Kota Kinabalu Holidays

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Our guide on 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

Kota Kinabalu Holiday

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Shopping

Kota Kinabalu offers vibrant shopping experiences. Imago Shopping Mall and Suria Sabah Shopping Mall are excellent for entertainment and family vibes. For a unique experience, check out Gaya Street Sunday Market, filled with local crafts and street food. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting nearby shopping centres for more options.

Recreation

Likas Stadium offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for jogging or group fitness sessions. Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai provides a serene golfing experience amidst stunning landscapes, ideal for relaxation and recreation. Likas Sports Complex features various facilities for sports activities, promoting wellness through physical engagement.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, where you can challenge yourself on various climbing walls in a vibrant sports atmosphere. For a scenic adventure, hike the Bukit Padang trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Don't miss the excitement of the Sinilou Kibambangan Water Park, perfect for family fun and adventure.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu's nightlife is vibrant, with lively bars and nightclubs. Visit the Waterfront for stunning views and energetic crowds. For a relaxed vibe, check out the Shamrock Irish Pub. If you're in the mood for dancing, head to the popular Naza Night Club for an unforgettable night out.

*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 offers a fantastic blend of attractions for families, business travellers, and city explorers alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture by exploring beautiful mosques, relaxing in urban parks, and enjoying the scenic harbour. For outdoor enthusiasts, a trek to Mount Kinabalu is a must, providing breathtaking views and a memorable experience in nature. Whether you seek culture, city life, or adventure, Kota Kinabalu has something special to offer every traveller.

  • University of Malaysia Sabah: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a modern educational institution. The university's stunning architecture and lush surroundings offer a unique blend of city vibes and natural beauty.
  • Tanjung Aru Perdana Park: Enjoy a delightful outdoor experience in this urban park, perfect for families. With its scenic views and recreational facilities, it's an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and soaking in the local ambience.
  • Mari Mari Cultural Village: Step into the rich cultural tapestry of Sabah at this cultural village. Engage with traditional crafts, performances, and local cuisine, experiencing the diverse heritage of the indigenous tribes.

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 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.

Our pick of the best Kota Kinabalu Hotel Deals

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 NZ$152 per night from 3 Mar to 4 Mar
NZ$152
3 Mar - 4 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
Nice large Room with views, Clean , Friendly Staff and very welcoming from Entrance to Exit.

Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026

Hyatt Regency 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 NZ$174 per night from 6 Mar to 7 Mar
NZ$174
6 Mar - 7 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 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 Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
NO. 18 JALAN HAJI SAMAN Kota Kinabalu
The price is NZ$209 per night from 1 Mar to 2 Mar
NZ$209
1 Mar - 2 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (197 reviews)
Everything is good

Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025

Hyatt Centric Kota 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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What to do in Kota Kinabalu

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