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!

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
A clock tower with a weather vane, surrounded by lush greenery and a white fence.

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

7 out of top 10 points of interest in this area
4/5(39 area reviews)

A noteworthy feature of Downtown Kota Kinabalu is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.

Find hotels in Downtown 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

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 £101 per night from 11 Jul to 12 Jul
£101
11 Jul - 12 Jul
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (1,003 reviews)
"14樓及15樓,非常棒，房務清潔非常的乾淨，值得推薦"

Reviewed on 6 Jul 2026

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

5 out of 5
Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, 20 Kota Kinabalu Sabah
The price is £299 per night from 2 Aug to 3 Aug
£299
2 Aug - 3 Aug
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)
"Clean property, just felt some things could use an upgrade and better amenities. The spa was fantastic though!"

Reviewed on 30 Jun 2026

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, 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 £154 per night from 11 Jul to 12 Jul
£154
11 Jul - 12 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
See all 677 properties in Kota 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.
All Inclusive Holidays
All Inclusive Holidays
Beach Holidays
Beach Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays

Stay near popular Kota Kinabalu attractions

A river with boats, a bridge, and flags of Malaysia and the USA.
Photo by Iqbal Selamat
Open Photo by Iqbal Selamat

Imago Shopping Mall

8.6/10 (662 reviews)
Kota Kinabalu's largest shopping complex offers four levels of international brands and local treasures. Catch daily performances of the traditional Magunatip bamboo dance while exploring upscale dining options.
See properties

What to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu: Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan

Kota Kinabalu: Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan

£47
per adult
Kota Kinabalu: Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan
Private Tour Kampung Gipsi Sabah Cultural Village Kota Kinabalu

Private Tour Kampung Gipsi Sabah Cultural Village Kota Kinabalu

£36
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Private Tour Kampung Gipsi Sabah Cultural Village Kota Kinabalu
Full-Day Snorkeling Adventure from Kota Kinabalu

Full-Day Guided Snorkeling Tour from Kota Kinabalu

£55
per adult
Full-Day Guided Snorkeling Tour from Kota Kinabalu
See all activities in Kota Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my Kota Kinabalu holiday with Expedia?
Choose Expedia to plan your next break simply and all in one place. Our top tip for scoring a terrific deal on a Kota Kinabalu getaway? Bundle your flights, hotel and/or car hire into a package holiday. Then throw in a few fun tours and activities. Most bookings also have flexible cancellation policies, so there's no need to panic if you have to change your travel plans. Round-the-clock help with changing and cancelling your trip is available via our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu can get very busy in June, September and October, so if you want to avoid the crowds, pack your bags for January, February and March. With average daytime temperatures of 26ºC, January is the coolest month in Kota Kinabalu. The warmest month is May, when you can expect averages of 28ºC throughout the day. Whatever the weather, you'll discover a whole lot to keep you busy here.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Kota Kinabalu?
If you're planning to stay in the Downtown Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood, Gaya Centre Hotel and Kinabalu Daya Hotel are terrific options. Pusat Bandar is also a popular Kota Kinabalu area. We recommend The Jesselton Hotel or Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu if you choose this end of town.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Kota Kinabalu?
If you love amazing deals, combine your bookings into a Kota Kinabalu holiday. Whether you're looking for flights, hotels, activities or hire cars, you can browse and book them all in one place. You'll have loads of choice at your fingertips too. Expedia has over 400 air carriers and 321,000 hotels around the globe to pick from. Fly with who you want, stay in a place you like and save a packet — now that's the perfect holiday! Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you combine your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my Kota Kinabalu holiday?
Ensure your holiday in Kota Kinabalu is an unforgettable one by checking out its best attractions. 1Borneo Hypermall, Likas Stadium, Sabah State Mosque and Lok Kawi Wildlife Park are some of the things worth discovering while you're in the area.
What are the best neighbourhoods to stay in when on holiday in Kota Kinabalu?
For many travellers, Donggongon is at the top of the list. Home to excellent attractions like Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, this area will show you what Kota Kinabalu is all about. Of course, spending your nights in Kampung Sembulan Baru is also worth considering. Sabah State Mosque is one awesome sight to cross off here.
Do I need a visa for my Kota Kinabalu holiday?
Official government websites have all the information you need on visa requirements, application procedures and necessary documentation. Your nationality and reason for travelling, whether it be for tourism or work, will determine if you'll need a visa for Kota Kinabalu. Also check that your passport is up to date and has a minimum of six months validity remaining beyond your intended date of return. Finalise all your travel planning well in advance to avoid any nasty last-minute surprises.
What should I wear on my Kota Kinabalu holiday?
Do a little research into the types of things people in Kota Kinabalu wear, and maybe even browse social media fashion pages for inspiration. You'll want to create a versatile travel wardrobe filled with pieces that suit your destination and showcase your unique sense of style. Check the weather forecast so you can pack accordingly. The warmest month in Kota Kinabalu is May, with average daytime temperatures of 28ºC. If you're on holiday during the coolest month of January, the mercury averages 26ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Kota Kinabalu holiday include?
It depends on what type of trip you're thinking about. Kota Kinabalu holiday deals can include car hires, flights and hotels. You can mix and match to find the travel package that fits your needs. You can also add on activities and experiences after you've booked to pick up even bigger discounts. Apartments and hotels are two of the most sought-after property types in Kota Kinabalu. Whatever your group size or holiday style, you can rely on Expedia for the freedom and flexibility to customise your next dream escape.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Kota Kinabalu holidays?
Yes, we do. Expedia has partnered with online lender Klarna to help you easily pay for your trip in manageable instalments. Simply click on the payment plan that suits you best during checkout and take away the stress of budgeting for your trip. Be sure to bundle your flights, car hire and hotel with Expedia to get the biggest bang for your buck. Take a look at our flexible payment options below:

  • Pay monthly holidays: Make your holiday dreams come true sooner with Klarna's easy instalment plans. If paying bite-sized amounts each month sounds right for you, choose this option at checkout.
  • No-deposit holidays: Clicking the "book now" button is much easier with this option. With no deposit required for your escape, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your bags.

Can I choose my airline with a Kota Kinabalu Expedia holiday?
Yes, you sure can. We offer more than 400 partner airlines across the globe, so pick the carrier that matches your budget and travel needs.

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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.