Kota Kinabalu
Capital of Sabah state in Malaysian Borneo, Kota Kinabalu (KK) is the gateway to Mount Kinabalu, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and pristine islands. A vibrant waterfront city combining natural beauty with cultural diversity.
Hand-picked hotels and accommodations from Agoda (20 properties)
Also check attractions in other Malaysia cities:
Fresh seafood, butter prawns
Chinese seafood by the waterfront
Italian cuisine, wood-fired pizza
Traditional Sabah breakfast, ngiu chap
Kadazan-Dusun indigenous cuisine
Tex-Mex, rooftop dining
Also check restaurants in other Malaysia cities:
Largest mall in KK. Department stores, fashion, food court, cinema. Connected to Jesselton Point ferry terminal.
Sunday morning only. Local produce, street food, handicrafts, plants. Authentic local shopping experience.
Waterfront location. Pearls, traditional fabrics, woodcarvings, beadwork. Bargaining essential.
Modern lifestyle mall with international brands, restaurants, and entertainment. Near 1Borneo Hypermall.
Various locations nightly. Sedco Saturday market popular. Local food, fruits, clothes.
March - October (dry season), July - August (peak)
$40-80/day
4-6 days
UTC+8 (MYT)
Malay, English, Kadazan, Mandarin
MYR (Malaysian Ringgit)
Recommended plan for efficient sightseeing
💡 Check in hotel. Walk along waterfront. Visit Signal Hill Observatory for city views and Mount Kinabalu backdrop.
💡 Visit floating mosque (remove shoes, dress modestly). Browse Filipino Market for pearls and handicrafts. Bargaining expected.
💡 Famous KK sunset spot. Relax at beach bar, enjoy fresh coconut. Dinner at seafood restaurants along beach.
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
high
Tropical climate. Dry season March-October best for islands and Mt Kinabalu. Monsoon November-February brings rain and rough seas. Hot and humid year-round in city, cooler at Mt Kinabalu.
Handshake common. Respectful nod to elders. Multi-ethnic (Kadazan-Dusun, Chinese, Malay).
Casual beach attire fine. Modest dress at mosques. Remove shoes at religious sites and homes.
Not expected. Round up for excellent service. 10% at upscale restaurants if no service charge.
