Hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

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Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"Modern hotel in the Centre of KK! Surrounding areas a little sketchy, but hotel incredible. Room was amazing, large and well equipped. "
Australia
Mark
The price is S$182
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (206 reviews)
"Great location and certainly easy to access to the food."
Thailand
Thosaphol
The price is S$191
includes taxes & fees
25 May - 26 May
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (154 reviews)
"Stayed here for 3 nights. The room was spotless upon check-in and also the following days after room cleaning. Highly recommended stay. Location is very convinient, steps away from local cafes and convinience store, close to attractions in KK."
United States
Yin Shen
The price is S$112
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"The room was huge and the Club Lounge and view was wonderful."
Singapore
Peta
The price is S$128
includes taxes & fees
15 May - 16 May
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Clean room and helpful staff."
Singapore
Kwang Zhen
The price is S$135
includes taxes & fees
28 Apr - 29 Apr
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

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 S$126
includes taxes & fees
25 May - 26 May
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (229 reviews)
"Nice and good location!"
Canada
yang
The price is S$93
includes taxes & fees
17 May - 18 May
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Covesign Suite, The Shore Kota Kinabalu

Covesign Suite, The Shore Kota Kinabalu
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
The price is S$81
includes taxes & fees
12 May - 13 May
Covesign Suite, The Shore Kota Kinabalu

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 S$194
includes taxes & fees
10 May - 11 May
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (4 reviews)
"Staff very nice and helpful, room is clean and tidy. "
Malaysia
Yan Ting
The price is S$79
includes taxes & fees
21 May - 22 May
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

GrandVue Suites The Shore Kota Kinabalu

GrandVue Suites The Shore Kota Kinabalu
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"Pool was closed for 3 days over 4 of our stay. Very good location in town. Corridors can be noisy and smelly because of the other guests and appartments overloaded of people. Beds were very comfortable, ac worked well. There is a kitchen but nothing to cook. Very good price for what we got."
Canada
valerie
The price is S$43
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
GrandVue Suites The Shore Kota Kinabalu

Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (16 reviews)
"room was clean and relatively well maintained. the staff were very helpful and polite"
Malaysia
Tony
The price is S$80
includes taxes & fees
28 Apr - 29 Apr
Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

Jack's CondoApartment @ Marina Court Resort Condominium

Jack's CondoApartment @ Marina Court Resort Condominium
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (77 reviews)
"Car park gelap & berair , paip air buang bocor"
Malaysia
NOR DIN
The price is S$188
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
Jack's CondoApartment @ Marina Court Resort Condominium

Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B

Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B
4.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (36 reviews)
"Another fantastic stay at this hotel. So friendly and everything very modern. A great place to stay in KK"
United Kingdom
Greg
The price is S$106
includes taxes & fees
19 May - 20 May
Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B

Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay

Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (12 reviews)
"Everything is great. Nearby many attractions."
Malaysia
Khairul
The price is S$106
includes taxes & fees
27 May - 28 May
Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (609 reviews)
"Great location on waterfront with many restaurants and markets nearby. Welcoming staff and clean rooms"
United States
Stephen
The price is S$149
includes taxes & fees
6 May - 7 May
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Ideal Holiday Apartment Marina Court

Ideal Holiday Apartment Marina Court
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (9 reviews)
"저렴한 가격에 방은 넓었지난 욕실상태가 안 좋음."
South Korea
Sang
The price is S$102
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
Ideal Holiday Apartment Marina Court

Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (249 reviews)
"Great location. Able to walk to many locations and night food market next door."
Canada
Tamara
The price is S$61
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
Mandarin Hotel

Palette Kota Kinabalu Near by Imago Shopping Mall Formerly Zara's Boutique Hotel

Palette Kota Kinabalu Near by Imago Shopping Mall Formerly Zara's Boutique Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.0 out of 10, Good, (68 reviews)
"Lovely hotel for the rate you paid."
Malaysia
SYED NASIRIN BIN SYED ZAINOL ABIDIN
The price is S$46
includes taxes & fees
30 Apr - 1 May
Palette Kota Kinabalu Near by Imago Shopping Mall Formerly Zara's Boutique Hotel

CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (51 reviews)
"Clean and comfortable lodging, I could recommend. Good location- easy walk to fish market. Can honestly say for the price was a good deal. "
Australia
Scott
The price is S$44
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
CJ Residence
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.

Compare popular hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down duvets, pillow-top beds
Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B
4.5 star property
9.8
Exceptional
36 reviews
View
Reception
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
9.4
Exceptional
154 reviews
View
Individually decorated, desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains
CJ Residence
2.5 star property
9.6
Exceptional
51 reviews
View
Premium bedding, Select Comfort beds, in-room safe, desk
AJ Residence Kota Kinabalu City Center
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
10 reviews
View
Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually furnished, desk
ACJ Residence
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
5 reviews
View

Where to stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Find the best Downtown Kota Kinabalu areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Learn more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Aru

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.

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.

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.

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.

Luyang

Shopping and restaurants are notable features of Luyang. You might consider stopping by Tabin Wildlife Reserve while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Top Downtown Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Top reasons to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu

  • Bustling Markets: Explore vibrant markets and indulge in local delicacies, offering a taste of Sabah's rich culinary scene.
  • Picturesque Harbour: Enjoy stunning views at the waterfront, perfect for relaxing and watching breathtaking sunsets.
  • Cultural Attractions: Visit iconic mosques and nearby attractions like Signal Hill for a glimpse into the local heritage.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Rent a bike to discover nearby natural wonders, including Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Discover a diverse array of accommodation options in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, catering to every traveller's needs. From luxurious star hotels like the renowned Hyatt Regency Kinabalu to budget-friendly hostels, you'll find a perfect fit for your holiday. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, a business-themed stay, or a vibrant city experience, the hotels in this area promise comfort and convenience, making your stay in Kota Kinabalu truly memorable.

  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Experience luxury at its finest at the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, a premier 5-star hotel located in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This family-friendly property seamlessly blends business and leisure, making it an ideal choice for both corporate travellers and families on vacation. The hotel offers a range of amenities including a dedicated meeting room for business needs, as well as special facilities for children, such as a free crib service and a children's pool. Guests appreciate the refined atmosphere and attentive service that elevate their stay.
  • The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Set amidst lush landscapes, The Pacific Sutera Hotel is a luxurious 5-star resort that caters to families and golf enthusiasts alike. Located in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, this resort offers an array of activities, including access to a golf course, making it perfect for those looking to indulge in a golfing getaway. Families will find a plethora of child-friendly amenities, including an arcade game room, shared playground, and supervised childcare services. The blend of relaxation and recreation ensures an unforgettable holiday experience for guests of all ages.
  • The Magellan Sutera Resort: Embrace a tranquil escape at The Magellan Sutera Resort, a stunning 5-star beachfront property in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This resort is ideal for those seeking a rejuvenating retreat, boasting direct beach access and a comprehensive spa offering hydrotherapy treatments, facials, and body wraps. Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy the on-site golf facilities. With a focus on relaxation and indulgence, guests can unwind in the resort’s beautiful surroundings while taking advantage of the luxurious amenities available.

Where to stay near Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of charm and vibrancy, perfect for families and romantic getaways alike. Stroll through the bustling markets and savour local delicacies, or relax by the waterfront with stunning sunset views. Nearby attractions like the iconic Signal Hill and the lush Tunku Abdul Rahman Park enhance your experience. With friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere, this captivating city is an ideal base for exploring the best hotspots and hidden gems of Kota Kinabalu.

  • Kota Kinabalu: As the vibrant capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is renowned for its stunning coastal views and bustling city life. Located in close proximity to the South China Sea, the city offers a mix of family-friendly attractions, business facilities, and urban experiences. Visitors can explore shopping centres and indulge in local cuisine at various eateries. Key highlights include the marina, lush parks, and the picturesque harbour, making it a perfect base for both relaxation and exploration.
  • Pusat Bandar: A charming village situated just 483m from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar offers a delightful escape with its local markets and vibrant street life. Known for its family-oriented atmosphere, this area is ideal for those looking to enjoy a city-themed experience while also soaking in the local culture. The proximity to the marina, scenic parks, and bustling streets ensures that visitors can easily engage with the community and enjoy the lively ambiance.
  • Sinsuran Kompleks: Located virtually at the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Sinsuran Kompleks is perfect for those seeking adventure and outdoor activities. This quaint village is a gateway to breathtaking mountainous landscapes and offers ample opportunities for scenic exploration. The area attracts visitors looking for unique experiences and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Things to do in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is ideal for family and business trips, offering a vibrant mix of activities. Visitors can explore bustling shopping centres and markets, indulge in the local night bazaar, or embark on a Kota Kinabalu city tour. For those seeking adventure, bike rentals are available to discover the area’s top destinations in Malaysia, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Shopping

Discover the vibrant Imago Shopping Mall in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, offering a mix of entertainment and retail therapy. Don't miss the Gaya Street Sunday Market for local crafts and delicacies. Suria Sabah Shopping Mall also invites you with its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse shopping options.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Likas Stadium, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For golf lovers, Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai offers a stunning outdoor setting, while Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club provides a luxurious retreat for relaxation and leisure, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of climbing at the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, located 1.6km from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, offering an adventurous atmosphere. For scenic views, hike the trails at Bukit Padang, situated 3.2km away, where nature's beauty awaits. For the ultimate excitement, try the Zip Borneo zipline ropes course, 25.7km away.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Waterfront, where you can enjoy stunning views while sipping cocktails at various bars. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Night Market for local street food and entertainment, or unwind at the trendy Shanty Café with live music and a relaxed vibe.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Kota Kinabalu

To save money during your visit to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider travelling in March, May, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel a month in advance can secure the best deals, especially if you utilise Expedia's last-minute offers. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays are the most expensive. Explore free activities around the area and use public transport for economical travel. Additionally, combining your hotel bookings with flights and activities through Expedia can lead to significant savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Downtown Kota Kinabalu about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Downtown Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for families and business travellers, offering a vibrant mix of cultural and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the picturesque harbour, local tourist precincts, and stunning mosques. Visitors can explore nearby highlights such as Mount Kinabalu and the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a rich city experience amidst natural beauty.

  • Sutera Harbour: This picturesque harbour offers stunning seaside views and a relaxing beach atmosphere, perfect for unwinding or enjoying water sports. The vibrant scenery and lush surroundings make it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and capturing beautiful photographs.
  • Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: A lively waterfront precinct, the Esplanade is perfect for families seeking outdoor activities. Enjoy promenades lined with eateries, street performances, and local markets, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoying the beautiful sunset over the sea.
  • Sabah State Mosque: Located a mile from Downtown, this stunning mosque showcases exquisite Islamic architecture and offers a serene cultural experience. Visitors can admire its grand dome and tranquil surroundings, providing a glimpse into the rich heritage of Sabah.

Best time to go to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Downtown 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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

When visiting Downtown Kota Kinabalu, you can conveniently fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), situated 6.4km away. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, both 6.4km from the airport, offering various transportation services such as airport shuttles on request. Additionally, the luxurious Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is located 3.2km from the airport and provides transfers and shuttles. These hotels ensure easy access to the airport, making your arrival and departure seamless during your stay in this vibrant city.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Travellers love the Downtown Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood for its beautiful island views, top seafood restaurants and major shopping area. Are you looking for Downtown Kota Kinabalu travel tips? Make sure that you visit Anjung Samudera and Centre Point while you're in the neighbourhood.
Where is the best hotel for a stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveller data, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is one of the top choices for your stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This hotel offers a full-service spa and 2 restaurants. Other good choices for your stay in the neighbourhood include Hyatt Regency Kinabalu and Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu.
How many hotels will I be able to find in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Expedia has 328 hotels and other accommodation options in Downtown Kota Kinabalu to choose from, making this an ideal home base for exploring the greater Kota Kinabalu area.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel bookings are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of check in. If your reservation is non-refundable, it might still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to get top deals in Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
What is there to do around this Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood?
Planning to do some shopping while in Downtown Kota Kinabalu? Consider Anjung Samudera, Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market. You could also plan a visit to KK Plaza or Imago Shopping Mall while you're in the neighbourhood. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Kota Kinabalu include Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Warisan Square and Local Fruits Market. While you're out sightseeing, Anjung Kinabalu and Kompleks Asia City are a couple of additional sights to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

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