Kota Kinabalu Hotels in Downtown
If You Are in a Hurry
Here’s a quick list of the best hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Borneo, Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. With an array of hotels that cater to every budget and preference—from luxurious beachfront retreats to cozy boutique stays—visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture, tantalizing cuisine, and stunning landscapes right at their doorstep. Whether you’re sipping coffee with a view of the iconic Tunku Abdul Rahman Park or exploring the bustling markets nearby, choosing the right hotel in this dynamic downtown area will enhance your experience and leave lasting memories.
Best Kota Kinabalu City Centre Hotels
Sabah Oriental Hotel
Sabah Oriental Hotel is located 1.4 km from IMAGO Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu and offers air-conditioned guest rooms equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel features two dining options, including Cafe Oriental for buffet breakfast and Tapai Lounge for drinks and live music. Guests can enjoy a fitness center but must adhere to strict health guidelines; all facilities like the swimming pool are currently closed due to new restrictions. Fully vaccinated guests are required for check-in, along with necessary documentation for those traveling for work. The hotel also provides 24-hour room service, valet parking, and laundry services. **Pros:** - Air-conditioned guest rooms with modern amenities - Convenient location near shopping malls - Restaurant offering take-away options - 24-hour room service available - Friendly staff assisting with tours and car hire
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Manukan Island offers a serene escape with its private beach that overlooks the stunning South China Sea. The property features an outdoor pool and a selection of spacious villas and suites, each air-conditioned and equipped with flat-screen TVs. Guests can savor beach views from their private terraces, while certain units also provide dining areas and kitchen facilities. En suite bathrooms are fitted with free toiletries and showers for added convenience. - Private beach access - Spacious accommodations - Stunning sea views - Outdoor swimming pool - Fully-equipped kitchens in select units
The Aru Hotel at Aru Suites
The Aru Hotel at Aru Suites, opened in March 2022, is conveniently located in Kota Kinabalu, just 1.5 km from Tanjung Aru Beach. This modern hotel features accommodations equipped with balconies, seating areas, and dining facilities. Guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, free private parking, and complimentary WiFi. Some rooms offer stunning sea views and are fitted with essential appliances including kettles, coffee machines, refrigerators, microwaves, and flat-screen TVs. A delicious à la carte breakfast is available for guests each morning. The nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu International Airport. - Rooms equipped with private balconies - Outdoor swimming pool and fitness center - Convenient location near Tanjung Aru Beach - On-site dining options for breakfast - Free WiFi throughout the hotel
The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu
The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu is an eco-friendly hotel set amidst a lush tropical forest and organic garden, located just 4 km from the vibrant Kota Kinabalu Waterfront. Offering air-conditioned rooms equipped with free WiFi, satellite flat-screen TVs, complimentary bottled water, and en suite bathrooms with modern amenities, this hotel caters to both leisure and business travelers. Guests can savor Italian and Malaysian cuisines at the Tangerine Restaurant, which features poolside seating with forest views and serves a daily buffet breakfast. Additional facilities include an outdoor pool, spa services, a ballroom, business center, and meeting facilities. With convenient access to local attractions like Sabah Museum (3.2 km) and Jesselton Point (4.6 km), as well as being only 10 km from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, The Palace Hotel ensures a comfortable stay for its visitors. **Pros:** - Outdoor pool - Eco-friendly setting - Convenient location near local attractions - On-site dining with diverse cuisine options - Spa services available
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu offers opulent beachfront accommodations with six diverse dining options, the exclusive Chi, The Spa, and an inviting outdoor pool equipped with water jets. Located just 7 km from Kota Kinabalu, the hotel provides complimentary WiFi and parking for guests. - Multiple dining options catering to various tastes - Luxurious spa services at Chi, The Spa - Scenic beachfront location - Family-friendly amenities including an outdoor pool - Convenient access to nearby attractions in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel is a luxurious 5-star accommodation located just 800 metres from the vibrant Filipino Market Sabah. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, and on-site dining options with room service. The hotel features stylish air-conditioned rooms equipped with modern conveniences such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Some rooms even offer stunning sea views from their balconies. With free WiFi throughout the property and convenient access to local attractions like the Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village and North Borneo Railway, this hotel provides a perfect blend of comfort and accessibility for travelers. - Outdoor swimming pool for relaxation - Fitness centre to maintain your workout routine - On-site restaurant offering diverse dining options - Proximity to popular attractions like the Filipino Market - Complimentary WiFi available throughout the property
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, newly opened in September 2022, offers a luxurious stay with an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant and bar. This 5-star hotel provides free WiFi, room service, and a 24-hour front desk in a non-smoking environment. Located just 1.2 km from the Filipino Market Sabah, it features well-appointed guest rooms equipped with a seating area, TV, safety deposit box, private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and hairdryer. An Asian breakfast is served daily for guests to enjoy before exploring nearby attractions such as KK Esplanade, Atkinson Clock Tower, and Signal Hill Observatory; all conveniently situated within reach of the property. - Modern amenities including fitness centre and outdoor pool - Prime location close to popular attractions - Complimentary breakfast featuring Asian cuisine - Friendly staff available 24/7 for assistance - Easy access to Kota Kinabalu International Airport
The Pacific Sutera
The Pacific Sutera features an Olympic-sized swimming pool and five diverse dining options, providing guests with a luxurious stay. Located near the Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club, it offers convenient access for golf enthusiasts. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the hotel, and free parking is provided for those who drive. - Olympic-sized swimming pool - Five dining options - Easy access to golf facilities - Free WiFi throughout the property - Complimentary parking available
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai is a luxurious retreat located 30 km from Kota Kinabalu, featuring three outdoor pools, eight diverse dining options, and an 18-hole golf course. Guests can enjoy free internet access and complimentary parking. The elegantly appointed rooms come with air conditioning, flat-screen satellite TVs, and private balconies offering views of the sea, garden, or golf course. Dining options include buffet breakfast at Penyu Restaurant and casual meals at Splashes poolside bar and Sunset Bar & Grill. Families can take advantage of the kids' club and kids' pool, while guests seeking relaxation can visit the Borneo Spa for soothing massages. The resort also offers various outdoor activities such as cycling and horse riding. - Multiple swimming pools for relaxation - Variety of dining options available on-site - Family-friendly amenities including a kids' club - Access to an 18-hole golf course - Free shuttle service to nearby attractions
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is centrally located in Kota Kinabalu, offering spacious and elegantly furnished accommodations with complimentary WiFi. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool and a selection of six dining options, including the award-winning Nagisa for sushi and Japanese cuisine. The air-conditioned rooms come equipped with flat-screen satellite TVs and luxury amenities, while some provide access to a club lounge. Additional features include Tanjung Ria Kitchen, serving Halal-certified local and Western dishes in a vibrant setting. The hotel also houses a fitness center, spa treatments, tour desk services, 24-hour reception, currency exchange, and laundry services. With Gaya Street just 400 meters away and the IMAGO Shopping Mall within a 3.5 km distance, it offers convenient access to local attractions. **Pros:** - Prime central location near popular markets. - Variety of dining options catering to different tastes. - Relaxing outdoor pool area. - Well-equipped fitness center for guests. - Luxurious amenities in spacious rooms.
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu is ideally situated just a 5-minute walk from Oceanus Waterfront Mall, offering guests stunning views of the South China Sea. The hotel features five dining options, an outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi throughout the premises. Each elegantly furnished room comes equipped with a satellite flat-screen TV and tea/coffee making facilities, along with an en suite bathroom that includes shower amenities. Guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast at Promenade Café featuring various Asian, Halal, and International dishes, or savor Chinese Szechuan cuisine at Dynasty Restaurant. Additional amenities include a gym, on-site salon services, 24/7 reception for airport transfers and currency exchange, as well as meeting facilities. - Prime location near shopping and attractions - Diverse dining options available on-site - Complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel - Fitness center and salon services for relaxation - Convenient 24-hour reception services