Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

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17 Jul - 19 Jul
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Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu?

Properties are selected based on real traveller reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Kota Kinabalu on Hotels.com. These Kota Kinabalu hotels consistently deliver on comfort, location and traveller experience. Last updated on .

Family Room, With Window | View from room

Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse

Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.2 out of 10, Good, (86 reviews)
This budget-friendly hotel offers easy access to Imago Shopping Mall and the colourful Handicraft Market. With convenient amenities like free WiFi, daily housekeeping, and laundry facilities, you're just minutes from Kota Kinabalu Airport.
The price is ฿405
฿560 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse
Front of property

Mile 36 Lodge

Mile 36 Lodge
3.0 star property
Ranau
7.2 out of 10, Good, (146 reviews)
Escape to a serene lodge surrounded by natural beauty, only a 10-minute stroll from Mount Kinabalu National Park. Nearby Mountain Garden offers additional exploration while free parking and 24-hour front desk service ensure a hassle-free mountain retreat.
The price is ฿624
฿818 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
Mile 36 Lodge
Lobby

My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu

My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
The price is ฿685
฿822 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu
Street view

Nabalu Kundasang Lodge

Nabalu Kundasang Lodge
3.0 star property
Ranau
7.4 out of 10, Good, (72 reviews)
Savour international cuisine at Puteri Nabalu restaurant while staying minutes from Mount Kinabalu National Park. This lodge offers free parking and daily housekeeping, with Sosodikon Hill nearby for exploration after a comfortable night's rest in scenic Kundasang.
The price is ฿613
฿744 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Jul - 21 Jul
Nabalu Kundasang Lodge
Front of property

Hotel O Rainfield Inn

Hotel O Rainfield Inn
2.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
This inviting hotel puts you close to Imago Shopping Mall and Koisaan Cultural Village. Enjoy the convenience of free WiFi and the luxury of rainfall showers after a day of exploring. The 24-hour front desk ensures your needs are met any time.
The price is ฿660
฿795 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
Hotel O Rainfield Inn
In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
Escape to a serene haven with a beautiful private beach and calm waters. Enjoy spectacular sunset views from your room or the sunset bar, plus access to 2 outdoor pools, 5 restaurants, and complimentary cabanas.
The price is ฿6,737
฿7,358 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Deluxe Double Room (CJ 1) | Individually decorated, desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains

CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (52 reviews)
Immerse yourself in comfort at this Kota Kinabalu hotel near Imago Shopping Mall and Centre Point. Unwind at the on-site restaurant after exploring, grab evening drinks at the bar, and enjoy free WiFi throughout your stay. Tanjung Aru Station is just a quick drive away.
The price is ฿1,046
฿1,212 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
CJ Residence
Family Suite | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Hotel O Blossom Hotel

Hotel O Blossom Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.8 out of 10, (10 reviews)
Escape to this modern hotel in Kota Kinabalu, where free WiFi and daily housekeeping create a relaxing stay. Just 5 minutes from Imago Shopping Mall and near Sedco Square, you'll enjoy 24-hour front desk service and easy airport access.
The price is ฿595
฿813 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
Hotel O Blossom Hotel
Family Room | Desk, iron/ironing board, bed sheets

K Hotel

K Hotel
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (28 reviews)
K Hotel combines convenience and comfort just 10 minutes from Imago Shopping Mall. Explore nearby Koisaan Cultural Village, then unwind with 24-hour front desk assistance and concierge services that enhance your Malaysian getaway.
The price is ฿912
฿1,067 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
K Hotel
Desk, free WiFi

Warisan Hotel

Warisan Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.2 out of 10, (12 reviews)
Located in vibrant Kota Kinabalu, this welcoming hotel offers easy access to popular shopping destinations. Free WiFi keeps you connected while daily housekeeping ensures a tidy retreat. The 24-hour front desk provides round-the-clock assistance for your travel needs.
The price is ฿600
฿729 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Jul - 17 Jul
Warisan Hotel
Interior

Oikos Poshtel

Oikos Poshtel
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.2 out of 10, Good, (14 reviews)
The price is ฿780
฿1,002 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
Oikos Poshtel
Deluxe Twin Room | Laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Margo Hotel KK

Margo Hotel KK
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.6 out of 10, Good, (5 reviews)
Immerse yourself in the heart of Kota Kinabalu at this contemporary hotel just a 5-minute walk from Imago Shopping Mall and near Plaza Wawasan. Enjoy room service, free WiFi, and 24-hour assistance during your Malaysian adventure.
The price is ฿1,099
฿1,268 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
Margo Hotel KK
Deluxe King | In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Qlio Hotel

Qlio Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (56 reviews)
The price is ฿601
฿730 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Jul - 16 Jul
Qlio Hotel
Interior

The MAJULAN Hotel

The MAJULAN Hotel
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
The price is ฿1,921
฿2,156 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 Jul
The MAJULAN Hotel
Front of property

Hotel Sadong 88

Hotel Sadong 88
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
6.6 out of 10, (28 reviews)
Within a 5-minute drive of Imago Shopping Mall, this hotel offers free WiFi and 24-hour front desk service. Explore nearby Downbelow Adventure Centre, then return to comfortable rooms. Tanjung Aru Station is just 4 minutes away by car.
The price is ฿608
฿799 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Jul - 16 Jul
Hotel Sadong 88
Standard Room | View from room

Hotel Iskandar

Hotel Iskandar
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.8 out of 10, (108 reviews)
Minutes from Imago Shopping Mall, this hotel offers free WiFi and daily housekeeping in a convenient location. Tanjung Aru Station is a 4-minute drive away, while Kota Kinabalu International Airport is just 8 minutes by car.
The price is ฿561
฿744 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Jul - 16 Jul
Hotel Iskandar
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch served

Tune Hotels - 1 Borneo, Kota Kinabalu

Tune Hotels - 1 Borneo, Kota Kinabalu
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
7.2 out of 10, Good, (229 reviews)
The price is ฿957
฿1,116 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Tune Hotels - 1 Borneo, Kota Kinabalu
Standard Triple Room | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Hotel O Five 2

Hotel O Five 2
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (115 reviews)
Tucked conveniently near vibrant Imago Shopping Mall, this hotel offers round-the-clock front desk service and complimentary WiFi. Explore nearby Sedco Square or catch a quick 8-minute drive to Tanjung Aru Station for city adventures.
The price is ฿639
฿804 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Jul - 16 Jul
Hotel O Five 2
Reception

Hotel DeLeeton

Hotel DeLeeton
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (90 reviews)
Centrally positioned near Imago Shopping Mall and Centre Point, this hotel offers 24-hour front desk service and daily housekeeping. Airport drop-off service makes travel simple, while Tanjung Aru Station is only 5 minutes away by car.
The price is ฿697
฿834 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Aug - 8 Aug
Hotel DeLeeton
Front of property

Hotel D'New 1 KK Sabah

Hotel D'New 1 KK Sabah
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
Enjoy convenient accommodation with free parking in Kota Kinabalu, just a short drive from Imago Shopping Mall and Koisaan Cultural Village. This hotel offers daily housekeeping and round-the-clock reception for your comfort.
The price is ฿795
฿940 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Hotel D'New 1 KK Sabah
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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Get last-minute hotel deals in Kota Kinabalu and save more

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Showing deals for:17 Jul - 19 Jul
In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
฿3,581 off
The price is ฿7,162
per night
฿15,634 total
includes taxes & fees
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Showing deals for:24 Jul - 26 Jul
In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
฿3,369 off
The price is ฿6,737
per night
฿14,716 total
includes taxes & fees
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Showing deals for:12 Aug - 13 Aug
Deluxe Double or Twin Room, Balcony, Sea View | In-room safe
Mamutik Island Lodge

Mamutik Island Lodge

Mamutik Island Lodge
3.0 star property
Mamutik Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2 reviews)
฿409 off
The price is ฿3,679
per night
฿4,055 total
includes taxes & fees
Mamutik Island Lodge

Check out hotels with a pool in Kota Kinabalu

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1002)
The price is ฿6,737
฿7,358 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
View all properties

You may also like hotels with spas in Kota Kinabalu

Front of property
Regis by Ritz Imago Mall Loft B

Regis by Ritz Imago Mall Loft B

Regis by Ritz Imago Mall Loft B
4.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
The price is ฿3,300
฿3,646 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Jul - 19 Jul
Regis by Ritz Imago Mall Loft B
View all properties

You can also stay in resorts in Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Deluxe Seaview Suite (King) | Terrace/patio
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1001)
The price is ฿9,509
฿11,302 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, 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.
View all properties

When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?

Our prices for hotels in Kota Kinabalu are cheapest in January
Price trends for hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in July
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for July.
Typical weather for Kota Kinabalu
July
High 30°C / low 26°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in July
30°
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July, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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August, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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29°
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September, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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29°
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October, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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29°
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November, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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29°
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December, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Partly sunny.
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29°
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January, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 25 degrees Celsius. Partly sunny.
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29°
weather_sun
February, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 25 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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29°
weather_sun
March, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 25 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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30°
weather_sun
April, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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30°
weather_sun
May, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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30°
weather_sun
June, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
26°
Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighbourhoods in Kota Kinabalu

A mosque with a large dome and minarets, reflecting in a calm body of water.
Photo by Aileen Adalid
Open Photo by Aileen Adalid

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

City centre Kota Kinabalu serves up the perfect Malaysian trifecta: stunning South China Sea views, mouthwatering seafood, and vibrant shopping scenes. Stroll along the waterfront esplanade to catch those Instagram-worthy sunsets. Dive into the colourful chaos of local markets, where handicrafts and street food compete for your attention. The bustling Gaya Street transforms into a shopper's paradise on Sundays. Getting around is a breeze with abundant taxis and walkable streets lined with colonial shophouses. You'll find accommodation ranging from backpacker hostels to harbor-view hotels. When hunger strikes, choose between sizzling street food stalls or upscale waterfront restaurants that showcase the day's fresh catch.

A sunset over a calm sea with palm trees and a small island in the distance.
Photo by Mango Yip
Open Photo by Mango Yip

Tanjung Aru

Tanjung Aru delivers the Malaysian beach escape you've been dreaming about with golden sands that seem to stretch forever. This coastal gem is famous for its jaw-dropping sunsets that paint the sky in fiery oranges and pinks. Stroll along the breezy waterfront promenade or kick back at Tanjung Aru Perdana Park when you need a break from swimming in the calm, clear waters. Dining options range from upscale resort restaurants to affordable local seafood spots serving fresh catch daily. Most visitors stay in beachfront resorts with full amenities, though mid-range options exist for budget-conscious travellers. Getting around is easiest by taxi or hotel shuttle since public transport is limited.

A coastal city with a marina, boats, and a large hotel.

Karambunai

Karambunai's pristine beaches and luxury resorts offer a perfect escape from Kota Kinabalu's bustle. The Nexus Karambunai Resort anchors this tropical paradise where visitors can golf on manicured greens or explore biodiversity at the nearby wetland centre. Boardwalk trails wind through mangrove forests where proboscis monkeys swing overhead and tropical birds call from lush canopies. Resort shuttles and taxis handle transport needs, with most guests content to stay within beachfront properties. Dining options feature Malaysian fusion cuisine and international favourites, while evenings bring entertainment with live music and cultural shows. The calm waters and secluded beaches make this spot ideal for travellers seeking upscale relaxation in a natural setting.

A mosque with a large dome and three minarets by a body of water.
Photo by Michaela Prades
Open Photo by Michaela Prades

Kampung Air

Kampung Air floats above the South China Sea on weathered wooden stilts, connected by a maze of narrow walkways. This traditional water village is home to Bajau sea nomads who continue their maritime way of life. Watch locals mend fishing nets, build boats, and sell handwoven baskets right from their doorsteps. The turquoise-trimmed mosque stands as the community's gathering point. Family-run stalls serve up fresh seafood and coconut curries for just a few ringgit. Basic homestays in traditional stilt houses offer authentic cultural immersion with family meals included. Water taxis provide the main access, shuttling between the village and Kota Kinabalu waterfront for a truly unique Malaysian experience.

Top landmarks in Kota Kinabalu

A river with boats, a bridge, and flags of Malaysia and the USA.
Photo by Iqbal Selamat
Open Photo by Iqbal Selamat

Imago Shopping Mall

8.6/10 (662 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Imago Shopping Mall in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. Why not take a stroll along the marina and watch the sunset while you're here? Splash some more cash at Kompleks Asia City, Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
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Kota Kinabalu and related destinations

Kota Kinabalu, well known for its waterfront and parks, features attractions such as Centre Point and KK Plaza. This romantic city has something for everyone including sights like Kota Kinabalu Central Market and Gaya Street Sunday Market.

See all hotels in Kota Kinabalu
A wooden pier leading to a building with a green roof, surrounded by clear turquoise water.
Photo by Tourism Malaysia
Open Photo by Tourism Malaysia

Check out reviews of Kota Kinabalu hotels guests love

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"We thought the staff were wonderful and the hotel was very elegant. The breakfast was especially good."
Kip 3-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Kota Kinabalu?
You can choose a great hotel in Kota Kinabalu from ฿1,362 with properties to suit all budgets and needs. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu and Vibrant Hostel are a couple of low-cost options that are popular with our travellers. If you're looking for an affordable hotel in Kota Kinabalu that meets all of your requirements, just sort hotels by "Price: low to high" after applying your filters when searching on Hotels.com.
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Kota Kinabalu hotels?
Discover great deals on Kota Kinabalu hotel stays with Hotels.com. You can also look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season to find off-peak deals. If it's a spontaneous trip, check out our last-minute deals on Kota Kinabalu hotels.
Can I book Kota Kinabalu hotels with free cancellation?
To book a refundable Kota Kinabalu hotel on Hotels.com, just filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Many hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu?
Some of the most popular luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu are Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, and The Magellan Sutera Resort. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu is a luxury resort with a high guest rating amongst our travellers, and it offers 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa and a hot tub. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu and The Magellan Sutera Resort are two more favourite luxury stays in great Kota Kinabalu locations.
What are some of the best hotels in Kota Kinabalu for couples?
Enjoy your couple's retreat with a stay at a top-rated Kota Kinabalu romantic hotel. Our travellers love Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, a resort with a private beach as well as champagne service. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is Hilton Kota Kinabalu. This hotel can be found in Downtown Kota Kinabalu with 2 restaurants and 2 outdoor pools for a perfect stay. Discover more hotels in Kota Kinabalu on Hotels.com for couples by using the "Traveller experience" filter in your search and selecting "Adults only" or "Romantic".
What are the top Kota Kinabalu hotels with a pool?
For some added luxury, discover the best Kota Kinabalu hotels with a pool. Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B is a great hotel in Downtown Kota Kinabalu with 2 outdoor pools and a guest rating of 9.8 out of 10. Borneo Eagle Resort is a popular resort in Downtown Kota Kinabalu that features an outdoor pool. You can select "Pool" in the "Amenities" filter of your search on Hotels.com to find even more places to stay in Kota Kinabalu with a pool.
What are some of the best Kota Kinabalu hotels with free parking?
If you're driving, a great Kota Kinabalu hotel with free parking is a bonus. Our travellers' favourites include:
What are some popular hotels in central Kota Kinabalu?
For hotels in central Kota Kinabalu, check out Hyatt Regency Kinabalu and A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group. Travellers love Hyatt Regency Kinabalu for its location, as well as the outdoor pool, children's pool and 2 restaurants this hotel offers. A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group is another popular central hotel with a full-service spa, a hot tub and 5 restaurants. Downtown Kota Kinabalu and Tanjung Aru are some of the most central areas for your Kota Kinabalu holiday.
Where can I get free parking with my stay in Kota Kinabalu?
Park your car for free at these properties: Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai, The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu and My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu. There are 10 options you may want to look at on our site.
Can I book a refundable accommodation option in Kota Kinabalu?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Kota Kinabalu, most hotels offer refundable* rates that you can book. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in Kota Kinabalu if I want a holiday rental instead of a hotel?
If you want to find a good alternative to a hotel, review our selection of 28 holiday homes. In addition, there are 168 apartments and 52 condos.
What will the weather in Kota Kinabalu be like during my visit?
Kota Kinabalu is a great place to visit any time of year with an average temperature of 27°C during the coldest months.

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu: Where Emerald Islands Embrace Majestic Mountains

Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital of Sabah, Malaysia, is a captivating blend of urban energy and breathtaking nature. Nestled between the azure South China Sea and the majestic Mount Kinabalu, this coastal city offers stunning sunsets, pristine beaches, and lush natural parks. Explore the bustling markets and savour local delicacies, or unwind at luxury resorts overlooking the marina. Adventurers can trek to the summit of Mt Kinabalu, while those seeking relaxation can hop between nearby islands. With its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural tapestry, Kota Kinabalu promises an unforgettable escape for every type of traveller.

Top locations to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Some of the best areas to stay in Kota Kinabalu are Pusat Bandar, Donggongon, and Kampung Sembulan Baru. Pusat Bandar offers vibrant nightlife and shopping, while Donggongon is known for its local culture and markets. Kampung Sembulan Baru provides a more tranquil experience. For first-time visitors, Pusat Bandar is best suited due to its central location and amenities.

  1. Pusat BandarOpens in a new window: Pusat Bandar is the vibrant heart of Kota Kinabalu, offering a dynamic mix of local culture and modern convenience. Here, you can explore bustling markets, indulge in a variety of shopping experiences, and enjoy a diverse range of dining options. Don’t miss the beautiful waterfront promenade, where you can take leisurely strolls while enjoying stunning sunset views over the South China Sea. With its central location, Pusat Bandar provides easy access to cultural attractions like the Sabah State Museum and the iconic Atkinson Clock Tower, making it an ideal base for both relaxation and exploration.
  2. DonggongonOpens in a new window: Just a short drive from Kota Kinabalu, Donggongon is a charming area that showcases the local lifestyle and community spirit. Known for its lively markets, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling fresh produce and traditional snacks. The area is also close to attractions like the Penampang District Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the indigenous cultures of Sabah. Donggongon’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for those looking to experience the authenticity of Sabahan life away from the busy city centre.
  3. Kampung Sembulan BaruOpens in a new window: Kampung Sembulan Baru is a quaint village that offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Sabah. This area is ideal for travellers seeking tranquillity and a more local experience. You can explore the picturesque surroundings and enjoy the beautiful views of the nearby hills and coastline. The village atmosphere, combined with friendly locals, creates a welcoming environment. It’s a great spot for leisurely walks and appreciating the slower pace of life, while still being close enough to access the attractions of Kota Kinabalu.

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu beckons with its stunning blend of pristine beaches, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Visitors can indulge in thrilling activities like diving, snorkelling, and boating in crystal-clear waters, or embark on invigorating hikes through lush parks. After a day of adventure, unwind with some vibrant shopping in the bustling local markets.

  • Dalit BeachOpens in a new window – Escape to the serene shores of Dalit Beach, where soft sands meet the gentle waves of the South China Sea. This beautiful beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the coast. With its stunning natural surroundings, it’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate nature and wish to unwind. You can also indulge in various water sports or relax with a good book while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. The beach's tranquil atmosphere makes it a great place to reconnect with yourself or enjoy quality time with family and friends. As the sun sets, the vibrant colours of the sky create a breathtaking backdrop, making it a picturesque spot for capturing memorable photos. Don't miss the chance to explore this gem during your visit to Kota Kinabalu!

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Kota Kinabalu

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Kota Kinabalu is during March, May, and November when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those keen on discovering the city’s historical and cultural landmarks, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to enjoy great value for money while exploring attractions such as the marina, natural parks, and various islands, as well as engaging in activities like boating, diving, snorkeling, and swimming. With the potential for prices to drop during these months, it’s an excellent opportunity for travellers on a budget.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Kota Kinabalu, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels close to your departure date. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. Additionally, using the Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring a more informed booking experience. This way, if rooms become available or prices drop, you'll be among the first to know, potentially leading to significant savings on your stay.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could potentially help you save on your stay at a hotel in Kota Kinabalu. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we will suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, increasing the likelihood that you may secure a better deal.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre generally tend to be pricier, but with Kota Kinabalu's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located further afield that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 79.9°F (26.6°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). January tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Kota Kinabalu are July, August, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, May, June, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

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