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

Cheap Hotels & Resorts in Kota Kinabalu from NZ$56

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

1. A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
"Hotel very beautiful, clean, good staff"
Malaysia
Imran
The price is NZ$67
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

2. CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (59 reviews)
"The communication was prompt, accurate, and polite full. Staff assisted by carrying out luggage upstairs, and is happy and polite. The massage chair was an amazing addition to our stay. In the heart of all shops. Will definitely book with them again."
Australia
Kunthea
The price is NZ$58
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

3. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (100 reviews)
"I had great time during my trip, easy check in and out, walking distance to most places"
Canada
Zhen
The price is NZ$58
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

4. ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (6 reviews)
"Great stay! Clean, modern room and a good location."
Norway
Åse Lilll S
The price is NZ$68
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

5. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (999 reviews)
"Very nice room. Excellent breakfast one of the best we've ever had in a hotel"
United Kingdom
Matthew
The price is NZ$141
includes taxes & fees
21 Nov - 22 Nov
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

6. AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (10 reviews)
"The facilities we had in the room were top notch. Location is great as well but only downside the view from the room isn’t that great. "
United Kingdom
Ganesh
The price is NZ$66
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

7. Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (19 reviews)
"Very helpful staff. "
Canada
Donna
The price is NZ$73
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

8. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (256 reviews)
"Room was very clean and maintained well by the service staff. Breakfast was reasonable and staff was friendly"
Canada
Catherine
The price is NZ$114
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

9. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Stayed for our honeymoon staff where attentive and made special arrangements for us. Also very good location and nice room with great view"
Singapore
KAI YUN KATE
The price is NZ$181
includes taxes & fees
11 Dec - 12 Dec
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

10. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (225 reviews)
"Very helpful staff good location"
United Kingdom
MRS
The price is NZ$206
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

11. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (84 reviews)
"nice,will stay again insyaAllah"
Malaysia
Mohd Hafizuddin
The price is NZ$138
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

12. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"We thought the staff were wonderful and the hotel was very elegant. The breakfast was especially good."
United States
Kip
The price is NZ$151
includes taxes & fees
25 Nov - 26 Nov
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

13. 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)
"New hotel located in the central of the city. Clean and good vibe. Staffs are very warm and friendly. Definitely will visit again! keep up the good work!"
Malaysia
Kim
The price is NZ$130
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social

14. Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (196 reviews)
"Helpful staff that let me check in early :)"
Australia
Brittany
The price is NZ$46
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Hotel Gaia 95

15. The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (7 reviews)
"Staff very nice and helpful, room is clean and tidy. "
Malaysia
Yan Ting
The price is NZ$93
includes taxes & fees
25 Nov - 26 Nov
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

16. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (631 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is NZ$190
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

17. Hotel Sixty3

Hotel Sixty3
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (484 reviews)
"Excellent hotel service "
Singapore
David Wong Weng
The price is NZ$141
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
Hotel Sixty3

18. Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (319 reviews)
"Shops nearby, good location."
United States
Sofía
The price is NZ$56
includes taxes & fees
19 Nov - 20 Nov
Hotel Capital

19. Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (253 reviews)
"Great location. Able to walk to many locations and night food market next door."
Canada
Tamara
The price is NZ$76
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
Mandarin Hotel

20. The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"I enjoyed my stay. The staff were friendly and the room was clean and comfortable.The breakfast served was very good. The location was very good too."
Australia
John
The price is NZ$86
includes taxes & fees
27 Nov - 28 Nov
The Klagan Hotel
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.

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Discover cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, is a paradise for budget-conscious travellers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Start your journey at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, where you can hop on a short boat ride to beautiful islands like Manukan and Sapi. Snorkelling here is relatively inexpensive, and you can marvel at the vibrant marine life without needing to splurge. Don’t miss the bustling markets of Kota Kinabalu, particularly the Filipino Market, where you can sample delicious local street food, such as fresh seafood and traditional kuih, at prices that won't dent your wallet. For those who enjoy nature, a visit to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre offers free entry and a chance to spot stunning wildlife, including various bird species. The Sabah State Museum is another must-visit, with a small entry fee that grants you access to fascinating exhibits about the region’s rich culture and history. Consider staying in the lively Kampung Air area, where you’ll find affordable hotels and guesthouses. This central spot allows for easy exploration of the city on foot, giving you the opportunity to engage with locals and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kota Kinabalu, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience expected by .

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu

For travellers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, these budget-friendly hotels offer excellent value without compromising on quality.

The Klagan Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Klagan Hotel is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers, featuring an excellent traveler review rating of 8.4. Guests will appreciate the complimentary WiFi and free toiletries, ensuring a convenient stay. With self-parking available, it offers an accessible option for those with their own vehicles, while its nearby the beautiful seaside and vibrant boardwalk enhances the overall experience.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the essential budget amenities, travelers can enjoy daily housekeeping, a restaurant with ocean views, and a concierge service for local recommendations. The hotel also features family-friendly window designs and air conditioning for added comfort. Nearby attractions include stunning sea views and various outlets, making it a perfect base to explore the lively downtown area of Kota Kinabalu.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.4 km, Centre Point - 0.6 km, Anjung Samudera - 0.6 km

Oceania Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Oceania Hotel offers a delightful stay for budget travellers, with a solid review rating of 8.2. Guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi, ensuring they stay connected throughout their visit. The hotel features a range of amenities designed for comfort, including air conditioning and daily housekeeping, making it a practical choice for those on a budget.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a rooftop terrace perfect for relaxation, airport transportation options, and the convenience of off-street parking. Families will appreciate the free services for children and the availability of connecting rooms. With shuttle services available to nearby shopping centres, Oceania Hotel is well-equipped to cater to the needs of budget-conscious travelers.
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 1.7 km, Centre Point - 2 km, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.6 km

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Kota Kinabalu as a budget traveller?
For budget travellers seeking excellent value in Kota Kinabalu, top recommendations include AC Residence, CJ Residence, Hotel Gaia 95, Hotel Eden54, and The Klagan Hotel.

The AC Residence, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary toiletries. Its convenient location is frequently highlighted by guests, and free self-parking adds to its value.

CJ Residence also boasts an outstanding 9.6 rating and provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries. Its location within a historical district is a top feature for those interested in local heritage.

Hotel Gaia 95, a hotel rated 8.8, ensures a comfortable stay with premium bedding, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary toiletries.

Hotel Eden54, rated 8.6, provides clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and complimentary toiletries, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious guests.

The Klagan Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, is praised for its first-class and helpful staff.
Which area of Kota Kinabalu is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu, the city centre, particularly around Gaya Street and the waterfront, presents the best options for affordable accommodation. This central area offers a high concentration of hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels, all within easy reach of amenities and attractions.

Solo travellers will appreciate the lively option and the convenience of being able to walk to many key sights. Gaya Street is particularly vibrant, hosting a popular Sunday market and numerous local eateries where you can enjoy inexpensive, delicious Malaysian food. The waterfront area is also excellent for evening strolls and offers stunning sunset views over the South China Sea, often without any cost.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Kota Kinabalu?
For families seeking top-rated and affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu, excellent options include Ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu Inanam Hotel, Stanton Hotel, and Oceania Hotel.

The Ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu Inanam Hotel, with an 8.8 rating, is a great choice for families. It offers a 24-hour airport shuttle, free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and free self-parking. Plus, free cribs are available, making it convenient for those travelling with infants.

Another fantastic option is the Stanton Hotel, boasting a 9.0 rating. This hotel provides free toiletries, free airport transportation, a 24-hour airport shuttle, and free WiFi. Additionally, free parking is available in a nearby location, which is helpful for families with a car.

The Oceania Hotel, rated 8.2, is also well-suited for families. It features free WiFi and offers early check-in, which can be a real convenience after a journey.
What cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent choices including Kokol Haven Resort, Seaview Capsule Hotel, JPOD Capsule Hotel, Homy Seafront Hostel, and Escape Backpackers KK.

The Kokol Haven Resort, with a fantastic rating of 9.2, provides a complimentary breakfast daily, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests also benefit from free WiFi and complimentary self-parking.

Seaview Capsule Hotel, rated 8.4, offers a free continental breakfast, along with free WiFi and complimentary toiletries for added convenience.

JPOD Capsule Hotel, also rated 8.4, includes a free continental breakfast daily and free WiFi, making it a practical choice for travellers needing to stay connected.

Homy Seafront Hostel, boasting an impressive 9.6 rating, provides a complimentary English breakfast and free WiFi. Many rooms also offer a partial sea view, adding a lovely touch to your stay.
When is the most affordable time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
The most affordable time to visit Kota Kinabalu is generally during the shoulder seasons, specifically from March to May and September to November, when you can often find better deals on flights and accommodation. These periods avoid the peak tourist months and the heaviest monsoon rains, offering a good balance of pleasant weather and lower prices.

For solo travellers, visiting during these months can mean less crowded attractions and more opportunities to engage with locals. You might find hostels and guesthouses offering reduced rates, and local eateries might be less busy, making for a more relaxed dining experience.

Families travelling on a budget will appreciate the savings on accommodation and potentially cheaper flights, leaving more funds for activities.
What are the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu that feature a pool, consider Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing, Borneo Tree House, and Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu.

Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, with a 9.0 rating, offers an inviting outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. Additional conveniences include free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle service, making arrivals and departures smooth. Each room also comes with a kitchen, which is great for preparing your own meals.

Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing also provides an outdoor pool, great for a refreshing dip. Guests will appreciate the free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, along with the convenience of a kitchen in their suite. There are also fitness facilities available for those who wish to stay active.

The Borneo Tree House, rated 7.8, features an outdoor pool, and offers free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. Air conditioning ensures a comfortable stay, and free rollaway beds are available if needed.

Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu boasts both an outdoor pool and a children's pool, making it suitable for families.
Are there any cheap Kota Kinabalu hotels near Suria Sabah Shopping Mall?
Yes, excellent value hotels near Suria Sabah Shopping Mall include AC Residence and Hotel Gaia 95.

The AC Residence boasts an impressive 9.6 rating and offers free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. Guests often mention the spacious, clean rooms and the excellent, convenient location, which is ideal for shopping and exploring.

Another great option is the Hotel Gaia 95, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free WiFi, air conditioning, and premium bedding for a comfortable stay.
Which cheap Kota Kinabalu hotels are near Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
For affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu conveniently located near Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), consider Oceania Hotel, Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu, and Hotel 7 Suria.

The Oceania Hotel, with an 8.2 rating, is a great option just 5.3 km from the airport. Guests often praise its attentive and helpful staff, as well as the comfortable rooms. Free WiFi is available, and early check-in can be arranged, which is a useful amenity for travellers.

Another good choice is the Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu, rated 7.8, located 6.4 km from the airport. This hotel offers free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries, adding to its value for money.

Hotel 7 Suria, a property with an 8.4 rating, is 7.6 km from the airport.
Is Kota Kinabalu a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, Kota Kinabalu is a budget-friendly destination, offering excellent value, particularly when compared to many Western cities. Travellers will find their money stretches further here, especially concerning food, accommodation, and transportation.

Solo travellers and couples can find very affordable accommodation options ranging from guesthouses to mid-range hotels, particularly if booked in advance or outside peak season. For dining, look for local eateries and 'kopitiams' (coffee shops) where a delicious meal can cost just a few pounds. The city's efficient public transport, including local buses and ride-sharing apps, is also very economical.

Many of Kota Kinabalu's most memorable experiences are free or low-cost. Couples can enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront, watch the stunning sunsets, or explore the bustling Central Market. For solo adventurers, hiking up Signal Hill for panoramic city views or visiting the Sabah State Mosque offers cultural enrichment without a hefty price tag. Exploring nearby islands for snorkelling or diving can also be done affordably by joining group tours.
What cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu with cooking facilities, Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, Signel Hostel, Grapevine Garden, Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing, and Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu all offer excellent options.

Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, with a 9.0 rating, provides full kitchens, making it ideal for those who prefer to cook their own meals. It also offers free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle for convenience.

Signel Hostel, boasting an exceptional 9.8 rating, features kitchenettes, great for preparing light meals. Guests frequently praise its cosy beds and friendly staff. The hostel also has a terrace and balcony, and it is located in a shopping district.

Grapevine Garden, rated 8.8, includes kitchenettes, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Free self-parking is also available, which is a great perk for those travelling by car.

Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing offers kitchenettes and free WiFi. Guests can also benefit from free self-parking and access to fitness facilities.

Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu provides kitchenettes, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool, which includes a children's pool.
Which cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu with great customer service, travellers often praise AC Residence, The Klagan Hotel, and Signel Hostel.

The AC Residence, with an impressive 9.6 rating, is frequently highlighted by guests for its particularly nice staff. It also offers free toiletries, complimentary WiFi, and free self-parking, adding to its value.

Another excellent choice is The Klagan Hotel, a property with an 8.4 rating, where customers consistently describe the staff as first-class and helpful. This hotel also provides free toiletries, free WiFi, and free self-parking.

For those seeking a more communal yet highly-rated experience, Signel Hostel, with a superb 9.8 rating, stands out for its friendly staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The Stanton Hotel, with a 9.0 rating, offers free airport transportation and a 24-hour airport shuttle, making early arrivals or late departures much more convenient. They also often accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs.

Another excellent option is the AC Residence, rated 9.6 by our customers. Guests consistently praise its spacious, clean rooms and convenient location. This hotel is known for its flexibility with late check-outs.

Similarly, the ACJ Residence, also with a 9.6 rating, is another property that frequently allows late check-outs. Both AC Residence and ACJ Residence provide free WiFi and free self-parking.

The Ease Hotel is also a good choice, as it specifically allows for early check-in. It also provides free WiFi and a complimentary bus station shuttle.
What free activities should we do in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic array of free activities, superb for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in local culture and natural beauty without spending a penny.

Start your exploration with a leisurely stroll along the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront, especially at sunset, where the vibrant hues across the South China Sea are a spectacle. Continue to the nearby Filipino Market (also known as the Handicraft Market); while items are for sale, the experience of browsing the stalls, observing local life, and soaking in the bustling atmosphere is entirely free. It's a great place to see local crafts and fresh produce.

For a dose of nature within the city, head to the Atkinson Clock Tower, one of the oldest standing structures in Kota Kinabalu. From there, you can explore Signal Hill Observatory Platform for panoramic views of the city, islands, and surrounding coastline – a truly breathtaking vista that costs nothing. Additionally, many of the city's beautiful mosques, such as the City Mosque (Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu), can be admired from the outside for free, offering stunning architectural photo opportunities.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu for you.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
How much does a budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu cost?
Budget hotel prices in Kota Kinabalu vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$56 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Is it cheaper to book a Kota Kinabalu hotel and flight package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

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