Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital of Sabah, Malaysia, is a popular destination for both international travelers and locals seeking a memorable getaway. With its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage, this coastal city offers an array of attractions and activities to suit every taste. To fully enjoy your time in this beautiful part of the world, choosing the right accommodation is essential. Whether you’re planning an overseas vacation or a local staycation, we’ve compiled a list of 10 hotels in Kota Kinabalu that are worth considering for your next trip. These accommodations offer a blend of comfort, style, and convenience, ensuring a delightful stay for all types of travelers.

Shangri-La

Located at Pantai Dalit Tuaran, 89208 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, the Shangri-La Hotel is known for its excellent reputation and luxurious accommodations. This hotel is a famous spot for watching sunsets, allowing guests to unwind at the Sunset Bar while sipping on their favorite beverages. Situated away from the bustling city center, it offers a serene retreat for travelers who prefer to stay within the hotel’s comfortable surroundings.

The rooms at Shangri-La boast breathtaking views through their expansive windows, providing a picturesque setting for your stay. To cater to all your needs, the hotel offers a wide range of facilities, including a spa, ensuring a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai, located at Jln Karambunai, is an idyllic getaway that boasts private soft white beaches and a pristine ocean. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted by the enormous golf course available on-site, offering ample space to indulge in their favorite pastime.

One of the best sunset viewing spots in the area, Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai guarantees unforgettable memories during your Sabah vacation. The hotel has also played host to renowned personalities, such as Wang Yi, the former Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China, adding to its prestige.

The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort, another renowned hotel in Kota Kinabalu Sabah. situated in Sutera Harbour, is a five-star hotel that offers a luxurious beachfront experience at a slightly more affordable price compared to the other two famous beach hotels mentioned earlier. This resort is renowned for its prime location, which provides guests with one of the best spots to watch the sunset. With an impressive ocean view and wide-open vistas, the beauty of the surroundings is truly captivating.

Guests can enjoy a plentiful and tasty breakfast at the resort, and make use of the spacious swimming pool for relaxation and leisure. The rooms at The Magellan Sutera Resort are large and luxuriously decorated, although the interior style may appear a bit outdated due to the hotel’s age.

With such fantastic public facilities, there’s hardly any reason to venture into the city center. The resort ensures that you won’t get bored throughout your stay, offering beachfront restaurants and a private beach for guests to enjoy.

With their unique offerings and exceptional service, Shangri-La, Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai and Magellan Sutera Report are excellent choices for your stay in Kota Kinabalu, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Promenade

Promenade, located at Api-api Centre, is a 4-star hotel with a rich history and well-established reputation in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. This popular hotel offers numerous helpful amenities and impressive room views, ensuring a comfortable stay. Its location in the city center makes it an attractive choice, with an affordable price that doesn’t compromise on quality. As an added bonus, the hotel is situated near famous seafood eateries, such as Welcome Seafood Restaurant, allowing guests to indulge in the local cuisine.

Mercure

Mercure, located on Jalan Gaya, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah is a 4-star hotel that offers both convenience and quality. The stunning rooftop pool provides a serene setting to enjoy the sunset with fewer people, offering a unique urban experience. While it may not boast the same breathtaking sunset views as a beachfront hotel, its close proximity to the city’s attractions is a significant advantage. As part of an internationally recognized chain, Mercure ensures high-quality standards throughout your stay. The hotel is also within walking distance to the famous Gaya Street, making it a convenient option for exploring the city.

The Aru Hotel

The Aru Hotel, situated in Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah is a remarkable accommodation that features a 360-degree panoramic view from its rooftop. This hotel is only a 5-minute drive from the airport, making it an ideal choice for travelers. Guests can enjoy direct views of Mount Kinabalu, the sea, and breathtaking sunsets, creating unforgettable memories. Notably, The Aru Hotel is the first hotel in Sabah to feature a multi-level automated parking system imported from Japan, showcasing its commitment to innovation and convenience. This hotel comes highly recommended for both tourists and locals looking for a staycation with a touch of luxury.

The Luma Hotel

The Luma Hotel, located at Sutera Avenue, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah is a trendy and modern accommodation choice for travelers looking for a convenient and stylish stay in Kota Kinabalu. Its prime location across the street from the famous Imago Shopping Centre allows guests to indulge in retail therapy and explore the variety of delicious food options in the vicinity.

This new and Instagrammable hotel showcases a unique design with a rustic and natural wood-inspired element, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each room is thoughtfully designed with comfort and aesthetics in mind, providing a cozy retreat after a long day of sightseeing. The hotel also offers a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, big bath tubs, and a flat-screen TV in each room.

The Luma Hotel’s friendly and attentive staff ensure that guests have a memorable and hassle-free stay. With its combination of style, convenience, and exceptional service, The Luma Hotel is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and chic experience in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Hyatt Centric

Hyatt Centric, situated at 18, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, is an elegant 5-star hotel in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. This luxurious hotel offers unparalleled convenience, with Suria Sabah Shopping Centre and Jesselton Mall just a short stroll away, making it the perfect base for exploring the city.

Guests can expect premium amenities and top-notch service that match the hotel’s price, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Each room is tastefully decorated and equipped with conveniences such as Wi-Fi, floor-to-ceiling windows, mini bar, terrace and a flat-screen TV. Additional facilities include a fitness center, swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant, providing guests with everything they need for a relaxing stay.

One unique feature of Hyatt Centric is its pet-friendly policy, which welcomes service pets on a case-by-case basis. Guests are encouraged to contact the hotel prior to booking to make arrangements for their furry companions. With its combination of luxury, convenience, and exceptional service, Hyatt Centric is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a premium experience in Kota Kinabalu.

The Cara Boutique Hotel

The Cara Boutique Hotel, situated at Aeropod Commercial Square, is a hidden gem in Kota Kinabalu Sabah that offers guests a stylish yet affordable accommodation experience. This hotel stands out for its reasonable prices, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who still appreciate a touch of luxury and taste.

The hotel’s Instagrammable design features a rustic and natural wood-inspired element that adds warmth and charm to the space. Each room is thoughtfully decorated with attention to detail, ensuring that guests feel comfortable and relaxed during their stay. The Cara Boutique Hotel provides complete and high-quality toiletries, adding an extra layer of convenience for its guests.

In addition to its beautiful design and comfortable amenities, The Cara Boutique Hotel is an ideal setting for celebrating special occasions with loved ones. The cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or holidays with your partner. A trip to this hotel with your best friends guarantees a memorable experience, with countless photo opportunities to cherish for years to come.

Monocolo Boutique Hotel

Monocolo, situated at Mile 1.5, Jalan Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah is an exceptional budget-friendly hotel that offers excellent value for money. Despite being the most affordable option on this list, the hotel exudes a sense of luxury, thanks to its tasteful design and excellent natural lighting.

With only 64 rooms available, Monocolo ensures a comfortable stay for its guests. The hotel offers Wi-Fi and features a high-end restaurant on-site. The earthy tones and colors of the hotel’s interior create a harmonious space, making it a pleasant retreat after a day of exploration. Monocolo is well-equipped with toiletries, and the friendly front desk staff is always ready to assist guests with their needs.

Both The Cara Boutique Hotel and Monocolo offer unique and stylish accommodations for travelers seeking budget-friendly options in Kota Kinabalu without compromising on comfort and aesthetics.

In conclusion, choosing the right hotel for your stay in Kota Kinabalu Sabah depends on your travel plans, budget, and personal preferences. The hotels mentioned in this article cater to different tastes and budgets, ensuring that there is a perfect option for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or affordability, these hotels offer unique experiences that will enhance your visit to Kota Kinabalu.

If you have stayed at any of these hotels or others in the area, we encourage you to share your experiences on our Reviewbah app. Your reviews will help fellow travelers make informed decisions when selecting their accommodations, contributing to a more enjoyable and memorable trip for everyone. By sharing your insights and recommendations, you can play a valuable role in helping others discover the best that Kota Kinabalu has to offer. Happy travels!

Where to stay: 10 hotels kota kinabalu sabah