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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Ascend Southeast Asia's highest peak for breathtaking views.

Booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Explore stunning islands and marine life just offshore.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Stroll through Gaya Street Sunday Market

Experience local culture and street food every Sunday.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Sabah State Museum

Discover Sabah's rich heritage and diverse cultures.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Jesselton Point

Catch ferries and enjoy waterfront dining and views.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at Manukan Island

Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village

Experience indigenous cultures through interactive performances.

Booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample seafood at the Filipino Market

Taste fresh seafood and local delicacies at bustling market.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike at Kinabalu Park

Explore diverse flora and fauna in a UNESCO site.

Booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a sunset cruise

Enjoy stunning sunsets over the South China Sea.

Booking required

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)