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Our top choices for Sabah hotels

1. Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Room was super clean and the staff do their jobs amazingly 24/7"
United States
sean
The price is AU$217
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

2. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Super nice and scenic place to stay. Excellent swimming pools, huge gym. Marina nearby to visit islands. Beautiful beach nesrby"
United States
Linda JUNE
The price is AU$423
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

3. Hello Kitty Signature Suite

Hello Kitty Signature Suite
3.5 star property
Sandakan
6.8 out of 10, (6 reviews)
"Overall okay. Only thing is the master bedroom aircon which takes awhile to fix. Owner very responsive and provided welcome drinks when arrived. The area is good and quite close to shops. Good to have a car though."
Malaysia
Zoe
The price is AU$85
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Hello Kitty Signature Suite

4. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Hotel bello"
Italy
Davide
The price is AU$141
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Everything was perfect and we enjoyed our stay very much. A special mention deserves the staff ,everyone we encountered was genuinely very kind and happy to help and make our stay memorable. The breakfast was amazing. Also the pool was very nice."
United Kingdom
Ines
The price is AU$134
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

6. The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Fun place to stay with a family. Lots of kid friendly areas and activities. "
United States
Bethany
The price is AU$225
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
The Magellan Sutera Resort

7. Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (516 reviews)
"We stayed in the room which had a private pool. It had a very nice view. Staffs are very nice. Great food. We were the first customers enjoyed the special local produced three course meal. Fantastic!"
Australia
Kiu Hung Wilson
The price is AU$306
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Gayana Marine Resort

8. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Very spacious rooms, location is perfect, the staff is very friendly "
Canada
Cilla
The price is AU$144
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

9. Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (36 reviews)
"Great stay, helpful staff and the restaurant was lovely too."
United Kingdom
Sarah-Jayne
The price is AU$107
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Ormond Sandakan

10. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (212 reviews)
"Hotel staff and facilities were excellent. The breakfast buffet was phenomenal—wonderful, personalized service from Encik Fauzi and the rest of the team and a wide selection of food options, including many local favorites!"
United States
Paul
The price is AU$184
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

11. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (195 reviews)
"We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Bunga Raya Island Resort. The island is truly beautiful — surrounded by lush nature, crystal-clear water and stunning views. It feels like a peaceful little paradise, perfect for relaxing and escaping from the busy world. The villas are beautiful and spacious, the staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the service throughout our stay was excellent. We especially loved the peaceful atmosphere, beautiful beach and the opportunity to enjoy nature...
United Kingdom
Lesya
The price is AU$423
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

12. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (450 reviews)
"THE Resort."
Japan
Hiroshi
The price is AU$528
includes taxes & fees
29 Sept - 30 Sept
Gaya Island Resort

13. Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (384 reviews)
"I am travelling with family. Good for vacation"
Malaysia
Vincent
The price is AU$116
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

14. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (619 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is AU$155
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

15. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (78 reviews)
"Great locations and tidy facilities"
Australia
Thomas
The price is AU$107
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

16. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"We love the place Very nice lication"
United Kingdom
Antonette
The price is AU$165
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

17. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
4.0 star property
Karambunai
7.8 out of 10, Good, (789 reviews)
"I would say this resort has plenty of activities and amenities which is very convenient. Peaceful resort with a beautiful beach right in front of me. I wish the food selection and taste could be improved."
Malaysia
Madihah
The price is AU$148
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

18. Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran

Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran
3.5 star property
Tuaran
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is AU$95
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran

19. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
3.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (16 reviews)
"Great place to stay, staff very helpful and lots of amenities"
United Kingdom
Kevin
The price is AU$81
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

20. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (734 reviews)
"The pool is a nice addition after a long day of excursions."
Canada
Kian Yung
The price is AU$95
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
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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Top Sabah Hotel Reviews

Guide to exploring Sabah

Top reasons to visit Sabah

  • Stunning National Parks: Sabah is home to breathtaking national parks, perfect for trekking and exploring lush landscapes.
  • Beautiful Islands: Enjoy tranquil island excursions with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Experience lively local markets, traditional ceremonies, and rich cultural heritage.
  • Diverse Accommodation: From luxury hotels to charming guesthouses, Sabah caters to all types of travellers.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Engage in a variety of outdoor activities, ideal for families and adventure seekers alike.

Find great hotels in Sabah

Discover a diverse selection of accommodation options in Sabah, Malaysia, perfect for every type of traveller. From luxurious star-rated hotels to charming guesthouses, Sabah caters to business trips, family getaways, and idyllic beach holidays. Experience the best of Sabah's hospitality, with a range of facilities designed to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.

  • Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Sabah, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru boasts a guest rating of 9.2, making it an ideal resort for families and beach lovers. This property offers direct access to a pristine beach, allowing guests to indulge in sun-soaked relaxation. Families will appreciate the range of child-friendly amenities, including a children's pool, mini-golf, and supervised childcare services. The resort's focus on family holiday experiences ensures that both adults and children enjoy a memorable stay.
  • Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu: With a guest rating of 9.2, Shangri-La Rasa Ria is perfect for those seeking a mix of beach relaxation and adventure. This resort features direct beach access and offers a golf experience for enthusiasts. In addition to golfing, guests can partake in exciting activities such as horse riding, surfing, and hiking, both onsite and nearby. The property is designed for adventure seekers, making it an excellent choice for an exhilarating holiday in Sabah.
  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Rated at 8.4, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is a well-suited choice for families and business travellers. Located in the heart of Sabah, this hotel offers various amenities, including a children's pool and babysitting services for a fee. The accommodation prioritises comfort and convenience, allowing guests to unwind after a day of exploring the region. Its central location provides easy access to local attractions, making it a solid option for both leisure and business stays.

Where to stay in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, offers an unforgettable holiday experience, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. From the stunning landscapes of Malaysian Borneo to the vibrant cities, visitors can enjoy a myriad of activities in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're seeking luxury stays or budget-friendly options, Sabah caters to every traveller's needs, making it an ideal destination for romantic getaways, family holidays, or solo adventures. Explore the enchanting beauty and rich culture of Sabah for an unforgettable journey.

  • Kota Kinabalu: Nestled on the western coast of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu serves as a vibrant gateway to Borneo. With its stunning backdrop of Mount Kinabalu, the city boasts a mix of urban charm and natural beauty. The travel experience here is diverse, catering to families, business travellers, and city explorers alike. Visitors can indulge in shopping at bustling malls, enjoy leisurely strolls in local parks, or relax at the marina. The peak tourist seasons in August and December to January offer a lively atmosphere, making it easy to immerse oneself in the local culture and cuisine.
  • Sandakan: Located on the eastern coast of Sabah, Sandakan is renowned for its rich wildlife and historical significance. This city offers an outdoor paradise, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. The nearby islands and parks provide ample opportunities for exploration, while the vibrant local markets and campgrounds invite visitors to experience the community spirit. With peak visitor arrivals in April, July, and September, the lively atmosphere enriches your travel experience, allowing for unforgettable encounters with the region's natural wonders.
  • Semporna: Famous for its breathtaking islands and crystal-clear waters, Semporna is a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure seekers. This coastal city offers a range of outdoor activities, from diving to exploring local markets. Families can enjoy the serene beaches and island resorts that dot the landscape. Tourists flock to Semporna during peak periods in February, September, and December, ensuring a vibrant community atmosphere. The stunning mosques and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Things to do in Sabah

Sabah offers an exciting array of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can enjoy island excursions, explore Sabah Escape, and take part in various outdoor pursuits. The local markets and shopping centres provide a taste of the vibrant culture, while live music adds to the lively atmosphere, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit for everyone.

Shopping

In Kota Kinabalu, visit Suria Sabah for a variety of shops offering local crafts and international brands. For a more traditional experience, the Handicraft Market is ideal, featuring unique souvenirs and local delicacies. Both venues provide a taste of Sabah's vibrant culture and shopping scene.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil surroundings of the Mandara Spa at the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Park offers diverse marine activities and scenic hiking trails amidst lush tropical landscapes.

Adventure

At Zip Borneo, experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops on an exhilarating zipline course. Nestled in the beautiful Sabah landscape, this venue offers an exciting blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-fuelled fun.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Tanjung Aru Beach, where you can enjoy beachside bars with live music and stunning sunset views. For a lively night, visit the Waterfront Night Market, sampling local street food and soaking up the energetic vibe of the local crowd.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sabah

  • 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 your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You may find that you can reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation in Sabah with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking adventure. Highlights include stunning national parks, serene mosques, and beautiful islands, offering a rich blend of culture and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're trekking through lush landscapes or relaxing on pristine beaches, Sabah promises a memorable experience for every traveller.

  • Mount Kinabalu National Park: Nestled in the heart of Sabah, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking scenery and diverse flora and fauna. Adventure seekers can explore numerous trails, while nature lovers will appreciate the park’s rich biodiversity, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Mt Kinabalu: Standing majestically at 4,095 metres, Mt Kinabalu is a challenging yet rewarding climb. The panoramic views from the summit are simply stunning, showcasing the natural beauty of Sabah. This iconic mountain attracts adventurers and hikers alike, promising a memorable experience.
  • Sutera Harbour: This picturesque harbour features beautiful beaches and serene waters. Ideal for relaxation, visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore, water sports, or simply unwind while taking in the stunning sunset views.

Best time to go to Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January, October and November are its coolest month on average. At the time of October, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
February77.9°F (25.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.6°F (25.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September78.4°F (25.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October77.7°F (25.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December80.6°F (27.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Frequently asked questions

How much do hotels in Sabah cost?
The season and factors like school holidays and Easter can influence the price of a hotel in Sabah. You can find cheap options from AU$81 in a few different ways on Expedia. First, select the dates you'd like to get away, then use the filters such as amenities and property type to narrow down your search. You can also sort by price, so the most affordable options appear at the top.
When is the best time to go to Sabah?
The timing of your trip will depend on which part of Sabah you want to travel to, as temperatures vary in different areas. For a summer adventure with a tropical rainforest climate, consider Kota Kinabalu during the months of June to August. Here you can expect average temperatures between 26ºC and 30ºC.
What is the best area to stay in Sabah?
Sabah has plenty of thrilling areas to stay, including Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. Each has its own fabulous attractions, so why not schedule time to visit both?
Are there any luxury hotels in Sabah?
Some of the top-rated hotels in Sabah are in Kota Kinabalu. Have a look at indulgent options such as Hilton Kota Kinabalu, which offers designer toiletries, concierge services and room service. Grandis Hotel is another terrific choice in this city.
What are the top all-inclusive hotels in Sabah?
Nature Lodge Kinabatangan is one of the top-rated hotels in Sabah that offers all-inclusive deals. With drinks, food and entertainment usually included in one flat rate, you can put your wallet to one side and experience the ultimate stress-free holiday at this stay.
How can I find cheap hotels in Sabah?
The best place to begin searching is by using our "Price per night" filter. At the moment, the least expensive hotels start at AU$81 per night. Other ways to grab a wallet-friendly Sabah escape are by booking well in advance and being flexible with the dates you travel. For more superb deals, visit our cheap hotels in Sabah page.
What are the best hotels in Sabah for families?
Orion Residence At Tanjung Aru is one of the most popular hotels for families, located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Stay here and make full use of conveniences like a playground and laundry facilities. Hotel Lintas Plaza is another favourite escape where kiddos are welcome. For more hotel options, fine-tune your search results by selecting "Family friendly" under the "Traveller experience" filter section.
What are the top beach hotels in Sabah?
You'll be swept away by the perfect combination of relaxation and fun at our Sabah ocean-view hotels. One of our more popular getaways is Orion Residence At Tanjung Aru, which offers amenities like a terrace and a garden. Another pick promising beachside bliss is Hotel Lintas Plaza. These two properties are located in Kota Kinabalu.
Why should I book my Sabah hotel with Expedia?
Book your Sabah hotel with Expedia for great value, plenty of options and an easy booking process. Become a member of our free One Key™ rewards programme for access to exclusive perks and discounted Member Prices. Travel dates not set in stone? Not to worry — we've got you covered in case your plans change. And, if you want to ask us anything or need assistance, our online Help Centre is open around the clock.

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