Time zone
GMT +08:00
No time difference
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit
1HKD = 0.52MYR
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
HK$ 298
Klook's choice
Mount Kinabalu & Desa Farm Full-Day Tour
Book now for tomorrow
Private tour
English guided
(145) • 2K+ booked
HK$ 313
Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Optional Mangrove River Cruise
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English guided
Morning departure
(842) • 10K+ booked
From
HK$ 568
Mari Mari Cultural Village (Half Day Tour)
Book now for today
English guided
Morning departure
(873) • 10K+ booked
HK$ 241
Snorkeling & Island Hopping at Sapi & Manukan Island in Sabah
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English guided
Free cancellation
(94) • 3K+ booked
HK$ 322
Klook's choice
From
HK$ 558
Kiulu White Water Rafting with Optional Peri Firefly Tour in Sabah
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Morning departure
(106) • 2K+ booked
HK$ 308
Mount Kinabalu Climb via Timpohon Trail with Private Guide
English guided
Morning departure
7+ hrs
(49) • 1K+ booked
From
HK$ 3,233
Tandem Paragliding Experience in Borneo Ranau & Kokol Hill
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English guided
Up to 3 hrs
(117) • 4K+ booked
HK$ 346
Sabah Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring and Desa Dairy Farm Day Tour
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English guided
Free cancellation
(125) • 1K+ booked
HK$ 362
Klook's choice
Kawa Kawa Wildlife & Fireflies River Cruise in Sabah
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Afternoon departure
(215) • 4K+ booked
From
HK$ 270
Kota Kinabalu Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring Full-Day Tour
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Hotel pick-up
English guided
(1.0K) • 10K+ booked
HK$ 443
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
HK$ 65
Kota Kinabalu and Outskirts Private Car Charter
Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
(43) • 400+ booked
HK$ 1,495
Kota Kinabalu car rentals | Rent a car for Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kota Kinabalu, Sapi, Manukan Island, Kawa Kawa Wildlife
Instant confirmation
Free cancellation
Suria
8K+ booked
From
HK$ 265
/day Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty - Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik Island Ferry
Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
(97) • 2K+ booked
HK$ 183
Kota Kinabalu Private Car Charter
Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
(23) • 300+ booked
HK$ 604
Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
From
HK$ 1,159.8
From
HK$ 717
From
HK$ 1,418.8
From
HK$ 427.4
HK$ 431.7
From
HK$ 316.5
From
HK$ 302.5
From
HK$ 279.4
From
HK$ 222.2
From
HK$ 616.5
From
HK$ 517.2
From
HK$ 198.8
From
HK$ 361.9
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! ✨
클룩 고객
2026-08-30 00:47:33
It was great! I did free snorkeling and parasailing at Sapi Island, and I highly recommend visiting at least one island while you're here. It's absolutely fantastic once you get out into the open sea. It's a bit scary, but it feels amazing. Finding or meeting at the harbor can be a bit difficult, but you just need to go to the Sea Quest office at 8:30 AM! They open at 8:30 AM. The staff are also kind and great!
CHAN *****
2026-09-02 06:07:06
Our tour guide was incredibly helpful, enthusiastic, and friendly, and we're very grateful for him. He carefully assisted us by looking after our luggage while we enjoyed water activities and other underwater adventures, making our trip very pleasant. We especially recommend adding on the underwater walk (includes underwater photography), Flyfish, and Parasailing.... all of them were a lot of fun!
Klook User
2026-06-08 07:59:52
Frotndesk at magellan is great. I like the girl manage my check-in and check out. Swimming pool have 3 inclue the olympic size pool (magellan and marina golf), gym have jacuzzi and sauna, kiddies playground (marina golf) my husband and my two girls love it. The staff is great and very well manage me,my husband and our two girls needs. Not enough time to explore pan pacific hotel but in future plan. Sorry to say this, the receptionist at 5 sails restaurant i am very dissappointed during our breakfast. Not well manage in house guest instead i have to do all the work for the receptionist for what i have paid. I did not bring along my veluable belonging around the resort because i want to relax and stress free. Just keep it inside safety box. I have to go up and down (room <> 5 sails) a few time just to fullfilled the receptionist needs. Without the receptionist saying sorry and think of solution instead guest service staff to apologize on behalf of the receptionist. I don't like it.
Anisha *****
2026-06-10 06:47:23
Had a great stay at The Pacific Sutera Hotel. The room was clean, comfortable, and had a beautiful view. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The facilities were excellent, especially the swimming pool. Breakfast was delicious with many choices. The location is also convenient and close to many attractions. Overall, it was a wonderful experience. Highly recommended, and I would love to stay here again!
Kota Kinabalu at a glance
Quick facts about Kota Kinabalu
General info
What to know before visiting Kota Kinabalu
What to do in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is best known for active outdoor experiences led by Tours and Water activities, with Cultural experiences, Cruises and Massages also popular. Klook booking data shows bookings spike in January, and smaller peaks appear in May and September, so the city rhythms swing between lively festival or travel windows and much quieter months. Expect scenic island-hopping and boat-based days out, guided island or nature Tours and short wellness stops to feature heavily on itineraries. Decide whether you want peak-season atmosphere or quieter discovery is the key choice for planning a trip to Kota Kinabalu (based on Klook booking data).
When to visit and price rhythm
The busiest month is January when demand rises sharply, while June is the quietest month with substantially lower bookings; May and September also show above-average demand. Prices move through the year with a high in September and a low in April, so high demand and high prices align around September, but January sees strong demand without being the priciest month. For lower prices and smaller crowds, consider April or June; for peak-season atmosphere pick January or September (all observations from Klook booking data).
| Month | Demand Level | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|
| January | Peak demand | HKD 483 |
| February | Quieter than usual | HKD 359 |
| March | Quieter than usual | HKD 312 |
| April | About average | HKD 281 |
| May | Peak demand | HKD 515 |
| June | Very quiet | HKD 374 |
| July | About average | HKD 600 |
| August | About average | HKD 289 |
| September | Peak demand | HKD 663 |
| October | About average | HKD 312 |
| November | Quieter than usual | HKD 491 |
| December | Quieter than usual | HKD 289 |
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 Hong Kong
Most travellers from Hong Kong book fairly close to travel dates — typically around 3 days ahead — and a minority plan much earlier, about 11 days out. That means you can be flexible and often secure activities a day or two beforehand, but in January and September (the busy months) booking earlier pays. Use Klook to reserve Tours, Water activities or cultural experiences as soon as your dates are fixed to lock in preferred time slots and avoid sell-outs during peaks, while last-minute decisions still work well outside peak windows (based on Klook booking data).
FAQs about Kota Kinabalu
When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
When is the cheapest time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
When is the cheapest time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
How far ahead should I book activities for Kota Kinabalu if I'm travelling from Hong Kong?
How far ahead should I book activities for Kota Kinabalu if I'm travelling from Hong Kong?
How much do activities in Kota Kinabalu typically cost?
How much do activities in Kota Kinabalu typically cost?
What is Kota Kinabalu best known for on Klook?
What is Kota Kinabalu best known for on Klook?
Explore more on Klook
Top destinations
Top Activities and Tours
- 1 Yoga Session Shangri La Tanjung Aru
- 2 E Foiling Watersport Basic Course Tanjung
- 3 2d1n Mount Kinabalu Private Hiking Experience
- 4 Mari Mari Cultural Village Sabah
- 5 Spa Massage Experience At Tiya Spa
- 6 Thai Odyssey Massage Experience In Sabah
- 7 Sapi Manukan Islands Adventure Sabah
- 8 Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour
- 9 Sense Massage Gaya Spa Reflexology Kota
- 10 Coco Joes Bar Grill Shangri La
- 11 Ulu Ulu Spa Kota Kinabalu Sabah
- 12 Mount Kinabalu Climb Via Ferrata
- 13 Kota Kinabalu Airport Travel Club Lounge
- 14 Private White Sand Paradise Island Volcano
- 15 Private Car Charter Kota Kinabalu
- 16 Open Water Diver Kota Kinabalu Padi
- 17 Half Day Tour Kota Kinabalu Sabah
- 18 Private Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata Climbing
- 19 Water Sports Experience Manukan Mamutik Island
- 20 Mandara Spa Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Popular Hotels and Places to Stay
- 1 Gaya Island Resort
- 2 Cottonhouz By Ayuhouz
- 3 Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
- 4 Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
- 5 The Pacific Sutera Hotel
- 6 Nexus Resort Spa Karambunai
- 7 Sheraton Kota Kinabalu
- 8 Gayana Marine Resort
- 9 Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
- 10 Shangri La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu
- 11 Nana Homestay Jesselton Quay
- 12 The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu
- 13 Howard Johnson By Wyndham Kota Kinabalu
- 14 Kinabalu Daya Hotel
- 15 The Luma Hotel
- 16 Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
- 17 Ming Garden Hotel And Residences
- 18 Toojou Kota Kinabalu Hostel
- 19 The Aru Hotel Aru Suites By
- 20 Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City