What to do in Kota Kinabalu

Activities, attractions and tours

Kota Kinabalu showing landscape views and boating
Photo provided by Tourism Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu
Photo provided by Tourism Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Tourist Attractions & Activities

Perpetually prepared for unique ways to get your kicks and expand your horizons, you’re eager to explore an exciting city like the expert traveller you are. It’s not challenging to fill an itinerary, because Expedia Australia makes it easy to book loads of things to do. Reserve your activities today, and the only thing left to do is count the days until your escape and think about all the places you'll go!

  • Book your favourite day trip on Expedia Australia for a great price, and you'll still have money for a top hotel or luxurious dinner while you’re visiting. The things to do in Kota Kinabalu are not only topnotch, but they won’t cost an arm and a leg. We have 77 things to do here, and you can make them yours starting at just AU$4.
  • Kota Kinabalu is a favourite among sightseers similar to yourself. In fact, many travellers have been visiting to learn about local history and participate in the best activities, and manyare already thinking of return. The top things to do can catch the enthusiasm of even experienced globetrotters, and it's easy to see why. Our list includes a wide variety of culturally based outings and excitement. From unique ways to see the best this area has to give like a Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Springs Venture to thrilling ways to test your sea legs like the Klias Wetland Safari & Fireflies Tour, there are plenty of selections to choose from when you search through the finest tours and excursions here at Expedia Australia.

Our activities are the perfect way to organise your getaway. It takes an expert itinerary to make the most of a trip to Kota Kinabalu, especially when you want to include lots of local cuisine and entertainment. And it's evident that you don't plan to sleep all day—you're ready to get out and see what life is like for locals. You're excited to sign up for the best activities around, and an afternoon walking through charming neighbourhoods is an adventure all its own. Book professional city tours on Expedia Australia, and you’ll never get lost.


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Most fun & popular experiences in Kota Kinabalu

Tours & day trips

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Wildlife & nature

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What to do in Kota Kinabalu


Discover the most popular places to visit in Kota Kinabalu

Explore areas of Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu which includes tropical scenes, island images and a coastal town

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

4/5(42 area reviews)

A noteworthy feature of Downtown Kota Kinabalu is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.

Downtown Kota Kinabalu
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Tanjung Aru

5/5(4 area reviews)

Beaches and abundant dining options are well-reviewed features of Tanjung Aru. Make a stop by top sights like Tanjung Aru Perdana Park while you're exploring the area.

Tanjung Aru
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Karambunai

Karambunai is popular for its pristine beaches, and you might make a stop by Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, a top place to visit in the area.

Karambunai
Kota Kinabalu which includes tropical scenes, island images and a coastal town

Kampung Air

Unique features of Kampung Air include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Kompleks Asia City or Sedco Square while you're exploring the area.

Kampung Air
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Alamesra

While Alamesra may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like 1Borneo Hypermall and Likas Stadium.

Alamesra
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Likas

You'll appreciate the shopping during your time in Likas and you might want to plan a stop by Likas Stadium and Likas Sports Complex while you're in the area.

Likas

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Kota Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

Is Kota Kinabalu worth visiting?
Providing a blend of coastal beaches and shopping, there's no shortage of things to do in Kota Kinabalu. When you're here, visit Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Kota Kinabalu?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Kota Kinabalu Esplanade and Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre. Then, check out different areas of Kota Kinabalu for local dining and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kota Kinabalu?
Don't go home without exploring Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, rated the top tourist attraction in Kota Kinabalu.
Is three days enough to stay in Kota Kinabalu?
Three days in Kota Kinabalu is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travellers book for three days on average. Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, Tanjung Aru Perdana Park and Anjung Samudera are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots like Dalit Beach.
Is Kota Kinabalu a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Kota Kinabalu, such as Kota Kinabalu Esplanade and Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.16 kilometres from central Kota Kinabalu is Downtown Kota Kinabalu and Pusat Bandar is 0.64 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Kota Kinabalu with kids?
Planning what to do in Kota Kinabalu with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Kota Kinabalu for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Kota Kinabalu, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Downbelow Adventure Centre.
Are there free things to do in Kota Kinabalu?
In Kota Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is a must-see spot for anyone planning to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Kota Kinabalu.

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