Find the best Sabah Hotels

Top reasons to visit Sabah

• Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Sabah boasts stunning islands, national parks, and picturesque coastlines perfect for outdoor adventures.
• Vibrant Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local culture through traditional ceremonies and visits to historic mosques.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of activities tailored for families, including exciting excursions and beach days.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: Experience the friendly hospitality of Kota Kinabalu, making your stay even more enjoyable.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of stays, from luxury hotels to cosy guesthouses, catering to all budgets.

Find great hotels in Sabah

Sabah offers a delightful array of accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs, from family-friendly hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a business-oriented stay or a relaxing beach holiday, you'll discover the best hotels in Sabah that provide exceptional services and facilities. Explore the diverse lodging choices available and ensure your visit to this beautiful Malaysian destination is both comfortable and memorable.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Experience the ultimate beachside retreat at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu. This luxurious 5-star resort is perfect for those seeking an adventure-filled holiday with direct access to the pristine beach. Guests can indulge in a variety of exciting activities such as waterskiing, sailing, and snorkelling, or enjoy a round of golf at the onsite course. The resort's extensive amenities cater to thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable getaway.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Hyatt Regency Kinabalu offers a sophisticated blend of business convenience and family-friendly comforts. This 5-star hotel is designed for travellers seeking a relaxing spa experience while still having access to essential business facilities, including a dedicated meeting room. Families will appreciate the variety of child-friendly amenities, from babysitting services to a children's pool. Unwind at the full-service spa, offering treatments such as deep tissue massages and facial therapies, ensuring a rejuvenating stay in the heart of Sabah.
• Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu: Embrace the beauty of nature at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu, a stunning 5-star resort that caters to adventure lovers and beachgoers alike. With direct beach access and an array of outdoor activities, guests can indulge in golf, horse riding, and rock climbing. The lush surroundings and recreational options create the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday filled with exploration and relaxation. Whether you are hiking in nearby trails or enjoying the resort's facilities, Shangri-La Rasa Ria promises a remarkable experience.

Where to stay in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, offers an unforgettable adventure for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement. Explore the bustling city of Kota Kinabalu, where friendly locals welcome you to a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy family-friendly activities on Sapi Island, or embark on thrilling Borneo holidays that showcase the region's stunning natural beauty. With its romantic settings and budget-friendly options, Sabah is the perfect destination for a memorable family holiday.

• Kota Kinabalu: Nestled on the northwest coast of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is the vibrant capital of Sabah. This bustling city offers a blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it a prime destination for families and business travellers alike. The area is renowned for its shopping centres and malls, providing ample opportunities for retail therapy. Notable local attractions include the picturesque marina, serene parks, and the busy harbour that showcases the city’s maritime charm. With peak visitor numbers in August and December to January, Kota Kinabalu ensures a lively atmosphere year-round, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region.
• Sandakan: Located on the eastern coast of Sabah, Sandakan is a gateway to some of Malaysia's most stunning natural wonders. Known for its outdoor and beach experiences, it is perfect for families seeking adventure. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from exploring vibrant shopping centres to camping in lush surroundings. The city is close to beautiful islands, serene parks, and environmental centres, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. Sandakan sees peak arrivals in April, July, and September, offering a lively community vibe during these months, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Semporna: Famous for its breathtaking islands and crystal-clear waters, Semporna is a must-visit for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This charming town is a hub for family-oriented activities, with markets and educational experiences readily available. The nearby islands and luxurious island resorts provide stunning backdrops for relaxation and adventure. Visitors flock to Semporna primarily in February, September, and December, ensuring a bustling atmosphere filled with opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Don’t miss the chance to admire the local mosque, which adds to the town’s cultural richness.

Things to do in Sabah

Sabah offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping centres and indulge in local cuisine while also enjoying various tours. Highlights include day trips around Borneo, family holidays filled with exciting experiences, and beach adventures that showcase the region's stunning coastline. Sabah truly caters to all types of vacationers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

In Sabah, enjoy shopping at Imago Shopping Mall, which boasts a vibrant atmosphere with numerous shops and entertainment options. Don't miss Kompleks Karamunsing for a similar experience. For a unique local vibe, visit the Gaya Street Sunday Market. If you're up for a drive, explore more markets and malls in the region.

Recreation

At Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, indulge in a luxurious retreat with stunning views and top-notch amenities. Likas Stadium offers a vibrant atmosphere for fitness enthusiasts, while Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai combines outdoor sports with beautiful scenery, perfect for relaxation and recreation amidst nature.

Adventure

At Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, where you can explore vibrant wildlife and enjoy thrilling river safaris. Experience the idyllic scenery at Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, where you can engage in farm activities. For a different challenge, head to Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre for an exhilarating climbing adventure.

Nightlife

In Sabah, Eastern Cineplex offers a delightful cinematic experience, perfect for families and couples alike. With its romantic atmosphere and engaging entertainment options, it's an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sabah

To save money on your trip to Sabah, consider visiting in March, May, or November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on sites like Expedia. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly, eco-certified accommodations. Additionally, you can save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal for the best offers.

• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Sabah with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Sabah

Sabah offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike. Visitors can explore stunning islands, national parks, and impressive mosques, all while immersing themselves in the local culture. Don't miss the Sabah Museum for an insightful glimpse into the region's heritage. With a variety of attractions to choose from, Sabah promises an unforgettable vacation for every type of traveller.

• Mount Kinabalu National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Towering peaks, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking scenery await you. Experience exhilarating hikes through lush rainforests and witness stunning vistas.
• Mt Kinabalu: As the highest peak in Southeast Asia, Mt Kinabalu offers thrilling outdoor adventures. Conquer the summit for panoramic views and revel in the unique biodiversity that thrives in its varying climates, from tropical rainforests to alpine meadows.
• Sutera Harbour: Enjoy the picturesque setting of Sutera Harbour, where serene beaches meet vibrant marine life. Perfect for relaxation, you can indulge in water sports or simply soak in the sun while enjoying stunning sunset views over the horizon.

Best time to go to Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January, October and November are its coolest month on average. At the time of October, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	79.2°F (26.200000000000003°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Sabah

When visiting Sabah, Malaysia, you can fly into three major airports. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is situated 2.5km from the centre of Sabah, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, only 1.2km away, offering transfers and shuttles. The Hilton Kota Kinabalu, 2.5km from BKI, provides comprehensive airport shuttle services. Sandakan Airport (SDK) is located 85.1km away, with nearby accommodations like the Sabah Hotel Sandakan, 3.1km from SDK, offering on-request airport shuttles. Tawau Airport (TWU), 181.2km away, features the Indah Inn, an 8-mile distance from TWU, easily accessed from the hotel.