Downtown Kota Kinabalu delights travelers with its stunning South China Sea views and golden sunsets along the waterfront Esplanade. The vibrant Gaya Street transforms weekly into a colorful Sunday Market full of local treasures and Malaysian street food. Colonial shophouses house charming cafes and boutiques beneath distinctive covered walkways.
Seafood restaurants line the harbor where fishing boats bob against the backdrop of island silhouettes. Explore the Handicraft Market for authentic Bornean crafts and batik textiles. The compact district offers easy exploration by foot with ferry terminals nearby for island-hopping adventures.
Tanjung Aru captivates visitors with its golden beaches and legendary sunset views along the South China Sea. The neighborhood balances resort luxury with authentic Malaysian coastal charm. Stroll the scenic waterfront promenade or relax in Prince Philip Park's manicured gardens.
Beyond the beachfront, discover local seafood warungs serving grilled fish and satay for authentic flavors. Tanjung Aru offers a peaceful retreat with swimmable waters and tropical landscapes. The evening atmosphere remains relaxed, perfect for sunset cocktails rather than late-night revelry.
Karambunai wraps visitors in tropical luxury where pristine beaches meet lush mangrove forests. This secluded coastal retreat offers upscale resorts with championship golf courses and stunning sunset views. Nature lovers can explore the wetland boardwalks where proboscis monkeys swing through the canopy.
The calm waters invite swimming while resort amenities cater to relaxation seekers. Dining options feature Malaysian fusion cuisine in beachfront settings. Though removed from Kota Kinabalu's bustle, resort shuttles make city excursions easy for those craving urban adventures.
Kampung Air offers a rare glimpse into Malaysian maritime culture where traditional stilt houses rise above emerald waters. Indigenous Bajau sea gypsies maintain their authentic way of life in this water village connected by wooden walkways. The gentle sounds of lapping waves and boat building create a peaceful atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
Visitors can arrange homestays with local families or explore the neighborhood's simple craft displays. Fresh seafood prepared in traditional Bajau style costs just a few ringgit. Water taxis provide the main transportation, perfectly matching the rhythm of this unique floating community.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Kota Kinabalu
Photo by Iqbal Selamat
Open Photo by Iqbal Selamat
Imago Shopping Mall
8.6/10 (662 reviews)
Kota Kinabalu's largest shopping complex offers four levels of international brands and local treasures. Catch daily performances of the traditional Magunatip bamboo dance while exploring upscale dining options.
Photo by Jim Teo
Open Photo by Jim Teo
Suria Sabah Shopping Mall
8.4/10 (503 reviews)
Suria Sabah Mall combines international brands with local boutiques along Kota Kinabalu's waterfront. Visit the upper-level food court for panoramic views of the South China Sea while sampling diverse cuisines.
Kota Kinabalu Esplanade
8.0/10 (87 reviews)
Stroll along this waterfront promenade featuring a dolphin monument and stunning South China Sea views. Visit at sunset when the wooden platform offers the perfect vantage point for breathtaking coastal colors.
Sutera Harbour
8.2/10 (291 reviews)
This waterfront resort combines two luxury hotels with a championship golf course and marina overlooking the South China Sea. Guests can sail, tee off, or unwind at the Mandara Spa while enjoying Mount Kinabalu views.
Gaya Street Sunday Market
8.2/10 (478 reviews)
Every Sunday, Gaya Street becomes Kota Kinabalu's vibrant marketplace with local handicrafts and Sabahan delicacies. Arrive early to browse colorful stalls of batik fabrics and handmade jewelry before midday heat.
Kota Kinabalu Central Market
7.8/10 (375 reviews)
Dive into Kota Kinabalu Central Market's vibrant maze of stalls offering fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Engage with friendly vendors while sampling exotic delicacies for an authentic glimpse into Sabahan daily life.
1Borneo Hypermall
7.6/10 (250 reviews)
East Malaysia's largest shopping complex offers a comprehensive retail and entertainment experience. Explore international brands, local dining options, and entertainment facilities all under one expansive roof.
Centre Point
7.8/10 (402 reviews)
Centre Point Sabah stands as Kota Kinabalu's landmark shopping destination with a mix of retailers. Browse fashion boutiques, dine at diverse eateries, or enjoy the cinema and bowling alley.
What to do in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu: Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan
"Still a nice place with pleasant staff. The hotel is under going renovations, which is great as they were needed, but that should be mentioned in both the website and Expedia at the time of booking. Some guest may find this uncomfortable"
"The hotel location is fantastic. We had a sea facing room and had a wonderful view of the ocean and mountains in the background, as well as fishing boats. The gym is also well equipped - multiple stationary bikes, treadmills, exercise machines. The only down side is that there is a strong odor of cigarettes in there all the time. May be due to bad air circulation in that room. There is also a nice outdoor pool. The breakfast buffet was very good, with lots of local and western choices. Hotel...
"Many places to eat nearby within walking distance.
Airport shuttle not available as mentioned in provided facilities.
Very noisy music coming from nearby establishments. Not able to sleep."
"No hot water. Also, they advertise free shuttle to the airport. When I came down before 7:00 a.m to catch the shuttle, they tried charging me. They would not help me to get a shuttle, and in fact, they put another group in the shuttle before me when I had been waiting.
I found the place kind of dirty. It needs some new carpeting and some clean looking towels. This may be one of the worst hotels I’ve stayed at."
"Staff are smiling all the time. Amazing swimming pool on roof deck / bar. However, the pool should have a roped off section for lap swimming for adults and a kids area for fooling around. Too many kids who have zero etiquette loud parents made swimming in a sophisticated environment feel like bargain basement garage sale kinda place. Or adults only from 18:00 to close. "
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.
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.
How much does a Kota Kinabalu vacation package cost?
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be thrilled with how little a vacation to Kota Kinabalu costs! Our packages mean less travel planning for you and greater savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Kota Kinabalu?
You can usually find lower rates and better availability in January, February and March. Browse our cheap Kota Kinabalu vacation packages and you could get some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Kota Kinabalu?
With around 3 days, you'll have enough time to enjoy popular neighborhoods like Downtown Kota Kinabalu and Pusat Bandar during your Kota Kinabalu vacation. Remember to also add All Saint's Cathedral and Signal Hill Observatory Platform to your list of must-sees. Looking for more adventures? Consider venturing outside of Kota Kinabalu on tours and day trips.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Kota Kinabalu?
Whether you'd like to check out major attractions like Likas Stadium and Imago Shopping Mall on your Kota Kinabalu vacation, or coming for its excellent markets, nature and shopping, there's something for everyone here. With so much to see and do, you'll quickly learn why so many travelers think Kota Kinabalu is a good vacation destination.
How to find the best Kota Kinabalu package deals?
Finding a cheap Kota Kinabalu package deal is easy with Expedia. Once you've entered your trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your budget, apply some filters and see what's available. You can fine-tune your search by "Area," "Amenities," "Property type" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most affordable Kota Kinabalu package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Have some flexibility with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are typically lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Kota Kinabalu vacation as a package?
An Expedia vacation package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to booking stays and flights separately. Better still, you can tailor your Kota Kinabalu escape to fit your exact needs. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a vacation package to Kota Kinabalu?
If you're planning an impromptu Kota Kinabalu adventure, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can score awesome deals on your hotels and flights by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Kota Kinabalu?
Choose the right time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Kota Kinabalu.
Budget wisely: Besides the price of your accommodations, you'll need to factor in other expenses too. These include food, flights and transportation. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses that may crop up during your trip to Kota Kinabalu.
Discover Kota Kinabalu with Expedia's trip planning tool: Gain insights into the most popular attractions and best stays for your trip to Kota Kinabalu. You can also save your favorite places, collaborate with your group and organize your plans in one place.
Set the duration of your trip: Start by making a list of all the activities and attractions you'd like to get to in Kota Kinabalu. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, along with any travel time.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your flights, car rental, hotels and more into a customized Kota Kinabalu vacation package.
Book any activities or excursions: Now to the fun part — locking in everything you want to do and see. Browse some of the top things to do in Kota Kinabalu and reserve your tickets early to save time (and maybe some cash too!).
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Kota Kinabalu vacation packages?
If you're like us, you love discovering new places but are not a fan of the price tag that can come with it. That's why we offer Book Now, Pay Later vacations. With the help of online lender Affirm, you can break down the cost of your Kota Kinabalu trip across 3, 6 or 12 months. There are also no late payment fees or hidden costs, so you can secure cheap vacation packages with payment plans as soon as you see them.
Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family vacations, business trips, and city exploration. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping at modern malls and private clubs. Don't miss out on exciting Kota Kinabalu trips, adventure packages, and local tours that showcase the area's natural beauty. With options for day trips and guided tours, there's something for everyone to experience the vibrant culture and scenery of this charming Malaysian city.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Likas Stadium and Likas Sports Complex, where you can engage in various sports activities. For a touch of luxury, unwind at Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, offering stunning views and a relaxing environment perfect for rejuvenation and leisure.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of climbing at the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, where adventure meets sport. For an adrenaline rush, soar through the treetops at Zip Borneo, located 16 miles from the city. Alternatively, hike the scenic trails of Bukit Padang, immersing yourself in nature's beauty.
Nightlife
Kota Kinabalu's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Visit the Waterfront Esplanade for local bars and stunning sunset views. For live music, check out the popular Irish pub, The Shamrock, or dance the night away at the lively Sutera Harbour Resort. Enjoy the mix of culture and entertainment.
Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu offers a perfect blend of family-friendly, city, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including beautiful mosques, urban parks, and the scenic harbor. The area is ideal for those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the chance to visit Sabah resorts and Mount Kinabalu, along with the stunning Kinabalu Park, to enhance your travel experience in this vibrant Malaysian city.
Sutera Harbour: Experience the stunning beach and picturesque scenery at Sutera Harbour, where you can relax by the water or engage in water sports. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: This family-friendly tourist precinct offers a lively outdoor vibe, perfect for leisurely strolls along the waterfront. Enjoy local food stalls, street performances, and beautiful views of the sunset over the ocean.
Tanjung Aru Perdana Park: An urban park that combines family fun with city vibes, Tanjung Aru Perdana Park features lush green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths, making it an ideal spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
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.
Tips to save on your trip to Kota Kinabalu
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Kota Kinabalu.
Consider traveling to Kota Kinabalu during the low season (March, May and November) for more affordable options.
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.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.