Kota Kinabalu, Borneo – Travel Guide
Kota Kinabalu, often referred to as KK, is the capital city of Sabah. The city is located on the northern coast of the Malaysian part of the island of Borneo. Known for its natural beauty, nearby islands, and busy city life, Kota Kinabalu also serves as a gateway to some of Borneo’s other destinations. From pristine beaches and lush rainforests to a modern urban landscape, KK is a blend of the human world and Borneo’s nature.
Kota Kinabalu is a lively city that combines the best of urban and natural attractions. It has a rich history, and like many parts of Malaysia, is a melting pot of various cultures, including Malay, Chinese, and Indigenous people.
The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia, and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a group of five islands just off the coast.
The city itself is home to a variety of attractions, including museums, markets, and historical sites. The warm, tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but expect rain any time. Kota Kinabalu’s location and connections also makes it an excellent base for exploring the broader region of Sabah and the island of Borneo.
Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
1. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is Kota Kinabalu’s most popular attraction. This marine park consists of five islands, each offering their own experience.
The five islands are Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug. But Sulug doesn’t have any amenities and isn’t accessible on the normal boat trips, so most people visit the other four.
You can book tickets inside the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal. All the companies charge the same price for the trips, so it doesn’t really matter who you book with. The staff on the boats can tell you what time you need to return to each jetty to depart for the next island.
Gaya Island
Gaya Island is the largest of the five islands in the marine park. It is covered with dense rainforest and has several hiking trails for those who enjoy nature walks.
The island also features beautiful beaches and is home to luxury resorts.
Sapi Island
Sapi Island is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. You can get unlucky with the tide times as some areas are sectioned off when the tide is too low to protect the coral. The island is smaller and less crowded than Gaya Island.
They offer loads of water activities including parasailing, banana boats, and sea walking—walking on the seabed with a large breathable helmet.
Manukan Island
Manukan Island is the second largest in the marine park and is popular for its long sandy beaches.
It was our favorite of the four islands, offering excellent facilities, including picnic areas, a restaurant, and takeaway stalls.
The island’s coral reefs make it a great place for snorkeling too. There’s plenty of incredible marine life just off the shore like rays, tropical fish, and even octopus.
Mamutik Island
Mamutik Island is the smallest of the five but is quieter than Gaya, Sapi, and Manukan.
The island is less developed than the others, making it ideal if you want to escape the crowds. It’s a nice spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach.
2. Sabah State Museum
The Sabah State Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the history and culture of Sabah. The museum complex includes several galleries and outdoor areas that showcase the region’s history, culture, and natural heritage.
There are exhibits on traditional crafts, the history of Sabah, and a large natural history collection showing the diverse flora and fauna of Borneo. The museum also has a large collection of artifacts from the Indigenous communities of Sabah.
There’s a suspension bridge and enjoyable walking trails around the outdoor areas. One section has traditional bamboo houses on a lake covered in lily pads.
3. Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Located near the bay at the northern end of the city, the mosque appears to be floating on the man-made lagoon that surrounds it.
The mosque’s architecture is stunning, with a large central dome and four minarets. Tourists are welcome inside the mosque, but it’s important to dress modestly and respect the religious practices.
4. Signal Hill Viewpoint
Signal Hill Viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic sights of Kota Kinabalu.
Located just a short walk from the city center, this lookout provides a stunning view of the city, the sea, and the distant islands. It’s an ideal spot for taking photographs, especially during sunrise or sunset.
5. Night Market
Kota Kinabalu’s night market is a hectic place where you can experience the local culture and cuisine.
Located along the waterfront, the market comes alive in the evening with vendors selling a variety of goods, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, local snacks, and handmade crafts.
The night market is a great place to try local dishes like satay, grilled fish, and tropical fruits.
6. Atkinson Clock Tower
The Atkinson Clock Tower, built in 1905, is one of the oldest structures in Kota Kinabalu. It was constructed in memory of Francis George Atkinson, the first district officer of Jesselton (as it was named then).
The clock tower is located on a hill overlooking the city and is one of the few remaining historical buildings that survived the destruction of World War II. It is a significant landmark and a reminder of the city’s colonial past.
Where to Stay in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels.
High-End: Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is one of the top choices. Located just outside the city center, this resort offers stunning views of the South China Sea, a private beach, and world-class amenities. Another excellent option is the Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, which is situated in the heart of the city, offering easy access to the waterfront and other attractions.
Mid-Range: For travelers looking for a comfortable stay without breaking the bank, the Jesselton Hotel is a great option. This boutique hotel is centrally located and offers charming colonial-style accommodations. Another good choice is the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, which is a modern hotel within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions. They have a great pool area overlooking the sea.
Budget-Friendly: Backpackers and budget-conscious travelers will find plenty of affordable accommodation options in Kota Kinabalu. One of the best options is the private apartments in Kota Kinabalu City Centre or The Shore. They’re centrally located and include access to the pool area. Here’s a couple with good reviews: Casa Yolo / Summer Studio.
Where to Eat in Kota Kinabalu
Mother India, near the waterfront, is the best Indian restaurant in Kota Kinabalu.
El Centro is a laid-back, casual dining spot in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. They offer a mix of Western and Mexican dishes including tacos, burgers, salads, and pasta plus a good cocktail and beer selection. The service was a bit slow, but the food and drinks were great.
Nook Cafe is a trendy and cozy cafe across from El Centro in downtown Kota Kinabalu. Perfect for a casual brunch or a coffee and cake.
How to Get to Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is well-connected by air, with the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) serving as the main gateway. The airport is around 5 miles from the city center and is one of the busiest airports in Malaysia. Direct flights are available from Sandakan and major Malaysian cities like Kuala Lumpur, as well as from international destinations like Singapore and Hong Kong.
If you’re coming from KL, check out our guide to the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur. Or if you’re flying to/from Sandakan here’s the best things to do in Sepilok and a Kinabatangan River Cruise Guide.
From the airport, the best way to get to the city is the ride-hailing app Grab. The drive takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Getting Around Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is a relatively small city, making it easy to get around. Taxis and the ride-hailing cabs from Grab are widely available and are a cheap and convenient way to travel around the city.
How Long to Stay in Kota Kinabalu
The ideal length of stay in Kota Kinabalu depends on what you want to experience. A minimum of three days is recommended to see the city’s main attractions.
If you plan to venture outside the city to explore nearby destinations like Mount Kinabalu or the Kinabalu Park, consider staying for at least five to seven days.
Is Kota Kinabalu Worth Visiting?
It’s not a standalone destination that we’d recommend visiting as there’s a limited number of activities. There are also better places around southeast Asia for a similar experience.
But Borneo in general is a top destination and so while here Kota Kinabalu is worth stopping for a few days.
Kota Kinabalu FAQs
Is Kota Kinabalu safe?
Yes, Kota Kinabalu is generally a safe destination for travelers. The locals are friendly and welcoming but like any other city, it’s important to take basic precautions.
Why is Kota Kinabalu famous?
Kota Kinabalu is famous as the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah on Borneo. It’s also close to big natural attractions, including Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia, and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, which offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Can you drink alcohol in Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, alcohol is available in Kota Kinabalu, and there are many bars, pubs, and restaurants that serve alcoholic beverages.
How expensive is Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu is a very cheap destination, even when compared to other major tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Accommodation, food, and transportation options are available to suit all budgets.
Which month is best to visit Kota Kinabalu?
The temperature doesn’t fluctuate all that much in Kota Kinabalu, so the main consideration is the rainfall. No matter when you go, it’s safe to assume it’ll rain at some point. But it’s best to avoid the wettest months from October to December. The dryest months are February, March, and April.
Is Kota Kinabalu in Borneo?
Yes, Kota Kinabalu is located on the island of Borneo, which is the third-largest island in the world. Borneo is divided between three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Kota Kinabalu is the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah, situated on the northern coast of Borneo.
Is Kota Kinabalu an island?
No, Kota Kinabalu is not an island. It is a coastal city on the island of Borneo. However, the city is close to several islands that are part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
Kota Kinabalu, Borneo – Travel Guide
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