Top Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
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See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings.
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Kota Kinabalu.
On the Waterfromper adultRMÂ 304
Full-day Toursfromper adultRMÂ 245- fromper adultRMÂ 227
Adventure Toursfromper adultRMÂ 543- fromper adult (price varies by group size)RMÂ 421
- fromper adult (price varies by group size)RMÂ 272
- fromper adultRMÂ 175
Full-day Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)RMÂ 398
Climbingfromper adult (price varies by group size)RMÂ 3,533
Full-day Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)RMÂ 393
Other Top Attractions around Kota Kinabalu
*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 travellers are saying
- tonimcallenFremantle, Australia54 contributionsThis 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 9 April 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- IndySigIndianapolis, IN3,844 contributionsA 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 19 January 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Anonymous AGreater Sydney, Australia169 contributionsA 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 25 December 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - feynmanKuala Lumpur, Malaysia3 contributionsThe 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 13 April 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- tonimcallenFremantle, Australia54 contributionsThis 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 9 April 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- soomark1UK113 contributionsHad 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 28 March 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Zsuzsa.GuideTargu Secuiesc, Romania245 contributionsInteresting 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 8 March 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- tonimcallenFremantle, Australia54 contributionsWe 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 9 April 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Eliana P8 contributionsWe 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 24 September 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - vkaliShoreham-by-Sea, UK201 contributionsWas 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 14 April 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Aldo VSwitzerland20 contributionsWe 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 7 April 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - tonimcallenFremantle, Australia54 contributionsThis 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 9 April 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kota Kinabalu
- The top attractions to visit in Kota Kinabalu are:
- Manukan Island
- Tanjung Aru Beach
- Imago Shopping Mall
- Gaya Street Sunday Market
- Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
- The best outdoor activities in Kota Kinabalu according to Tripadvisor travellers are:
- Adventures in Borneo with Downbelow Marine & Wildlife
- Tanjung Aru Beach
- Mawali Sailing
- Manukan Island
- Mamutik Island
- The best day trips from Kota Kinabalu according to Tripadvisor travellers are:
- Sky-Mirror Photographing and Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies Watching River-Cruise
- Borneo (Klias) River Cruise & Fireflies Tour
- Full Day Bongawan River Cruise with Proboscis Monkey Sightseeing
- Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring & Canopy Walk
- Kota Kinabalu K2 Fireflies Sunset River Cruise Tour with Dinner
- The most popular things to do in Kota Kinabalu with children according to Tripadvisor travellers are:See all kid friendly things to do in Kota Kinabalu on Tripadvisor