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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (222 reviews)
"Superb hotel with great location"
Malaysia
Mohd Haikal
The price is £53
includes taxes & fees
15 Mar - 16 Mar
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"This is a very fine modern hotel located in the heart of Kota Kinabulu. We particularly appreciated the fact that it was a short walk to the restaurant row on the waterfront which offered outdoor seating and a variety of cuisines."
United States
Benjamin
The price is £76
includes taxes & fees
14 Mar - 15 Mar
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (994 reviews)
"Good Hotel"
Malaysia
MS ANITA
The price is £77
includes taxes & fees
9 Mar - 10 Mar
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Nice large Room with views, Clean , Friendly Staff and very welcoming from Entrance to Exit."
Australia
Shankaran Pillay
The price is £67
includes taxes & fees
17 Mar - 18 Mar
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

K Hotel

K Hotel
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (24 reviews)
"Good place and very clean"
Malaysia
chien yong
The price is £26
includes taxes & fees
13 Mar - 14 Mar
K Hotel

The Aru by Ayuhouz

The Aru by Ayuhouz
4.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (33 reviews)
"Fantastic sea facing, penthouse unit very close to the airport. I'm fact the infinity pool faces the runway. Superb noise insulation hence no noise of the flights taking off or landing. Convenient location for tours and couple of nice eateries nearby. Very courteous staff too👍"
Singapore
ASHISH RANJAN
The Aru by Ayuhouz

Eminent Hotel

Eminent Hotel
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (259 reviews)
"nice staff and clean room"
Canada
Kevin
The price is £31
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Eminent Hotel

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (186 reviews)
"Everything was good and 100% liveable lol. You’ll be good staying here. Trust me. However breakfast is overpriced so please just eat outside 😭🙏"
United States
Geremy
The price is £28
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Hotel Sadong 88

Hotel Sadong 88
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
6.6 out of 10, (28 reviews)
"Hotel have no lift just omagine careying my 20 kg luggage to the third floor."
Saudi Arabia
Ahmad Kamal
Hotel Sadong 88

OYO 90568 Hotel Sutera Inanam

OYO 90568 Hotel Sutera Inanam
2.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
The price is £10
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
OYO 90568 Hotel Sutera Inanam
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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Discover cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, is a paradise for budget-conscious travellers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Start your journey at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, where you can hop on a short boat ride to beautiful islands like Manukan and Sapi. Snorkelling here is relatively inexpensive, and you can marvel at the vibrant marine life without needing to splurge. Don’t miss the bustling markets of Kota Kinabalu, particularly the Filipino Market, where you can sample delicious local street food, such as fresh seafood and traditional kuih, at prices that won't dent your wallet. For those who enjoy nature, a visit to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre offers free entry and a chance to spot stunning wildlife, including various bird species. The Sabah State Museum is another must-visit, with a small entry fee that grants you access to fascinating exhibits about the region’s rich culture and history. Consider staying in the lively Kampung Air area, where you’ll find affordable hotels and guesthouses. This central spot allows for easy exploration of the city on foot, giving you the opportunity to engage with locals and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kota Kinabalu, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience expected by .

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a range of budget-friendly hotels that combine comfort and convenience for savvy travellers. Here are some top picks that won't break the bank while ensuring a pleasant stay.

The Klagan Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Klagan Hotel is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking comfort in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu. With an excellent review rating of 8.4, guests can enjoy essential amenities like complimentary WiFi and free toiletries, making it easy to stay connected and refreshed during their visit. The hotel also offers free self-parking, ensuring a straightforward experience for those travelling by car.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly amenities, The Klagan Hotel features an inviting ocean-view restaurant, perfect for enjoying a meal after a day of exploring. Guests can also take advantage of the nearby boardwalk and sea locations for leisurely strolls. Daily housekeeping, air conditioning, and a concierge service further enhance convenience, making it a well-rounded choice for any traveller.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.4 km, Centre Point - 0.6 km, Anjung Samudera - 0.6 km

Oceania Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Oceania Hotel presents a wonderful option for budget travellers looking for value and convenience with a solid review rating of 8.2. The hotel provides complimentary WiFi, ensuring guests can stay connected throughout their stay. With a range of budget amenities, including free cribs and early check-in, it’s designed to accommodate various needs without straining the wallet.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a rooftop terrace for relaxation, air conditioning, and a concierge service to assist with travel plans. The hotel also offers airport transportation options and free shuttle services to shopping centres, enhancing accessibility for those looking to explore the area. Daily housekeeping ensures a clean and comfortable environment for all guests.
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 1.7 km, Centre Point - 2 km, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.6 km

How to get cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu?

 

✅ The length of stay in Kota Kinabalu often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Kota Kinabalu's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Kota Kinabalu.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Kota Kinabalu, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Kota Kinabalu. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £10*.

✅  Kota Kinabalu offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Kota Kinabalu on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Kota Kinabalu as a budget traveller?
For budget travellers seeking excellent value in Kota Kinabalu, top recommendations include AC Residence, CJ Residence, Hotel Gaia 95, Hotel Eden54, and The Klagan Hotel.

The 3-star AC Residence, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary toiletries. Its convenient location is frequently highlighted by guests, and free self-parking adds to its value.

CJ Residence also boasts an outstanding 9.6 rating and provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries. Its location within a historical district is a top feature for those interested in local heritage.

Hotel Gaia 95, a 3-star hotel rated 8.8, ensures a comfortable stay with premium bedding, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary toiletries.

Hotel Eden54, rated 8.6, provides clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and complimentary toiletries, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious guests.

The 3-star Klagan Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, is praised for its first-class and helpful staff.
How much does a budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu cost?
Budget hotel prices in Kota Kinabalu vary, but you can find a great deal from £10 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Kota Kinabalu is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu, the city centre, particularly around Gaya Street and the waterfront, presents the best options for affordable accommodation. This central area offers a high concentration of hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels, all within easy reach of amenities and attractions.

Solo travellers will appreciate the lively option and the convenience of being able to walk to many key sights. Gaya Street is particularly vibrant, hosting a popular Sunday market and numerous local eateries where you can enjoy inexpensive, delicious Malaysian food. The waterfront area is also excellent for evening strolls and offers stunning sunset views over the South China Sea, often without any cost.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Kota Kinabalu?
For families seeking top-rated and affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu, excellent options include Ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu Inanam Hotel, Stanton Hotel, and Oceania Hotel.

The 3-star Ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu Inanam Hotel, with an 8.8 rating, is a great choice for families. It offers a 24-hour airport shuttle, free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and free self-parking. Plus, free cribs are available, making it convenient for those travelling with infants.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Stanton Hotel, boasting a 9.0 rating. This hotel provides free toiletries, free airport transportation, a 24-hour airport shuttle, and free WiFi. Additionally, free parking is available in a nearby location, which is helpful for families with a car.

The 3-star Oceania Hotel, rated 8.2, is also well-suited for families. It features free WiFi and offers early check-in, which can be a real convenience after a journey.
What cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent choices including Kokol Haven Resort, Seaview Capsule Hotel, JPOD Capsule Hotel, Homy Seafront Hostel, and Escape Backpackers KK.

The 3-star Kokol Haven Resort, with a fantastic rating of 9.2, provides a complimentary breakfast daily, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests also benefit from free WiFi and complimentary self-parking.

Seaview Capsule Hotel, rated 8.4, offers a free continental breakfast, along with free WiFi and complimentary toiletries for added convenience.

JPOD Capsule Hotel, also rated 8.4, includes a free continental breakfast daily and free WiFi, making it a practical choice for travellers needing to stay connected.

Homy Seafront Hostel, boasting an impressive 9.6 rating, provides a complimentary English breakfast and free WiFi. Many rooms also offer a partial sea view, adding a lovely touch to your stay.
When is the most affordable time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
The most affordable time to visit Kota Kinabalu is generally during the shoulder seasons, specifically from March to May and September to November, when you can often find better deals on flights and accommodation. These periods avoid the peak tourist months and the heaviest monsoon rains, offering a good balance of pleasant weather and lower prices.

For solo travellers, visiting during these months can mean less crowded attractions and more opportunities to engage with locals. You might find hostels and guesthouses offering reduced rates, and local eateries might be less busy, making for a more relaxed dining experience.

Families travelling on a budget will appreciate the savings on accommodation and potentially cheaper flights, leaving more funds for activities.
What are the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu that feature a pool, consider Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing, Borneo Tree House, and Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu.

Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, with a 9.0 rating, offers an inviting outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. Additional conveniences include free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle service, making arrivals and departures smooth. Each room also comes with a kitchen, which is great for preparing your own meals.

Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing also provides an outdoor pool, great for a refreshing dip. Guests will appreciate the free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, along with the convenience of a kitchen in their suite. There are also fitness facilities available for those who wish to stay active.

The Borneo Tree House, rated 7.8, features an outdoor pool, and offers free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. Air conditioning ensures a comfortable stay, and free rollaway beds are available if needed.

Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu boasts both an outdoor pool and a children's pool, making it suitable for families.
Are there any cheap Kota Kinabalu hotels near Suria Sabah Shopping Mall?
Yes, excellent value hotels near Suria Sabah Shopping Mall include AC Residence and Hotel Gaia 95.

The 3-star AC Residence boasts an impressive 9.6 rating and offers free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. Guests often mention the spacious, clean rooms and the excellent, convenient location, which is ideal for shopping and exploring.

Another great option is the 3-star Hotel Gaia 95, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free WiFi, air conditioning, and premium bedding for a comfortable stay.
Which cheap Kota Kinabalu hotels are near Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
For affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu conveniently located near Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), consider Oceania Hotel, Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu, and Hotel 7 Suria.

The 3-star Oceania Hotel, with an 8.2 rating, is a great option just 3.3 miles from the airport. Guests often praise its attentive and helpful staff, as well as the comfortable rooms. Free WiFi is available, and early check-in can be arranged, which is a useful amenity for travellers.

Another good choice is the 3-star Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu, rated 7.8, located 4.0 miles from the airport. This hotel offers free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries, adding to its value for money.

Hotel 7 Suria, a 3-star property with an 8.4 rating, is 4.7 miles from the airport.
Is Kota Kinabalu a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, Kota Kinabalu is a budget-friendly destination, offering excellent value, particularly when compared to many Western cities. Travellers will find their money stretches further here, especially concerning food, accommodation, and transportation.

Solo travellers and couples can find very affordable accommodation options ranging from guesthouses to mid-range hotels, particularly if booked in advance or outside peak season. For dining, look for local eateries and 'kopitiams' (coffee shops) where a delicious meal can cost just a few pounds. The city's efficient public transport, including local buses and ride-sharing apps, is also very economical.

Many of Kota Kinabalu's most memorable experiences are free or low-cost. Couples can enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront, watch the stunning sunsets, or explore the bustling Central Market. For solo adventurers, hiking up Signal Hill for panoramic city views or visiting the Sabah State Mosque offers cultural enrichment without a hefty price tag. Exploring nearby islands for snorkelling or diving can also be done affordably by joining group tours.
What cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu with cooking facilities, Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, Signel Hostel, Grapevine Garden, Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing, and Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu all offer excellent options.

Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay, with a 9.0 rating, provides full kitchens, making it ideal for those who prefer to cook their own meals. It also offers free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle for convenience.

Signel Hostel, boasting an exceptional 9.8 rating, features kitchenettes, great for preparing light meals. Guests frequently praise its cosy beds and friendly staff. The hostel also has a terrace and balcony, and it is located in a shopping district.

Grapevine Garden, rated 8.8, includes kitchenettes, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Free self-parking is also available, which is a great perk for those travelling by car.

Marina Travellers Suite SKY Karamunsing offers kitchenettes and free WiFi. Guests can also benefit from free self-parking and access to fitness facilities.

Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu provides kitchenettes, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool, which includes a children's pool.
Which cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu with great customer service, travellers often praise AC Residence, The Klagan Hotel, and Signel Hostel.

The 3-star AC Residence, with an impressive 9.6 rating, is frequently highlighted by guests for its particularly nice staff. It also offers free toiletries, complimentary WiFi, and free self-parking, adding to its value.

Another excellent choice is The Klagan Hotel, a 3-star property with an 8.4 rating, where customers consistently describe the staff as first-class and helpful. This hotel also provides free toiletries, free WiFi, and free self-parking.

For those seeking a more communal yet highly-rated experience, Signel Hostel, with a superb 9.8 rating, stands out for its friendly staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Kota Kinabalu are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The 3-star Stanton Hotel, with a 9.0 rating, offers free airport transportation and a 24-hour airport shuttle, making early arrivals or late departures much more convenient. They also often accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs.

Another excellent option is the 3-star AC Residence, rated 9.6 by our customers. Guests consistently praise its spacious, clean rooms and convenient location. This hotel is known for its flexibility with late check-outs.

Similarly, the 3-star ACJ Residence, also with a 9.6 rating, is another property that frequently allows late check-outs. Both AC Residence and ACJ Residence provide free WiFi and free self-parking.

The 3-star Ease Hotel is also a good choice, as it specifically allows for early check-in. It also provides free WiFi and a complimentary bus station shuttle.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic array of free activities, superb for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in local culture and natural beauty without spending a penny.

Start your exploration with a leisurely stroll along the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront, especially at sunset, where the vibrant hues across the South China Sea are a spectacle. Continue to the nearby Filipino Market (also known as the Handicraft Market); while items are for sale, the experience of browsing the stalls, observing local life, and soaking in the bustling atmosphere is entirely free. It's a great place to see local crafts and fresh produce.

For a dose of nature within the city, head to the Atkinson Clock Tower, one of the oldest standing structures in Kota Kinabalu. From there, you can explore Signal Hill Observatory Platform for panoramic views of the city, islands, and surrounding coastline – a truly breathtaking vista that costs nothing. Additionally, many of the city's beautiful mosques, such as the City Mosque (Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu), can be admired from the outside for free, offering stunning architectural photo opportunities.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Kota Kinabalu as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu for you.

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