Where to Stay in Kota Kinabalu: Best Areas & Hotels for Every Traveler

1. Why Where You Stay in KK Matters

So you’ve booked your flight to Kota Kinabalu – syabas! 🎉 Now comes the next big question that can make or break your trip: “Kat mana nak tidur ah?”

Look, KK isn’t just a pitstop. It’s a mix of vibrant city life, island-hopping adventures, amazing food, and sunsets that’ll make you cry a bit inside (in a good way). Whether you're here for a romantic getaway, jalan-jalan cari makan, or a family bonding trip, where you lepak and rest at night makes all the difference.

You don’t want to be stuck far away from the fun, or worse — paying big money for a view of someone else’s laundry line 😅 So choosing the right area and accommodation isn’t just about price, it’s about vibes.

Here’s the thing: KK’s charm is in its variety. Some areas are great if you’re planning to hit the islands early in the morning. Some are better if you wanna walk to a night market for grilled satay or chill at a fancy rooftop bar. And some are perfect if all you wanna do is eat, nap, repeat.

So don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll help you figure out:

● The best areas to stay based on your travel style

● Real, Malaysian-style tips to save money and enjoy more

● A breakdown of different types of accommodation

● And even some personal favourites that feel like home

Let’s start by figuring out your travel vibe first — cuz different people, different tastes, right? 😉

2. Quick Breakdown: What Kind of Traveller Are You?

Before we dive into hotels and resorts and all that, let’s get something straight — not everyone travels the same way. Some of us want luxury spa days and infinity pools. Some just want a clean bed, hot shower, and easy access to food.

So... what kind of traveller are you?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you figure it out:

Not sure which one you are? Here’s a quick test:

● If you always check food blogs before booking flights — you’re the foodie 🍜

● If your idea of fun is lounging in a fluffy robe — you’re Team Luxury 😌

● If you’re chasing sunsets and ferry timetables — island hopping gang, that’s you ⛵

● Got kids? Then you’re automatically on the “where’s the nearest mall and playground” team 😅

● Solo with a small backpack and big dreams? Backpacker vibes all the way

Next up, I’ll break down each area in detail so you know exactly what you're signing up for — pros, cons, and even my own little stories here and there.

3. Top Areas to Stay in KK (With Real Talk)

🏙️ A. Kota Kinabalu City Centre (Gaya Street / Bandaran Berjaya)

Best for: Backpackers, foodies, first-time visitors, anyone without a car

This is the OG area if you want to be right in the middle of the action. You can walk to the Sunday market, hunt for kopi peng and pork noodles, or stumble back to your hotel after a night at The Loft Bar. Everything is close — restaurants, malls, ferry terminals, convenience stores... even bubble tea.

Pros:

● Walkable and convenient

● Lots of food options nearby

● Close to Jesselton Point (island hopping!)

● Budget-friendly stays available

Cons:

● Traffic can be bad (especially evenings)

● Parking is a nightmare if you drive

● Gets noisy — not great if you’re a light sleeper

Try this:
If you're a budget traveller or someone who’s always out exploring, stay at Toojou Hotel – cool modern hostel vibes with a rooftop bar and decent private rooms too.

🌅 B. Tanjung Aru

Best for: Couples, luxury seekers, chill vibes, sunsets

This is the postcard version of KK — wide beaches, slow sunsets, and resorts so nice you might cry a bit. Tanjung Aru is where people go to relax. You’re not gonna find shopping malls or 24-hour nasi lemak here — but you will find peace, quiet, and possibly a couple doing wedding photos in the background.

Pros:

● Stunning sunsets right outside your room

● Very chill, relaxing vibe

● Some of Sabah’s best resorts are here (Shangri-La, anyone?)

Cons:

● Not much food nearby unless you drive

● A bit pricey

● Not ideal if you want to explore the city a lot

Try this:
Want to splurge? Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort is the ultimate honeymoon-ish escape. Sea view rooms, private beach, and a spa that’ll make you forget what stress even is.

🌊 C. Jesselton Point / KK Waterfront Area

Best for: Island hoppers, active travellers, nightlife

Planning to go island hopping to Sapi, Manukan, or Gaya? Stay nearby! This area is super convenient if you’re catching morning ferries. It’s also got bars, seafood restaurants, and is only a 10-minute stroll from Gaya Street.

Pros:

● Walkable to Jesselton Point (ferry terminal)

● Near seafood restaurants and bars

● Great for evening walks and sunsets

Cons:

● Can be crowded and touristy

● Mid-range prices — not the cheapest

Try this:
 Hotel Sixty3 – clean, comfy, and close to everything without being overpriced. Also near a lot of local food gems.

🛍️ D. Imago / Riverson Area

Best for: Families, long stays, convenience lovers

If you’re travelling with kids or planning to stay more than a couple of days, this area makes life so much easier. You're near Imago Mall, which has restaurants, a cinema, supermarket, and lots of retail therapy if that’s your thing.

Pros:

● Modern condos with facilities like pools and washing machines

● Near shopping mall & supermarkets

● Easy to get Grab or drive around

Cons:

● Lacks character — not super “local” feeling

● You’ll need transport to get to beaches or Jesselton

Try this:
Book a serviced apartment like The Loft Imago. Fully furnished, pool access, and you can even cook if you’re tired of eating out.

💑 E. Karambunai Peninsula

Best for: Honeymooners, beach lovers, private retreats

A little out of the way, but that’s kind of the point. Karambunai is for those who want out of the city. You come here to do nothing... beautifully. It’s all about seclusion, private beach access, and having breakfast by the sea with no rush.

Pros:

● Peaceful and quiet

● Beautiful beaches

● Perfect for romantic getaways

Cons:

● Far from the city (about 40 minutes)

● Not many food or entertainment options nearby

● Pricey and exclusive

Try this:
 Nexus Resort & Spa — older but still charming. Ideal if you just want to unplug for a few days and enjoy the sound of waves.

🌄 Bonus: Planning a Day Trip to Kundasang?

Even though it’s 2+ hours away, many travellers base themselves in KK for a couple of nights before heading up to the cool highlands of Kundasang. If that's your plan, stay near KK Sentral or Inanam for easier access to the long-distance bus terminal or self-drive routes.

4. Types of Accommodation in KK – From Cheap to Lux

Whether you’re counting every ringgit or ready to splurge like you just won Magnum 4D, KK’s got something for everyone. Here’s the lowdown on the different types of accommodation you’ll find — plus some local-style advice you won’t find online!

🛏️ 1. Hostels – Backpacker Budget, But Still Best

Best for: Solo travellers, budget-conscious explorers, short stays

These days, hostels in KK aren’t just rows of bunk beds with noisy roommates. Some are super stylish, with rooftop bars, coworking spaces, and even private rooms if you need more privacy.

Local tip:
Even if you're shy about sharing rooms, many hostels offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms at still-cheaper-than-hotel rates.

Try:

● Toojou Hotel – A cool hybrid between hostel and boutique hotel

● Borneo Backpackers – Great location, basic but clean

🏨 2. Budget Hotels – Cheap & Cheerful

Best for: Families on a budget, casual travellers

These are your basic 2 to 3-star hotels. Clean bed, air-cond, hot shower. Don’t expect a pool or buffet breakfast, but they’ll do the job if you're mostly out exploring anyway.

Local tip:
Look for ones without breakfast and just eat at the nearest kopitiam — more fun, more authentic, and probably cheaper too!

Try:

● Hotel Eden54 – Highly rated, great service

● Cititel Express KK – Central and affordable

🏠 3. Homestays – Feels Like Home

Best for: Groups, longer stays, local neighbourhood vibes

Want a washing machine? A living room to lepak in? Your own kitchen? Homestays are your best bet, especially for families or groups of 3–6.

Local tip:
Always read the reviews. Some listings are gold... others, not so much. Bonus points if it’s near a local food hub like Lintas or Foh Sang.

Try:

● The Loft at Imago – Modern, clean, and mall-connected

● Marina Court – Convenient location near the waterfront

🧳 4. Mid-Range Hotels – Comfortable & Convenient

Best for: Couples, small families, business travellers

These hotels usually have decent amenities — maybe even a pool or small gym — but at half the price of resorts. You’ll also get better views, nicer beds, and more stylish décor.

Local tip:
Mid-range hotels often give the best value for money if you book early, especially around school holidays or festive periods.

Try:

● Hotel Sixty3 – Clean, classy, and close to everything

● Hilton Kota Kinabalu – A bit more upscale, but great deals during promos

🌴 5. Luxury Resorts – For That Boujee Life

Best for: Honeymoons, anniversary trips, “I deserve this” moments

Think private beach access, spas, full buffets, and possibly a guy named James who brings you cold towels by the pool. These are the places to go when you want to just chill in style.

Local tip:
Always check resort websites — they often offer better deals than third-party sites, including free upgrades, dining credits, or spa discounts.

Try:

● Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort – Beachfront paradise with a killer sunset bar

● Nexus Resort Karambunai – Secluded and serene, perfect for escaping the noise

Each type of accommodation has its charm — it really depends on how you want your KK trip to feel. Want adventure and culture? Go hostel or budget. Want to wake up to ocean views and roti bakar by the sea? Treat yourself lah 💁‍♂️

5. Personal Favourites & Hidden Gems

I’ve been lucky enough to explore KK more than a few times — sometimes as a solo traveller, sometimes with friends, once even for a “pretend honeymoon” with my bestie (we just wanted the couple’s massage discount 🤭). Here are a few places that really left a mark.

🛋️ 1. Toojou Kota Kinabalu – For the Modern Backpacker

Why I like it: It’s a hostel, but also a café, rooftop bar, co-working space... basically, it’s a vibe. Great for digital nomads or solo travellers who want comfort and community. Bonus points for funky design and friendly staff.

Best for: Solo travellers, remote workers
Price: RM50–RM150/night
Location: Near Gaya Street

🌊 2. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu – Oceanfront Mid-Lux Perfection

Why I like it: You get that sweet seaview, walking distance to Filipino Market, and their breakfast buffet is no joke — smoked salmon, congee, nasi lemak, waffles… all in one plate. Worth every ringgit if you can snag a good promo.

Best for: Couples, work trips, treat-yourself stays
Price: RM400–RM600/night
Location: Waterfront area

🏠 3. The Loft at Imago – Your Sweet Spot

Why I like it: When I’m travelling with friends or family, this is my go-to. Big, clean units above a full-blown mall (Imago). You can eat, shop, and chill without ever needing a car. Comes with washing machine, kitchen, and sometimes even a cute balcony.

Best for: Families, long-stay travellers
Price: RM180–RM300/night
Location: Imago Shopping Mall

🌿 4. The Atelier Boutique Hotel – Hidden Design Gem

Why I like it: Small, artsy, and thoughtfully designed — perfect for a romantic KK city escape. It’s a bit tucked away from the city’s chaos, so you get a peaceful night’s sleep. And yes, the beds are very comfy.

Best for: Couples, quiet city stays
Price: RM180–RM250/night
Location: Luyang

🏖️ 5. Borneo Beach Villas (Karambunai) – Quiet, Beachy, Underrated

Why I like it: Okay, it’s a bit far. But if you’re the type who wants a “wake up to waves and do nothing all day” vibe, this place is value-for-money. Private beach access, spacious rooms, and you can bring your own food to cook.

Best for: Honeymooners, private getaways, introverts 💆‍♀️
Price: RM300–RM450/night
Location: Karambunai Peninsula

Each of these stays made my trip just a bit more memorable. Whether it was chatting with the owner, waking up to an unexpected sunrise, or just enjoying peace after a long island-hopping day — these are the places that remind you why Sabah is so special.

6. Tips When Booking a Stay in KK

Whether it’s your first time or your fifth time in Kota Kinabalu, booking the right place can be the difference between “best trip ever” and “eh, should’ve done more homework.” So here are my hard-earned tips to help you book like a pro — not blur like sotong 🦑

📅 1. Book Early for Holidays & Long Weekends

KK gets super packed during school holidays, public holidays, and long weekends — especially for locals and Singaporean tourists. If you're planning a trip during Raya, CNY, Gawai, or Merdeka weekend... book early. Like, really early.

My tip:
Hotels near the waterfront and island jetty sell out fastest. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead for peak periods.

🏝️ 2. Doing Island Hopping? Stay Near Jesselton Point

If you plan to hop over to Manukan, Sapi, or Gaya Island, don’t stay too far out. The ferries leave early (some as early as 8:00AM), and you’ll want to be nearby so you don’t stress about traffic or Grab availability.

Best area: Waterfront, Gaya Street, or Bandaran Berjaya.

👶 3. Travelling with Kids? Look for Condo-Hotels or Family Suites

If you're bringing along little ones (or big kids who act like little ones), you’ll want space, a fridge, maybe even a washing machine. Booking a condo-hotel or Airbnb with those features can be a lifesaver.

My pick: The Loft Imago units near Riverson.

🍽️ 4. Skip the Breakfast Buffet (Sometimes)

Let’s be honest — KK is a food paradise. Unless you’re staying somewhere with a next-level buffet (like Le Meridien or Shangri-La), you’re better off grabbing kaya toast and kopi from a local kopitiam.

Tip: Use Google Maps and search “breakfast near me” — you’ll thank me when you discover buttery roti bakar with sambal and soft-boiled eggs for RM5.

📱 5. Always Check Reviews

Some places look great in photos, but in reality… different story lah. Always read recent reviews. Look out for red flags like “noisy street,” “bad aircond,” or “unclean bathroom.”

🚘 6. Driving in KK? Check for Parking!

A lot of smaller hotels in city centre don’t have parking or only have limited spots. If you’re renting a car or driving in from another city, confirm parking availability before you book.

Or else: You’ll be circling the block at midnight... not fun.

🎒 7. Mix & Match Your Stays

You don’t have to stay in one place the entire trip. Start with a budget stay near the city for food and sightseeing, then end with a 2-night beachside splurge for some R&R. It makes the trip feel more dynamic and fun.

7. Find Your Perfect Spot in KK

At the end of the day, where you stay in Kota Kinabalu isn’t just about the room or the price — it’s about how you want to feel on your trip.

Do you want to wake up to the smell of kopi and walk to a morning market?
Do you want to open your balcony door and see waves lapping against the shore?
Or maybe you just want a clean, comfy bed after stuffing yourself with seafood and satay.

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer — and that’s the beauty of KK. Whether you're a foodie, a beach bum, a city explorer, or a little bit of everything, this city has something that fits you.

My only advice?
Stay somewhere that adds to your story.
Because the right place can make a good trip great — and the wrong one? Let’s just say... you’ll have stories to tell, just not the ones you were hoping for 😅

So go ahead. Pick your spot. Book that stay. And get ready to fall in love with the sunsets, the food, and the Sabahan hospitality that’ll have you planning your next trip before you’ve even left.

KK’s waiting. You coming?