Hotels in Kota Kinabalu (Sabah, Malaysia)

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2696 hotels in Kota Kinabalu

  1. TD Plaza Hotel

    3 Stars
    Halal dining at Taipan Coffee
    See prices from 5 sites
    from$26

  2. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

    5 Stars
    Six Diverse On-Site Dining Options
    See prices from 11 sites
    from$234

  3. Borneo Beach Villa & Suite

    4 Stars
    In-room spa suite amenities
    See prices from 10 sites
    from$58

  4. Gaya Island Resort

    5 Stars
    Daily yoga and spa treatments
    See prices from 11 sites
    from$271

  5. Promenade Service Apartment

    2 Stars
    Walk 400 metres to Centre Point
    See prices from 9 sites
    from$22

  6. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

    4 Stars
    Outdoor Swimming Pool Access Available
    See prices from 10 sites
    from$51

  7. Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

    4 Stars
    Diverse On-site Dining Options
    See prices from 6 sites
    from$72

  8. Tune Hotel - 1Borneo Kota Kinabalu

    3 Stars
    Dine at on-site Makan Restaurant
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$23

  9. Hotel 7 Suria

    3 Stars
    Direct access to shopping mall
    See prices from 6 sites
    from$72

  10. Sky Hotel

    4 Stars
    Dine at vegetarian-focused restaurant
    See prices from 7 sites
    from$36

  11. The Klagan Hotel

    3 Stars
    Walk to major city attractions
    See prices from 6 sites
    from$46

  12. The Magellan Sutera Resort

    5 Stars
    Diverse swimming pools with slides
    See prices from 13 sites
    from$176

  13. Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu

    3 Stars
    View sunsets from rooftop bar
    See prices from 10 sites
    from$37

  14. Sabah Beach Villas & Suites

    3 Stars
    Beachfront access with sunset views
    See prices from 3 sites
    from$63

  15. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

    4 Stars
    Spacious Rooms with Scenic Views
    See prices from 6 sites
    from$40

  16. Gaya Centre Hotel

    3 Stars
    Walk to Jesselton Point pier
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$46

  17. The Shore Premier Suites Kota Kinabalu

    3 Stars
    Pool with city view access
    See prices from 6 sites
    from$44

  18. Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu

    5 Stars
    Rooftop bar with sunset views
    See prices from 15 sites
    from$128

  19. FLYPOD Hotel

    3 Stars
    Dining and Convenience Stores Nearby
    See prices from 4 sites
    from$36

  20. The Klagan Regency

    4 Stars
    Swim in rooftop outdoor pool
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$53

  21. Ming Garden

    4 Stars
    Outdoor swimming pool and gym
    See prices from 11 sites
    from$41

  22. Pantai Inn

    1 Stars
    On-site Thien Thien Restaurant Dining
    See prices from 5 sites
    from$26

  23. Raia Hotel Kota Kinabalu

    3 Stars
    Muslim-friendly amenities and services
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$41

  24. Sutera Bay by Pinstay Plus

    3 Stars
    Spacious rooms with city views
    See prices from 3 sites
    from$41

  25. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

    5 Stars
    Olympic sized outdoor swimming pool
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$119

  26. Sabah Oriental Hotel

    4 Stars
    Outdoor Pool and Fitness Center
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$39

  27. The Shore Kota Kinabalu City Centre by LW Suites

    Fully Equipped Kitchenette Units
    See prices from 2 sites
    from$93

  28. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

    5 Stars
    Rooftop pool with city views
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$96

  29. Tang Dynasty Hotel

    3 Stars
    Secure Basement Parking Facility Access
    See prices from 7 sites
    from$33

  30. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

    5 Stars
    Diverse on-site dining options
    See prices from 12 sites
    from$119

  31. Gayana Marine Resort

    5 Stars
    Overwater villas with direct access
    See prices from 13 sites
    from$312

  32. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

    3 Stars
    Dedicated meeting and event spaces
    See prices from 13 sites
    from$28

  33. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

    5 Stars
    Hilltop spa with traditional treatments
    See prices from 4 sites
    from$355

  34. The Klagan Riverson Hotel & Residence

    3 Stars
    Outdoor swimming pool on-site
    See prices from 11 sites
    from$66

  35. Borneo Tree House

    2 Stars
    Outdoor swimming pool for families
    See prices from 2 sites
    from$28

The prices and availability we receive from booking sites change constantly. This means you may not always find the exact same offer you saw on trivago when you land on the booking site.

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Popular hotel categories in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is the perfect base for Malaysian Borneo.

Located on the island of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is the capital of the Sabah state of Malaysia and a fast growing tourist destination. It is a coastal city featuring a waterfront stretching several kilometres and a port regularly receiving international cruise ships. Although a favoured destination in its own right, Kota Kinabalu also acts as a gateway to the impressive nearby nature, including its namesake national park. Diving, deep water fishing, plus a whole host of other ocean activities are some of the biggest draws to the region, the city of Kota Kinabalu provides the perfect base.

A diverse city centre with varying architecture

The design and atmosphere of Kota Kinabalu reflects its history rather well, it is a blend of cultures and ethnicities with a strong British feel in certain areas. Atkinson Clock Tower, the oldest building in the city which dates to 1905, is a focal point close to the centre and portrays an excellent visual example of British influence on the city. From here visitors can walk up to the Signal Hill Observatory to gain a panoramic view of the downtown area, a good method to understand the bearings of the city. Another aspect of the cultural diversity can be seen in the city’s religious buildings; churches, mosques and temples stand together in close proximity. The Sacred Heart Cathedral, Sabah State Mosque and Che Sui Khor Temple provide some of the finest architecture in the region and can all be located in the central districts of the city. Indeed, many of the hotels in Kota Kinabalu are also located in the downtown strip, particularly along the waterfront, including multiple large international chains. The area is mostly very developed and hectic, however the somewhat compact City Park provides a slice of greenery amid the skyscrapers. That said, visitors do not have to venture far to either find the beaches or forestry that this region is famous for.

Lively markets and a myriad of local delicacies

One aspect which greatly benefits from the city’s diversity is the cuisine, a wide variety of Chinese, Malay, Brunei and Javanese plus others can be found. The Chinese section of the city is centred around Gaya Street, an area with several restaurants and shops, plus an extensive Sunday street market. Also along this street are multiple Kota Kinabalu hotels, particularly those popular with the young backpacker crowd. As with many modernising Asian cities, there are a host of large shopping centres, often overlooked by tourists due to their homogeneous appearance. However, the food courts they contain are worth exploring due to their range of local cuisine and a chance to experience everyday life in Malaysia. In terms of shopping, one of the most visited markets is the Handicraft Market, located close to the waterfront. Its colourful appearance and welcoming residents create a memorable atmosphere where visitors can find all kinds of souvenirs and artwork. A considerable amount of Kota Kinabalu’s bar scene is also situated along the waterfront, with multiple establishments entertaining travellers with live music and the broadcasting of international sports.

Beaches, diving and fishing

Being a city on the coast, plenty of the tourist highlights involve the stunning coastal scenery. There are a two major beaches within walking distance of the centre, namely Tanjung Aru and Likas Bay, at opposite ends of Kota Kinabalu. Tanjung Aru Beach is a well-frequented spot and the surrounding neighbourhood is ideal for visitors seeking a large resort style hotel. Likas Bay is more of a locals hangout and is a much quieter experience, albeit in a less scenic location and further from most of the hotels. Many of the recreational activities that Kota Kinabalu offers are based around the water, with diving and snorkelling being extremely popular. There are multiple islands situated off the coast of mainland Sabah and the surrounding waters present some of the finest diving areas. These include the renowned Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, just thirty minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu. Deep sea fishing is another common activity with a variety of trips leaving the marina, from small day trips to longer week long adventures.

A gateway to nature

Beyond the city limits lie some of the finest nature in all of Malaysia and Kota Kinabalu acts as a gateway for the thousands of tourists heading further into the Bornean jungle. Kinabalu National Park lies ninety kilometres north east of the city and is focused around Malaysia’s highest peak; Mount Kinabalu. Visitors head to the park to explore the dense jungle and rugged nature which contains an array of hiking opportunities including the trail to the summit itself. Closer to the city, one of the most popular day trips is to Gaya Island just a short ferry ride away from downtown Kota Kinabalu. It is even possible to stay in a hotel on the island and take further advantage of the assortment of stunning beaches and fascinating hiking trails. Aside from nature, venturing out of the city also provides an increased chance to sample traditional lifestyles and architecture. There are multiple small villages which tour groups head to, in order to learn about the local culture, but some of the most authentic experiences can be had by renting a scooter and independently exploring.

When to book a hotel in Kota Kinabalu

  • Cheapest month: May
    $36 per night
  • Yearly typical price
    $56 per night
  • Peak month: April
    $67 per night

Frequently Asked Questions about Kota Kinabalu

  • When is the cheapest time to book a hotel in Kota Kinabalu?

    May is usually the cheapest month to book a hotel in Kota Kinabalu, with typical prices around $36 per night based on 72 price comparisons.

  • When are hotel prices highest in Kota Kinabalu?

    Hotel prices in Kota Kinabalu are usually highest during April, with typical prices around $67 per night.

  • How much does a hotel in Kota Kinabalu cost per night?

    Hotel prices in Kota Kinabalu usually range from $31 per night to $120 per night, with typical prices around $56 per night.

  • How do hotel prices in Kota Kinabalu change throughout the year?

    Hotel prices in Kota Kinabalu are typically lowest in May at around $36 per night, rising to around $67 per night in April.

  • November

    2026

    $46
    $33 — $96

  • December

    2026

    $56
    $35 — $113

  • January

    2027

    $59
    $34 — $105

  • February

    2027

    $56
    $33 — $97

  • March

    2027

    $39
    $30 — $50

  • April

    2027

    $67
    $35 — $120

  • May

    2027

    $36
    $31 — $47

  • June

    2027

    Select dates to see exact prices

  • July

    2027

    Select dates to see exact prices

  • August

    2027

    Select dates to see exact prices

  • September

    2027

    Select dates to see exact prices

  • October

    2027

    $61
    $36 — $117

Frequently Asked Questions about Kota Kinabalu

Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

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