Think KK is just another regular, sleepy town?
Think again. Kota Kinabalu is one of our favourite Cuti-Cuti Malaysia spots, and we're about to convince you on why it's at the top of our list. From cheap seafood to easily-accessible islands, breathtaking sunsets, cute cafes, and scenic views, KK has more to eat, see, and do than you think!
Here's a list of our recommendations of best things to do in and around KK, including day trips (or road trips) you can take if you wish to venture out of the city.
💡 KK travel essential: rent a car for your adventure! 🚗
Best things to do in and around KK, Sabah
1. Catch a sunset at the Tanjung Aru Beach
Photo Credits: @oday_j
Did you know that the sunsets in Kota Kinabalu have frequently been crowned among the best in the world? 🌅 One of the best spots to relax and watch the sun paint the sky orange is the popular Tanjung Aru Beach, a long sandy stretch that attracts throngs of people in the evenings. Bring along a picnic mat if you'd like to sit on the beach and watch the sun go down accompanied by gentle waves!
Want a bit more excitement? Book fun experiences such as stand up paddling, sunset kayaking, or thrilling water sports at Tanjung Aru on Klook for a unique way to enjoy the beautiful orange skies!
2. Go island-hopping at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Photo Credit: @wg.kaori
Island hopping is a popular activity in KK thanks to its close proximity to a handful of lovely islands, most located just a 20-minute boat ride away. The easiest islands to go island-hopping at are the cluster of pulaus under the wings of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. You can get here by boarding a speedboat or engaging a day tour, and can spend sun-drenched hours snorkelling, parasailing, sea-walking, or just sunbathing at Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik, Pulau Gaya, and Pulau Borong.
3. Learn how to scuba dive
Sabah is a famous destination to pick up diving skills, thanks to its world famous diving spots and crystal clear waters. Kota Kinabalu is no exception, offering plenty of opportunities to locals and tourists alike to experience its underwater beauty with PADI-certified diving courses and leisure diving experiences. There are various diving activities and courses to choose from, depending on your level of experience.
4. Visit some cute cafes
Photo Credit: @cafe.hopping.kk
Bet you didn't know know that KK has a vibrant cafe-hopping scene! There are numerous charming and aesthetic cafes in Kota Kinabalu town, perfect for resting your legs after all that sightseeing, and to grab a cup of coffee, dessert, or brunch. Here's a list of some of our favourite ones:
- Biru Biru Cafe
- October Coffee Gaya
- Nook Cafe
- Woo!
- Coastal Coffee Club
- Tamaha Kitchen
- Ampersand Specialty Coffee
Best part? Most of these cafes are located close to each other, and you can easily get from one to another by foot.
5. Have breakfast or lunch at the local restaurants
Photo Credit: @thepennywisee
Cafe food aside, you'll have to sample the various local delicacies while in Kota Kinabalu! Every state in Malaysia has its delicious food to offer, and Sabah is definitely not an exception. From comforting bowls of beef noodles to indulgent chicken wings and hearty plates of Tuaran Mee, you'll be spoilt for choice with the food options here. Pssst, if you're a fan of fried chicken, be sure to check out Borenos Fried Chicken, Sabah's very own fried chicken fast food chain. 😍
Some other recommended local restaurants:
- Yee Fung Laksa
- Yii Siang Hainan Ngiu Chap (beef noodles)
- Teck Kee Restaurant (tuaran mee)
- Kedai Kopi Fatt Kee
- Fook Yuen Bakery Cafe
6. Have a seafood feast
Seafood is definitely a star of KK, and is known to not only be incredibly fresh, but very cheap compared to the prices in Peninsular Malaysia. There are many seafood restaurants in KK town, offering extensive menus with everything from traditional recipes to innovative dishes.
Plan your food trail carefully so you'll get to sample the fresh seafood KK has to offer, from crabs to prawns, fish, clams, oysters, and more! Here are a few spots you can check out:
- Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant
- Sasa Seafood Restaurant (Muslim-friendly)
- Fish Market Restaurant (Muslim-friendly)
- Welcome Seafood Restaurant (Muslim-friendly)
- Tung Fong Seafood Restaurant (Muslim-friendly)
- He Jia Fo Seafood Restaurant (Halal-certified)
7. Have a drink at the KK Waterfront
Photo Credit: @monz_journey
The KK Waterfront is a perfect spot to unwind after a long day. Located along the sea and lined with bars, restaurants, and clubs, it offers refreshing drinks, live music in the evenings, and stunning sunset views. If you'd like, you can also book your accommodation at one of the hotels located by the waterfront! Some of our favourites include the Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu.
8. Check out the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market
Located next to the KK Waterfront, the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market is where you can get souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, bags, and more at affordable prices. Come over to put your bargaining skills to the test, and you might walk away with a steal 😉
Pssst, keep an eye out for unique local crafts (from traditional wind instruments to blowpipes, hand-weaved bags, paintings, and more) if you wanna bring home something that reminds you of beautiful Sabah.
9. Get a slice of Bali at Le'One Kokol Elf
Photo Credit: @chuchumom_nazzi
Photo Credit: @orkedmerahjambu02
Photo Credit: @percutian_kundasang
Get a slice of little Bali in Sabah at this sweet spot in KK! Perched at the top of Kokol Hill, Le'One Kokol Elf is a colourful hangout spot close to town. From a mega swing to picturesque views, plenty of sitting areas, and even a restaurant, it's perfect for hanging out, and snapping photos for the 'gram.
Get here via a 30-minute drive from the city centre, easy peasy if you've rented a car on Klook, or join a short tour with transfers from your hotel.
10. Visit the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
Photo Credit: @annnnna_life
Photo Credit: @rapampa_i (Instagram)
Located by the sea, the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque has been likened to the Nabawi Mosque in Medina due to similar features that are exemplary of Islamic contemporary architecture. This elegant floating mosque has a prayer hall that can accommodate up to 12,000 people at a time, and is open for public visiting. Dress appropriately if you wish to visit - cover up clothing is available for rental on site.
11. Take a sunset dinner cruise
Elevate your sunset viewing experience aboard a sunset cruise! The sunset cruise is iconic in KK, and will allow you to take in stunning views of the South China Sea as the sky paints itself with colours of the sunset. 2-hour cruise packages are bookable on Klook and include an international buffet dinner spread, complimentary drinks, as well as entertainment by live musicians on board!
12. Take a ride on the North Borneo Railway
Photo Credit: @ksksudo
With tracks connecting Kota Kinabalu and Papar, the North Borneo Railway is a nostalgic steam train straight out of the 1900s. Travellers that ride the train can expect to soak in views of sprawling paddy fields and traditional villages along the way from the comforts of a fully refurbished colonial-style train that's hard to come across anywhere else. The railways runs two weekly departures, each with a duration of 4 hours. Be sure to double check the schedule and pre-book your trip online!
13. Capture city views at the Signal Hill Observatory Platform
Photo Credits: @dijeyjaro
Photo Credits: @nirvanafx85
Up for some city views? Make your way to the highest point of KK, the Signal Hill Observatory Platform. The airy deck of Signal Hill Observatory is reachable via a brief 20 - 30-minute uphill walk or short drive, and offers breathtaking views any time of the day. We'd however recommend heading over in the evening or night for a breezy experience.
14. Experience glamping on the beach at Dinawan Island
Known as the 'seahorse-shaped island' with cream-coloured sand, turquoise waters, and lush rainforest, Dinawan Island is a somewhat hidden gem amongst the islands in KK, often overshadowed by other more popular islands in the vicinity. You can spend a night on the island by going beach glamping, but if you prefer a day trip instead, you can book an all-inclusive trip on Klook that comes inclusive of boat transfers, buffet lunch, and activities such as paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking!
15. Explore Mengalum Island
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Mengalum Island, another tropical gem located off the shores of Kota Kinabalu. Home to white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, it's a literal slice of paradise here where you can seek adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both. The surrounding waters are home to rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs, making Mengalum a great snorkelling destination.
16. Explore some street art
The street art of Kota Kinabalu may just be as vibrant and charming as the ones in KL, Penang, and Melaka! Keep an eye out for striking murals plastered across walls and buildings all over the town, contributing vibrancy and a breath of fresh air to the otherwise laid-back city. These murals serve as perfect backdrops for your selfies, and many are so huge you'll need to stretch your arm far to capture it in whole.
17. Go for a massage at Kota Kinabalu spas
After a day of exploring the city, it's always a good idea to sit back and enjoy a relaxing massage at spas in Kota Kinabalu. Unwind with a rejuvenating full body massage or try out unique treatments, like hot stone massages and body scrubs. We've shortlisted a few venues you can check out for a pampering time:
18. Visit the Gaya Street Sunday Market
Photo Credits: @deeeanah
Photo Credits: @joethegypsychild
The Gaya Street Sunday Market has been serving the people of Kota Kinabalu for over a hundred years! Pop by for some retail therapy or just to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and shop for everything from fruits to handicrafts, antiques, souvenirs, herbs, flowers, clothes, and all sorts of knick-knacks under shady trees and oversized umbrellas. The market is a popular Sunday hangout spot for Sabahan families.
19. Stroll through the City Park
Located in the heart of KK, the Kota Kinabalu City Park provides refuge from the sweltering heat with its landscaped, partially shaded gardens filled with trees, shrubs, and even a monument that pays tribute to fallen soldiers of the World War. Pop by for a nice stroll in the morning or evening when it isn't too hot!
20. Take a trip to Kundasang (2 hours from KK)
Photo Credits: @alghiealonzo
Photo Credit: @casseysoo
While in KK, we'd highly recommend allocating some time in your itinerary for a trip up Kundasang! Accessible via a 2-hour drive from town, Kundasang is doable as a day trip destination, but we'd highly recommend spending at least a night here for a more wholesome adventure so you don't have to rush through the many beautiful sights Kundasang has to offer. What we love most about Kundasang (besides the views, of course) is its breezy climate that's often a few degrees cooler than the lowlands!
Add these spots onto your Kundasang checklist:
- Sabah Tea Garden
- Kundasang War Memorial
21. Experience paragliding in Ranau
Guess what? You can tick paragliding off your bucket list in Sabah! Surrounded by lush greens, clear rivers, and majestic mountain ranges, Ranau is a nature lover's heaven on earth and offers guided paragliding experiences for adrenaline seekers. Book your paragliding package on Klook that comes inclusive of a professional guide, insurance, and all necessary safety equipment!
22. Have a fun-filled day at Mari-Mari Cultural Village (1 hour from KK)
Photo Credit: @mmcv.official
Be enthralled by the culture and stories of five of Sabah's major ethnic groups at the insightful Mari Mari Cultural Village, located deep in the countryside, about an hour away from KK. From cultural performances to bamboo cooking and observation of traditional crafts, the cultural village is a living museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the knowledge, history, and culture of Borneo to curious visitors all over the world. Trust us when we tell you you'll have more fun here than you think you will!
23. Take pictures at Dream Beach Bongawan sky mirror (1.5 hours from KK)
Did you know that there is a sky mirror beach located just a1.5-hour drive away from KK? The Sunset Point in Dream Beach Bongawan resembles the salt flats in Bolivia, named after its unique mirror-like reflection of the sky. In reality, it is actually a seabed that appears above water during low tide, exposing an expansive sand flat that makes for great photo opportunities, especially during sunset!
Bongawan is also home to other unique sights, including a mangrove river and fireflies. Book a one-day trip to experience the Dream Beach Sky Mirror, go on a mangrove river cruise and witness fireflies at night!
24. Ride a river cruise along Klias River (2 hours from KK)
Photo Credits: @rosesabahlady
Located 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu, the Klias Wetland is a mangrove forest reserve that's a cosy home to a wide variety of flora and fauna including cheeky proboscis monkeys and sparkling fireflies. Experience the beauty of the wetlands on a river cruise and watch the sun sink over the horizon. This cruise package comes inclusive of roundtrip transfers to and from your hotel, as well as a delicious dinner buffet onboard.
25. Climb Mount Kinabalu
Photo Credit: @yusuffffffffffffffffffff
This last activity is for those with a love for hiking and have 'to conquer Mount Kinabalu' on their bucket list. Climbing Mount Kinabalu is no easy feat for sure, but is definitely bucket list-worthy. Most climbers embark on a 2 or 3-day journey and engage services of a registered mountain guide for a safe and rewarding experience. Up for conquering the tallest mountain in Borneo? Time to start training! ⛰
Other fun things to do in KK
More inspiration for your Sabah adventure!
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