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Top things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Bongawan Mangrove Cruise & Fireflies with Infinity Dream Beach
Klook's choice
Tours • Sabah

Bongawan Mangrove Cruise & Fireflies with Infinity Dream Beach

Book now for tomorrow
Hotel pick-up
Small group
Afternoon departure
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (1,042) • 10K+ booked
From ¥ 6,156
The Best Of Kundasang
Klook's choice
Tours • Sabah

The Best Of Kundasang

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Hotel pick-up
Small group
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (67) • 900+ booked
¥ 11,518
Mari Mari Cultural Village (Half Day Tour)
Cultural experiences • Sabah

Mari Mari Cultural Village (Half Day Tour)

Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (820) • 10K+ booked
From ¥ 4,964
Snorkeling & Island Hopping at Sapi & Manukan Island in Sabah
Klook's choice
Tours • Sabah

Snorkeling & Island Hopping at Sapi & Manukan Island in Sabah

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.3 (66) • 2K+ booked
From ¥ 6,652
Sapi/Manukan/Mamutik Island Hopping with Tour Guide
Water activities • Sabah

Sapi/Manukan/Mamutik Island Hopping with Tour Guide

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Morning departure
5-7 hrs
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (764) • 10K+ booked
From ¥ 8,936
Sunrise & Sunset Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience with Private Transfer in Kota Kinabalu
Water activities • Sabah

Sunrise & Sunset Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience with Private Transfer in Kota Kinabalu

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Morning departure
Private group
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (177) • 3K+ booked
From ¥ 3,475
Mengalum Island Snorkel & Sea Adventure from Kota Kinabalu
Water activities • Sabah

Mengalum Island Snorkel & Sea Adventure from Kota Kinabalu

Morning departure
5-7 hrs
Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (375) • 5K+ booked
¥ 12,868
10 off
Sale
Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang Day Trip: Desa Dairy & Tamparuli Bridge
Tours • Sabah

Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang Day Trip: Desa Dairy & Tamparuli Bridge

Book now for today
Private tour
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (85) • 1K+ booked
From ¥ 6,454
Sabah Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring and Desa Dairy Farm Day Tour
Tours • Sabah

Sabah Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring and Desa Dairy Farm Day Tour

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (102) • 1K+ booked
From ¥ 8,340
Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Optional Mangrove River Cruise
Water activities • Sabah

Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Optional Mangrove River Cruise

Morning departure
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (804) • 10K+ booked
From ¥ 11,120
Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring Tour
Tours • Sabah

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring Tour

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Hotel pick-up
Instant confirmation
★ 4.3 (977) • 10K+ booked
From ¥ 9,135
Kiulu White Water Rafting with Optional Peri Firefly Tour in Sabah
Water activities • Sabah

Kiulu White Water Rafting with Optional Peri Firefly Tour in Sabah

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Morning departure
7+ hrs
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (71) • 1K+ booked
From ¥ 6,354

Top attractions in Kota Kinabalu

4.8/5(11K+ reviews)

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
4.8/5(13K+ reviews)

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
4.8/5(11K+ reviews)

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.
Historical site
4.8/5(14K+ reviews)

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.
Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty - Sapi, Manukan,  Mamutik Island Ferry
Ferries • Sabah

Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty - Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik Island Ferry

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (84) • 2K+ booked
From ¥ 3,177
Kota Kinabalu|Kota Kinabalu International Airport Private Airport Transfer
Private airport transfers • Sabah

Kota Kinabalu|Kota Kinabalu International Airport Private Airport Transfer

Bestseller
Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (1,269) • 6K+ booked
¥ 1,271
Kota Kinabalu Private Car Charter
Car charters • Sabah

Kota Kinabalu Private Car Charter

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Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 5.0 (21) • 300+ booked
From ¥ 12,471
Kota Kinabalu and Outskirts Private Car Charter
Car charters • Sabah

Kota Kinabalu and Outskirts Private Car Charter

Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.9 (40) • 400+ booked
From ¥ 30,859

Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

The Magellan Sutera Resort
Hotels • Sabah

https://res.klook.com/image/upload/v1713240499/UED_new/PromoTag/StayPlus.png The Magellan Sutera Resort

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (1,009)
From ¥ 20,747
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Hotels • Sabah

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (696)
From ¥ 8,195
The Pacific Sutera Hotel
Special offer
Hotels • Sabah

https://res.klook.com/image/upload/v1713240499/UED_new/PromoTag/StayPlus.png The Pacific Sutera Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (1,011)
From ¥ 13,224
Shangri La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

https://res.klook.com/image/upload/v1713240499/UED_new/PromoTag/StayPlus.png Shangri La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
★ 4.9 (1,032)
From ¥ 32,859
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

https://res.klook.com/image/upload/v1713240499/UED_new/PromoTag/StayPlus.png Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (1,005)
From ¥ 12,374
Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (431)
From ¥ 4,277
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (592)
From ¥ 9,828
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
Hotels • Sabah

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Instant confirmation
★ 3.8 (773)
From ¥ 13,305
Hilton Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
★ 5.0 (956)
From ¥ 15,511
Hotel Capital
Hotels • Sabah

Hotel Capital

Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (305)
From ¥ 5,622
Hotel 7 Suria
Hotels • Sabah

Hotel 7 Suria

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (113)
From ¥ 6,736
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
★ 3.9 (998)
From ¥ 4,499

Reviews of Kota Kinabalu activities

Xu ******
2026-02-15 14:44:19
Fantastic 5.0
The journey today was very pleasant. The tour guide, Jordan, was conscientious and took good care of everyone. His explanations were very detailed and professional. There was no need to worry about language issues. The photography skills were superb and the photo quality was very high! We were very lucky to see the beautiful sunset, the "Christmas tree" of fireflies, and also witnessed the friendship between the lizard and the dog. This was an extremely unforgettable trip!
Sharon ***
2025-11-17 20:50:42
Fantastic 5.0
Good experience to those who never been to Kundasang. Tour guide and driver is good as they planned the itinerary smoothly. Weather was good when our first stop to view and take photos of Mount Kinabalu. next stop after lunch was to see the famous flower Rafflesia. just in time 4 flowers were blooming at the same time . BBQ pork was tender. Get to try fresh milk and yogurt from their famous Desa Dairy farms too.
Joyce ****
2025-11-21 14:01:14
Fantastic 5.0
It was a very fun trip to two different islands. the tour guide was very nice and have very clear responsible communication with everyone in my group.
Klook User
2025-12-31 10:26:13
Fantastic 5.0
🌿 What It Is Mari Mari Cultural Village is a living cultural museum about 25–30 min from Kota Kinabalu that showcases the traditional lifestyles, homes, crafts, tools, dances and food of Sabah’s five indigenous tribes (Kadazan-Dusun, Murut, Rungus, Lundayeh, and Bajau). You walk through authentic traditional houses and learn through demonstrations rather than just static displays.  ⸻ 👍 Highlights — What Visitors Love ✔ Immersive & Educational Most travelers find the guided tour very informative — you’ll learn how  ✔ Cultural Performances & Snacks Expect lively dance performances, music, food tasting (including rice wine), and a local buffet lunch — which many say adds depth and flavour to the visit.  ✔ Great for Families & Groups It’s often described as family-friendly and suited for visitors of all ages thanks to the mix of learning + hands-on fun.  ⭐ Overall rating: ~4.7 out of 5 stars on Google reviews — most guests find it truly worthwhile as a cultural experience. 
Margo *****
2026-01-01 23:58:25
Fantastic 5.0
Highly recommend. The snorkeling tour is very professional and nice.Firstly, we took a boat to Mengalum Island and enjoyed the beach there. About 11:00AM, we went to two beautiful snorkeling spots in total. There were all kinds of fish in both places, and we also saw starfish and octopuses🐙.After lunch, just enjoyed chill time on the beach🏖️. I had a very wonderful and memorable experience in Mengalum Island. Happy new year and all the best wishes to the one who is reading the review😬
CharlesAndrew ******
2025-11-02 05:28:26
Fantastic 5.0
Only issue was the food. A bit average. But the views were nice and the beaches were also very clean. lots of fishes to see. they also provided snorkeling gear.
viti *****
2026-01-24 12:49:30
Fantastic 5.0
We had a wonderful experience on this private day tour to.The trip was well-organized and very comfortable, perfect for a relaxed yet memorable day. Thanks for Selina for providing the details. Desa Farm was absolutely beautiful — the cool weather, scenic views and farm atmosphere made it a great place to unwind and take photos. It really felt like a peaceful escape from the city. Pekan Nabalu was also a highlight trying the local fruits and taking photos of Mt Kinabalu. Tamparuli bridge, which added a fun and unique experience to the trip.Our driver Rex was friendly, punctual and knowledgeable, making the journey smooth and enjoyable. Since it was a private tour, we could move at our own pace without feeling rushed, which made the experience even better. Overall, this tour exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend this to anyone who visiting.
Klook User
2025-12-31 09:28:25
Fantastic 5.0
Baoqing was truly our guide of the day. Although I’m a local and have joined multiple tour agencies to Mantanani Island and the Kawa-Kawa River, Baoqing stood out as an exceptional tour guide who showed me how much difference a good guide can make to a trip. He provided clear and detailed information from the beginning until the end, including estimated travel times to each destination, which is especially important for foreign tourists. What impressed me most was his attentiveness during the snorkelling session, where he took the initiative to ask who could and could not swim—something none of the other tour agencies I’ve experienced ever considered. The tour assistants were friendly, patient, and very considerate despite doing this work repeatedly, and their professionalism truly enhanced the overall experience. For firefly-watching tours, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to help upgrade and enhance the tourist experience, as I studied firefly tourism during my master’s degree.
Miya ********
2025-12-07 04:10:48
Fantastic 5.0
Handsome Jeff was a very friendly guide!!He was very knowledgeable about Malaysia and the countries of his guests and shared many stories with us.We had a great time with him and would recommend him to everyone( ◠‿◠ )

Quick facts about Kota Kinabalu

General info
  • Time zone

    No time difference

  • Currency

    1JPY = 0.03MYR

  • Official languages

  • Best time to visit

    Dry season offers clear skies and good diving conditions.

  • Recommended trip duration

See popular activities on the map

FAQs about Kota Kinabalu

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