As the vibrant capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is the starting point for most people visiting the state. In this article, read all about Kota Kinabalu has to offer and what to do here.
Located on the northwest coast of Sabah on the island of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is the vibrant capital of Sabah and the economic and cultural center of the state. With a population of around 500,000, Kota Kinabalu is the largest city in Sabah and the tenth-largest city in Malaysia. Ranked as one of the best cities to retire in the world, it offers a mix of modern amenities as well as a large number of good hotel options and shopping malls. In addition, the city is known for its lively markets, waterfront, and vibrant nightlife.
Brief historyof the city
During the British colonial period, Kota Kinabalu was known as Jesselton. The city became the capital of the British Crown Colony of North Borneo (now Sabah) in 1946, replacing the war-ravaged Sandakan in the eastern part of Sabah. After North Borneo’s independence in 1963, the city became part of the newly formed Federation of Malaysia, and the city was renamed Kota (Malay for city) Kinabalu in 1968, named after Mount Kinabalu near the city.
Commonly also known or referred to as KK or Jesselton, Kota Kinabalu serves as a gateway to Mount Kinabalu and the rest of the state. On a yearly basis, approximately 98% of international travelers arrive in Sabah via Kota Kinabalu. Also, all major tour operators in Sabah have their offices here. The iconic Mount Kinabalu, visible from afar, is around 2 hours drive from the city. The northernmost city of Kudat is around 3 hours driving.
Things to do
See below a list of activities in and around Kota Kinabalu.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park – +/- RM100
Explore the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, which includes five beautiful islands – Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Mamutik, and Sulug. Enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, swimming, and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Going here is a worthwhile alternative to the islands of Semporna in southeast Sabah.
Gaya Street Sunday Market – free
Every Sunday morning, Gaya Street hosts the lively Sunday Market. Browse through a variety of stalls selling local products, handicrafts, souvenirs, and sample local street food.
Tanjung Aru beach – free
Tanjung Aru Beach is the most popular beach of Kota Kinabalu and lies 10 minutes southwest of the city. Head to the ZING sunset bar for a drink or visit the night market, open daily from 5 PM to 10 PM. You can also go paddle boarding at the Borneo Paddle Monkeys. The Sunset Bar at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort is rated one of the top 10 places to watch the sunset in the world.
Floating Mosque (Kota Kinabalu City Mosque) – free
About 5 kilometers north of the city and surrounded by water, this is also known as the floating mosque. It is considered far more attractive than the City Mosque. The mosque is open to non-Muslims outside regular prayer times.
Sabah State Museum – RM15 (non-Malaysian)
This museum showcases the rich cultural and natural heritage of Sabah including ancient artifacts, archeological findings, and traditional costumes. Also in the museum is the skeleton of Malaysia’s largest Bryde whale. This 18.6-meter-long whale washed ashore off Gaya Island near Kota Kinabalu in 2006.
Take a leisurely stroll along Kota Kinabalu’s waterfront, known as the “Esplanade,” and enjoy the scenic view of the sea and nearby islands. Also the “I love KK” sign can be found here.
KK Waterfront
Proclaimed as the city’s premier entertainment and dining center, this area is filled with around 16 restaurants, bars, and pubs, many of them with terraces facing the sea. Also there are some clubs for nightlife. The Shamrock Irish Bar is great for live performances.
Explore the KK Fish Market port and eat some seafood
As a major (international) fishing port, Kota Kinabalu is famous for its seafood. Explore the KK Fish Market and Filipino Market or visit the seafood restaurants along the waterfront and enjoy delicious of fresh seafood such as grilled fish, shrimp, and crab.
Cultural villages of Mari Mari (RM100) or Monsopiad Heritage (RM55)
Mari Mari Cultural Village showcases the rich cultural diversity of 5 indigenous tribes that have long lived in Sabah: the Bajau, Dusun, Murut, Rungus, and Lundayeh. Learn about the traditional way of life, participate in interactive activities, sample local cuisine, and watch cultural performances.
Alternatively, the (smaller) Monsopiad Heritage Village offers the opportunity to learn about 3 indigenous tribes of Sabah. After visiting Monsopiad, consider going to the nearby Tipsy Asi Bar & Grill for a meal and a beautiful view of the countryside.
Opening hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (Mari Mari), 9 AM – 4 PM (Monsopiad)
See below a list of activities to do in the area around Kota Kinabalu.
Kota Kinabalu and Kinabalu Park
Drive 2 hours / 90km to Mount Kinabalu, the mountain for which Kota Kinabalu is named after. With a height of 4,092m, it’s the highest climbable mountain in Southeast Asia. Alternatively, visit Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its botanical garden and diverse flora and fauna.
Read more about the mountain and what to do around here.
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park – RM20
A 30-minute drive south of Kota Kinabalu, the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is home to various indigenous animals such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, sun bears, and a variety of bird species.
Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 16:30 PM (ticket office closes between 13 PM – 14 PM)
Daytrip north of the city (on the way towards Kudat)
Explore some regional attractions around Tuaran and Tamparuli. These 1 hour north of Kota Kinabalu on the way to Kudat,
Tuaran; Peak of Hope, Sabankar Cowboy Town and Sabankar Magrove Park
Tamparuli; Upside Down House, Tamparuli Suspension Bridge, Jurrasic Land Kiulu (ideal for kids), Zip Borneo, and Murug-Turug waterfalls a little further east.
Take the steam train to Papar – RM300+ (currently not operational)
Travel a 4-hour ride from Tanjung Aru to Papar, the ‘Rice Bowl of Sabah,” on a restored steam train used over 100 years ago, including breakfast and lunch. The trip operates only twice a week and is operated by North Borneo Railway (not the State Railway)
As the gateway to Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is reasonably well-connected within Asia. Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI) is Malaysia’s second busiest airport, boasting many international destinations as well as domestic flights within (peninsular) Malaysia, the state of Sarawak, and other airports within Sabah. Major international connections are Singapore, Thailand, mainland China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan. Within Sabah, daily flights go to 4 other cities in the state: Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Tawau, and Labuan Island.
Within Sabah, Kota Kinabalu has (multiple) daily flights to the airports of Sandakan, Tawau and Lahad Datu.
Kota Kinabalu can also be accessed via the AH150 interstate road all the way from Sarawak.
How to get around
Moving around the city is very easy. Although public transport is nearly non-existent, going around the city is convenient by car, taxis or by foot. As the city center is quite compact, the distances between the city’s attractions are very well-walkable. Also, there is a train going to the towns of Beaufort and Tenom west of Kota Kinabalu.
Taxi
Instead of walking, there are many affordable taxis in the city. They are mostly painted distinctively red-white with taxi stands near hotels, shopping malls, and bus terminals, with rates being negotiable. Besides regular taxis, consider the usage of ride-hailing apps like Grab or its Malaysian variant, Maxim. As regular city taxis are quite old, booking via one of the available apps most likely provides a more comfortable ride to your destination. Booking via taxi apps offers fixed pricing depending on the type of car and destination. However, due to the lack of public transportation, traffic jams are common during morning and afternoon rush hours.
For going on a day tour (outside) the city, hiring a taxi for a whole day should cost around RM300.
Train to Beaufort and Tenom
Unique to the western part of Sabah is to take the train towards the towns of Beaufort and Tenom to the west of Kota Kinabalu. The train station in Kota Kinabalu is west of the city at Tanjung Aru Railway Station. As a fact, this is the only rail transport system existing in the whole of Borneo. The route consists of a single track of 134 kilometers. Note that this train line is not to be confused with the North Borneo Railway, a tourist train between Kota Kinabalu and Papar.
The train to Beaufort takes approximately 2 hours. To reach Tenom another train has to be taken from Beaufort. However, do note this layover can take hours.
As the capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu offers a good range of hotels to suit different preferences and budgets. See below some well-regarded hotels in and around the city.
Luxury
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru and Rasa Ria
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is most likely the best luxury accommodation in Kota Kinabalu. Just above Tanjung Aru Beach west of the city, this beachfront resort offers stunning ocean views and the Sunset Bar is regarded as one of the world’s best locations for sunset. Alternatively, 1 hour north of Kota Kinabalu Shangri-La Rasa Ria encompasses a beautiful resort with a huge beach and garden, a golf course, multiple restaurants, and 2 swimming pools.
Sutera Harbour Resort; The Pacific Sutera and The Magellan
Just a 10-minute drive outside the city center there are 2 luxury hotels within the Sutera Harbour Resort Complex, the Pacific Sutera and The Magellan Sutera Resort. Both 5-star hotels offer a sizeable swimming pool, multiple restaurants, access to the golf course, and marina.
Hilton Kota Kinabalu
The Hilton Kota Kinabalu at the edge of the city center offers a rooftop pool and easy access to popular attractions and shopping malls.
Hyatt Regency and Hyatt Centric
The Hyatt group entails 2 hotels in the heart of the city. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is a bit older but offers a pool with panoramic views, and within walking distance to the waterfront and markets. The newly built Hyatt Centric is a stylish hotel that opened in 2022 and offers a rooftop pool and beautiful views over the sea.
Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu
Situated along the waterfront with convenient access to nearby attractions, shopping, and dining options.
Mid-range
Promenade Hotel
A well-rated hotel near the city center with a rooftop pool, a gym, and easy access to shopping malls and the Filipino Market.
Grandis Hotel
A contemporary hotel near the waterfront with a rooftop pool, a gym, and easy access to local attractions.
Horizon Hotel
This hotel comes with a rooftop pool, and fitness center, and is within walking distance to popular landmarks and shopping areas.
Gaya Centre Hotel
This mid-range hotel in the city center provides a rooftop pool and located conveniently near the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
Holiday Inn Express
The best places to eat
Kota Kinabalu is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. See below some popular places to eat in Kota Kinabalu.
D’Atas Explorers Tavern
A cozy and relaxed pub serving Western food and frequent live performances.
Yuit Cheong
Near Gaya Street, this basic-looking restaurant is very well-known for serving the best sate.
Little Italy
Italian-owned, Little Italy is a popular restaurant within the city serving authentic Italian dishes.
The Roya Coconut
Near Gaya Street, this is the ideal stop for a refreshing coconut drink or ice cream.
Guan’s Kopitiam Gaya Street
Famous for their kaya (coconut) butter croissants, this Peranakan-themed restaurant is a must-visit for breakfast and lunch.
El Centro (Mexican)
El Centro is a cozy Mexican restaurant that serves delicious tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. They also have a selection of margaritas and cocktails.
Chubs
Biru Biru
Gaya Street Sunday MarketMarlin Statue opposite I love KK signAtkinson Clock Tower
Locally also referred to as KK, Kota Kinabalu is the vibrant capital of Sabah and serves as the administrative, economic, and cultural hub of the state of Sabah. Located on the northwestern coast, it also serves as the gateway to Mount Kinabalu and the rest of the state. With a population of around 500.000, it is the largest city in Sabah and the 10th largest city of Malaysia. Rated as one of the best cities to retire in the world, it offers a mix of modern amenities, cultural attractions, and boasts a large number of good hotel options and shopping malls. The city is known for its bustling markets, waterfront promenade, and vibrant nightlife.
Brief history
Once known as Jesselton during British colonialism, the city was appointed as the capital of British Crown Colony of North Borneo (now known as Sabah) in 1946, replacing the war-ravaged Sandakan located in the eastern part of Sabah. After North Borneo gained independence and became part of the newly formed federation of Malaysia in 1963, in 1968 Jesselton was renamed into Kota (meaning city in Malay) Kinabalu, named after the mountain Kinabalu in the near proximity of the city.
With Malaysia’s second busiest airport, Kota Kinabalu has good connections within peninsular Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur and Penang mostly), the state of Sarawak, as well as internationally with Singapore, Thailand, mainland China, Taiwan, Korea and Japan. Within Sabah, daily flights are operated with 4 other cities in the state; Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Tawau and the island of Labuan.
Transport
With public transport being near non-existent, transport within Kota Kinabalu can be narrowed to use of taxis or going by foot. Since the city centre is quite compact, walking distances between some of the city highlights are not very large. Due to the lack of public transport, there are frequent traffic jams during the morning and afternoon peak hours so its best to plan your trip wisely, especially if you want to head out of the city (to the airport or Tanjung Aru beach for example). Luckily there are plenty of taxi around town which are not expensive, as well ride hauling services like Grab or the Malaysian alternative, Maxim.
A taxi in KK has ‘Teksi’ sign on its roof. Normally they are white-on-red but nowadays can be found in other colors too.
Most taxi drivers are reluctant about following regulations with regards to fares. However, short rides are charged around RM10 and little longer ones around RM20. Hiring a taxi for an entire day should cost somewhere around RM300.
Fares can be negotiated.
Rides to and from the airport are charged at fixed prices.
Things to do in Kota Kinabalu
Explore the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, which comprises five beautiful islands—Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Mamutik, and Sulug. Enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, swimming, and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. It’s a worthy alternative if you are not heading to the islands of Semporna in the south east of Sabah.
Visit the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, also known as the floating mosque, around 5 kilometers north of the city. This magnificent mosque is far more attractive than the City Mosque and offers a serene atmosphere. Visitors can appreciate the stunning architecture and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The mosque can be entered by non-Muslims outside regular prayer times.
Every Sunday morning there is the vibrant Gaya Street Sunday Market. You can browse through a variety of stalls selling local products, handicrafts, souvenirs, and sample local street food.
Tanjung Aru beach – free
Relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at Tanjung Aru Beach, a popular beach located 10 minutes south-west of Kota Kinabalu. Whilst there, enjoy your time at ZING sunset bar, or visit the night market which opens every day from 17:00 to 22:00 for some affordable priced food and drinks. Also possible is going paddle boarding at Borneo Paddle Monkeys. If you want to enjoy a perfect sunset, head to the Sunset Bar, part of Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort as it’s rated among the 10 best places for sunset in the world.
Sabah State Museum – free
Visit the Sabah State Museum, showcasing the rich cultural and natural heritage of Sabah. The museum exhibits include ethnographic artifacts, archaeological finds, traditional costumes, and natural history specimens. The centre area of the museum contains the skeleton of Malaysia’s largest Bryde’s whale which in 2006 off Gaya Island in front of Kota Kinabalu, measuring 18.6m.
Kota Kinabalu waterfront – free
Take a leisurely walk along the Kota Kinabalu waterfront, known as the “Esplanade,” and enjoy the scenic views of the ocean, nearby islands, and Kota Kinabalu city skyline. You’ll find the I love KK sign here.
Explore the KK Fish Market port and eat some seafood
As Kota Kinabalu is a major (international) fishing port, the city is famous for its seafood. Take a stroll through the KK Fish Market or head to the Filipino Market or the seafood restaurants along the waterfront to enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes including grilled fish, prawns and crab.
Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village or Monsopiad Heritage Village
The Mari Mari Cultural Village gives the opportunity to experience the rich cultural diversity of 5 indigenous tribes that have been living in Sabah for a long time, the Bajau, Dusun, Murut, Rungus and Lundayeh. You can learn about traditional lifestyles, participate in interactive activities, sample local cuisine, and watch cultural performances.
Alternatively, visit the (smaller) Monsopiad Heritage Village to learn about indigenous Sabah tribes. Stop by the nearby Tipsy Asi bar & grill to enjoy a meal and some nice scenic views.
Outside of the city
visit Kota Kinabalu and Kinabalu Park
On a 2 hour, 90 km journey from Kota Kinabalu you will find the 4.092m high mountain after which Kota Kinabalu is named after. Either visit the mountain during a daytrip and explore the Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its botanical garden and diverse flora and fauna, or embark on a challenging climb to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. Climbing the Mount Kinabalu requires booking well in advance, as well as an overnight stay on the mountain as it is not allowed to climb to the mountain peak and back in one day.
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Located a 30-minute drive south from Kota Kinabalu, the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is home to various indigenous animals such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, sun bears, and a variety of bird species.
daytrip north of the city
Travel 1 hour north heading to Kudat and visit the Peak of Hope, Upside Down House Sabah and and Tamparuli Suspension Bridge. Or visit the Sanankar Cowboy Town and the to Sabankar Magrove Park.
Travel by steam train to Papar
Enjoy a 4 hour trip from Tanjung Aru to explore Papar, the ‘rice bowl of Sabah’, on a reburbished steam train used 100+ years ago, including breakfast and lunch. Departing only twice a week, on Wednesday/Thursday and Saturday.
Gaya Street Sunday MarketMarlin Statue opposite I love KK signAtkinson Clock Tower
The best hotels in Kota Kinabalu
what are the best hotels to stay in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu offers a range of hotels to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some well-regarded hotels that are often recommended by travelers:
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa: A luxury beachfront resort offering stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a beautiful pool, and a spa. It’s located near Tanjung Aru Beach.
Just a 10 minute drive outside the city centre you will find 2 luxury hotels within the Sutera Harbour Resort Complex; The Pacific Sutera and The Magellan Sutera Resort: The Pacific Sutera is a 5-star hotel offering comfortable rooms, excellent facilities, including an expansive swimming pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
The Magellan Sutera Resort offers spacious rooms, a private marina, a golf course, multiple restaurants, and a beautiful pool area.
Hilton Kota Kinabalu: Situated in the city center, this upscale hotel offers contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and easy access to popular attractions and shopping malls.
The Hyatt group entails 2 hotels in the heart of the city. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is a bit older but offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, several dining options, and is within walking distance to the waterfront and markets. The newly built Hyatt Centric is a beautiful modern stylish hotel with contemporary rooms and a rooftop pool and views over the sea.
Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu: Situated along the waterfront, this modern hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and convenient access to nearby attractions, shopping, and dining options.
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu: A well-rated hotel located near the city center, offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, a gym, and easy access to shopping malls and the Filipino Market.
Grandis Hotel: A contemporary hotel with comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant. It is situated near the waterfront and offers easy access to local attractions.
Holiday Inn Express
More budget hotels;
Gaya Centre Hotel: This mid-range hotel is located in the city center and provides comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and is conveniently situated near the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
Horizon Hotel Kota Kinabalu: Located in the city center, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and is within walking distance to popular landmarks and shopping areas.
What are the best places to eat in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Here are some popular places to eat in Kota Kinabalu:
Welcome Seafood Restaurant: Located near the Filipino Market, this restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood dishes. You can choose your seafood from the tanks and have it prepared according to your preference.
Kedai Kopi Yee Fung: A local favorite for breakfast or lunch, this coffee shop is known for its delicious roasted pork noodles and beef noodles. It’s a great place to sample traditional Malaysian flavors.
Little Italy: If you’re craving Italian cuisine, Little Italy is a well-regarded restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes. From pasta to pizza and tiramisu, you can enjoy a taste of Italy in Kota Kinabalu.
Upperstar Restaurant & Bar: A popular casual dining spot in the city center, Upperstar offers a mix of Western and Asian dishes. It’s known for its affordable prices, live music, and relaxed atmosphere.
Sri Latha Curry House: For a taste of Indian cuisine, Sri Latha Curry House is a recommended choice. They serve a variety of curries, biryanis, and other traditional Indian dishes.
Fook Yuen: This local coffee shop is famous for its flavorful local breakfast options, such as roti kahwin (toast with butter and kaya), noodles, and dim sum. It’s a popular spot to start your day.
El Centro: If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, El Centro is a cozy restaurant that serves delicious tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. They also have a selection of margaritas and cocktails.
Nagisa Japanese Restaurant: Located at the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, Nagisa offers a variety of Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki, and tempura. It’s known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Kedai Loi Hin: This Chinese seafood restaurant is popular among locals for its tasty and reasonably priced dishes. From steamed fish to chili crab, you can savor a range of seafood specialties here.
Welcome Seafood Restaurant @ Kepayan Perdana: Another branch of the Welcome Seafood Restaurant, this location offers a similar dining experience with a wide selection of seafood dishes.
D’Atas Explorers Tavern
a cozy and inviting pub located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. As you step inside, you are greeted by a warm and welcoming ambiance, with dim lighting, wooden furnishings, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Yuit Cheong
For the best saté.
The Roya Coconut
Near Gaya Street, this is the ideal stop for a refreshing coconut drink or ice cream.
Guan’s Kopitiam Gaya Street
Famous for their kaya (coconut) butter croissants, this peranakan themed restaurant is a must-visit for breakfast and lunch.
