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Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

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Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu?

Signature Inn
Signature Inn
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Discover a cozy inn minutes from Imago Mall with complimentary WiFi access.
The price is ₹1,773
₹2,138 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan
Signature Inn
Hotel Gaia 95
Hotel Gaia 95
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (191 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Convenience meets comfort at Hotel Gaia 95, just minutes from shopping and markets.
The price is ₹2,429
₹3,090 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan
Hotel Gaia 95
Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse
Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.0 out of 10, Good, (85 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Close to shopping malls and local markets in vibrant Kota Kinabalu.
The price is ₹1,110
₹1,534 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan
Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Tranquil beachfront paradise with mesmerizing sunsets and pristine private shores.
The price is ₹14,555
₹15,943 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
The MAJULAN Hotel
The MAJULAN Hotel
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
The price is ₹4,236
₹4,799 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Jan - 24 Jan
The MAJULAN Hotel
Wah May Hotel
Wah May Hotel
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.6 out of 10, Good, (4 reviews)
Wah May Hotel
Eminent Hotel
Eminent Hotel
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (259 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stay just a short drive from Imago Shopping Mall at this convenient hotel.
Eminent Hotel
Kivana Suite by Ayuhouz
Kivana Suite by Ayuhouz
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is ₹3,148
₹3,623 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan
Kivana Suite by Ayuhouz
Hotel Iskandar
Hotel Iskandar
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.8 out of 10, (107 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy a modern retreat near top Kota Kinabalu attractions and shops.
Hotel Iskandar
Hotel Eden54
Hotel Eden54
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (322 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Central hotel near Imago Mall offers easy access to Kota Kinabalu attractions.
The price is ₹2,811
₹3,541 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Feb - 11 Feb
Hotel Eden54
Classic Kinabalu Hotel
Classic Kinabalu Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.8 out of 10, (16 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Well-designed Kota Kinabalu hotel with easy access to shopping and local markets.
Classic Kinabalu Hotel
Hotel O Rainfield Inn
Hotel O Rainfield Inn
2.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
  • cleanliness
    Experience modern comfort minutes from shopping and cultural treasures in Kota Kinabalu.
The price is ₹1,608
₹1,961 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jan - 26 Jan
Hotel O Rainfield Inn
Hotel Sadong 88
Hotel Sadong 88
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
6.6 out of 10, (28 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stylish urban hotel minutes from top shopping and adventure activities in Kota Kinabalu.
Hotel Sadong 88
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)
  • cleanliness
    Relax on a private beach with awe-inspiring sunsets near Imago Shopping Mall.
The price is ₹22,012
₹26,198 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Jan - 25 Jan
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
ACJ Residence
ACJ Residence
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Steps from Imago Shopping Mall with free perks and downtown convenience.
The price is ₹3,746
₹4,269 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan
ACJ Residence
Langkah Syabas Beach Resort
Langkah Syabas Beach Resort
3.0 star property
Kinarut
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (133 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Take in the serene views at this beachside Kinarut hotel with 2 bars and a pool.
The price is ₹4,275
₹5,268 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan
Langkah Syabas Beach Resort
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
The price is ₹6,355
₹8,207 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jan - 26 Jan
The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses
Hotel O Storytel
Hotel O Storytel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.6 out of 10, Good, (35 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Contemporary comfort minutes from Imago Shopping Mall with daily housekeeping.
The price is ₹1,478
₹1,894 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jan - 26 Jan
Hotel O Storytel
Adel Hotel
Adel Hotel
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
7.4 out of 10, Good, (26 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Cozy retreat near Imago Mall with free WiFi and parking for quick city escapes.
The price is ₹1,670
₹2,195 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jan - 28 Jan
Adel Hotel
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)
  • cleanliness
    Luxury beachfront escape with pristine golf course and rejuvenating spa treatments.
The price is ₹13,726
₹15,048 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
The Magellan Sutera Resort
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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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.

When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?

Our prices for hotels in Kota Kinabalu are cheapest in November
Price trends for hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in January
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for January.
Typical weather for Kota Kinabalu
January
High 29°C / low 25°C. Partly sunny.
View properties in January
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January, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 25 degrees Celsius. Partly sunny.
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February, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 25 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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March, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 25 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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30°
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April, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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May, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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June, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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July, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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August, no crowd data, average high temperature 30 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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September, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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October, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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November, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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29°
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December, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Partly sunny.
26°
Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighbourhoods in Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Aru

Tanjung Aru delivers the Malaysian beach escape you've been dreaming about with golden sands that seem to stretch forever. This coastal gem is famous for its jaw-dropping sunsets that paint the sky in fiery oranges and pinks. Stroll along the breezy waterfront promenade or kick back at Tanjung Aru Perdana Park when you need a break from swimming in the calm, clear waters. Dining options range from upscale resort restaurants to affordable local seafood spots serving fresh catch daily. Most visitors stay in beachfront resorts with full amenities, though mid-range options exist for budget-conscious travellers. Getting around is easiest by taxi or hotel shuttle since public transport is limited.

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

City centre Kota Kinabalu serves up the perfect Malaysian trifecta: stunning South China Sea views, mouthwatering seafood, and vibrant shopping scenes. Stroll along the waterfront esplanade to catch those Instagram-worthy sunsets. Dive into the colourful chaos of local markets, where handicrafts and street food compete for your attention. The bustling Gaya Street transforms into a shopper's paradise on Sundays. Getting around is a breeze with abundant taxis and walkable streets lined with colonial shophouses. You'll find accommodation ranging from backpacker hostels to harbor-view hotels. When hunger strikes, choose between sizzling street food stalls or upscale waterfront restaurants that showcase the day's fresh catch.

Karambunai

Karambunai's pristine beaches and luxury resorts offer a perfect escape from Kota Kinabalu's bustle. The Nexus Karambunai Resort anchors this tropical paradise where visitors can golf on manicured greens or explore biodiversity at the nearby wetland centre. Boardwalk trails wind through mangrove forests where proboscis monkeys swing overhead and tropical birds call from lush canopies. Resort shuttles and taxis handle transport needs, with most guests content to stay within beachfront properties. Dining options feature Malaysian fusion cuisine and international favourites, while evenings bring entertainment with live music and cultural shows. The calm waters and secluded beaches make this spot ideal for travellers seeking upscale relaxation in a natural setting.

Kampung Air

Kampung Air floats above the South China Sea on weathered wooden stilts, connected by a maze of narrow walkways. This traditional water village is home to Bajau sea nomads who continue their maritime way of life. Watch locals mend fishing nets, build boats, and sell handwoven baskets right from their doorsteps. The turquoise-trimmed mosque stands as the community's gathering point. Family-run stalls serve up fresh seafood and coconut curries for just a few ringgit. Basic homestays in traditional stilt houses offer authentic cultural immersion with family meals included. Water taxis provide the main access, shuttling between the village and Kota Kinabalu waterfront for a truly unique Malaysian experience.

Top landmarks in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu and related destinations

Admired for its waterfront and parks, Kota Kinabalu features attractions such as Centre Point and KK Plaza. This romantic city has something for everyone including sights like Kota Kinabalu Central Market and Gaya Street Sunday Market.

Kota Kinabalu featuring tropical scenes and general coastal views
Photo by Tourism Malaysia
Open Photo by Tourism Malaysia

Check out reviews of Kota Kinabalu hotels guests love

Frequently asked questions

Can I book a refundable hotel in Kota Kinabalu?
If you want the flexibility to change your travel plans to Kota Kinabalu, most accommodations offer refundable* bookable rates. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in Kota Kinabalu if I want a vacation rental instead of a hotel?
If you want a good alternative to a hotel, look over our selection of 28 vacation homes. In addition, there are 165 apartments and 52 condos.
What will the weather in Kota Kinabalu be like during my visit?
Kota Kinabalu is a great place to visit any time of year with an average temperature of 80°F during the coldest months.
Why should I book my Kota Kinabalu accommodation with Hotels.com?
There are lots of reasons to book your Kota Kinabalu trip with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels gives you flexibility, and with One Key™, our rewards program, you will be able to earn and use OneKeyCash™* on all eligible bookings such as hotels, car rentals, flights, vacation rentals and more on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Embrace Nature's Canvas: The Enchantment of Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, nestled on the shores of Sabah, Malaysia, is a vibrant fusion of urban charm and breathtaking nature. Surrounded by pristine beaches and the majestic Mount Kinabalu, this coastal city is a paradise for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike. Explore the crystal-clear waters of nearby islands like Gaya and Manukan, or wander through the lush greenery of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Rich in cultural heritage, savour local delights at bustling markets and experience the warmth of Sabah's diverse communities. With its stunning landscapes and inviting atmosphere, Kota Kinabalu is an unforgettable escape for every traveller.

Top locations to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Some of the best areas to stay in Kota Kinabalu are Pusat Bandar, Kampung Sembulan Baru, and Api-api Centre. Pusat Bandar offers vibrant nightlife and easy access to nature, while Kampung Sembulan Baru provides a glimpse of local culture and community charm. Api-api Centre is perfect for shopping enthusiasts. For first-time visitors, Pusat Bandar is the ideal choice due to its central location and amenities.

  1. Pusat BandarOpens in a new window: Pusat Bandar is the vibrant heart of Kota Kinabalu, making it an ideal base for your stay. This area buzzes with life and is filled with shops, local markets, and a variety of dining options. You can explore the beautiful waterfront promenade, enjoy stunning sunset views, or visit cultural attractions like the Sabah Museum, which showcases the region’s rich heritage. With its central location, you’ll find it easy to access other popular spots, making your exploration of Kota Kinabalu both convenient and enjoyable.
  2. Api-api CentreOpens in a new window: If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, the Api-api Centre is the place to be. Known for its shopping opportunities, this area features everything from local handicrafts to contemporary boutiques. It's a great spot to pick up souvenirs and experience local culture. Additionally, you can discover nearby attractions such as the Filipino Market, where you can immerse yourself in local flavours and crafts. The area’s lively vibe makes it a perfect choice for those wanting to soak in the local lifestyle.
  3. Kampung Sembulan BaruOpens in a new window: Kampung Sembulan Baru offers a charming retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This area is known for its scenic surroundings and a more relaxed pace. You can enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront or visit local parks for a peaceful afternoon. While it’s quieter, there are still delightful local eateries and small shops, providing an authentic taste of daily life in Kota Kinabalu. This makes it a lovely option for travellers seeking a more tranquil experience.

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu beckons with its stunning coastal vistas, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Dive into vibrant underwater worlds, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or hike through verdant parks. After a day of exploring, unwind by shopping for local crafts and flavours—this destination is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

  • Dalit BeachOpens in a new window – Experience the serene beauty of Dalit Beach, where soft sands meet the gentle waves of the South China Sea. This stunning beach is not just a perfect spot for sunbathing; it's a gateway to various activities. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim or take a leisurely stroll along the shore as the sun sets, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal backdrop for a picnic or simply relaxing with a good book. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying out water sports or exploring nearby islands. The beach's tranquil environment is also great for nature enthusiasts looking to spot local wildlife or enjoy a day in the natural parks nearby. Whether you're looking to unwind or seek adventure, Dalit Beach has something for everyone.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Kota Kinabalu

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Kota Kinabalu are March, May, and November, during which hotel prices tend to be lower. For those wishing to delve into the city’s historical and cultural offerings, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to enjoy key landmarks and attractions, such as exploring the marina, indulging in shopping, and experiencing the natural parks. Whether it's boating, diving, or relaxing by the islands, visitors will find plenty of activities that provide great value for money while immersed in the area's rich cultural landscape.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Kota Kinabalu, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your stay. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool within the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see favourable options. By staying updated on price changes and availability, you could easily secure a last-minute getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Kota Kinabalu. If you're in search of a distinctive experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised stay and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. Should the price be on the higher side, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you secure a better deal.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be pricier, but with Kota Kinabalu's outstanding public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-connected. For those keen on exploring alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 79.9°F (26.6°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). January is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Kota Kinabalu, January, August, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, April, May, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

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