THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu

Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia - Kota Kinabalu Attractions

Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu


Book these experiences for a close-up look at Kota Kinabalu.

From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

Top Attractions in Kota Kinabalu

These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.






*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travelers are saying

  • tonimcallen
    Fremantle, Australia55 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was the first of the islands around Kota Kinabalu we visited. The facilities on the island are basic but it is a pleasant place to spend time. The snorkelling was enjoyable in that there were plenty of fish to see, including small sting rays. However, the coral has been badly affected by tourism and pollution so that was disappointing.
    Written April 9, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • IndySig
    Indianapolis, IN4,121 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A very pretty mosque but quite a walk from KK. We enjoyed the seaside stroll, saw the sun setting and then enjoyed a nice dinner at one of the food stalls behind the mosque.
    Written January 19, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Anonymous A
    Greater Sydney, Australia181 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    A 2 island hopping trip - Sapi and Manukan costs RM $45 direct from the Jesselton ferry terminal. First stop was Sapi island. An extra RM25 per adult is paid on arrival foe the whole day for conservation. The speed boat took about 10 - 15 min. The ride was choppy. No safety ramps or assistance getting on or off board. Life jackets were not offered on the way back. Driver seemed to be competing with other drivers for speed. Would not be suitable for people with back pain or those with physical disabilities. Sapi island had 2 small Beaches to snorkel. However there were alot of dead coral and minimal marine life. Water was clear and warm. Still a nice place to relax and rewind despite many tourists.
    Unfortunately, we couldn't find a boat to take us in-between islands. Priority was to tour groups. No one was willing to assist us. We waited 1 hour for a speed boat and decided to forfeit the 2nd island in case we could not get back to the terminal. Very poorly organised, chaotic and unhelpful staff on the islands. Could be so much better for Malaysian tourism.
    Written December 25, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • feynman
    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia7 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The crowds are huge, but like any street market, the only downside is that you can’t find parking if you’re driving. The traffic around the market is also pretty bad.
    Written April 13, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • tonimcallen
    Fremantle, Australia55 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a huge shopping mall with a large range of different stores. The centre is clean an presents as aesthetically pleasing. On the lower ground floor there is a market like series of stalls which were fun to look through. Otherwise, there is a range of stores providing lower priced goods through to high end labels.
    Written April 9, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • tonimcallen
    Fremantle, Australia55 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We went solely for the sunset and it did not disappoint. The area is attractive with the islands as a backdrop and the lovely casuarina trees. It has a peaceful vibe, a relaxing place to watch the sun go down. There are also plenty of eating options around. We did not swim or engage in water sports so can't comment on those aspects.
    Written April 9, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • soomark1
    UK110 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Had an enjoyable and informative visit to this museum which gave a good insight into history and fauna of Sabah. They do not accept cashless card payment for entry and will suggests you buy something from the adjacent museum shop which will enable entrance. We were unable to get a signal outside on my husband's mobile in order to get a Grab taxi for our retun so had to seek assistance from a kind stranger. The museum complex stands alone so this could have been very awkward.
    Written March 28, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Zsuzsa.Guide
    Targu Secuiesc, Romania695 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Interesting experience to have an idea about the crowded nightlife. Feels like the whole city is out to eat, drink, dance from the youngest to older people. All kind of streetfood you can buy-fish, chicken, rice, candies, juice, fruits. People are sitting on the street & eat.
    Written March 8, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • vkali
    Shoreham-by-Sea, UK193 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Was good to soak in the water after a Canopy walk. I recommend doing the walk before the soak in the spring. We paid for a jacuzzi. This is not a must.
    Written April 14, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Eliana P
    27 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We did a snorkelling day trip in TARP with kids and thoroughly enjoyed it. Water was clear, lunch was really good and guides were very helpful with the kids. Highly recommend a visit before it is destroyed!!

    Too much trash in the water. No one seems to be looking after it - plastic bags, plastic bottles, aluminium cans. If this is not corrected soon the area will be destroyed.
    Written September 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • tonimcallen
    Fremantle, Australia55 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a huge shopping mall with a good range of stores. It is clean and presents aesthetically and all staff we encountered were friendly and helpful. There is a good range of fast food, cafes and restaurants so plenty of eating options.
    Written April 9, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Aldo V
    Switzerland19 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We only visited Mamutik and Manukan islands, but Mamutik was by far the more interesting.
    I saw beautiful fish, a sting ray and a reef shark while snorkeling.
    Written April 7, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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