Set amidst 400 acres of tropical paradise in Sabah, Malaysia, the award-winning Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu is a luxury sanctuary where the rainforest meets the South China Sea. The resort features a 64-acre private nature reserve, a 3-km stretch of pristine white sand beach, and the prestigious Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club with its world-class 18-hole championship course. Guests can choose from the Garden Wing, ideal for families and friends with tranquil, nature-inspired rooms, or indulge in the Ocean Wing, where spacious suites feature private outdoor bathtubs, large balconies, and exclusive access to an outdoor jacuzzi.
With over 60 recreational activities, from watersports and horse riding along the beach to guided rainforest treks, birdwatching, and wildlife encounters, adventure awaits at every turn. Families are well cared for with dedicated kids’ programs, while couples and adults can savour the romance of spectacular sunset views over the South China Sea, best enjoyed with cocktails at the beachside Sampan Bar.
Culinary journeys span across six dining venues, including Japanese teppanyaki at Kozan, authentic Malaysian cuisine at Tepi Laut, Italian-inspired grills at Oceano, and more—ensuring every meal is memorable. Just 40 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Shangri-La Rasa Ria is the ultimate escape into nature, adventure, and luxury.
"This is my second stay at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, with the last one being 13 years ago. Although the hotel is older, the facilities are generally well-maintained. There are some minor damages in certain nooks and crannies, and while the bedding felt clean, I personally thought it was a bit old-fashioned. As a five-star hotel, I believe the linens should be updated more regularly. The service was excellent – warm and attentive. Some staff members could communicate in Chinese. Furthermore, knowing we had a child, they even converted the sofa into an extra bed in advance. The location is quite remote, so dining options are limited to the hotel itself. You can also use Grab, but the choices there are somewhat limited. The hotel's various restaurants offer different cuisines, catering to individual preferences, though the prices are a bit on the high side. The hotel has many activities available, which are great and fun for kids. If you have the budget for a family trip, I'd highly recommend it."