planetbreezy

Tell me your feedback! Feedback:

Kota Kinabalu

Malaysia, Asia

Kota Kinabalu, located in the breathtaking Malaysian state of Sabah, is renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and proximity to natural wonders. It's the gateway to Mount Kinabalu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a hotspot for scuba diving in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The local night markets offer a culinary feast, while the surrounding rainforest teems with unique wildlife. With its captivating sunsets viewed from the waterfront and rich indigenous heritage, Kota Kinabalu promises an unforgettable tropical escape.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Active

Airport

Kota Kinabalu

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

10 Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu

1. Climb Mount Kinabalu

Ascend Southeast Asia's highest peak for breathtaking views.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

2 hrs

2. Visit Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Explore stunning islands and marine life just offshore.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

3. Stroll through Gaya Street Sunday Market

Experience local culture and street food every Sunday.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Explore the Sabah State Museum

Discover Sabah's rich heritage and diverse cultures.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

5. Relax at Jesselton Point

Catch ferries and enjoy waterfront dining and views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Snorkel at Manukan Island

Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

7. Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village

Experience indigenous cultures through interactive performances.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

8. Sample seafood at the Filipino Market

Taste fresh seafood and local delicacies at bustling market.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

9. Hike at Kinabalu Park

Explore diverse flora and fauna in a UNESCO site.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

10. Take a sunset cruise

Enjoy stunning sunsets over the South China Sea.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-15 (#199 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Malay

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Nasi Lemak

Coconut rice with sambal and toppings. (National dish)

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried flat noodles with shrimp and egg.

Laksa

Spicy noodle soup with coconut milk.

Roti Canai

V

Flaky flatbread served with curry.

Satay

Grilled skewers of marinated meat.

Phrases to learn

English

Malay

Hello

Salam

(Sah-lahm)

Yes/No

Ya / Tidak

(Yah / Tee-dahk)

Thank you

Terima kasih

(Teh-ree-mah kah-see)

Excuse me

Maaf

(Mah-ahf)

How much?

Berapa?

(Ber-ah-pah)