8 Fun & Scenic Day Trips From Kota Kinabalu: Sweet Getaways From Under 20 Minutes!

The city centre of KK is definitely charming, but there's lots more to see and do beyond the town's borders. Besides exploring Kota Kinabalu, add some of these day trip destinations to your schedule to catch a glimpse of a different side of KK ✨ From breathtaking islands to refreshing mountains and charming towns, you'll find something up your alley on this list.

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 2-hour drive

While in KK, we'd highly recommend allocating some time in your itinerary for a trip up Kundasang! Accessible via a 2-hour drive from town, Kundasang is doable as a day trip destination, but we'd suggest spending at least a night here for a more wholesome adventure so you don't have to rush through the many beautiful sights Kundasang has to offer. What we love most about Kundasang (besides the views, of course) is its breezy climate that's often a few degrees cooler than the lowlands!

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 20-minute boat ride

Island hopping is a popular activity in KK thanks to its close proximity to a handful of lovely islands, most located just a 20-minute boat ride away. The easiest islands to go island-hopping at are the cluster of pulaus under the wings of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. You can get here by boarding a speedboat or engaging a day tour, and can spend sun-drenched hours snorkelling, parasailing, sea-walking, or just sunbathing at Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik, or Pulau Gaya.

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 1-hour drive + 55-minute boat ride

Mantanani consists of a cluster of three isolated islands and is heaven-on-earth for ocean lovers, more so if you have a diving license. The waters here are home to diverse marine life, age-old shipwrecks, endangered avian creatures, and even a precious resident dugong affectionately named Nicky! There are a handful of resorts on the islands so you can spend a night or two here instead of rushing back to KK. Otherwise, book a day trip on Klook for a hassle-free adventure!

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 1-hour drive

Be enthralled by the culture and stories of five of Sabah's major ethnic groups at the insightful Mari Mari Cultural Village, located deep in the countryside, about an hour away from KK. From cultural performances to bamboo cooking and observation of traditional crafts, the cultural village is a living museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the knowledge, history, and culture of Borneo to curious visitors all over the world. Trust us when we tell you you'll have more fun here than you think you will!

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 40-minute drive

With tracks connecting Kota Kinabalu and Papar, the North Borneo Railway is a nostalgic steam train straight out of the 1900s. Travellers that ride the train can expect to soak in views of sprawling paddy fields and traditional villages along the way from the comforts of a fully refurbished colonial-style train that's hard to come across anywhere else. The railways runs two weekly departures, each with a duration of 4 hours. Be sure to double check the schedule and pre-book your trip online!

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 3-hour drive

Located in the Kudat district, the Tip of Borneo is one of the most popular attractions in Sabah. The tip marks the meeting point of the South China Sea and Sulu Sea - it is windy, scenic, and offers one of the most magnificent sunsets you'll ever lay your eyes on. In fact, a Sunset Music Fest is held here annually, where you'll get to be serenaded by local and international artistes in the ocean breeze with views of the sea and a stunning sunset as the backdrop. Besides booking a day trip, you can also drive over if you rent a car on Klook!

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 2-hour drive

Located 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu, the Klias Wetland is a mangrove forest reserve that's a cosy home to a wide variety of flora and fauna including cheeky proboscis monkeys and sparkling fireflies. Experience the beauty of the wetlands on a river cruise and watch the sun sink over the horizon. Package comes inclusive of roundtrip transfers to and from your hotel, as well as a delicious dinner buffet onboard.

Distance from Kota Kinabalu: 6-hour drive

Affectionately known as Sabah's Lost World due to its isolation from the 'outside world', the Maliau Basin is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking to venture onto the path less travelled. The basin consists of a pristine forest that's home to a rich, self-contained ecosystem, with much of its area remaining completely unexplored up till today. Spend a night in the jungles of Maliau Basin by booking a 2D1N tour on Klook that comes inclusive of overnight accommodation, a guide, transfers, all meals, insurance, and more!

Whether you're planning to stay within the city or venture out to nearby destinations, you can easily plan your adventure in a few clicks on Klook! Rent a car, book a day tour, or even ala carte offerings such as paragliding in Ranau or boat transfers in 1, 2, 3 ✨

School holidays are here again, it's time to take the kids out for some fun! Klook has holiday promo codes available for everyone, where you can get discounts on any activity you book! (T&Cs apply).

We also have limited-time offers such as buy one get one free, buy two get one free, and more! Don't miss out on this amazing deal, featuring KL Tower tickets, tufting workshops, and a hop-on hop-off bus, to make your holiday even more fun! 🛍️💥