Time zone
GMT +08:00
No time difference
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit
1AUD = 2.85MYR
Official languages
Malay
Best time to visit
FEB - APR
Dry season offers clear skies and good diving conditions.
Recommended trip duration
3 days
Top things to do in Kota Kinabalu
Bongawan Mangrove River Cruise & Fireflies with Infinity Dream Beach Sunset Tour
Book now for tomorrow
Hotel pick-up
Small group
(1.3K) • 20K+ booked
AUD 54.39
Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Optional Mangrove River Cruise
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Morning departure
(841) • 10K+ booked
From
AUD 113.89
Klook's choice
Mount Kinabalu & Desa Farm Full-Day Tour
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Private tour
English guided
(145) • 2K+ booked
AUD 65.59
Mari Mari Cultural Village (Half Day Tour)
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English guided
Morning departure
(873) • 10K+ booked
AUD 48.25
Snorkeling & Island Hopping at Sapi & Manukan Island in Sabah
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Free cancellation
(94) • 3K+ booked
AUD 77.75
Klook's choice
From
AUD 117.05
Kiulu White Water Rafting with Optional Peri Firefly Tour in Sabah
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Morning departure
(105) • 2K+ booked
AUD 61.75
Mount Kinabalu Climb via Timpohon Trail with Private Guide
English guided
Morning departure
7+ hrs
(49) • 1K+ booked
From
AUD 648.49
Tandem Paragliding Experience in Borneo Ranau & Kokol Hill
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English guided
Up to 3 hrs
(116) • 4K+ booked
AUD 69.49
Klook's choice
Kawa Kawa Wildlife & Fireflies River Cruise in Sabah
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Afternoon departure
(215) • 4K+ booked
From
AUD 54.25
Kota Kinabalu Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring Full-Day Tour
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Hotel pick-up
English guided
(1.0K) • 10K+ booked
AUD 92.85
Sabah Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring and Desa Dairy Farm Day Tour
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Free cancellation
(125) • 1K+ booked
AUD 75.89
Top attractions in Kota Kinabalu
Historical site
Atkinson Clock Tower
Step into the rich history of Kota Kinabalu with a visit to the iconic Atkinson Clock Tower, also known as Menara Jam Atkinson. Discover the timeless charm of this historic structure, which stands as a symbol of resilience and heritage in Sabah. Built in memory of Francis George Atkinson, the first district officer of Jesselton, the Atkinson Clock Tower offers a glimpse into the past and pays tribute to the city's enduring spirit.
Tourist sight
Masjid Bandaraya
Discover the enchanting Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu, also known as the Likas Floating Mosque, a stunning architectural gem inspired by Arabic design. Situated on the Likas coast with a sprawling 14.83-hectare area, this mosque can accommodate up to 12,000 worshippers at a time. Officially opened on February 18, 2000, following Kota Kinabalu's declaration as a city, this mosque boasts features reminiscent of Masjid Nabawi, with nearly 70% of its area surrounded by water. Located just 5km north of the city, this mosque is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking cultural and historical experiences in Kota Kinabalu.
Museum
Sabah State Museum
Welcome to the Sabah State Museum in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, a hidden gem perched on a hill overlooking the city. Dive into the rich history and culture of Sabah, a region known for its wildlife, trade history, and diverse ethnic groups. Explore a treasure trove of artifacts, exhibits, and galleries that showcase the diverse traditions and history of this Malaysian state.
Scenic spot
Tun Mustapha Tower
Experience the awe-inspiring Tun Mustapha Tower in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Standing tall at 122 meters with 30 stories of glass, this iconic tower offers a mesmerizing view of Likas Harbour. Built in 1976 by the renowned Mori Building Company, this unique landmark combines modern architecture with historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking panoramic views and cultural insights. Discover the rich history and cultural significance of this architectural marvel as you explore its revolving floor and learn about its transformation from Sabah Foundation Tower to Tun Mustapha Tower. With an exhibition hall inside and free entry, this tower offers a captivating experience for visitors.
Island
Sepanggar Island
Discover the remote and enchanting Sepanggar Island, a hidden gem surrounded by the crystal clear waters of Kota Kinabalu. Embrace the island's serene rhythm and immerse yourself in nature's beauty, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Escape the hustle and bustle of Kota Kinabalu city and discover the hidden gem of Sepanggar Island. Just a short 12-minute boat ride away, this tranquil paradise offers a serene getaway for those seeking a peaceful seaside retreat. Uncover the untouched beauty of Sepanggar Island, a place where you can relax on white sandy beaches, explore lush tropical rainforests, and enjoy a variety of water activities. Embark on a journey to the tranquil and leisurely Sepanggar Island in Kota Kinabalu, where the sound of nature serenades visitors and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, this island paradise beckons travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Transport in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu｜Kota Kinabalu International Airport Private Airport Transfer
Bestseller
Instant confirmation
(1.4K) • 7K+ booked
From
AUD 11.79
Kota Kinabalu and Outskirts Private Car Charter
Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
(43) • 400+ booked
AUD 272.65
Kota Kinabalu car rentals | Rent a car for Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kota Kinabalu, Sapi, Manukan Island, Kawa Kawa Wildlife
Instant confirmation
Free cancellation
Hertz
8K+ booked
From
AUD 125
/day Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty - Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik Island Ferry
Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
(97) • 2K+ booked
AUD 33.35
Kota Kinabalu Private Car Charter
Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
(23) • 300+ booked
AUD 110.19
Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
From
AUD 210.39
From
AUD 258.04
From
AUD 130.57
From
AUD 50.65
From
AUD 57.38
From
AUD 77.49
AUD 78.27
From
AUD 41.57
AUD 41.99
From
AUD 54.87
From
AUD 36.07
From
AUD 111.77
From
AUD 109.41
From
AUD 116.6
Reviews of Kota Kinabalu activities
cling ****
2026-05-27 13:10:11
Good experience in Tiya. Is located in 1st floor KK Times Square. Welcome by friendly receptionist. My hubby and I were attended with two masseurs no.20&39. Both experienced.
Klook 用戶
2026-10-28 08:38:31
I was almost falling asleep the moment I lay down to prepare for the massage. Being able to choose an essential oil with a scent I personally like was wonderful, and the warm towels on my hands and feet felt truly comfortable. After a long half-day out at sea, I feel completely revived.
Abigail ***
2026-06-15 19:44:41
first time to try the traditional urutan malaysian massage and it did not disappoint. mira was an excellent therapist! ambiance and location were great, the ginger tea was an added bonus
Yeung *****
2026-05-10 13:04:09
The female masseuse who provided my 2-hour hot stone massage on October 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM, truly offered excellent service. I felt incredibly comfortable after the massage. Highly recommended!
Klook User
2026-09-14 04:37:18
One of the best massage experiences I’ve ever had. I’m definitely going to come back again! ✨
Wong ****
2026-06-16 14:52:59
Five-star experience! Five-star trip! A perfect journey!
Our tour guide, Sue, contacted us via WhatsApp the night before and was incredibly patient in answering all our questions. She also helped us take photos throughout the trip without any hesitation. Some of our group members had very high expectations for photography, and Sue was surprisingly patient in helping them get their shots.
It's worth noting that our group was a combination of several smaller groups, but all the guides knew each other, so they were great at creating a lively atmosphere. One guide constantly played music through a loudspeaker, which really boosted the mood, and they even matched the theme – for example, playing Jay Chou's "Rice Field" when we were watching fireflies! Truly professional!
Be aware that the local mosquitoes are very aggressive and aren't deterred by mosquito repellent, so that's something to keep in mind.
The sunset there is stunning! We had plenty of time for free activities and taking photos. My first snorkeling experience was also amazing. The only downside was that some people in our group might have been afraid of water, so we had to accommodate them and couldn't visit more spots. We ended up staying at one spot for about an hour.
You can rent a locker on the island for HKD $60, but you honestly don't need to; no one is going to steal your belongings on a deserted island...
Watching the fireflies is an absolutely unforgettable experience! Photos can't capture the awe-inspiring sight; you'll understand once you go!
P.S. The meeting time that day was 7 AM! So it was a very early start, but totally worth it.
Klook会員
2026-08-17 07:39:22
It was such a wonderful experience! Our guide, Sui, was incredibly kind and helpful, which made us feel comfortable and well taken care of throughout the entire day. We truly enjoyed every moment. Thank you so much! I would definitely recommend this experience to everyone!
Klook User
2026-06-18 02:39:32
me and my husband booked onto this trip a bit last minute, just the day before. we had confirmation texts straight away, pick up times and reg details of the car that would be picking us up in the morning. it arrived a few mins early and we were driven to the nearby jetty where two guides were waiting for just two of us. we were issued life jackets and snorkels and after a 20 minute wait, we boarded our speed boat over to the first island, Manukan. it is absolutely stunning, white sand fringed by huge forest trees giving lots of shade, clear blue sea with an abundance of fish swimming around our feet. unfortunately there was also a lot of rubbish in the sea, plastic bottles and packaging everywhere, such a shame that people treat our beautiful planet like this, it’s a national park and we could see people collecting rubbish off the sand but not possible in the sea. we stayed for 3 hours and were bought lunch before going on to Sapi. Both beautiful islands and we had a lovely day.
yun *****
2026-05-28 19:14:08
It was nice that it wasn't crowded. There were many cheap options, but the reviews weren't good, so I carefully read the reviews and chose this one, and it was definitely a good choice. Our guide diligently found all the best spots for us, and I'm so grateful. We saw lobsters, Nemo, and more.
Kota Kinabalu at a glance
Quick facts about Kota Kinabalu
General info
What to know before visiting Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu at a glance
Kota Kinabalu draws most bookings for Tours, followed closely by Water activities, then Cultural experiences, Cruises and Massages. Demand follows a clear seasonal rhythm: January is a busy month while December is quieter, according to Klook booking data. That means your choice of experience often depends on tempo — festival-like crowds and lively boat trips in busier months, more relaxed shore time and spa slots in quieter months. For travellers weighing activity variety against crowd levels, pick between peak-season buzz or quieter flexibility — Klook booking data can help you plan which suits you.
Best months to visit and price trends
January is the busiest month by bookings while December is the quietest, per Klook booking data; prices, however, peak in November and are lowest in August, so crowd levels and cost don't always move together. Overall the median price across the year was AUD 74 and prices trend from low in August–September to a big spike in November; choose August–September for lower typical prices and lighter crowds, and January for the lively peak-season atmosphere despite slightly higher demand.
| Month | Demand Level | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|
| January | Busier than usual | AUD 73 |
| February | Busier than usual | AUD 81 |
| March | About average | AUD 78 |
| April | About average | AUD 73 |
| May | About average | AUD 58 |
| June | Busier than usual | AUD 96 |
| July | About average | AUD 55 |
| August | Busier than usual | AUD 45 |
| September | Busier than usual | AUD 45 |
| October | About average | AUD 64 |
| November | Quieter than usual | AUD 140 |
| December | Quieter than usual | AUD 76 |
Demand is bookings in that month compared with a typical month, from historical Klook booking data, grouped into the demand levels above; typical price is the median paid on Klook in that month; prices are shown with their currency code. Based on Klook booking data, July 2025 – June 2026.
Tips for travellers from Australia
Most Australian travellers book fairly close to travel time — on average 3 days ahead, with the earliest planners booking about 11 days out, according to Klook booking data. That means you can stay flexible and still lock in popular Tours and Water activities a few days before departure, but in January and other busier months it's wise to book earlier to secure preferred time slots. Use Klook to compare typical prices and availability, shortlist activities you want, then confirm bookings once your dates are firm — it keeps plans simple and gives peace of mind while travelling.
FAQs about Kota Kinabalu
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When is the cheapest time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
How far ahead should travellers from Australia book Kota Kinabalu activities?
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How much do activities in Kota Kinabalu typically cost on Klook?
How much do activities in Kota Kinabalu typically cost on Klook?
What is Kota Kinabalu best known for on Klook?
What is Kota Kinabalu best known for on Klook?
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