When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?

The dry season, from December to April, is the best time to travel. The weather is sunny with little rain, making it ideal for enjoying marine activities. The rainy season, from May to November, offers the advantage of more affordable travel.

What are the must-visit attractions in Kota Kinabalu?

We highly recommend visiting Tanjung Aru Beach, known for its world-class sunsets; Sapi Island, a snorkeler's paradise; Manukan Island, great for families; the romantic KK Waterfront; and the exotic Blue Mosque and Pink Mosque.

What is the best way to get around in Kota Kinabalu?

Since public transportation is not well-developed, using the Grab ride-hailing app is the most convenient and affordable option. To get to the islands, you can take a boat from Jesselton Point ferry terminal. For exploring outlying areas, renting a car is also a good choice.

Where is the best place to exchange currency in Kota Kinabalu?

Generally, the exchange rates are better at money changers in city shopping malls (e.g., Centre Point, Wisma Merdeka) than at the airport. It's recommended to exchange only what you need in the city.

What is the estimated budget for a 4-day trip to Kota Kinabalu?

Depending on your travel style, excluding airfare, you can expect to spend about $50-$100 USD per person per day. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and basic tour costs. The budget will be higher if you opt for luxury resorts or high-end restaurants.

Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide: 10 Must-Visit Places & Foods

Kota Kinabalu is a destination renowned for its natural wonders, like Kinabalu Park, and the spectacular sunsets at Tanjung Aru Beach. With relatively low costs and the convenience of the Grab ride-hailing app, it's an ideal spot for independent travelers. However, planning your first trip can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down all the essential information for your Kota Kinabalu adventure. We'll cover 10 must-visit attractions, the best local restaurants, and tips on the best time to visit, including weather information.

10 Must-Visit Destinations in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a perfect blend of city attractions and natural landscapes. To make the most of your trip, it's best to plan your itinerary by dividing it into downtown, island, and suburban areas. Here are 10 of the most popular spots for travelers.

Tanjung Aru Beach, a World-Class Sunset Spot

This is a highlight of any Kota Kinabalu trip. As evening approaches, you can witness the sky burst into brilliant shades of red and orange. For a less crowded experience, head to the far right end of the beach near the Shangri-La Resort. A great way to wait for the sunset is by enjoying grilled chicken wings or sugarcane juice from the beachside stalls.

Tanjung Aru Beach

Opening Hours: Open 24/7
Location: Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
Entrance Fee: Free

Sapi Island, Perfect for Snorkeling

This is an excellent spot to enjoy snorkeling with a variety of tropical fish in clear waters. The shallow depths make it easily accessible for beginners. It's relatively less crowded, allowing for a peaceful snorkeling experience. Bring some bread crumbs, and you'll see fish swarm around you.

Sapi Island

Opening Hours: 08:30 - 17:00
Location: Inside Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Entrance Fee: 20 RM (approx. $4.20 USD) (Marine Park fee is separate)

Manukan Island, Recommended for Family Trips

This is the largest island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. With its wide beach and well-equipped facilities, it's a great choice for families. You can enjoy marine activities like parasailing and sea walking, and conveniently use the restaurants and shower facilities.

Manukan Island

Opening Hours: 08:30 - 17:00
Location: Inside Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Entrance Fee: 20 RM (approx. $4.20 USD) (Marine Park fee is separate)

KK Waterfront, A Premier Night View Spot

This area features a strip of restaurants and pubs along the coast. Visiting around sunset allows you to enjoy dinner with a view of the sunset and the city's night lights. Live performances are often held in the evenings. It's recommended to book a window seat in advance.

KK Waterfront

Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (Restaurant and bar hours vary)
Location: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu

Sabah State Administrative Centre, A Unique Landmark

This iconic Kota Kinabalu building is famously known as the 'Battery Building' for its unique cylindrical shape. The 30-story circular structure has a distinctive facade and is a popular photo stop on city tours. The best spot for a commemorative photo is from a short distance in front of the building.

Sabah State Administrative Centre

Opening Hours: Exterior viewing only
Location: Jalan Tun Mustapha, Kota Kinabalu

Gaya Street Sunday Market, A Vibrant Local Experience

If your trip includes a Sunday, this market is a must-visit. You can find everything from local handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing to tropical fruits and street food. It’s a great place to experience the lively atmosphere of the local community. Try a refreshing coconut or mango juice to beat the heat.

Gaya Street

Opening Hours: Every Sunday 06:00 - 13:00
Location: Jalan Gaya, Kota Kinabalu

Signal Hill Observatory, A Panoramic View of the City

Located on a hill behind Gaya Street, this observatory offers a panoramic view of downtown Kota Kinabalu and the sea. While the daytime view is beautiful, it's also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset and the city lights come alive. You can walk up, but taking a Grab is recommended in hot weather.

Signal Hill Observatory

Opening Hours: 08:00 - 23:00
Location: Jalan Bukit Bendera, Kota Kinabalu

Kokol Hill Elf, A Viewpoint Above the Clouds

About a 45-minute drive from the city, this viewpoint sits 800 meters above sea level. It’s a popular spot for photos against a backdrop of clouds and stunning landscapes. The swing photo zone facing the sky is particularly famous. Using a half-day tour package is a convenient way to visit.

Kokol Hill Elf

Opening Hours: 07:00 - 22:00
Location: Kokol, Kota Kinabalu
Entrance Fee: 5 RM (approx. $1.05 USD)

Sabah State Mosque, The Blue Mosque

More commonly known as the Blue Mosque, this is the largest Islamic temple in Kota Kinabalu. It is characterized by its blue dome and architecture that seems to float on an artificial lake. Visitors are required to wear modest clothing that covers their arms and legs. Traditional attire (like hijabs) can be rented at the entrance.

Sabah State Mosque

Opening Hours: 08:00-12:00, 14:00-17:00
Location: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kota Kinabalu
Entrance Fee: Adults 5 RM (approx. $1.05 USD), Children free

Sabangar Mosque, The Pink Mosque

This mosque has recently gained popularity on social media for its stunning pink exterior. Although smaller than the Blue Mosque, it attracts fewer visitors, allowing for more relaxed photo opportunities. As it's a bit far from the city center, it's best to visit using a Grab.

Sabangar Mosque

Opening Hours: 08:00-12:00, 14:00-17:00
Location: Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park, Sepanggar
Entrance Fee: Free

Note for Visiting Mosques: Friday is the most important day of prayer in Islam, so most mosques restrict tourist entry or have shorter hours. It's wise to consider this when planning your trip.

Must-Try Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu

Welcome Seafood

Here, you can pick fresh seafood and have it cooked to your liking. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists due to its delicious seafood at affordable prices. It can get very crowded in the evening, so it's recommended to arrive a little early.

Welcome Seafood

Opening Hours: 11:00 - 23:00
Location: Asia City, Kota Kinabalu
Recommended Dishes: Chili Crab, Butter Prawns, Steamed Scallops

Peppermint (Jalan Gaya)

Located inside a shopping mall, this restaurant offers a clean and accessible dining experience. It serves a fusion of Vietnamese and Malaysian cuisine, with its rich-broth noodle soup being a popular choice. It's a great place for a quick meal while shopping.

Peppermint

Opening Hours: 10:00 - 22:00
Location: Inside Suria Sabah Shopping Mall
Recommended Dishes: Pho, Laksa, Chicken Rice

Yuit Cheong Sate House

With a history of over 100 years, this place is a favorite among locals for breakfast. The signature dish is Satay, Malaysian-style skewers served with a sweet peanut sauce. You can experience an affordable local breakfast with Kopi Teh Tarik, a traditional local coffee.

Yuit Cheong

Opening Hours: 07:00 - 17:00
Location: Jalan Pantai, Kota Kinabalu
Recommended Dishes: Satay (Beef, Chicken), Roti Canai, Kaya Toast

KK Waterfront Restaurants

This is the place to dine with a view of the sea and sunset. A variety of restaurants serving international cuisine are gathered here, offering a wide range of choices. It's an excellent spot for a memorable dinner during your trip.

KK Waterfront Restaurants

Opening Hours: 17:00 - 23:00 (Varies by restaurant)
Location: KK Waterfront Area
Recommended Dishes: Seafood Platter, Steak, Cocktails

Essential Travel Information for Kota Kinabalu

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Kota Kinabalu has a hot and humid tropical climate year-round, but it is divided into a dry season and a rainy season.

Dry Season (December - April): This is the best time to travel. With little rain and many sunny days, it's perfect for enjoying marine activities like island hopping and snorkeling.

Rainy Season (May - November): Tropical downpours, known as 'squalls,' are frequent, but it rarely rains all day. The advantage is that flight and accommodation prices are lower. If you want to save money, visiting during the rainy season is an option. It's a good idea to pack a small umbrella or a rain jacket.

Transportation Tips

Use Grab (Ride-Hailing App): This is an essential app for any independent traveler in Kota Kinabalu. Public transportation is not very convenient, making Grab the cheapest and most efficient way to get around. It's recommended to install the app and register your card information in advance.

Car Rental: If you want the freedom to explore areas outside the city, such as Kinabalu Park, renting a car is a viable option. However, be aware that Malaysia follows left-hand traffic, which is the opposite of countries like the US and South Korea, so drive with caution.

Island Hopping: To visit islands like Sapi and Manukan, you can take a boat from the 'Jesselton Point' ferry terminal in the city. There are multiple ticket counters, so you can compare prices before purchasing.

This guide has covered the essential destinations, restaurants, and weather information for your trip to Kota Kinabalu. It's a fantastic travel destination where you can enjoy both city sightseeing and island tours, all while witnessing one of the world's most beautiful sunsets in the evening.

The great advantage of independent travel is the flexibility to adjust your schedule as you wish. We recommend using Grab for transportation and planning your days flexibly based on the weather and how you feel.