine life at the Borneo Marine Research Institute. This institute focuses on research and conservation efforts, offering educational programmes that highlight the importance of marine ecosystems and their preservation in this biodiverse region.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Kota Kinabalu

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March, May and November) for more affordable package holidays to Kota Kinabalu.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Kota Kinabalu Essential Information

Language
Malaysian
Currency
Malaysian ringgits
Local Goodbye
Sampai jumpa lagi
Closest Airport
Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI)
Population
457,300
Max Temp Winter
29ºC
Max Temp Summer
29ºC
Top Sights
Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park and Sabah State Museum

Our pick of the best Kota Kinabalu Hotel Deals

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

5 out of 5
Jalan Datuk Salleh Sulong Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$130 per night from 3 Mar to 4 Mar
AU$130
3 Mar - 4 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
Nice large Room with views, Clean , Friendly Staff and very welcoming from Entrance to Exit.

Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$150 per night from 6 Mar to 7 Mar
AU$150
6 Mar - 7 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
Rooftop bar overlooking the water was a highlight. Fantastic sunset cocktails. Room was spacious, and bed was comfy! The staff were very welcoming, Anne was especially great.

Reviewed on 25 Jan 2026

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
NO. 18 JALAN HAJI SAMAN Kota Kinabalu
The price is AU$179 per night from 1 Mar to 2 Mar
AU$179
1 Mar - 2 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (197 reviews)
Everything is good

Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.