A clock tower with a weather vane, surrounded by lush greenery and a white fence.

Find hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Star rating

Guest rating

Selecting then applying a filter from this group will update the results on a new page

Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

1. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"A good stay in KK and a great location"
Malaysia
Sri Ganesh
The price is SAR 340
SAR 377 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Oct - 25 Oct
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

2. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"Great location - close to all amenities and the waterfront Great roof top pool although very overpriced food in the restaurants. Great staff Would definitely recommend"
Australia
Michaela
The price is SAR 302
SAR 335 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

3. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
The price is SAR 314
SAR 348 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

4. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (251 reviews)
"The cleaning staff did a great job keeping the room clean. The food was excellent."
Japan
Genya
The price is SAR 181
SAR 241 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

5. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (224 reviews)
"Very helpful staff good location"
United Kingdom
MRS
The price is SAR 383
SAR 422 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

6. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (82 reviews)
"Great locations and tidy facilities"
Australia
Thomas
The price is SAR 257
SAR 287 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Oct - 25 Oct
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

7. CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (57 reviews)
"The communication was prompt, accurate, and polite full. Staff assisted by carrying out luggage upstairs, and is happy and polite. The massage chair was an amazing addition to our stay. In the heart of all shops. Will definitely book with them again."
Australia
Kunthea
The price is SAR 103
SAR 120 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
CJ Residence

8. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (629 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is SAR 376
SAR 415 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

9. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (100 reviews)
"I had great time during my trip, easy check in and out, walking distance to most places"
Canada
Zhen
The price is SAR 136
SAR 156 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

10. The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"I enjoyed my stay. The staff were friendly and the room was clean and comfortable.The breakfast served was very good. The location was very good too."
Australia
John
The price is SAR 182
SAR 224 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
The Klagan Hotel

11. The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Fun place to stay with a family. Lots of kid friendly areas and activities. "
United States
Bethany
The price is SAR 427
SAR 476 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
The Magellan Sutera Resort

12. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (380 reviews)
"The location was close to many attractions. The hotel gym was very well equipped."
Taiwan
Joshua
The price is SAR 109
SAR 117 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre

13. Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (610 reviews)
"Facilities a bit aged but clean room with nice club lounge room. Comfortable bed and good breakfast spread of local cruisine."
Singapore
Shih Chung
The price is SAR 329
SAR 365 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

14. Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3 reviews)
"Modern hotel in the Centre of KK! Surrounding areas a little sketchy, but hotel incredible. Room was amazing, large and well equipped. "
Australia
Mark
The price is SAR 440
SAR 485 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

15. The Jesselton Hotel

The Jesselton Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (470 reviews)
"Very convenient, friendly staff"
Malaysia
Henn Kiew
The price is SAR 211
SAR 237 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
The Jesselton Hotel

16. Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (925 reviews)
"Everything was just as we expected"
Canada
Monika
The price is SAR 439
SAR 484 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
Grandis Hotel

17. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Comfortable stay at Dreamtel. Breakfast was good, staff was service-minded, and room was nice. The hotel has a central location. Good value for money."
Denmark
Anonymous traveler
The price is SAR 112
SAR 142 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

18. Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (955 reviews)
"Great location."
United Kingdom
Michelle
The price is SAR 210
SAR 247 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Horizon Hotel

19. Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu

Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.6 out of 10, Good, (741 reviews)
"Property was in a good location. Staff very friendly and cleaning staff done an excellent job during my whole stay. Hotel was very clean too."
United Kingdom
scott
The price is SAR 125
SAR 148 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu

20. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (741 reviews)
"Great location with close proximity to shopping & dining."
Singapore
MUN TAT
The price is SAR 196
SAR 221 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Compare popular hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet friendly
WiFi included
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a desk with a chair, and a window with a view of buildings.
CJ Residence
2.5 star property
9.6
Exceptional
57 reviews
View
A hotel room with a neatly made bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a view of the city through the window.
A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
10.0
Exceptional
5 reviews
View
A spacious bedroom with a large bed, a sitting area, and a view of the outdoors through large windows.
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group
4.5 star property
9.8
Exceptional
37 reviews
View
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a wardrobe, and a window with a city view.
ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.8
Exceptional
6 reviews
View
A hotel room with a bed, a window with a view of a cityscape, a wooden door, and a wall-mounted coat rack.
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
100 reviews
View

Where to stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Find the best Downtown Kota Kinabalu areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Tanjung Aru

Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Tanjung Aru. Make a stop by top sights like Tanjung Aru Perdana Park while you're exploring the area.

Kampung Air

Unique features of Kampung Air include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Kompleks Asia City or Sedco Square while you're exploring the area.

Alamesra

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Alamesra and surrounding area, you can visit 1Borneo Hypermall and Likas Stadium.

Karambunai

Visitors highly recommend Karambunai for its beaches, and you can make a stop by Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai while you're in town.

Likas

Likas is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can plan an outing to Likas Stadium and Likas Sports Complex while you're in town.

Top Downtown Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Top reasons to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu

  • Vibrant City Life: Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a lively atmosphere with bustling markets, shopping malls, and a vibrant waterfront, perfect for exploration.
  • Cultural Experiences: Discover the rich culture through local cuisine, stunning mosques, and city tours that highlight Sabah's heritage.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like hiking at Mount Kinabalu and exploring nearby natural attractions that showcase the region's beauty.
  • Accommodation Variety: Choose from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, catering to all types of travelers.
  • Scenic Views: Experience breathtaking views of the harbor and city skyline, making it ideal for photography and relaxation.

Find great hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Explore a variety of hotel accommodation options in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, where you can find everything from luxurious 5-star hotels like Hyatt Regency Kinabalu and Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu to cozy hostels perfect for budget travelers. Whether you're on a business trip, a family vacation, or seeking a city-themed getaway, you'll discover spacious rooms and excellent services designed to enhance your stay in this vibrant Malaysian destination.

  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Experience a blend of luxury and family-friendly accommodations at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu. This 5-star hotel is situated in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including cribs and a dedicated children's pool. The hotel's central location allows easy access to local attractions, while its spacious rooms and attentive service ensure a comfortable stay for all ages.
  • The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Embrace a luxurious beachside getaway at The Pacific Sutera Hotel, a stunning 5-star resort located in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. With direct access to the beach, this property is perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa offering aromatherapy treatments and massage services, or enjoy fun at the waterslide. The hotel's upscale amenities and tranquil atmosphere make it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind in a picturesque setting.
  • The Magellan Sutera Resort: Ideal for families seeking a spa-themed retreat, The Magellan Sutera Resort offers a wealth of amenities and activities for guests of all ages. This 5-star resort is nestled in Downtown Kota Kinabalu and features a children's arcade game room, playground, and dedicated pool for kids. Adults can unwind at the luxurious spa, which includes a sauna and hot tub. With its family-friendly atmosphere and relaxation options, this resort promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

Where to stay near Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant hub perfect for family, business, and romantic getaways. Here, you can explore the lively Kota Kinabalu City Centre, enjoy stunning city views, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. The friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly options make it ideal for travelers seeking relaxation or adventure. Don't miss the nearby attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty and cultural richness, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this charming Malaysian city.

  • Kota Kinabalu: As the vibrant capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. Located along the coast of Borneo, this city is known for its stunning waterfront and proximity to beautiful islands. Visitors can indulge in a mix of family-friendly attractions, shopping malls, and private clubs. The local parks and marina provide perfect spots for relaxation and recreation. With steady visitor numbers year-round, the peak seasons of July to August and December bring even more life to this bustling city.
  • Pusat Bandar: Just 483m from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar presents a charming village atmosphere with a business-friendly vibe. This area is easily accessible and features a variety of shopping centers and public markets that cater to both locals and tourists. The vibrant streets and parks offer a delightful experience for families and city explorers alike. Visitors can enjoy stunning lookout points that showcase the beauty of the surroundings, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls.
  • Bandaran Berjaya: Also situated 483m from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Bandaran Berjaya is a quaint village known for its excellent resort facilities and private clubs. This area attracts travelers seeking a balanced mix of leisure and city experiences. The nearby harbor and marina are perfect for water activities and scenic views. With consistent visitor numbers, especially during the peak months of April, July, and September, Bandaran Berjaya offers a warm welcome to families and business travelers alike.

Things to do in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is perfect for family and business vacations, offering a vibrant blend of activities. Visitors can enjoy shopping at various malls and the public market, indulge in city tours, and engage in window shopping. Outdoor activities and recreational spots enhance the experience, making it an ideal destination for day trips and exploring the local culture.

Shopping

Experience the vibrant shopping scene in Downtown Kota Kinabalu at Imago Shopping Mall, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Don't miss the Gaya Street Sunday Market for local treasures and Suria Sabah Shopping Mall for a blend of shopping and dining options.

Recreation

Likas Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for jogging or outdoor workouts. Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai provides a scenic golf experience surrounded by nature, while Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club exudes luxury, ideal for relaxing and enjoying exquisite views on the golf course.

Adventure

Experience thrilling climbs at Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, located 1.6km from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, featuring an exciting outdoor sports atmosphere. For a unique adventure, try Zip Borneo, a zipline ropes course located 25.7km away, or hike the scenic trails of Bukit Padang, 3.2km away.

Nightlife

In Downtown Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant nightlife buzzes with energy. Visit the lively Waterfront Esplanade for stunning views and street food, or head to Upperstar for a casual bar vibe. Don't miss the popular clubs like Club Paradise, where the music and dancing keep the night alive.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Kota Kinabalu

For an affordable trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider visiting in March, May, or November when hotel prices are lower. Book your accommodations about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's filters to find budget-friendly eco-certified hotels, and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Enjoy free activities around the city to make the most of your trip without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family vacations, business trips, and urban exploration. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including the scenic harbor, vibrant tourist precinct, and stunning mosques. The area caters to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Highlights include Mount Kinabalu, the Kota Kinabalu City Waterfront, and various local tourist spots that showcase the city's charm and beauty.

  • Sutera Harbour: Experience the serene beauty of Sutera Harbour, a picturesque location in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. Enjoy stunning beach views and vibrant scenery vibes, perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls along the waterfront.
  • Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: A lively outdoor tourist precinct, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is ideal for families and visitors alike. Engage in various activities, savor local food, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere as you explore this bustling waterfront area.
  • Sabah State Mosque: Located a mile from Downtown, Sabah State Mosque showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings provide a unique opportunity to appreciate local traditions and spirituality.

Best time to go to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Traveling to Downtown Kota Kinabalu is convenient with Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located 6.4km away. Nearby, you can find luxurious accommodations such as the Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, both 6.4km from the airport, offering various transportation services, including airport shuttles available on request. The Magellan Sutera Resort is another excellent option, situated 4.8km from the airport, providing easy access for guests. All these hotels ensure a comfortable stay while being well-connected to the airport, making your arrival and departure hassle-free.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Travelers love the Downtown Kota Kinabalu neighborhood for its beautiful island views, top seafood restaurants, and major shopping area. Are you looking for Downtown Kota Kinabalu travel tips? Be sure to check out Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market while you're in the neighborhood.
Where is the best hotel for a stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveler data, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is one of the top choices for your stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This hotel offers 2 restaurants and 2 bars. Other good choices for your stay in the neighborhood include Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu and Hotel 7 Suria.
How many hotels should I expect to find in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Expedia has 328 hotels and other accommodations in Downtown Kota Kinabalu to choose from, making this an ideal home base for exploring the greater Kota Kinabalu area.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to view the best deals in Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
For more information about changing or cancelling your trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.
What is there to do around this Kota Kinabalu neighborhood?
Planning to do some shopping while in Downtown Kota Kinabalu? Consider Centre Point, Kota Kinabalu Central Market, and KK Plaza. You could also plan a visit to Imago Shopping Mall or Gaya Street Sunday Market while you're in the neighborhood. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Kota Kinabalu include Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Anjung Samudera, and Warisan Square. While you're out sightseeing, Local Fruits Market and Anjung Kinabalu are a couple of additional sights to visit in Kota Kinabalu.