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

Hostels in Kota Kinabalu

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Check prices for these dates

Next weekend
25 Sept - 27 Sept
In two weeks
2 Oct - 4 Oct
In one month
16 Oct - 18 Oct
In two months
13 Nov - 15 Nov

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu hostels

Café

1. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social

TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (13 reviews)
"Enjoyable stay and a great budget property choice. Staff were all helpful, Wi-Fi good, rooms, although snug, more than adequate for sleeping and showering. The one thing that let the property down was the lack of options at breakfast. Everyday a different breakfast meal was given but you had no idea what it would be and didn’t have another option to choose if it wasn’t to your liking. That said, the quality of the food was good. Would happily stay at the property again if looking for somewhere...
United Kingdom
Wayne
The price is NZ$107
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
Fridge, microwave, electric kettle, toaster

2. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu

Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
"Unique,very beautiful, clean and tidy....nice "
Malaysia
Imran
The price is NZ$39
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
Reception

3. Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel

Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
2.0 star property
Ranau
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (33 reviews)
"Very near to Poring Hot Spring Park. The hosts were very helpful and kind."
Singapore
Seok Lan
The price is NZ$63
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
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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Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Very comfortable and spacious room. Excellent breakfast. Friendly and helpful staff."
Carolyn 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Hostels information

Number of reviews
38
Accommodation
23 Hostels
Lowest Price
NZ$38
Highest Price
NZ$107

Frequently asked questions

Should I stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
Hostels are a great way to stay for a lower cost, so you can save your money for sightseeing. We've heard good things about this destination's natural setting, including its island views and natural parks.
What is a hostel?
These dorm-style accommodations come in quite a few forms, but they all have three main things in common, including budget-friendly prices, a social setting and shared rooms (though many have private options too).
What are the best hostels in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our customers' reviews, these Kota Kinabalu hostels have the highest ratings: Signel Hostel - Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a TV in a common area and multilingual staff. You'll find towels, showers and hairdryers in all rooms. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu - Located steps from Imago Shopping Mall. Property features include free Wi-Fi and a lift. You'll find towels, showers and hairdryers in all rooms. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social - Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and a bar. Rooms come with towels, showers and bed sheets. Escape Backpackers KK - Property features include free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and tour/ticket assistance. Rooms come with towels, showers and hairdryers. Capsule Inn - Located within a 20-minute walk of Imago Shopping Mall. Property features include free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk. You'll find towels, hairdryers and coffee/tea makers in all rooms.
How many hostels will I find in Kota Kinabalu?
If you're in the market for an affordable place to stay in Kota Kinabalu, one of Expedia's 16 hostels might be a great option.
When is the best time of year to stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
Good weather's always better when you're discovering new places, so here's a little information that may be helpful: 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?
In general, Kota Kinabalu is known for its boating opportunities, snorkelling and marina. Get out into nature with places such as Kota Kinabalu Wetlands Centre, Tanjung Aru Perdana Park and Sabah Agricultural Park. Cultural attractions include Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village. Locals like to shop at Centre Point and KK Plaza.
What's the best way to get to and around Kota Kinabalu while staying at a hostel?
Keep this information about transit options in and around Kota Kinabalu in your back pocket to make the most of your stay: You can search for flights to the closest airport, which is Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.), located 4 mi (6.5 km) away from the city centre. After you've arrived, you may want to use public transport to get around. Train stations including Tanjung Aru Station and Putatan Station make it easy to see more of the surrounding area.