The Best 18 Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu – Malaysian Borneo

Kota Kinabalu, also known as KK is a coastal city on the Malaysian part of the island of Sabah. It is the main Malaysian city on this island and a particularly popular tourist destination for its hiking trails, unique and diverse rainforest, and spectacular beaches.  It’s also the home of the beautiful Mount Kinabalu.  KK has an international airport, which means coming from anywhere in Malaysia, and even neighboring countries in Southeast Asia is relatively easy. Attractions and the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu include water activities, discovering wildlife, and learning about its culture and history.

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The 18 Top Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu

The city of Kota Kinabalu might be relatively small but it doesn’t mean the activities to do here are limited. This Malaysian’ Borneo port town offers you water activities, interesting historical spots to check out, and mosques to visit.  I’d also recommend exploring the markets and getting close to wildlife and nature. It’s pretty easy to spend a few days or even an entire week here if you factor in some amazing day trips from Kota Kinabalu. Here’s my guide to the best day trips from Kota Kinabalu.

1. Take a Tour of Kota Kinabalu

If you are short on time or prefer to get local knowledge, then book a tour that features the most popular tourist spots in Kota Kinabalu. From the incredible City Mosque, Tun Mustapha, Sabah State Museum, UMS Aquarium, Signal Hill Observation Deck, and more.  You’ll also save on time and transportation costs to and from different attractions and parking fees because, this KK city tour includes an English-speaking guide, as well as pick up and drops off at your hotel. This is a convenient, educational, and time-efficient way to explore Kota Kinabalu.  This is a great option to explore Kota Kinabalu city.

2. Visit the Kota Kinabalu City Park

Not only is this KK’s main city park, but the Kota Kinabalu City Park also has a monument that commemorates both the British Soldiers who defended Sabah during World War I and the International Armed Forces who defended the island of Sabah during World War II.  You can find it right downtown, between Jalan Tun Razak and Jalan Tugu.

• Address of Kota Kinabalu City Park: Jalan Tun Razak, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

3. See the Atkinson Clock Tower in Kota Kinabalu

Located just a short 8-minute walk northeast of the City Park, you will find the Atkinson Clock Tower which was built in 1905, when Kota Kinabalu was known as Jesselton.  It was named after Francis George Atkinson, who was Jesselton’s District Officer.  Atkinson died at the age of 28 in 1902, after a heart attack and malaria.

It is the oldest structure on the whole island of Sabah surviving from the British Colonia times.  This clock tower in Kota Kinabalu is one of the only three structures that survived World War II. It sits right on a small hill giving a great view of the city.

• Address of Atkinson Tower: Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

4. Go to the Green Connection Aquarium in KK

Heading back to the city center, the Green Connection Aquarium is a 10-minute drive east of the City Park. If you are traveling with young children and plan to take them on a boat trip to do some snorkeling, heading to this aquarium first is a great idea. It’s a great educational visit and you’ll get to learn about different species, 1,200 in fact, and enjoy hands-on exhibits.

• Address of Green Connection Aquarium: 2, Jalan Tuaran, Likas, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Green Connection Aquarium: every day from10 AM to 6 PM
• Entry Fees for Green Connection Aquarium: RM6 ($1.37)for children and RM12 ($2.73) for adults

5. Visit Kota Kinabalu City Mosque/Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu

Standing on a peninsula, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu is also known as the City Mosque and it is not only a popular religious site but also a popular tourist attraction in KK. The mosque, which is the largest in Kota Kinabalu can hold 12,000 people!  The Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu is an awesome location for sunset, and when matched with the grandeur of its architecture, the mosque is a must-see in Kota Kinabalu.

You can enter inside, but it’s required to cover your head, shoulders, and down to your legs. You can find the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque by heading north from downtown.  KK’s city mosque is about a 10-minute walk from the harbor in Kota Kinabalu.

• Address of Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalun: Jalan Pasir, Jalan Teluk Likas, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu: It’s open every day from 5 AM – 10 PM
• Entry Fees for Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu: RM5 to walk around the area, an extra RM5 to enter the Mosque

6. Take a ride on the Borneo Railway

Ride one of the oldest trains and railways in Southeast Asia and head to the southwest side of KK’s main city center. The lines here date from 1896 when the railway was used to move tobacco around Sabah.  The Borneo Railway train travels 36 miles (56 km) which takes about 5 hours, leaving at 9 AM. The service is now mostly used for tourism purposes, however, the train ride is completely operational that includes food services, visiting and stopping for photo ops, and sightseeing, plus there’s also a crew ready to assist you during the trip.  The tourist route goes from Tanjung Aru to Tenom, although you can also use it to go to the market town of Beaufort.

If you take the Borneo Tourist Train, you should be back at the Kota Kinabalu station at 2 PM, although it’s recommended to keep your schedule clear for the afternoon as mechanical issues or other delays do occur can mean a late return downtown.

• Address of Borneo Railway: Jalan Utama Sutera Harbour 88100, 88100, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Borneo Railway: 8.30 AM to 5 PM
• Entry Fees for Borneo Railway: RM400 and up ($91) depending on other services inclusions

7. Visit Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Aru Beach is the most popular beach in Kota Kinabalu and can be found south of the Borneo Railway. It’s not surprising how popular this beach is because it is the best place to see the sunset and at the same time have access to food stalls and drinks. In the afternoon, it is a popular area for the locals to go on a long walk along the shoreline. During the weekend, it can get really busy.

8. Visit the State Mosque in Kota Kinabalu

About a 10-minute drive or 40-minute walk from Tanjung Aru Beach is the spectacular State Mosque.  The mosque has a minaret that reaches 215 feet (65.5 meters) and is modeled on mosques in both Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.  This massive religious building can accommodate up to 5,000 people. It was built in 1975 and is currently open to anyone as long as they follow the dress codes.

• Address of State Mosque: Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

9. Take in the views at Signal Hill Observatory Platform

Heading right back downtown is a beautiful spot to view Kota Kinabalu from above. It’s the highest point in Kota Kinabalu.  You’re going to need to climb a few steps to reach the top and enjoy the panoramic view, but it’s worth it. If you don’t want to or cannot access the stairs, you can still take a wander around and enjoy the scenery and the sunset.  There are great views from here of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park islands.

There is also a small shop here to buy food, drinks, and ice cream. If you plan to come early in the morning or in the evening, you might want to bring a lightweight jacket or pullover as it can get chilly from the wind.

• Address of Signal Hill: 78, Jalan Asrama, signal hills, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Signal Hill: 8 AM until midnight
• Entry Fees for Signal Hill: Free

10. Explore Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

If you don’t have time to head over to Sandakan and the Kinabatangan River area, then you should come here.  The Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is about a 25-minute drive south of Kota Kinabalu International Airport and the park offers guided jungle trekking where you can see wild animals, and various plants, and learn about the Sabah Region forests. It’s a great place to see monkeys, sun bears, hornbills, otters, and gibbons. It’s also a great place to learn about rehabilitation too, as many of the animals in the park are rescued. You can read more about Sun bears in Borneo here.

• Address of Lok Kawi Wildlife Park: Lok kawi Putatan, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Lok Kawi Wildlife Park: 9.30 AM – 1 PM then again from 2 PM – 4.30 PM, daily
• Entry Fees for Lok Kawi Wildlife Park: RM6 ($1.37)for children and RM12 ($2.73) for adults, fees for trekking are different

11. Go diving and snorkeling in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Just like any other beach town or city in Malaysia, water activities such as diving and snorkeling are a must in Kota Kinabalu. This area features stunning and colorful corals and diverse fishes, the water is so clear you shouldn’t have a problem spotting them. You can even snorkel right from the beaches.  The best place to go snorkeling in Kota Kinabalu is Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.  A visit to the marine park is one of the top reasons to come to Kota Kinabalu.

There are five islands there where you can also enjoy boating and swimming. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is located 5 miles (8 km) east of Kota Kinabalu. You can book a boat tour which includes visiting the island and other activities or you can simply go to Jesselton Point Ferry and purchase a ticket to the island.

The five islands that make up the marine park are Sulug, Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, and Mamutik.  Sulug is the quietest and Gaya is most renowned for nightlife.

12. Visit the Sabah State Museum

The State Museum of Sabah showcases archeological artifacts of Sabah and Islamic civilization. The museum is situated about an 18-minute walk from Sabah State Mosque. One of the most popular displays is the massive skeleton of a whale. The museum also showcases ceramics and educational information about the different indigenous tribes and the natural history of Sabah.  There’s a great section here with models of local houses.

• Address of Sabah State Museum: Jalan Muzium, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Sabah State Museum: 9 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Sunday
• Entry Fees for Sabah State Museum: RM2 to RM15 ($0.5 to $3.5)

13. Visit the Monsopiad Heritage Village from Kota Kinabalu

A short distance outside the city, you can learn about the history of Sabah before colonialism by visiting the Mosopiad Heritage Village. It showcases Sabah’s culture, traditional clothing, and artifacts, and there’s also a cultural dance. You can even try out local dishes and get a tour from a very knowledgeable local guide. This is of the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu for its cultural value.

The village is named after a famous Kadazan warrior from about 300 years ago.  The legends say that Monsopiad killed 42 attackers who were attempting to invade the village.  One of the more gruesome exhibits you can see here is the Monsopiad Hall of Skulls, which contains, yes, you’ve guessed it, 42 skulls.

• Address of Monsopiad Heritage Village: Kampung Kuai Kandazon, Jalan Putatan Ramayah, 89507 Penampang, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Monsopiad Heritage Village: 9 AM to 4 PM
• Entry Fees for Monsopiad Heritage Village: RM25 ($5.69) for locals, RM55 ($12.53)  for foreigners, and children under 6 are free of entry

14. Go to the Stilt Villages of Kota Kinabalu

If you have been to Pulau Labuan (our guide is here), you probably have visited a water village. The Stilt Villages are similar to that one. A stilt village or water village is where houses are built on top of the water and are kept held by stilts.

Kota Kinabalu’s stilt villages are actually home to many Filipinos, the Philippines is not far from Sabah. These villages are home to Bajau and Suluk people who tend to be Sea Gypsies and native to the Philippines, although some residents here have families who were said to arrive in Sabah in the 15^th century, it is known for illegal immigrants.  Although they are living in Malaysia illegally, the two countries have yet to find a solution for the villagers.

The Stilt Villages don’t really show on the map, however, simply ask a taxi driver and they should be able to drive you there. Remember to ask permission before taking any photos or videos, especially with children to avoid offending the residents.  You can also visit the stilt villages as part of an organized tour.

15. Dine and Drink at KK Waterfront

A perfect way to end a day of exploring Kota Kinabalu is a visit to the KK Waterfront, one of the best spots for sunset in Kota Kinabalu. This strip is lined with restaurants and bars offering a wide choice of cuisines and is also suitable regardless of your budget.   There are also some good bars in Chinatown, but if it’s a view that you want, then a visit to the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront is where you want to be.

I recommend you walk around first and see which place you want to sit. Arrive early especially if you want to catch the sunset. At the weekend, it can get busy and hard to get a table.

• Address of KK Waterfront: Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of KK Waterfront: depends on the restaurant

16. Eat Seafood in Kota Kinabalu

For foodies, you HAVE to head out and try one of the seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu.  Most of Kota Kinabalu’s seafood spots can be found downtown, near the waterfront, or along Jalan Singgah Mata 2. The most popular one is Welcome Seafood Restaurant but the best is Fatt KEe Seafood Restaurant.  Seafood is usually priced by weight, so bear that in mind when you’re ordering (and paying!) The Seafood Night market is fabulous too.

17. Visit Kota Kinabalu’s Sunday Market

Located in the heart of Chinatown, the Jalan Gaya is taken over with food stalls and shops selling various items; from food, clothing, and handicrafts, to souvenirs.  The market dates back about 100 years. Make sure to bargain your way around and compare prices first.

• Address of Sunday Market: Gaya Street, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Sunday Market: 6 am until about 1 pm

18. Shop at the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market

This area is a fantastic stop when you are about to leave Kota Kinabalu. It’s also known as the Filipino Market. There are many interesting and very affordable souvenirs to choose from. You will be able to find your usual souvenir items, as well as carvings and pearl items.  But you’re really here for the food, as, this market is also a brilliant place to try out local dishes and snacks; including dried fruit, fermented fish, and small and quick snacks. Remember to bargain as the prices, especially for tourists usually start high.

• Address of Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market: 8 AM – 10 PM

Map of Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu

You can also see the full map for Kota Kinabalu things to do here.

How to Get Around Kota Kinabalu

Getting around Kota Kinabalu is pretty easy.  Here are your options for transiting in and around KK.

Getting around Kota Kinabalu in local buses.

Taking the bus is the cheapest way to travel around Kota Kinabalu and for short distances outside of the city. But it’s also the slowest since these are local buses and they will stop a lot of times, plus of course, they don’t always take you right to your destination.

Getting around Kota Kinabalu in Taxis

You can also use the regular taxis which are usually parked right next to hotels, malls, and bus terminals. It can cost more, but if you are traveling with other people, this can be affordable and faster as well. On the other hand, you can use ride-hailing apps so you can see the cost first and the driver can pick and drop you off door-to-door.

Using Boats around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is one of the largest ports in Sabah, not only the boat can be taken for long-distance trips, but you can also take them to get from one island to another.

Self-driving or riding around Kota Kinabalu

Another choice would be to rent a car. If you have a valid international driver’s license, it should also be valid in Kota Kinabalu, just remember that you drive on the left here. And finally, renting a bike is also a choice (both push bike and motorbike/scooter).

If you need to rent a car in Malaysia we recommend Discover Cars for car hire.  You can search, compare and save up to 70%, with no hidden fees and free cancellation, it’s the perfect option! Get a price for a rental car in Malaysia here.

Where is Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is in the northwest of Borneo Island, in the Sabah region. It’s 174 miles (280 km) north of Brunei and 105.6 miles (170 km) from Pulau Labuan.  The other major population center in Sabah is Sandakan and it is nearly 7 hours (332km/206 miles) from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.

How to get to Kota Kinabalu

From Kuala Lumpur, you have to take a 2-hour and 40-minute direct flight. Check flight times to Kota Kinabalu from Kuala Lumpur here.

If you’re coming to Kota Kinabalu from KL, then our guide to Malaysia’s capital city is here.

From Pulau Labuan, it’s a 35-minute flight or a 2-hour and 30-minute ferry ride. (You can book a flight here.) Or if you want to book a ferry ticket, then head to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal to get your ticket. It will cost RM24 ($5.46) to RM48 ($10.92) depending on the seat class and if you are a Malaysian or a foreigner. I advise booking at least one day in advance, as the tickets DO sell out (it happened to us!) Our guide on how to go to Kota Kinabalu from Labuan is here,

From Sandakan, get on a bus that will take you straight to Kota Kinabalu. The cost is RM43 ($9.78) and takes about a 6-hour drive. Unfortunately, the bus station where you will be dropped off is still out of the main city center. You have to take another minibus or a taxi to reach downtown. The bus ride is bumpy and can be uncomfortable, but you can also take a direct flight which is only a 50-minute ride. You can check bus and flight times and ticket prices for Sandakan to Kota Kinabalue here.

You can also fly from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu. It’s about a 50-minute flight.

There’s more on how to go from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu and what your options are in our guide here.

Where to Stay in Kota Kinabalu

There are heaps of places to stay in Kota Kinabalu, from hotels to beach resorts, backpacker hostels to workation locations.  Here are our picks for where to stay in Kota Kinabalu.

Stay at the Hotel Grandis Kota Kinabalu

This is a great location close to the Jesselton Point ferries (perfect if you’re heading over to Labuan Island).  The Grandis Hotel gets great reviews and has both a 24-hour reception and a swimming pool.  Breakfasts here come highly recommended, the staff is friendly and it’s an excellent place to stay.  You can check rates and availability here.

Stay at the Hotel Gaia 95 Kota Kinabalu

This is a great budget hotel in Kota Kinabalu.  There’s WiFi everywhere, luggage storage available, and a car park, so it’s great if you’re self-driving in Borneo.  It is a fantastic hotel location in KK for walking and seeing all the sights downtown and gets great reviews.  Reserve a room here.

Stay at the Hotel 7 Suria Kota Kinabalu

The rooms at the Hotel 7 Suria in Kota Kinabalu are spacious and some have fabulous views out to the ocean.  There are some fabulous facilities here, especially for the price and the Hotel Suria 7 is in a great location, you’re perfectly positioned for the night market, the Sunday market, and the KK waterfront.  You’ll want to reserve this one early.

Malaysia Travel Tips

• Get Travel Insurance: Civitatis includes medical expenses, repatriation, theft, luggage delays. No deductibles or upfront payments. Get a quote here.
• Get online immediately with an eSIM for Malaysia.
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• Book Buses in Malaysia with BusonlineTicket
• Book accommodation in Malaysia with Booking

Final Words on The 18 Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is easy to get to and a great first stop on Malaysian Borneo.  While it’s probably not the first choice, Kota Kinabalu is an amazing destination to visit while you are exploring Malaysia or Southeast Asia. It’s a little off the beaten path, which means you can enjoy the beach, go snorkeling, and other attractions without being surrounded by big crowds.

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