Kota Kinabalu Holidays

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Your Kota Kinabalu Holiday

The best way to experience this interesting city is with a custom-made Kota Kinabalu holiday package. Base yourself in the neighbourhood of Downtown Kota Kinabalu, which is good for bars and pubs, dining and markets or go someplace else — our package deals are all about you. You'll want to sightsee during your trip to Kota Kinabalu. Find time for famous attractions like 1Borneo Hypermall, Likas Stadium and Sabah State Mosque. Expedia can help you escape your daily routine. Tailor your holiday to Kota Kinabalu to suit your style of travel, whatever that may be!

The Annual Holiday Sale

Members save up to 40% on hotels and holiday homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Find the best Kota Kinabalu areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kota Kinabalu

Things to do in and around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and vibrant urban experiences. Visitors can explore various shopping centres and malls, or unwind at a private country club. Essential highlights include engaging Kota Kinabalu tours, local excursions, and exciting climb packages that showcase the region's natural beauty. Whether you're seeking fun tours or a relaxed atmosphere, Kota Kinabalu has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Visit Gaya Street Sunday Market for a vibrant local atmosphere and unique souvenirs. Anjung Samudera offers a similar experience with an array of local goods. If you’re up for a drive, 1Borneo Hypermall features entertainment and family-friendly shopping, perfect for a day out.

Recreation

Likas Stadium offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for invigorating workouts. Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai provides stunning outdoor golfing experiences along with relaxation. Meanwhile, Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, located 20.9km from the city, exudes luxury, ideal for unwinding amidst beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, perfect for climbing enthusiasts. Hike the scenic trails of Bukit Padang, surrounded by stunning landscapes. For adrenaline seekers, Zip Borneo offers an exhilarating zipline experience, located 25.7km from Kota Kinabalu, amidst breathtaking outdoor scenery.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu's nightlife offers vibrant entertainment with beachfront bars and live music. Visit the popular Sunset Bar for cocktails and stunning views, or enjoy the lively atmosphere at the Waterfront Esplanade, where you can experience local performances and delicious street food under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family, city, or business-themed vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as mosques, urban parks, and harbours. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying outdoor experiences. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the iconic Mount Kinabalu, which adds to the region's allure for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

  • Borneo Marine Research Institute: Immerse yourself in marine conservation at this cutting-edge institute. Located in Kota Kinabalu, it offers insights into Borneo's rich biodiversity through research and educational exhibits that highlight the importance of marine ecosystems.
  • St. Michael Church Penampang: Experience the cultural heritage of Sabah at St. Michael Church. This stunning church features unique architecture and vibrant community life, providing a serene atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of local traditions.
  • Sutera Harbour: Relax at Sutera Harbour, a picturesque destination boasting beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. Enjoy water activities or simply unwind while taking in breathtaking views of the sunset over the South China Sea.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Kota Kinabalu

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Kota Kinabalu.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March, May and November) for more affordable package holidays to Kota Kinabalu.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Kota Kinabalu Essential Information

Language
Malaysian
Currency
Malaysian ringgits
Local Goodbye
Sampai jumpa lagi
Closest Airport
Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI)
Population
457,300
Max Temp Winter
29ºC
Max Temp Summer
29ºC
Top Sights
Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park and Sabah State Museum

Top hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
NO. 18 JALAN HAJI SAMAN Kota Kinabalu
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £89 per night from 9 Mar to 10 Mar
£89
9 Mar - 10 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (198 reviews)
Everything is good

Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £76 per night from 7 Mar to 8 Mar
£76
7 Mar - 8 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)
Overall is satisfying, they prepare sahur for Muslim to replace breakfast

Reviewed on 28 Feb 2026

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

5 out of 5
Jalan Datuk Salleh Sulong Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £67 per night from 4 Mar to 5 Mar
£67
4 Mar - 5 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
The hotel was comfortable, but a bit tired.

Reviewed on 9 Feb 2026

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
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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What to do in Kota Kinabalu

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.