Kota Kinabalu Trip

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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 and around Kota Kinabalu

Shopping

Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant shopping experience. You can explore Imago Shopping Mall for a mix of entertainment and family activities. Gaya Street Sunday Market showcases local culture with its bustling atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, 1Borneo Hypermall offers extensive shopping and dining options.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Likas Stadium, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy outdoor activities at Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, where you can play golf amidst stunning scenery. Likas Sports Complex offers a range of sports facilities, ensuring an invigorating experience in Kota Kinabalu.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of soaring at Zip Borneo, a spectacular zipline ropes course located 25.7km from Kota Kinabalu, surrounded by lush landscapes. Engage in climbing at the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre in the heart of the city, or enjoy scenic hikes at Bukit Padang, both offering vibrant adventure vibes.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu's nightlife offers a vibrant blend of beach bars, lively night markets, and dance clubs. Visit the popular Waterfront, where you can enjoy live music and stunning sunset views, or explore local night markets for delicious street food and a bustling atmosphere.

*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 is an excellent destination for family, city, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including mosques, urban parks, and the bustling harbour, all of which offer rich cultural and outdoor experiences. Noteworthy highlights include the scenic Mount Kinabalu, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

  • Borneo Marine Research Institute: Experience the wonders of marine science at the Borneo Marine Research Institute, where you can learn about the rich biodiversity of the region. Engage in interactive exhibits and discover conservation efforts aimed at protecting Malaysia's unique marine ecosystems.
  • Mari Mari Cultural Village: Immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage of Borneo at Mari Mari Cultural Village. This living museum showcases traditional houses, crafts, and performances, offering an authentic glimpse into the customs and lifestyles of various indigenous tribes.
  • Puh Toh Si Chinese Temple: Visit Puh Toh Si Chinese Temple, a serene place of worship that reflects the spiritual heritage of the local Chinese community. The temple's intricate architecture and tranquil gardens provide a peaceful retreat for reflection and exploration.

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

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March, May and November) for more affordable package holidays to Kota Kinabalu.
  • 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

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 ₹9,605 per night from 1 Mar to 2 Mar
₹9,605
₹10,608 total
1 Mar - 2 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
Rooftop bar overlooking the water was a highlight. Fantastic sunset cocktails. Room was spacious, and bed was comfy! The staff were very welcoming, Anne was especially great.

Reviewed on 25 Jan 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 ₹7,594 per night from 1 Mar to 2 Mar
₹7,594
₹8,436 total
1 Mar - 2 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
Nice large Room with views, Clean , Friendly Staff and very welcoming from Entrance to Exit.

Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort

5 out of 5
1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹12,871 per night from 1 Mar to 2 Mar
₹12,871
₹14,212 total
1 Mar - 2 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
Everything good and tidy

Reviewed on 30 Oct 2025

The Magellan Sutera Resort
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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