A calm sea with a boat anchored near a small island.

Find Kota Kinabalu Budget Hotels from S$28

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Kota Kinabalu Budget Hotels

Tonight
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Tomorrow
9 Sept - 10 Sept
This weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept
Next weekend
18 Sept - 20 Sept

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

1. Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United States
Sofía
S$42
includes taxes & fees
26 Sept - 27 Sept
Hotel Capital

2. CJ Residence

CJ Residence
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Scott
S$38
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
CJ Residence

3. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Denmark
Anonymous traveller
S$37
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

4. Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Brittany
S$36
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Hotel Gaia 95

5. K Hotel

K Hotel
Kota Kinabalu
United States
Jovita
S$44
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
K Hotel

6. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Japan
Genya
S$89
includes taxes & fees
9 Oct - 10 Oct
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

7. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Canada
Zhen
S$40
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

8. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu
United States
Joo Ling
S$48
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

9. Promenade Service Apartments

Promenade Service Apartments
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Janet
S$28
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Promenade Service Apartments

10. Hotel Eden54

Hotel Eden54
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Anonymous traveller
S$36
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Hotel Eden54
View all properties

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Discover cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, is a paradise for budget-conscious travellers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Start your journey at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, where you can hop on a short boat ride to beautiful islands like Manukan and Sapi. Snorkelling here is relatively inexpensive, and you can marvel at the vibrant marine life without needing to splurge. Don’t miss the bustling markets of Kota Kinabalu, particularly the Filipino Market, where you can sample delicious local street food, such as fresh seafood and traditional kuih, at prices that won't dent your wallet. For those who enjoy nature, a visit to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre offers free entry and a chance to spot stunning wildlife, including various bird species. The Sabah State Museum is another must-visit, with a small entry fee that grants you access to fascinating exhibits about the region’s rich culture and history. Consider staying in the lively Kampung Air area, where you’ll find affordable hotels and guesthouses. This central spot allows for easy exploration of the city on foot, giving you the opportunity to engage with locals and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kota Kinabalu, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience expected by .

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu

For travellers seeking affordable accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, these five budget-friendly hotels offer great value without compromising comfort. Each hotel boasts essential amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay while keeping costs low.The Klagan Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Klagan Hotel is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for comfort in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu. With an excellent guest review rating of 8.4, it provides essential amenities such as free WiFi and toiletries, ensuring a straightforward stay. Guests can also enjoy free self-parking, making it convenient for those exploring the area by car.
  • Other amenities: In addition to budget-friendly amenities, The Klagan Hotel features daily housekeeping services to keep rooms tidy and welcoming. Guests can take in scenic views of the sea from certain rooms and enjoy a meal at the ocean-view restaurant. The hotel's nearby the boardwalk and various local attractions enhances the experience, providing easy access to the vibrant culture of Kota Kinabalu.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.4 km, Centre Point - 0.6 km, Anjung Samudera - 0.6 km

Oceania Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Oceania Hotel is a fantastic budget option for travellers looking for comfort and convenience, reflected in its solid review rating of 8.2. With complimentary WiFi, guests can stay connected during their visit. The hotel also offers cribs for families and features a terrace for relaxation, making it suitable for all types of travellers.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include early check-in and late check-out options, allowing for greater flexibility in travel plans. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace and access to airport transportation, ensuring seamless travel to and from the hotel. With a focus on guest comfort, the hotel also offers housekeeping services and a concierge to assist with any needs.
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 1.7 km, Centre Point - 2 km, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.6 km

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"The pool area was lovely and the rooftop bar was fabulous. Friendly and helpful staff. Food by the pool was great."
Rebecca 6-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"위치적으로 매우 훌륭합니다. 가야스트릿과 DBKK선착장까지의 접근성이 좋고 주변에 식사가기도 좋고 관광지와의 거리도 매우 좋습니다."
tae seung 3-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Grandis Hotel
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

8/10 Good
"Great location , rooms were spacious but very dated property needing updating . Carpets were stained . Buffet was very good with a good selection of local cuisine."
Kingsley 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Gym was in a separate building which was a little bit of a pain and yoga sessions were further still which wasn’t great"
Jyoti 3-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
The Magellan Sutera Resort

Frequently asked questions

What is Kota Kinabalu like for travellers on a budget?
Kota Kinabalu has cheap accommodation options and a variety of places to visit, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions such as Centre Point, KK Plaza and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveller reviews, Signel Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social and Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu.
How many cheap hotels will I find in Kota Kinabalu?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet from Expedia's 18 budget hotels in Kota Kinabalu.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Kota Kinabalu?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Kota Kinabalu, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually May and June, with an average temperature of 28°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 27°C. The rainiest months in Kota Kinabalu are January, November, December and October, with each month seeing an average of 251 mm of rainfall.
What is there to see and do in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu attracts visitors with its major shopping area and island views, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then fill your itinerary with activities that are easy on the wallet. Check out the area's cultural spots like Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Centre Point.
How can I get to Kota Kinabalu and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Kota Kinabalu is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.), situated 4 mi (6.5 km) away. To venture out into the surrounding area, hop aboard a train at Tanjung Aru Station or Putatan Station. You can learn about your options for water transport at the local marina.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia