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Top things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Bongawan Mangrove River Cruise & Fireflies with Infinity Dream Beach Sunset Tour
Tours • Sabah

Bongawan Mangrove River Cruise & Fireflies with Infinity Dream Beach Sunset Tour

Book now for tomorrow
Hotel pick-up
Small group
4.8 / 5
(1.3K) • 20K+ booked
¥ 5,998
Mount Kinabalu & Desa Farm Full-Day Tour
Klook's choice
Tours • Sabah

Mount Kinabalu & Desa Farm Full-Day Tour

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Private tour
English guided
4.7 / 5
(144) • 2K+ booked
¥ 6,288
Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Optional Mangrove River Cruise
Water activities • Sabah

Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Optional Mangrove River Cruise

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English guided
Morning departure
4.2 / 5
(839) • 10K+ booked
From
¥ 10,274
Save ¥ 1,141
Mari Mari Cultural Village (Half Day Tour)
Cultural experiences • Sabah

Mari Mari Cultural Village (Half Day Tour)

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English guided
Morning departure
4.8 / 5
(872) • 10K+ booked
¥ 4,837
Snorkeling & Island Hopping at Sapi & Manukan Island in Sabah
Tours • Sabah

Snorkeling & Island Hopping at Sapi & Manukan Island in Sabah

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English guided
Free cancellation
4.5 / 5
(94) • 3K+ booked
¥ 6,482
The Best of Kundasang in Sabah
Klook's choice
Tours • Sabah

The Best of Kundasang in Sabah

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Hotel pick-up
Small group
4.3 / 5
(107) • 1K+ booked
From
¥ 10,100
Save ¥ 1,122
Kawa Kawa Wildlife & Fireflies River Cruise in Sabah
Klook's choice
Cruises • Sabah

Kawa Kawa Wildlife & Fireflies River Cruise in Sabah

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English guided
Afternoon departure
4.5 / 5
(214) • 4K+ booked
From
¥ 5,437
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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English guided
Free cancellation
4.3 / 5
(125) • 1K+ booked
¥ 7,275
Sapi/Manukan/Mamutik Island Hopping with Tour Guide
Water activities • Sabah

Sapi/Manukan/Mamutik Island Hopping with Tour Guide

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English guided
Morning departure
4.4 / 5
(778) • 10K+ booked
From
¥ 12,015
Save ¥ 1,335
Manukan & Sapi Island Hopping with Snorkeling & Massage Experience
Water activities • Sabah

Manukan & Sapi Island Hopping with Snorkeling & Massage Experience

Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Morning departure
4.6 / 5
(17) • 400+ booked
From
¥ 7,619
Save ¥ 846
Kota Kinabalu Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring Full-Day Tour
Tours • Sabah

Kota Kinabalu Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring Full-Day Tour

Book now for tomorrow
Hotel pick-up
English guided
4.4 / 5
(1.0K) • 10K+ booked
¥ 8,900
Bongawan Mangrove Cruise and Fireflies Tour
Tours • Sabah

Bongawan Mangrove Cruise and Fireflies Tour

Book now for tomorrow
Private tour
English guided
4.6 / 5
(76) • 1K+ booked
¥ 6,288

Top attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Historical site
4.8/5(13K+ 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.
Tourist sight
4.7/5(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(11K+ 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
5.0/5(2K+ reviews)

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.
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 / 5
(1.4K) • 7K+ booked
From
¥ 1,304
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
4.9 / 5
(42) • 400+ booked
¥ 30,066
Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty - Sapi, Manukan,  Mamutik Island Ferry
Ferries • Sabah

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

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(96) • 2K+ booked
¥ 3,676
Kota Kinabalu car rentals | Rent a car for Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kota Kinabalu, Sapi, Manukan Island, Kawa Kawa Wildlife
Spring deal
From
¥ 13,712
/day
15% off
Kota Kinabalu Private Car Charter
Car charters • Sabah

Kota Kinabalu Private Car Charter

Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
5.0 / 5
(23) • 300+ booked
¥ 12,150

Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(630)
From
¥ 8,389
The Magellan Sutera Resort
Hotels • Sabah

The Magellan Sutera Resort

Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(1.0K)
From
¥ 23,238
Shangri La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Shangri La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(1.0K)
From
¥ 28,139
The Pacific Sutera Hotel
Hotels • Sabah

The Pacific Sutera Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(1.0K)
From
¥ 16,381
The Klagan Hotel
Hotels • Sabah

The Klagan Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(1.0K)
From
¥ 5,628
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
Hotels • Sabah

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Instant confirmation
3.9 / 5
(796)
From
¥ 12,821
Seaview Capsule Hotel
Hotels • Sabah

Seaview Capsule Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.0 / 5
(30)
From
¥ 3,029
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(88)
From
¥ 10,404
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(1.0K)
From
¥ 7,785
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
4.6 / 5
(226)
From
¥ 13,428
Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Hotels • Sabah

Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Instant confirmation
4.1 / 5
(447)
From
¥ 4,705
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
Hotels • Sabah

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

Instant confirmation
4.3 / 5
(20)
From
¥ 8,323

Reviews of Kota Kinabalu activities

cling ****
2026-05-27 13:10:11
Fantastic 5.0
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.
Yeung *****
2026-05-10 13:04:09
Fantastic 5.0
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!
Abigail ***
2026-06-15 19:44:41
Fantastic 5.0
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
Klook User
2026-09-14 04:37:18
Fantastic 5.0
One of the best massage experiences I’ve ever had. I’m definitely going to come back again! ✨
Klook会員
2026-07-10 01:35:09
Fantastic 5.0
We had a wonderful experience. Although we only had round-trip boat tickets, the coordination between the islands was excellent. We went parasailing and banana boating on Manukan Island and had lunch on Sapi Island. The people on Sapi Island were calm and very kind, allowing us to enjoy a relaxing time.
Nadrah ******
2026-08-27 15:17:42
Fantastic 5.0
We had such a great experience with Tommy, our driver for the KK outskirts private car charter! He is an experienced, attentive and highly accommodative driver who made our journey so much more enjoyable. Tommy was always happy to share interesting stories and information about the places we passed by, giving us a little more insight into Sabah along the way. The ride was comfortable and stress-free, and he truly went the extra mile to ensure we were well taken care of throughout the trip. Excellent service, great company, and a driver who genuinely cares about his passengers. Highly recommended! 🙌🏼🌴🏔️
Klook会員
2026-10-18 09:02:06
Fantastic 5.0
Jeff the Gachi lkemen guy was our guide He took us nice places and took many nice photos We had great day thanks for Jeff
Wong ****
2026-06-16 14:52:59
Fantastic 5.0
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 User
2026-06-18 02:39:32
Fantastic 5.0
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.

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

FAQs about Kota Kinabalu

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