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Our top choices for Sabah hotels

1. Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Room was super clean and the staff do their jobs amazingly 24/7"
United States
sean
The price is NZ$261
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

2. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Super nice and scenic place to stay. Excellent swimming pools, huge gym. Marina nearby to visit islands. Beautiful beach nesrby"
United States
Linda JUNE
The price is NZ$372
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

3. Hello Kitty Signature Suite

Hello Kitty Signature Suite
3.5 star property
Sandakan
6.8 out of 10, (6 reviews)
"Overall okay. Only thing is the master bedroom aircon which takes awhile to fix. Owner very responsive and provided welcome drinks when arrived. The area is good and quite close to shops. Good to have a car though."
Malaysia
Zoe
The price is NZ$100
includes taxes & fees
26 Sept - 27 Sept
Hello Kitty Signature Suite

4. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Hotel bello"
Italy
Davide
The price is NZ$171
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (999 reviews)
"Everything was perfect and we enjoyed our stay very much. A special mention deserves the staff ,everyone we encountered was genuinely very kind and happy to help and make our stay memorable. The breakfast was amazing. Also the pool was very nice."
United Kingdom
Ines
The price is NZ$163
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

6. The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Fun place to stay with a family. Lots of kid friendly areas and activities. "
United States
Bethany
The price is NZ$268
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
The Magellan Sutera Resort

7. Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (516 reviews)
"We stayed in the room which had a private pool. It had a very nice view. Staffs are very nice. Great food. We were the first customers enjoyed the special local produced three course meal. Fantastic!"
Australia
Kiu Hung Wilson
The price is NZ$390
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Gayana Marine Resort

8. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Very spacious rooms, location is perfect, the staff is very friendly "
Canada
Cilla
The price is NZ$175
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

9. Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (32 reviews)
"Lovely pool and the staff are amazing. The room was simple, clean comfortable."
Australia
Mat
The price is NZ$139
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Ormond Sandakan

10. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (212 reviews)
"Hotel staff and facilities were excellent. The breakfast buffet was phenomenal—wonderful, personalized service from Encik Fauzi and the rest of the team and a wide selection of food options, including many local favorites!"
United States
Paul
The price is NZ$279
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

11. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (194 reviews)
"Hotel was beautifully appointed, it is a little tired in some areas but it battles with high temperatures and blistering sun so to be expected, you could see they were maintaining it well and continually improving it. Rooms were large and well appointed. Air con was effective if a little loud, might be worth investing in some newer machines but like I said they were effective together with the room ceiling fans. Restaurants were excellent, great offering and all staff were so polite and very...
United Kingdom
Rachel
The price is NZ$504
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

12. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (450 reviews)
"Could be so much better - this is 3 or 4 start at best - Its missing the finishing touches that enhances guest experience - eg 1 hour for bags to be brought to room, food over priced and average - room aircon is not up to standard, not enough power outlets - in reality only one for guest use in the room, for the money there is better , far better"
Hong Kong SAR China
Simon
The price is NZ$696
includes taxes & fees
22 Sept - 23 Sept
Gaya Island Resort

13. Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (384 reviews)
"I am travelling with family. Good for vacation"
Malaysia
Vincent
The price is NZ$156
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

14. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (618 reviews)
"Perfectly placed property overlooking the sea. Staff were all very accommodating and friendly."
Malaysia
Murray
The price is NZ$206
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

15. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (999 reviews)
"We love the place Very nice lication"
United Kingdom
Antonette
The price is NZ$200
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

16. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (77 reviews)
"Clean and spacious room with very friendly staff."
Singapore
John
The price is NZ$130
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

17. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
3.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (16 reviews)
"Great place to stay, staff very helpful and lots of amenities"
United Kingdom
Kevin
The price is NZ$129
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

18. Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran

Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran
3.5 star property
Tuaran
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is NZ$115
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran

19. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
4.0 star property
Karambunai
7.8 out of 10, Good, (789 reviews)
"I would say this resort has plenty of activities and amenities which is very convenient. Peaceful resort with a beautiful beach right in front of me. I wish the food selection and taste could be improved."
Malaysia
Madihah
The price is NZ$179
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

20. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (731 reviews)
"The pool is a nice addition after a long day of excursions."
Canada
Kian Yung
The price is NZ$115
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
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.

Great weekend hotel deals in Sabah

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Top Sabah Hotel Reviews

Guide to exploring Sabah

Top reasons to visit Sabah

  • Stunning Natural Landscapes: Sabah boasts breathtaking scenery, from the majestic Mount Kinabalu to pristine beaches, perfect for outdoor adventures.
  • Diverse Wildlife: Experience Sabah's rich biodiversity, with opportunities for wildlife spotting in national parks and reserves.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through traditional ceremonies and visits to historic sites.
  • Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling activities, including hiking, night tours, and exploring vibrant markets.
  • Variety of Accommodations: Choose from family-friendly hotels, cozy guesthouses, or beachfront retreats to suit your needs.

Find great hotels in Sabah

Discover a diverse array of accommodation options in Sabah, Malaysia, perfect for every traveller. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a beachfront retreat, Sabah has it all. With a focus on business travel and leisure, you'll find hotels equipped with essential amenities to make your stay comfortable. Explore popular destinations like Sandakan and read reviews to help you make the best choice for your memorable getaway.

  • Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: This exquisite 5-star resort boasts a stunning beachfront location that makes it an ideal getaway for families and beach lovers. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, it offers a rich family vacation experience, complete with child-friendly amenities such as free cribs, babysitting services, and a mini-golf course. The resort’s proximity to the beach allows guests to enjoy sun-soaked days and breathtaking sunsets. The thoughtful inclusion of children’s amenities ensures that younger guests are well catered for, making it a fantastic choice for a memorable family holiday.
  • Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu: Also rated 5 stars with a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this resort is perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Set against a backdrop of lush greenery and pristine beaches, it offers unique experiences such as onsite rock climbing and surfing, alongside traditional golfing options. The property encourages adventure enthusiasts to engage in activities like hiking and boat tours. With its focus on adventure-themed experiences, it caters to those looking to explore Sabah’s natural beauty while enjoying luxury accommodations.
  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: With a solid guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this 5-star hotel is a great option for families and business travellers alike. Located conveniently in Sabah, it offers essential amenities such as free cribs and a children’s pool, making it suitable for families. Business guests will appreciate its professional services and comfortable workspaces. The hotel’s blend of family-friendly features and business facilities ensures a balanced and pleasant stay for all types of visitors.

Where to stay in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, is a captivating destination for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation. From the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu to lush natural landscapes, visitors can enjoy a friendly atmosphere perfect for families or romantic getaways. Explore stunning national parks, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, making Sabah a memorable escape for all types of travellers. Whether you’re hiking Mount Kinabalu or unwinding by the coast, Sabah offers a unique blend of experiences to cherish.

  • Kota Kinabalu: Nestled on the western coast of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city that serves as a gateway to stunning natural wonders. The city’s laid-back atmosphere is perfect for families and business travellers alike, with shopping centres and private clubs to explore. The peak visitor seasons in August and December to January offer a lively ambience, while the local parks, marina, and harbour provide serene spots to unwind. Whether you’re indulging in local cuisine or soaking up the city’s culture, Kota Kinabalu promises a delightful urban experience surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
  • Sandakan: Located on the eastern coast of Sabah, Sandakan is often referred to as the Nature City due to its rich biodiversity and close proximity to stunning islands and parks. With a steady flow of visitors, particularly in April, July, and September, the city appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Activities such as camping and exploring shopping centres are popular here. Don’t miss the chance to venture to nearby islands and resorts, where you can bask in the beauty of pristine beaches and lush greenery while enjoying the unique wildlife of the area.
  • Semporna: Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and idyllic islands, Semporna is a paradise for those seeking outdoor adventures and beach relaxation. This charming town experiences peak tourist activity in February, September, and December. Families will find plenty of fun at local markets and educational venues. The nearby islands and resorts offer endless opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and soaking in the sun. With its stunning mosque and vibrant local culture, Semporna is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Sabah’s coastal treasures.

Things to do in Sabah

Shopping

In Sabah, visit the vibrant Imago Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu, featuring a mix of local and international brands. For a traditional experience, explore the Handicraft Market, where you can find unique souvenirs and crafts made by local artisans.

Recreation

In Sabah, indulge in the tranquil ambiance of the Mandara Spa, where traditional healing techniques meet modern luxury. For a unique experience, visit the Borneo Wellness Sanctuary, offering yoga sessions amidst lush rainforests and rejuvenating treatments inspired by local herbs and natural ingredients.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Zip Borneo, a zipline ropes course that offers an exhilarating adventure amidst Sabah's lush landscapes. Soar through the treetops and immerse yourself in the vibrant outdoor atmosphere while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding nature.

Nightlife

In Sabah, explore the lively atmosphere at the Waterfront, where you can enjoy a drink while overlooking the ocean. For a more energetic vibe, check out the bars in Kota Kinabalu’s Gaya Street, where live music fills the air and the night comes alive with local culture.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sabah

To save money on your trip to Sabah, plan your visit in March, May, or November when prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, and consider using Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturday is the cheapest day to stay, while Sunday tends to be more expensive. Take advantage of Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options, including eco-certified hotels. You can also save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into package deals, ensuring you make the most of your travel budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sabah are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Sabah about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sabah is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Sabah is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay in Sabah with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Sabah

Sabah is ideal for outdoor adventures and family holidays, offering a mix of national parks, stunning islands, and cultural attractions. Explore the breathtaking scenery, including the majestic Mount Kinabalu, while immersing yourself in the local culture. With a variety of points of interest like mosques and nature reserves, Sabah promises enriching experiences for every traveller seeking adventure and relaxation.

  • Mount Kinabalu National Park: Experience the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers lush rainforests, scenic trails, and a chance to spot unique flora and fauna while enjoying outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes.
  • Mt Kinabalu: Challenge yourself with a hike up this iconic peak, the highest in Southeast Asia. The trek rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring panoramic views and an exhilarating sense of achievement, making it a memorable outdoor experience.
  • Sutera Harbour: Relax at this picturesque harbour where sandy beaches meet tranquil waters. Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery, partake in water activities, or simply unwind while soaking in the serene atmosphere of the surrounding area.

Best time to go to Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sabah falls in December, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Sabah falls in January, October and November. October has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
February77.9°F (25.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.6°F (25.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September78.4°F (25.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October77.7°F (25.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December80.6°F (27.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Frequently asked questions

How much do hotels in Sabah cost?
The season and factors like school holidays and Easter can influence the price of a hotel in Sabah. You can find cheap options from NZ$100 in a few different ways on Expedia. First, select the dates you'd like to get away, then use the filters such as amenities and property type to narrow down your search. You can also sort by price, so the most affordable options appear at the top.
When is the best time to go to Sabah?
The timing of your trip will depend on which part of Sabah you want to travel to, as temperatures vary in different areas. For a summer adventure with a tropical rainforest climate, consider Kota Kinabalu during the months of June to August. Here you can expect average temperatures between 26ºC and 30ºC.
What is the best area to stay in Sabah?
Sabah has plenty of thrilling areas to stay, including Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. Each has its own fabulous attractions, so why not schedule time to visit both?
Are there any luxury hotels in Sabah?
Some of the top-rated hotels in Sabah are in Kota Kinabalu. Have a look at indulgent options such as Hilton Kota Kinabalu, which offers designer toiletries, concierge services and room service. Grandis Hotel is another terrific choice in this city.
What are the top all-inclusive hotels in Sabah?
Nature Lodge Kinabatangan is one of the top-rated hotels in Sabah that offers all-inclusive deals. With drinks, food and entertainment usually included in one flat rate, you can put your wallet to one side and experience the ultimate stress-free holiday at this stay.
How can I find cheap hotels in Sabah?
The best place to begin searching is by using our "Price per night" filter. At the moment, the least expensive hotels start at NZ$100 per night. Other ways to grab a wallet-friendly Sabah escape are by booking well in advance and being flexible with the dates you travel. For more superb deals, visit our cheap hotels in Sabah page.
What are the best hotels in Sabah for families?
Orion Residence At Tanjung Aru is one of the most popular hotels for families, located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Stay here and make full use of conveniences like a playground and laundry facilities. Hotel Lintas Plaza is another favourite escape where kiddos are welcome. For more hotel options, fine-tune your search results by selecting "Family friendly" under the "Traveller experience" filter section.
What are the top beach hotels in Sabah?
You'll be swept away by the perfect combination of relaxation and fun at our Sabah ocean-view hotels. One of our more popular getaways is Orion Residence At Tanjung Aru, which offers amenities like a terrace and a garden. Another pick promising beachside bliss is Hotel Lintas Plaza. These two properties are located in Kota Kinabalu.
Why should I book my Sabah hotel with Expedia?
Incredible prices on Sabah hotels are just the beginning of the reasons to book your stay with Expedia. Become an Expedia Rewards member for free today and earn points with every booking, along with fabulous membership perks. We're talking savings worth 10% or more on select hotels! Not only that, most of our hotels come with free cancellation, so you can lock in the getaway of your dreams without worrying about your plans changing. Just look for options marked "Free Cancellation".

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