Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in Kota Kinabalu is the city centre, particularly around Gaya Street and the waterfront.

This area is the main hub for visitors, offering a convenient base for exploring. It's very walkable, with many hotels, restaurants, and shops concentrated along streets like Gaya Street and the waterfront promenades. You'll find the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, the main gateway to the nearby islands, and the bustling Filipino Market within easy reach.

For couples, the waterfront hotels are an excellent choice. They often offer rooms with sea views and are within walking distance of many dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants with sunset views. The convenience of being able to stroll along the promenade in the evenings makes for a relaxed and enjoyable stay.

Solo travellers will also find the city centre highly convenient. With its concentration of public transport options, tour operators, and a wide variety of places to eat, it's easy to navigate and find activities.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Kota Kinabalu that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

For highly recommended hotels in Kota Kinabalu, you might consider the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, Hilton Kota Kinabalu, or the Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with an excellent 9.2 rating, offers a luxurious resort experience. Guests frequently praise the excellent and attentive staff, the beautiful pool, and the great food. It boasts private beach access, a golf clubhouse, and rooms with stunning sea or mountain views. It is also conveniently located just 1 kilometre from Tanjung Aru Perdana Park.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, rated 8.8. This hotel is praised for its excellent and amazing customer service, as well as its comfortable and clean rooms. It features designer toiletries, rainfall showerheads, and a poolside restaurant. Its central location places it just 0.2 kilometres from Warisan Square and 0.7 kilometres from the Gaya Street Sunday Market.

The 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, is another top recommendation. Guests appreciate the good breakfast, gym, and nice pool. The hotel provides 24-hour room service, deep soaking bathtubs, and a poolside bar. It's located 0.6 kilometres from Warisan Square and 0.9 kilometres from Imago Shopping Mall.

The 5-star Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, rated 8.6, is also highly regarded. Travellers consistently mention the comfortable and great rooms, as well as the excellent facilities. This hotel offers 24-hour room service, an ocean view restaurant, and is conveniently located 0.4 kilometres from Warisan Square and 0.6 kilometres from Imago Shopping Mall.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

For families travelling to Kota Kinabalu, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, The Magellan Sutera Resort, and The Pacific Sutera Hotel are excellent choices.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with an impressive 9.2 rating, is particularly well-suited for families. It offers a wide array of kid-friendly amenities including supervised childcare, a children's club, a playground, a children's pool, and even a free water park. Guests can also request baby bathtubs, changing tables, cribs, and bed guards, ensuring a comfortable stay for even the youngest travellers. The hotel is conveniently located just 1.0 km from Tanjung Aru Perdana Park.

Another fantastic option is the 5-star Magellan Sutera Resort, rated 8.4. This resort provides a children's pool, a playground, and offers babysitting services. Cribs are available free of charge, making it easy for families with infants. It is close to several attractions, including Warisan Square (1.7 km) and Imago Shopping Mall (0.9 km).

The 5-star Pacific Sutera Hotel, also rated 8.4, is another great choice for families. It features a children's playground, a children's club, a pool for children, and supervised childcare services. You can also request cribs free of charge and rollaway extra beds. The hotel is situated near Imago Shopping Mall (1.1 km) and Tanjung Aru Perdana Park (1.8 km).

Question 4

What are the best 5-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

For excellent 5-star accommodation in Kota Kinabalu, consider the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu or the Hilton Kota Kinabalu, both highly rated by previous guests.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu has an impressive 9.2 rating and offers a private beach, a golf clubhouse, and a variety of dining options with ocean or garden views. Guests can enjoy evening entertainment, 24-hour room service, and executive rooms with club lounge access. It is conveniently located just 1.0 km from Tanjung Aru Perdana Park.

Another superb option is the 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, also boasting a 9.2 rating. This hotel provides luxurious amenities such as designer toiletries, rainfall showerheads, and deep soaking bathtubs. It features a poolside bar and a 24-hour restaurant. The Hilton is well-situated, being 0.6 km from Warisan Square and 0.9 km from Imago Shopping Mall. Guests frequently praise its good breakfast, gym, and nice pool. Find more luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Question 5

What are the best spa hotels in Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

For an exceptional spa experience in Kota Kinabalu, consider the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, The Magellan Sutera Resort, or Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with an outstanding 9.2 rating, offers an extensive full-service spa with a wide array of treatments. Guests can enjoy aromatherapy, deep tissue, hot stone, and Swedish massages, along with facials, body wraps, body scrubs, and reflexology. The spa also features a sauna, hot tub, and couples' treatment rooms, providing a truly relaxing experience. The excellent and attentive staff, good facilities, and beautiful pool are frequently praised by guests.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star The Magellan Sutera Resort, rated 8.4, which is conveniently located just 0.4 km from Sutera Harbour. This resort provides a full-service spa with aromatherapy treatments, body wraps, manicures and pedicures, and various massages, including hot stone. Guests can also enjoy the sauna, hot tub, and hydrotherapy treatments within the couples' treatment rooms.

The 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, with a strong 8.8 rating, also features a full-service spa. Amenities include couples' treatment rooms, a steam room, and a variety of massages and facial treatments. The excellent and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and excellent facilities are frequently highlighted by guests. The hotel is conveniently situated 0.4 km from KK Plaza and 1.1 km from Suria Sabah Shopping Mall. See all spa hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Question 6

Which beach resorts in Kota Kinabalu do travellers love?

Accepted Answer

For highly-rated beach resorts in Kota Kinabalu, travellers frequently recommend Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, The Pacific Sutera Hotel, and The Magellan Sutera Resort.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with an excellent 9.2 rating, is a fantastic choice for those seeking a private beach experience. Guests consistently praise the excellent and attentive staff, good facilities, and great food. The hotel also features a beautiful pool and offers 24-hour room service. It is conveniently located just 1.0 km from Tanjung Aru Perdana Park.

Another excellent option is the 5-star The Pacific Sutera Hotel, rated 8.4. This resort also offers a private beach location and sea views. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool with sun loungers, a poolside bar, and a swim-up bar. It is well-situated near local attractions, with Imago Shopping Mall just 1.1 km away and Tanjung Aru Perdana Park 1.8 km away.

The 5-star The Magellan Sutera Resort, also rated 8.4, provides a private beach and sea views, alongside an extensive full-service spa. The spa offers a wide range of treatments including aromatherapy, body wraps, manicures, pedicures, and hot stone massages, making it ideal for relaxation. This resort is located 0.9 km from Imago Shopping Mall and 1.7 km from Warisan Square. See more stays near the beach in Kota Kinabalu

Question 7

What hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

In Kota Kinabalu, several excellent hotels offer complimentary breakfast, including the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, the Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, The Pacific Sutera Hotel, and The Magellan Sutera Resort.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, provides a buffet breakfast in its Club Level Lounge. Guests frequently praise the excellent and attentive staff, good facilities, and beautiful pool. This resort also features a private beach and ocean-view restaurants.

The 4-star Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG, rated 9.4, offers free buffet breakfast daily. It is conveniently located near attractions such as Warisan Square (0.7 km) and Gaya Street Sunday Market (1.1 km).

The 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, with an 8.8 rating, includes a complimentary continental breakfast in its Club Level Lounge. Guests consistently praise the excellent and helpful staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms. It is very close to Warisan Square (0.2 km) and the Local Fruits Market (0.0 km).

The 5-star The Pacific Sutera Hotel, rated 8.4, provides a buffet breakfast in its Club Level Lounge. This resort features an on-site golf course and outdoor tennis courts.

The 5-star The Magellan Sutera Resort, also rated 8.4, offers a buffet breakfast in its Club Level Lounge. This resort has an extensive full-service spa with various treatments available.

Question 8

What are the top boutique hotels in Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

For a top boutique hotel in Kota Kinabalu, consider the Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu.

This 5-star hotel, with an 8.8 rating, is known for its Art Deco property design and comfortable, clean rooms. Guests frequently praise the excellent and helpful staff, as well as the good food. It is conveniently located near the KK Plaza, just 0.4 km away, and the Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, 1.1 km away. The hotel offers various amenities, including sea view and mountain view rooms, designer toiletries, and a rainfall showerhead. See all boutique hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Question 9

What are the best budget hotels in Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

For excellent budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu, consider the Homy Seafront Hostel, Kokol Haven Resort, and Ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu Inanam Hotel.

The Homy Seafront Hostel, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, offers a fantastic location just 0.1 km from both Warisan Square and the Local Fruits Market. Guests can enjoy complimentary English breakfast, free WiFi, and free toiletries, making it a great value option.

Another highly-rated choice is the 3-star Kokol Haven Resort, boasting a 9.2 rating. This resort provides free self-parking, free WiFi, and a complimentary breakfast, including a convenient to-go option.

The 3-star Ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu Inanam Hotel, rated 8.8, is a good option for those looking for an airport shuttle service, which operates 24 hours. The hotel also features free self-parking, free WiFi, free toiletries, and free cribs, and is conveniently located 0.5 km from Inanam Mall.

You might also consider the Seaview Capsule Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, which is very close to Warisan Square, located just 0.0 km away, and the Local Fruits Market, 0.2 km away. It offers free continental breakfast, free WiFi, free self-parking, and free toiletries.

Finally, the KK Times Square Hotel, rated 7.2, provides a 24-hour airport shuttle, free area shuttle, free WiFi, and free toiletries. It is located 0.2 km from Imago Shopping Mall. View all budget hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Question 10

What are the most romantic hotels in Kota Kinabalu for couples?

Accepted Answer

For couples seeking a romantic escape in Kota Kinabalu, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu are excellent choices.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers a truly romantic setting. Guests can enjoy stunning sea views or mountain views from their rooms, and for an extra special touch, some accommodations feature private hot tubs. The hotel also provides couples' dining experiences and couples' treatment rooms, great for relaxation. Its private beach location and evening entertainment add to the romantic appeal, and it is conveniently located just 1.0 km from Tanjung Aru Perdana Park.

Another wonderful option is the 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, rated 8.8. This hotel also boasts sea views and mountain views from certain rooms, creating a picturesque backdrop for couples. It features couples' dining options and couples' treatment rooms for shared pampering. The hotel's excellent staff and comfortable rooms are frequently praised by guests. See all romantic hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Question 11

What are the best hotels in Kota Kinabalu near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Kota Kinabalu near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, AC Residence is a highly-rated option.

The 3-star AC Residence, with an exceptional rating of 9.6, is conveniently located just 0.3 km from Warisan Square. Guests frequently mention the spacious and clean rooms, the excellent and convenient location, and the nice staff. It also provides free WiFi and free self-parking.

Question 12

What hotels are near Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

Accepted Answer

For hotels near Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), consider The Aru by Ayuhouz, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, or Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu.

The 4-star The Aru by Ayuhouz, with an excellent 9.0 rating, is conveniently located just 3.2 km from the airport. This highly-rated hotel offers a delightful outdoor pool, free WiFi, and kitchens in its clean and spacious rooms. Guests particularly appreciate its fantastic location, which is also a mere 0.3 km from Tanjung Aru Perdana Park.

Another superb option is the 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, boasting a 9.2 rating. Situated 3.5 km from the airport, this hotel is very family-friendly, offering supervised childcare, a children's pool, a free water park, and various amenities for children such as cribs and a kids' club. Guests consistently praise the excellent and attentive staff, the beautiful pool, and the great food.

The 4-star Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu, rated 8.0, is another suitable choice, located 3.6 km from the airport. This hotel provides a free airport transfer service with scheduled availability, making arrivals and departures very easy. It also offers a children's pool and free cribs, and guests often comment on the clean rooms and lovely staff.

Question 13

When is the best time to go to Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is generally between March and October, as this period offers the driest weather and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

This timeframe avoids the heaviest rainfall of the monsoon season, which typically runs from November to February. You'll find pleasant temperatures, usually around 30°C, superb for exploring the city or enjoying the nearby islands.

For travellers planning to visit the islands and beaches, the months of April to June are particularly good. The seas are usually calmer, making boat trips to places like Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park more enjoyable for snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on the sand.

If you're interested in trekking or exploring Mount Kinabalu, the drier months from March to October also provide the best conditions for hiking. The trails are less slippery, and the chances of clear views from the summit are higher.

Question 14

Where can I find the best nightlife in Kota Kinabalu?

Accepted Answer

Kota Kinabalu offers several areas with evening entertainment, each with its own character.

The Waterfront area, along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, is a popular spot. Here, you'll find a collection of bars and restaurants, many with outdoor seating that overlooks the South China Sea. These venues typically offer a relaxed atmosphere for drinks and conversation, often featuring live bands playing cover songs.

Gaya Street, or Jalan Gaya, transforms in the evenings, especially on weekends. While it's known for its Sunday market, some of its cafes and restaurants extend their hours, offering a more laid-back setting for drinks and light bites. It's less about loud music and more about enjoying a quiet evening.

For those interested in a more lively experience, areas around Asia City and the surrounding streets have a concentration of KTV lounges and nightclubs. These establishments often feature DJs playing contemporary music and are open late into the night.

Finally, the area around Jesselton Quay also has a growing number of establishments.

Question 15

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Kota Kinabalu.

Question 16

How can I save on a Kota Kinabalu hotel booking with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Members always get our best prices. Find our best Kota Kinabalu hotel deals by joining Expedia’s free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you’re logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.

Question 17

How much is the nightly rate at a Kota Kinabalu hotel?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Kota Kinabalu often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $29 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

Month	Price
January	CA $61
February	CA $79
March	CA $52
April	CA $44
May	CA $47
June	CA $55
July	CA $48
August	CA $48
September	CA $60
October	CA $61
November	CA $48
December	CA $66

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	82.6°F (28.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Find hotels in Kota Kinabalu from CA $29

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in Kota Kinabalu

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu hotels

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Magellan Sutera Resort

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Grandis Hotel

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B

The Jesselton Hotel

Ming Garden Hotel and Residences

The Klagan Hotel

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Horizon Hotel

Vacation Rentals in Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Aru

Karambunai

Kampung Air

Alamesra

Stay near popular Kota Kinabalu attractions

Imago Shopping Mall

Kota Kinabalu and related destinations

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

More cheap stays in Kota Kinabalu

Seaview Capsule Hotel

Price trends for hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Price trends for hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Things to do near Kota Kinabalu

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kota Kinabalu

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kota Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Go further with the Expedia app