Kota Kinabalu holidays

Kota Kinabalu holidays are a mix of beachy bliss, urban life and tropical rainforests. This coastal city is the perfect cultural break - with scenic adventure and melt-into-the-sand moments in between. Whether you're exploring markets and museums, diving into crystal-clear waters, or discovering the city's wild side, Kota Kinabalu has it all!

Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu

Check out some of our favourite things to do in Kota Kinabalu, from touring the charming stilt villages, to scaling the heights of Mount Kinabalu and discovering 60 acres of mangroves.

Beachfront bliss
 

• Tanjung Aru Beach: Ideal for beach picnics and sampling local street food. Visit in the late afternoon to secure a good spot for sunset viewing.
• Manukan Island: Just 15 minutes by boat, this marine park boasts crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving adventures.
• Sapi Island: Another great spot for snorkelling and diving, with soft white sands and multi-coloured marine life. A 20 minute boat ride away. 

Adventure into the wild

• Kinabalu Park: Scale the sacred Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in Southeast Asia, on a thrilling 2-day climb. Book your permit in advance.
• Lok Kawi Wildlife Park: Discover Borneo’s wildlife, including orangutans and pygmy elephants.
• Klias River: Take a wetland river cruise through the mangroves and spot proboscis monkeys. Or go in the evening to watch the fireflies. Just make sure to bring insect repellent if you tend to attract mosquitoes. 

Cultural picks

• Atkinson Clock Tower: The oldest standing wooden structure in Kota Kinabalu. This clock tower has seen it all and lived to tell the tale!
• Sabah State Museum: Dive into Sabah’s rich indigenous culture with traditional attire, customs and crafts on display. Spend half a day here to really make the most of it. 
• Gaya Street Sunday Market: Explore local crafts, food, and traditional goods every Sunday. Make sure to bring cash, and arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds. 

Shopping in Kota Kinabalu

Imago Shopping Mall: A modern mall with international brands, great food and entertainment. 
Suria Sabah Shopping Mall: Offers a mix of local and international stores. Visit the first floor for a scenic view of the waterfront. 

Handicraft Market: Take your time to explore the local stalls for unique Malaysian handicrafts. And make sure to bring some cash along with you. 

Where to Eat and Drink in Kota Kinabalu

Iconic Malaysian Dishes: Try these dishes at the street food stalls: Nasi lemak (coconut rice with toppings like egg, anchovies, cucumber, and spicy chilli paste), laksa (noodle soup), and roti canai (flatbread).

Seafood Restaurants: Ask for the day’s fresh catch or try local specialities like chilli crab or butter prawns. And make a reservation to secure a good spot on the waterfront. 
Beachfront Bars: Sip cocktails at beach bars such as Sunset Bar at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort while enjoying the best ocean views in Kota Kinabalu. Arrive early to get the best seats.

Nightlife in Kota Kinabalu

Waterfront: A lively area with plenty of bars, pubs, and restaurants. Head to BED nightclub for the most impressive entertainment in town.

Beach Clubs: Breeze Beach Club is one of the most renowned nightlife spots with fire shows and an in-house DJ. 

Night Markets: Stay up for the local night market culture with street food and entertainment. Sinsuran (6pm-midnight), Metro Town (Saturdays 3-11pm), Api Api (6pm - 2am, Friday to Saturday).