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Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

1. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (999 reviews)
"Everything was perfect and we enjoyed our stay very much. A special mention deserves the staff ,everyone we encountered was genuinely very kind and happy to help and make our stay memorable. The breakfast was amazing. Also the pool was very nice."
United Kingdom
Ines
The price is SAR 329
SAR 365 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Sep - 19 Sep
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

2. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Hotel bello"
Italy
Davide
The price is SAR 345
SAR 382 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Sep - 19 Sep
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

3. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (212 reviews)
"Hotel staff and facilities were excellent. The breakfast buffet was phenomenal—wonderful, personalized service from Encik Fauzi and the rest of the team and a wide selection of food options, including many local favorites!"
United States
Paul
The price is SAR 561
SAR 615 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Sep - 18 Sep
Hyatt Centric Kota 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, (238 reviews)
"The cleaning staff did a great job keeping the room clean. The food was excellent."
Japan
Genya
The price is SAR 214
SAR 280 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Sep - 21 Sep
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

5. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,001 reviews)
"Very spacious rooms, location is perfect, the staff is very friendly "
Canada
Cilla
The price is SAR 353
SAR 391 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

6. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (619 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is SAR 419
SAR 462 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sep - 17 Sep
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

7. Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (954 reviews)
"Great location."
United Kingdom
Michelle
The price is SAR 264
SAR 312 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sep - 14 Sep
Horizon Hotel

8. 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 159
SAR 188 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Sep - 15 Sep
The Klagan Hotel

9. Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (603 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 296
SAR 332 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

10. The Jesselton Hotel

The Jesselton Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (468 reviews)
"Very convenient, friendly staff"
Malaysia
Henn Kiew
The price is SAR 190
SAR 217 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Sep - 6 Sep
The Jesselton Hotel

11. Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (921 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel ,location perfect with many restaurants to choose from and coffee shop right next door,so loved the fact that after a day out we relaxed with a coffee seated outside next to hotel .a door in the hotel lead us through into the 8th floor shopping mall , a wow factor . The food selection was superb . A grand hotel all in all"
United Kingdom
lana
The price is SAR 353
SAR 390 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sep - 2 Sep
Grandis Hotel

12. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (157 reviews)
"Good value, clean, convenient location."
United States
Raul Miguel
The price is SAR 336
SAR 372 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sep - 17 Sep
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

13. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (78 reviews)
"Clean and spacious room with very friendly staff."
Singapore
John
The price is SAR 261
SAR 291 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Sep - 7 Sep
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

14. Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (251 reviews)
"High cost performance. Very close to the Friday night market."
Japan
Kanai
The price is SAR 157
SAR 180 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Sep - 6 Sep
Mandarin Hotel

15. CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (54 reviews)
"Clean and comfortable lodging, I could recommend. Good location- easy walk to fish market. Can honestly say for the price was a good deal. "
Australia
Scott
The price is SAR 101
SAR 119 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
CJ Residence

16. 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 83
SAR 109 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

17. Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (2 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 484
SAR 532 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Sep - 7 Sep
Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

18. 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, (96 reviews)
"I had great time during my trip, easy check in and out, walking distance to most places"
Canada
Zhen
The price is SAR 135
SAR 155 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Sep - 21 Sep
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

19. The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu

The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (334 reviews)
"Room is very noisy Everything else was great Amazing breakfast and amazing staff "
Canada
Farzad
The price is SAR 243
SAR 296 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu

20. Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (196 reviews)
"Helpful staff that let me check in early :)"
Australia
Brittany
The price is SAR 83
SAR 108 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sep - 5 Sep
Hotel Gaia 95
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
Deluxe Double Room (CJ 1) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board (on request)
CJ Residence
2.5 star property
9.6
Exceptional
54 reviews
View
Deluxe Room | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group
4.5 star property
9.8
Exceptional
37 reviews
View
City Double Room (AC 9) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board (on request)
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
96 reviews
View
Grand Double Room | Premium bedding, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace
ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.8
Exceptional
6 reviews
View
Premium bedding, Select Comfort beds, in-room safe, desk
AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
10 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.

Karambunai

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

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.

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 Centric Kota Kinabalu is one of the top choices for your stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This hotel offers 2 bars and a restaurant. Other good choices for your stay in the neighborhood include Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu and Hyatt Regency Kinabalu.
How many hotels should I expect to find in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Expedia has 326 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.