Photo by Aileen Adalid

Hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu

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Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (19)
"Great hotel. "
United States
Zachary
The price is RM155
RM178 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jan - 2 Jan 2026
HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (46)
"Very satisfied stay"
United States
Jiwoo
The price is RM130
RM151 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
CJ Residence

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1001)
"Staff were very friendly and helpful. However, this is an older hotel and for a similar price you could stay at some of the newer hotels in KK."
Australia
Nicholas
The price is RM360
RM399 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (975)
"Good hotel and friendly staff"
United Kingdom
Michael
The price is RM360
RM399 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (196)
"Great location and certainly easy to access to the food."
Thailand
Thosaphol
The price is RM428
RM472 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Jan - 14 Jan 2026
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (15)
"Very helpful staff. "
Canada
Donna
The price is RM244
RM274 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

AJ Residence Kota Kinabalu City Center

AJ Residence Kota Kinabalu City Center
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (9)
"The facilities we had in the room were top notch. Location is great as well but only downside the view from the room isn’t that great. "
United Kingdom
Ganesh
The price is RM156
RM179 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
AJ Residence Kota Kinabalu City Center

Signature Inn

Signature Inn
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3)
"Great location, 24/7 security that let ut in at night. Simple room but perfect for exploring the city."
Norway
Halvor
The price is RM88
RM105 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
Signature Inn

Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (191)
"Stayed just for a night, decent value for the price."
United States
Chor Seng
The price is RM108
RM138 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
Hotel Gaia 95

A Residence

A Residence
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3)
"Hotel very beautiful, clean, good staff"
Malaysia
Imran
The price is RM154
RM176 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
A Residence

Seaview Capsule Hotel

Seaview Capsule Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (25)
"Good value and location, very weak hot water heater, breakfast is very simple. "
United States
Benjamin
The price is RM65
RM87 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jan - 7 Jan 2026
Seaview Capsule Hotel

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (145)
"Great hotel for vacation"
Singapore
Carol
The price is RM344
RM382 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (218)
"Overall facilities are clean and convenient to downtown. "
Hong Kong SAR China
Yuet Ying
The price is RM224
RM294 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

AC Residence

AC Residence
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (90)
"I was worried because the residence doesn’t have a reception, but communication was excellent, and the staff are nearby to respond quickly. The staff are very friendly, and the room is extremely clean and tidy. There are many places to visit nearby, so the location is great. It was the best accommodation."
South Korea
??
The price is RM130
RM151 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
AC Residence

Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse

Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.0 out of 10, Good, (85)
"Near market..easy to walk and good place to stay and safety "
Malaysia
Ah teng
The price is RM55
RM75 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
Iskandar Sinsuran Guesthouse

Margo Hotel KK

Margo Hotel KK
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (3)
"The bed is quite comfortable and clean for my liking. The shower temperature is easy to control and the strength is as good as my home. The hotel overall is very clean. "
Singapore
Fan
The price is RM110
RM129 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Jan - 8 Jan 2026
Margo Hotel KK

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (601)
"Hotel staff unprofessional "
United Kingdom
Jiarui
The price is RM420
RM464 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Jan - 11 Jan 2026
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Api-Api Guest House

Api-Api Guest House
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (19)
"Clean room"
Malaysia
Augustine
The price is RM117
RM148 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
Api-Api Guest House

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1000)
"Helpful staff"
Singapore
GRAHAM ANDREW
The price is RM370
RM410 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Jan - 10 Jan 2026
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Oikos Poshtel

Oikos Poshtel
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.6 out of 10, Good, (13)
"Booke dthe family room for a friend and I. Had a great bathroom.very modern, a window, very comfy and cute. Would def stay again. Great value ad X rs from shopping centre and a top massage centre (Siam) in the same building)."
Australia
Larissa
The price is RM106
RM135 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
Oikos Poshtel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Find the best Downtown Kota Kinabalu areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Learn more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Aru

Beaches and abundant dining options are well-reviewed features of Tanjung Aru. Make a stop by top sights like Tanjung Aru Perdana Park while you're exploring the area.

Karambunai

Karambunai is popular for its pristine beaches, and you might make a stop by Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, a top place to visit in the area.

Kampung Air

Unique features of Kampung Air include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Kompleks Asia City or Sedco Square while you're exploring the area.

Alamesra

While Alamesra may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like 1Borneo Hypermall and Likas Stadium.

Likas

You'll appreciate the shopping during your time in Likas and you might want to plan a stop by Likas Stadium and Likas Sports Complex while you're in the area.

Top Downtown Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Price trends for hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Less expensive
More expensive
Next month
December
November
RM158
Month
Price
January
RM158
February
RM158
March
RM173
April
RM153
May
RM155
June
RM157
July
RM164
August
RM178
September
RM250
October
RM271
November
RM282
December
RM150
Price trend information excludes taxes and fees and is based on base rates for a nightly stay for 2 adults found in the last 7 days on our site and averaged for commonly viewed hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu.

Find out more about Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Top reasons to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu

  • Vibrant Shopping Scene: Explore bustling shopping centres and local markets, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and local delicacies.
  • Cultural Richness: Visit stunning mosques and experience the rich cultural heritage that defines Kota Kinabalu.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy breathtaking hikes in the surrounding nature, ideal for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
  • Charming Atmosphere: Stroll through Asia City and Australian Place, where lively streets are filled with friendly locals and enticing eateries.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodgings, ensuring comfort and convenience for every type of traveller.

Find great hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Discover a range of accommodation options in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, where comfort meets convenience. From hotels to hostels, there's something for every traveller, whether you seek a family-friendly stay or a city-themed getaway. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi and stunning views, ensuring a pleasant experience for both business and leisure visitors. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kota Kinabalu while resting in thoughtfully designed lodgings that cater to your every need.

  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: A luxurious 5-star hotel, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu offers an exquisite family vacation experience in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This property is designed for those seeking both comfort and elegance, featuring spacious rooms with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including a children's pool and onsite babysitting services. The hotel also provides a complimentary crib for younger guests, ensuring a relaxing stay for parents. A blend of opulence and family-friendly features makes this hotel a top choice for discerning travellers.
  • The Pacific Sutera Hotel: This 5-star resort is a haven for families and golf enthusiasts alike. Set in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, The Pacific Sutera Hotel is renowned for its spa-themed experiences and exceptional golf facilities. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa, unwind by the poolside bar, or enjoy pampering treatments. The children’s amenities, including a supervised children’s club and playground, ensure that younger guests are entertained. With its lush surroundings and luxurious offerings, this hotel creates a perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating family getaway.
  • The Magellan Sutera Resort: A striking 5-star resort, The Magellan Sutera Resort combines business convenience with beachside relaxation in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy sun-soaked days and calming sea views. The resort features outstanding spa services, including outdoor pools and treatment rooms for massages. Ideal for those on business trips or seeking a tranquil retreat, the property provides a sophisticated atmosphere complemented by superb amenities. The perfect blend of leisure and professionalism makes this resort a compelling choice for all types of travellers.

Where to stay near Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of experiences for every type of traveller. With a variety of accommodation choices, you can easily find a comfortable place to unwind. Explore the vibrant Asia City, where atmospheric streets are alive with friendly locals and enticing eateries. Don’t miss the charming Australian Place, perfect for a romantic stroll or a family outing, ensuring a memorable visit to this captivating region of Sabah.

  • Kota Kinabalu: As the capital city of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a bustling urban hub that offers a rich blend of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Located along the western coast of Borneo, it boasts beautiful coastal views and is a gateway to nearby islands and natural attractions. The city is particularly vibrant from July to August and December when tourist numbers peak. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping at local malls, dining at diverse eateries, and exploring nearby parks and marinas. The lively atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for families, business travellers, and city explorers alike.
  • Pusat Bandar: Just 483m from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar is a quaint village that offers a charming escape from the city's hustle and bustle. This area is known for its accessible public markets and shopping centres, making it a great spot for those looking to experience local culture and cuisine. Visitor traffic remains steady throughout the year, with peaks occurring in the summer and festive months. Pusat Bandar is the perfect place for families, business-minded individuals, and city adventurers to enjoy its parks and lookouts while soaking up the local atmosphere.
  • Sinsuran Kompleks: Located right next to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, Sinsuran Kompleks is a vibrant village that attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Known for its proximity to shopping centres and the stunning views from nearby lookouts, it serves as a fantastic base for exploring the region's natural beauty, including mountains and tourist precincts. With a consistent influx of visitors year-round, Sinsuran Kompleks is particularly lively in the months of July to August and December, making it an exciting destination for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture and adventure.

Things to do in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant mix of activities perfect for families and business travellers alike. Explore bustling shopping centres and local markets, or indulge in the local art scene at various galleries. For those seeking adventure, breathtaking hikes await just beyond the city, providing thrilling experiences for adrenaline seekers. With its unique blend of culture and excitement, Downtown Kota Kinabalu promises a memorable visit.

Shopping

In Downtown Kota Kinabalu, explore Imago Shopping Mall for a vibrant mix of business and entertainment. Don't miss Gaya Street Sunday Market for local crafts and souvenirs. For a family-friendly shopping experience, visit Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, offering diverse shops in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the lively atmosphere at Likas Stadium, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For a refreshing round of golf, head to Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, where outdoor vibes await. Alternatively, indulge in luxury at Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, offering a serene retreat amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of climbing at Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, a mere mile from Downtown Kota Kinabalu, where you can challenge yourself on various routes. For an exhilarating adventure, head to Bukit Padang, a scenic hiking trail located 3.2km away, offering stunning views and outdoor excitement.

Nightlife

In Downtown Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant night market buzzes with local delicacies and crafts. Nearby, the lively bars along Gaya Street offer a mix of cocktails and live music, while the waterfront promenade provides a scenic spot for evening strolls and stunning sunset views over the South China Sea.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Kota Kinabalu

For a budget-friendly trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider visiting in March, May, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays tend to offer the best rates, while Mondays are pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Explore free attractions and use public transport for an economical way to get around the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Kota Kinabalu is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful mix of family-friendly and business-themed activities, making it an ideal destination for various travellers. Visitors can explore the vibrant harbour, the bustling tourist precinct, and the stunning mosques, all of which showcase the area's rich culture. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the picturesque surroundings, while those seeking a city experience will find plenty of attractions to keep them engaged in this lively urban hub.

  • Sutera Harbour: Experience the tranquil beauty of Sutera Harbour, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy breathtaking sunset views. The harbour offers a picturesque setting perfect for leisurely strolls and water activities, making it a relaxing retreat within the city.
  • Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: A vibrant hub for families, the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade features outdoor spaces ideal for picnics and evening strolls. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, local food stalls, and performances while soaking in the stunning views of the waterfront.
  • Sabah State Mosque: Located just 1.6km from downtown, the Sabah State Mosque is a stunning architectural marvel. Its serene surroundings and intricate design provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sabah, making it a must-visit for those interested in local traditions.

Best time to go to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu is easily accessible via Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), situated 6.4km away. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, both 6.4km from the airport, offering convenient airport transportation services. The Magellan Sutera Resort, a 5-star establishment located 4.8km from BKI, also provides easy access. Guests at these hotels can benefit from various transport options, including airport shuttles and on-request services, ensuring a smooth journey to and from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Travellers love the Downtown Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood for its beautiful island views, top seafood restaurants and major shopping area. Are you looking for Downtown Kota Kinabalu travel tips? Make sure that you visit Centre Point and Kota Kinabalu Central Market while you're in the neighbourhood.
Where is the best hotel for a stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Based on Expedia customer reviews, Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B is the highest ranked property in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This hotel is steps from Imago Shopping Mall, and offers 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Other top choices in the neighbourhood include CJ Residence and AC Residence.
How many hotels will I be able to find in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Expedia has 334 hotels and other accommodation options in Downtown Kota Kinabalu to choose from, making this an ideal home base for exploring the greater Kota Kinabalu area.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel bookings are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of check in. If your reservation is non-refundable, it might still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to get top deals in Downtown Kota Kinabalu.
What is there to do around this Kota Kinabalu neighbourhood?
Planning to do some shopping while in Downtown Kota Kinabalu? Consider Centre Point, Kota Kinabalu Central Market and KK Plaza. You could also plan a visit to Imago Shopping Mall or Gaya Street Sunday Market while you're in the neighbourhood. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Kota Kinabalu include Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Anjung Samudera and Warisan Square. While you're out sightseeing, Local Fruits Market and Anjung Kinabalu are a couple of additional sights to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

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