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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)
"Absolutely fantastic property with incredible staff.Rooms were huge and very clean and well equipped.Lovely pools and beach,great range of activities and restaurants. Free shuttle bus into KK and easy to arrange excursions through the hotel."
United Kingdom
Eleanor
The price is NZ$287
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
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, (1,021 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$403
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
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$97
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
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, (1,004 reviews)
"A good stay in KK and a great location"
Malaysia
Sri Ganesh
The price is NZ$179
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5. 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$248
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
The Magellan Sutera Resort

6. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"Great location - close to all amenities and the waterfront Great roof top pool although very overpriced food in the restaurants. Great staff Would definitely recommend"
Australia
Michaela
The price is NZ$166
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

7. Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (524 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$388
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Gayana Marine Resort

8. Lankayan Island Resort

Lankayan Island Resort
3.0 star property
Sandakan
Lankayan Island Resort

9. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,006 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$165
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

10. Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (48 reviews)
"Great stay, helpful staff and the restaurant was lovely too."
United Kingdom
Sarah-Jayne
The price is NZ$139
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Ormond Sandakan

11. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (199 reviews)
"We stayed in the double bungalow, Perfect for 3 seperate friends, so much private space. Just beautiful."
Australia
Nikko
The price is NZ$512
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

12. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (224 reviews)
"Very helpful staff good location"
United Kingdom
MRS
The price is NZ$200
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

13. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (451 reviews)
"We had an amazing time at Gaya Island Resort. It is a luxury resort with great food and drinks, comfortable rooms, and incredible views/proximity to the ocean. Worth noting is that this is in a nature reserve, surrounded by jungle and ocean, and the resort embraces and supports this, which means coexisting with wildlife. You can walk out from the resort beach to their own protected reef and swim with dozens of species of beautiful fish (equipment is available for free). We didn’t see any snakes,...
United States
Eric
The price is NZ$775
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
Gaya Island Resort

14. Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (387 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United Kingdom
Holly
The price is NZ$164
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

15. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (629 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is NZ$197
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

16. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (82 reviews)
"Great locations and tidy facilities"
Australia
Thomas
The price is NZ$136
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

17. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
4.0 star property
Karambunai
7.8 out of 10, Good, (791 reviews)
"Great polite staff, very helpful, very happy. Nexus is a beautiful, picturesque escape from the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life. We would definitely book this place again. Just be sure to pack the insect repellent as you would going to any beach."
Australia
Kunthea
The price is NZ$171
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

18. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (204 reviews)
"The complimentary airport shuttle (one-way only) was very useful along with the breakfast buffet. Definitely worth staying if you do not want to go island hopping or to the city centre"
Australia
Velmor
The price is NZ$76
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

19. Borneo Beach Villa & Suite

Borneo Beach Villa & Suite
4.0 star property
Karambunai
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (359 reviews)
"The Borneo Beach Villa is an incredible value! The South China Sea is beautiful, clear and clean!! The villa is as pictured though with some wear and tear - though still lovely and spacious. We stayed in a unit with its own pool that was on the beach.The staff was very responsive. I would recommend renting a car if you are not too intimidated by driving on the left."
United States
Renee
The price is NZ$105
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Borneo Beach Villa & Suite

20. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"We love the place Very nice lication"
United Kingdom
Antonette
The price is NZ$188
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
The Pacific Sutera 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.

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$76 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$76 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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