Time zone
GMT +08:00
No time difference
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit
1USD = 4.07MYR
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
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Hotel pick-up
Small group
English guided
Afternoon departure
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 39.60
Mari Mari Cultural Village (Half Day Tour)
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English guided
Morning departure
Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
US$ 30.70
Mengalum Island Snorkel & Sea Adventure from Kota Kinabalu
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English guided
Morning departure
5-7 hrs
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 79.60
Mount Kinabalu & Desa Farm Full-Day Tour
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Private tour
English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 39.95
Snorkeling & Island Hopping at Sapi & Manukan Island in Sabah
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English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 41.15
ATV Borneo Adventure - Ultimate Kundasang ATV Experience
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English guided
Morning departure
7+ hrs
Instant confirmation
US$ 24.59
The Best of Kundasang in Sabah
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Hotel pick-up
Small group
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 71.25
Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Optional Mangrove River Cruise
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English guided
Morning departure
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 72.49
Sunrise & Sunset Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience with Transfer
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English guided
Morning departure
Private group
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 19.99
Ventus Spa Massage Packages in Sabah
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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 16.70
Tandem Paragliding Experience in Borneo Ranau & Kokol Hill
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English guided
Up to 3 hrs
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 44.25
Mount Kinabalu Climb via Timpohon Trail with Private Guide
English guided
Morning departure
7+ hrs
Private group
US$ 412.75
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
Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty - Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik Island Ferry
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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 23.35
Kota Kinabalu｜Kota Kinabalu International Airport Private Airport Transfer
Bestseller
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US$ 8.29
Kota Kinabalu car rentals | Rent a car for Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kota Kinabalu, Sapi, Manukan Island, Kawa Kawa Wildlife
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From
US$ 30
US$ 49.09
Kota Kinabalu Private Car Charter
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 77.15
Kota Kinabalu and Outskirts Private Car Charter
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 190.89
Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Tune Hotel - 1Borneo Kota Kinabalu
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From
US$ 37.24
20 off
The Magellan Sutera Resort
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From
US$ 160.94
20 off
The Pacific Sutera Hotel
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From
US$ 108.79
20 off
Shangri La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu
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From
US$ 221.13
20 off
Hotel Capital
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From
US$ 32.94
US$ 33.27
20 off
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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From
US$ 58.31
20 off
Gayana Marine Resort
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From
US$ 261.17
20 off
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
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From
US$ 81.41
20 off
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
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From
US$ 77.67
20 off
Monocolo Boutique Hotel
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From
US$ 35.91
Hotel 7 Suria
Instant confirmation
From
US$ 49.20
20 off
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
Instant confirmation
From
US$ 53.47
Reviews of Kota Kinabalu activities
Jing ********
2026-04-30 11:55:02
Got a super nice female coach Fifi who was super patient in teaching us how to paddle and she also took very nice pictures! Went on a quiet morning so the sunrise was really beautiful and it was not crowded. The session was well paced so we had sufficient time to learn how to paddle and went all the way out in the sea to see the sunrise. The water was also clear that day so we managed to see some corals. Highly recommend to go for the sunrise session!
Lu ******
2026-02-11 05:44:32
Because there were many tourists, there was a bit of a wait, but the lesson started around 17:00 and went until sunset, which was plenty of time. The instructor was also attentive in teaching and helping with photos. Stand-up paddleboarding was a lot of fun, testing your balance in the waves, and is highly recommended!
Lee *****
2026-05-12 07:58:44
Excellent experience! The location is right within Shangrila hotel and easy to find. Our coach taught us well about the instructions and followed through your lesson to make sure everything went safe. He was super attentive and came to you straightaway once you fell. Thank you Zik and Sushi!
Klook会員
2026-05-31 16:50:02
The staff member was very friendly and gave a thorough lesson on how to ride, which made us feel comfortable and confident during the activity! We also received high-quality photos and videos, making it a truly unforgettable memory. I recommend confirming the meeting point beforehand, as it was a little difficult to find.
reni *******
2026-06-01 15:18:18
This trip was definitely my highlight of 6-day vacation in KK. The trip was well organized, with great itinerary and service from all the crew. We were being picked up on time at our hotel in KK by Jordan who drove smoothly and very kind. There were some selections of beverages for high tea (cold water, juice, coffee), also mung bean porridge and banana fritters, which were really good. During the cruise, we saw the proboscis monkeys, long tail, monitor lizard, and crocodile. Our guide, Garry was funny, knowledgeable, and was great in explaining about the animals & surrounding areas. We got back to the Jetty for early dinner with Malaysian cuisine buffet & it tasted delicious. Then we countinued the cruise to the mirror beach and took some pictures. On the way back, we got to see a lot of fireflies on the trees and Garry and the crew were good on inviting them to fly around us on the boat. Jordan then drove us back safely and comfortably to KK. Overall this tour is highly recommended!
Allaine ******
2026-03-05 22:51:43
Our Tour Guide Jerry was punctual with good vibes throughout our tour. Although I'm the only one who speaks English and most of the joiners were Chinese, he also explained in English so that I will be able to understand and makes sure that all is good. I had a so much fun and enjoyed the tour. He's also willing to take a picture and video on you. So going as solo joiner would not be difficulty ❤️ Highly recommended for Tourguide Jerry's service! Thank you.
Lyko ************
2026-04-01 09:00:46
Ian, our tour guide, was very informative, cool and accommodating. He always makes sure you are not felt alone in the group. He’ll make you feel you are belong. He constantly giving us the history of the place. This tour is a MUST be on your list tour. Getting away from the city and feeling the cool weather. The Mount Kota was breathtaking. The hanging bridge was great and also the Desa Dairy Farm. We wanted to take the cafe in Desa Farm but we didn’t have much time.
Jing ********
2026-04-30 12:20:26
Very nice and cosy island hopping experience. The boat ride was smooth and windy, the weather was very good that day. Both Sapi and Manukan Island had very nice beach. The tour guide, Nanak, is very friendly and answered all our question, also helped everyone take care of their bags and things. The banana boat and snorkelling are must go. Managed to see quite a few species of fish, snorkelling is limited to the areas near the shore but can spot quite a lot of fish. The sun is very strong so must apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Time was also sufficient and ended quite early at 3pm.
Klook User
2026-03-20 23:41:20
We were a group ranging from 8yrs to 71yrs. This trip was great for all! The transfer was comfortable, we saw Proboscis and long tail macaques, crocodiles and birds. The sunset was breathtaking and the fireflies were so beautiful. on the beach, you can pay extra to ride a small ATV which was likely the highlight of my 12yr old’s day! Our guide, Cathy was wonderful, we learned a lot about the mangroves and the creatures because of her!
Kota Kinabalu at a glance
Quick facts about Kota Kinabalu
General info
What to know before visiting Kota Kinabalu
Discover Kota Kinabalu’s highlights and rhythm
Kota Kinabalu is a coastal gateway known for a mix of day tours, water activities and cultural experiences, with cruises and massages also popular. Demand on Klook rises and falls through the year, with a pronounced high in early summer and much lower booking levels toward the end of the year.
When to visit: crowds, prices and the best months
According to Klook booking data, June is the peak month for demand while December shows the weakest demand. Prices on Klook drift through the year: they’re typically highest in September and lowest in December. For lower prices and smaller crowds, plan for December or the late-autumn months; for peak-season atmosphere and the busiest offerings, aim for June. Note that price and demand don’t always move together here — September has some of the priciest listings even though demand is not at its highest.
Tips for travellers from the United States
Most bookings are made fairly close to travel: typical lead time is about 2 days, with many last-minute bookings possible a day out and early planners booking a couple of weeks ahead. If you’re flexible, many experiences can be arranged shortly before departure; if you’re traveling in June (the busiest month), consider booking earlier to secure preferred time slots. Use Klook to compare available tours and water activities and lock in the options that suit your schedule.
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 in Kota Kinabalu if I'm traveling from the United States?
How far ahead should I book activities in Kota Kinabalu if I'm traveling from the United States?
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?