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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, (1,000 reviews)
"Absolutely fantastic property with incredible staff.Rooms were huge and very clean and well equipped.Lovely pools and beach,great range of activities and restaurants. Free shuttle bus into KK and easy to arrange excursions through the hotel."
United Kingdom
Eleanor
The price is AU$188
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
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$309
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
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$77
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
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)
"A good stay in KK and a great location"
Malaysia
Sri Ganesh
The price is AU$143
includes taxes & fees
21 Nov - 22 Nov
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5. The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Fun place to stay with a family. Lots of kid friendly areas and activities. "
United States
Bethany
The price is AU$202
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
The Magellan Sutera Resort

6. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (999 reviews)
"Great location - close to all amenities and the waterfront Great roof top pool although very overpriced food in the restaurants. Great staff Would definitely recommend"
Australia
Michaela
The price is AU$127
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

7. Lankayan Island Resort

Lankayan Island Resort
3.0 star property
Sandakan
Lankayan Island Resort

8. Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (525 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$322
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Gayana Marine Resort

9. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"We thought the staff were wonderful and the hotel was very elegant. The breakfast was especially good."
United States
Kip
The price is AU$132
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

10. Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (50 reviews)
"Great stay, helpful staff and the restaurant was lovely too."
United Kingdom
Sarah-Jayne
The price is AU$115
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Ormond Sandakan

11. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (199 reviews)
"We stayed in the double bungalow, Perfect for 3 seperate friends, so much private space. Just beautiful."
Australia
Nikko
The price is AU$420
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

12. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (224 reviews)
"Very helpful staff good location"
United Kingdom
MRS
The price is AU$154
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

13. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (451 reviews)
"We had an amazing time at Gaya Island Resort. It is a luxury resort with great food and drinks, comfortable rooms, and incredible views/proximity to the ocean. Worth noting is that this is in a nature reserve, surrounded by jungle and ocean, and the resort embraces and supports this, which means coexisting with wildlife. You can walk out from the resort beach to their own protected reef and swim with dozens of species of beautiful fish (equipment is available for free). We didn’t see any snakes,...
United States
Eric
The price is AU$599
includes taxes & fees
21 Nov - 22 Nov
Gaya Island Resort

14. Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (388 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United Kingdom
Holly
The price is AU$135
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

15. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (630 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is AU$147
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

16. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (83 reviews)
"Great locations and tidy facilities"
Australia
Thomas
The price is AU$109
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

17. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
4.0 star property
Karambunai
7.8 out of 10, Good, (791 reviews)
"Great polite staff, very helpful, very happy. Nexus is a beautiful, picturesque escape from the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life. We would definitely book this place again. Just be sure to pack the insect repellent as you would going to any beach."
Australia
Kunthea
The price is AU$137
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

18. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (204 reviews)
"The complimentary airport shuttle (one-way only) was very useful along with the breakfast buffet. Definitely worth staying if you do not want to go island hopping or to the city centre"
Australia
Velmor
The price is AU$60
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

19. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (999 reviews)
"We love the place Very nice lication"
United Kingdom
Antonette
The price is AU$120
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

20. Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort
2.5 star property
Sandakan
7.6 out of 10, Good, (248 reviews)
"It was an amazing lodge. We could see animals inside the hotel grounds orangutans five minute walk to Rehab center and sun bear."
United States
jerald
The price is AU$58
includes taxes & fees
21 Nov - 22 Nov
Sepilok Jungle Resort
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$58 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$58 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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