2025 Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide: Weather, Transportation, Popular Attractions, and Everything You Need (Updated 2025 3)

About Kota Kinabalu

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

31°C

View Local Experiences on Map

Kota Kinabalu Local Travel Guide 2025

View More





Kota Kinabalu Brief Guide

Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of Malaysia's Sabah, or Borneo. In downtown Kota Kinabalu, there are cultural sites such as the astounding Masjid Bandaraya (Kota Kinabalu City Mosque) and the Atkinson Clock Tower as well as gastronomical ones like Welcome Seafood Restaurant and Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant. Leaving the city proper, Kota Kinabalu has islands such as Sapi Island, which are suitable for snorkeling. There are also mountains to climb, such as Malaysia's famous Gunung Kinabalu, or Mount Kinabalu.

Kota Kinabalu Must-try Local Experiences

1. Discover Kota Kinabalu City Centre Explore the heart of Kota Kinabalu by visiting historical landmarks like the Atkinson Clock Tower, the vibrant Central Market, and the Sabah State Museum to delve into the cultural heritage. 2. Embark on an Island Hopping Adventure in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park Escape to the pristine islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for sandy beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking island views. 3. Experience the Mari Mari Cultural Village Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Sabah's indigenous tribes at the Mari Mari Cultural Village, where you can witness traditional dances, sample local delicacies, and learn about their customs. 4. Witness the Pesta Kaamatan Harvest Festival Join the locals in celebrating the rice harvest at the Pesta Kaamatan, a vibrant festival filled with traditional rituals, music, dance, and delicious food. 5. Sample Local Cuisine Indulge in the diverse culinary scene of Kota Kinabalu, from fresh seafood to traditional dishes like Tuaran Mee, Ngiu Chap, and Ambuyat. 6. Explore the Handicraft Market Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market, including intricate beadwork, traditional textiles, and handcrafted wooden items. 7. Capture the Sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach Witness breathtaking sunsets over the South China Sea at Tanjung Aru Beach, perfect for stunning photographs. 8. Photograph the Cityscape from Signal Hill Observatory Tower Get a panoramic view of Kota Kinabalu from Signal Hill Observatory Tower, offering a fantastic vantage point for capturing the city's skyline and surrounding landscapes. 9. Take a River Cruise on the Klias River Embark on a river cruise along the Klias River to spot wildlife such as proboscis monkeys and fireflies, capturing the natural beauty of Sabah.

Kota Kinabalu Travel Tips

1. Book Mount Kinabalu Climb in Advance: If you plan to climb Mount Kinabalu, make sure to book your permit and accommodation well in advance as slots fill up quickly. It is recommended to book at least 3-6 months ahead. To climb legally at Panalaban, you must obtain a climb permit which is tied to your accommodation or bed. 2. Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Kota Kinabalu is home to various ethnic groups and religions. Dress modestly and be respectful when visiting places of worship. Avoid public displays of affection. 3. Ramadan Considerations: If visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants may be closed or have limited hours, so plan meals accordingly. 4. Beware of Strong Currents and Jellyfish: When swimming at beaches in Kota Kinabalu, be cautious of strong currents and jellyfish, especially during the monsoon season. Follow beach warning flags, swim near lifeguards, and avoid swimming alone in remote areas. 4. Wildlife Encounter Safety: When visiting wildlife sanctuaries or forests, maintain a safe distance from animals and follow guide instructions. Never feed wild animals, as it can be dangerous and disrupt their natural behavior. Be cautious of dangerous animals like snakes, crocodiles, and centipedes. Always wear appropriate clothing and use insect repellent to protect against bites. 5. Drone Photography Regulations: Drone photography is regulated in Kota Kinabalu. Ensure you have the necessary permits from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and avoid flying drones near airports, stations, docks, railroad stations, palaces, city halls and private areas. Always maintain a direct visual line of sight with your drone and do not fly higher than 120 meters.

Kota Kinabalu Must-see Attractions

Kota Kinabalu is a Malaysian city offering diverse attractions, including the stunning sunsets at Tanjung Aru Beach, the architectural beauty of Masjid Bandaraya, the serene Mengalum Island, the cultural vibrancy of Gaya Street market, and the natural paradise of Manukan Island.

Kota Kinabalu Nightlife Highlights

Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant tourist destination with a rich array of nighttime activities. The night there offers a variety of choices from exploring delicious cuisine to strolling along the beach, ensuring visitors can enjoy an energetic and fun-filled evening.

Kota Kinabalu Where to Stay

Kota Kinabalu is a prime destination in Malaysia, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and diverse accommodation options. The city's lodging is spread across various areas, each offering unique experiences to travelers, from beachfront relaxation to cultural immersion in local markets.

Kota Kinabalu Food Guide

Kota Kinabalu's food scene is a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, featuring the herbal-infused bak kut teh, the nostalgic Hainanese chicken rice, and the unique Sabah Laksa, each offering a taste of the region's diverse culinary traditions and community connections.

Kota Kinabalu Useful Guide

Kota Kinabalu's transportation infrastructure is centered around its international airport and main bus terminals, which are essential for intercity travel. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is the primary aviation hub in the region, located approximately 8 km southwest of the city center. As the second busiest airport in Malaysia, KKIA serves as a gateway to East Malaysia and is a hub for several airlines. Terminal 1 is the main terminal, equipped to handle 9 million passengers annually, while Terminal 2 is dedicated to cargo and general aviation. To reach the city from KKIA, travelers can use taxis or an airport bus service, with the latter being a more economical option. The North Bus Terminal Inanam is the primary station for long-distance buses, situated about 10 km from the city center. It connects Kota Kinabalu to key cities on the East Coast and operates daily with air-conditioned buses. Another significant terminal is KK Sentral, which provides express bus services to destinations such as Beaufort, Sipitang, Menumbok, Lawas, and Brunei. It is the first smart and systematic bus station in Sabah, offering facilities like ticket counters, food courts, and parking lots.