Kota Kinabalu Holidays

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Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

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

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is ideal for family, city, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including exploring shopping centres and private clubs. Essential experiences include engaging in local tours, discovering destination highlights, and participating in fun tours or climbing packages. Whether seeking leisure or adventure, Kota Kinabalu offers a diverse range of activities to suit all preferences.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience, visit Imago Shopping Mall and Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, both offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you’re up for a drive, explore the local treasures at Gaya Street Sunday Market, where you can find unique gifts amidst the bustling atmosphere.

Recreation

At Likas Stadium, immerse yourself in a vibrant sports atmosphere with various fitness activities. Enjoy a round of golf at Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Likas Sports Complex offers diverse sports facilities, perfect for staying active and rejuvenating your mind and body.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, where you can test your climbing skills in a vibrant, adventurous atmosphere. For a scenic jaunt, hike Bukit Padang, surrounded by stunning views. Alternatively, splash around at Sinilou Kibambangan Water Park, perfect for family fun and excitement.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu's nightlife is vibrant, with venues like the Waterfront Esplanade and Gaya Street offering lively bars and restaurants. Enjoy live music at the Shamrock Irish Bar or dance the night away at clubs such as LAVO. The atmosphere is friendly, perfect for mingling and enjoying local culture.

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

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, a charming destination in Sabah, Malaysia, is ideal for family, city, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore cultural landmarks like mosques, enjoy the lush urban parks, and take in the vibrant harbour. The area caters to those seeking outdoor experiences, with highlights including the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Whether you're after urban adventures or serene natural beauty, Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful mix for every traveller.

  • Sutera Harbour: Experience the stunning coastal scenery of Sutera Harbour, where you can relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the South China Sea. The vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for leisure activities and water sports.
  • University of Malaysia Sabah: Explore the modern campus of the University of Malaysia Sabah, which offers a lively city vibe. With its contemporary architecture and lush surroundings, it's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll while appreciating the academic environment.
  • Borneo Marine Research Institute: Visit the Borneo Marine Research Institute to learn about marine biodiversity and conservation efforts. This institute is a hub for research and education, providing insights into the rich marine life of Borneo.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kota Kinabalu falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kota Kinabalu falls in February, 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 SunnyAverageAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
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

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.

Top hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
NO. 18 JALAN HAJI SAMAN Kota Kinabalu
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$152 per night from 10 Mar to 11 Mar
S$152
10 Mar - 11 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (198 reviews)
Everything is good

Reviewed on 12 Dec, 2025

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$130 per night from 27 Mar to 28 Mar
S$130
27 Mar - 28 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
Clean , comfortable , spacious room. Staff was pleasant and nice to talk to

Reviewed on 13 Feb, 2026

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

5 out of 5
Jalan Datuk Salleh Sulong Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$114 per night from 1 Mar to 2 Mar
S$114
1 Mar - 2 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
The hotel was comfortable, but a bit tired.

Reviewed on 9 Feb, 2026

Hyatt Regency 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.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.