Nicknamed the “Land Below the Wind” for it’s close distance to the typhoon belt, Sabah makes up a part of Borneo and is one of the best places in the world to immerse yourself in some thick, lush, tropical jungle, learn about some of the oldest indigenous cultures, and catch a rare glimpse of the majestic and endangered Orangutans. Let’s just jump into it, here are the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
1. Immerse yourself in Malay history at Sabah State Museum
Sprawling across 42 acres (17 hectares) of land, this is the state museum of Sabah and was built in 1985. Home to a wide variety of amazing artefacts and exhibits that will teach you about history, science, and culture, this is a wonderful place to visit on a free afternoon when the weather is not favourable to go outside. There is a Heritage Village within the premises where you can explore a replica of a village featuring traditionally built houses from different indigenous cultures of Sabah. Inside the museum, there are several galleries dedicated to the arts and history, including natural history, archaeology, and more.
Sabah State Museum
Address: Jalan Muzium, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website: Sabah State Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
2. Enjoy a relaxing beachside experience at Tanjung Aru Beach
Situated on Kota Kinabalu’s western coast, this beach is frequented by tourists and locals alike because of its close proximity to the airport. With fine sand and sparkling deep-blue waters, this beach offers an amazing coastal experience. You can simply relax and sunbathe in peace, or if you want something more thrilling, you can engage in some exciting water sports such as jet skiing and surfing. Once you are hungry, head over to the tens of shacks and stalls that serve delicious Malay food that you are sure to love.
Tanjung Aru Beach
Address: Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11am - 11pm (daily)
3. Enjoy the sunset near Marlin Statue
Situated in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, right beside the waterfront, lies this unique statue of a giant swordfish, known as the Marlin statue. With the blue sea serving as a backdrop, it is a lovely place to spend some quiet time enjoying the sunset. Once you are done clicking pictures, there is a market nearby where you can get street food to munch on as you walk around. The statue was constructed to celebrate the time when KK achieved city status; therefore it’s quite special to locals.
Marlin Statue
Address: Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
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4. Click an Instagram-worthy picture near the I Love KK statue
Situated right beside Marlin statue is this newly constructed sign that says I Love KK (for Kota Kinabalu). You can plan to visit both these monuments together right before sunset, and then hang out around the waterfront area for beautiful photos as well. Just take a stroll around the area and enjoy the scenic views here, and watch the fishing boats return home for the day. Most of the restaurants here start to open after sunset, so you can head over to a bar or restaurant for a bite.
I Love KK
Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Check out the amazing mangroves at Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar Site
Whether you wish to witness some wildlife in Kota Kinabalu or take some Instagram-worthy pictures in the wetland area, this is a great way to spend a lovely morning. The wetlands and mangroves here are some of the most environmentally significant landmarks, and Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society aims to protect them in order to preserve the ecosystems within it. There is a research facility on the premises as well as an educational centre for the public that is well worth checking out. Entrance fees are nominal and go towards maintaining the mangroves.
Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar Site
Address: Off, Jalan Bukit Bendera Upper, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website: Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar Site
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
6. Explore the beauty of Pillars of Sabah
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are an art enthusiast, this is a great place to check out. Pillars of Sabah are basically art installations created by the Kota Kinabalu community depicting 30 endangered species of wildlife in Malaysia. The floors and pillars were the only remains of a building that caught fire in 1992. Every year, artists change the depictions on the pillars to fit a certain theme, celebrating certain aspects of Malay culture.
Pillars of Sabah
Address: Lorong Bank 3, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website: Pillars of Sabah
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. Marvel at the dancing musical fountains at Tanjung Aru Perdana Park
Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, or Perdana Park, is a beautiful park filled with recreational activities and amenities. This is one of the best places to witness a sunset as well as dine at some of the popular eateries here that offer authentic Malaysian cuisine. Besides the sunset views, there is a musical fountain that involves specific bursts of water synchronised to music and lights.
Tanjung Aru Perdana Park
Address: Jalan Melati, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 5am - 9pm (daily)
8. Check out Atkinson Clock Tower, the oldest building in the city
This is the oldest standing building in the city of Kota Kinabalu. The entire structure is built out of solid wood with no nails to honour Francis George Atkinson who was the District Officer during British colonisation. This building stood tall the entire Second World War and still serves the people of Sabah up to this day. You can find lots of cafes and restaurants nearby if you want to stop by for a quick bite.
Atkinson Clock Tower
Address: Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Have a fun family picnic at Ulu Kionsom Waterfall
With clean spring water originating from Mount Kinabalu, Kiansom Waterfall is a refreshing place to visit during the hot summer months in Malaysia. You can take a shower under the falling waters, swim in the pond, and simply dip your feet in and have a cosy picnic. For nature lovers, this is truly a picturesque treat. Because it is very close to the city, it is frequented by plenty of people and you need not worry about safety.
Ulu Kionsom Waterfall
Address: Jalan Kionsom, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
10. Relish some freshly caught seafood at Anjung Samudera
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are a fan of seafood, then you should check out Anjung Samudera. The seafood here is freshly caught and well seasoned which is the highlight of this restaurant. Since this place is located at the waterfront, you can expect to be serenaded by the sounds of the waves hitting the shore and the sea breeze caressing your skin. Guests mentioned that the waitstaff was extremely patient and helpful, and you can ask them for recommendations if you are confused about what to have.
Anjung Samudera
Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
11. Explore the native marine life at Aquarium & Marine Museum, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Selamat Tahun Baru 2019!
Posted by Akuarium & Muzium Marin UMS on Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Aquarium & Marine Museum is an amazing place to take your kids and educate them about native marine life including fish, octopuses, shrimps, and even sea plants. In addition, there are exhibits and dioramas that educate guests about the importance of preserving marine biodiversity. You can also view fossilised remains of sea creatures of different kinds, including the kind that you might not find in any aquarium.
Aquarium & Marine Museum, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
Address: Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website: Aquarium & Marine Museum, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
12. Go on a fun shopping spree at Filipino Market
If you love scouring street markets to find the perfect piece of apparel or home decor, Filipino Market is a must-visit venue when you are in Kota Kinabalu. The market overlooks the beach and is locally known as Pasar Besar. Comprising hundreds of streetside stalls, this place will make you feel like a kid in a candy store with an incredible variety of souvenirs, accessories, and more. The highlight of this market is that once you are done shopping, you can enjoy the delicious street food here and even purchase fruits and fried delicacies.
Filipino Market
Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
13. Explore the dazzling night market at Satay Legend Lok Kawi 1
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Night markets are a unique way of exploring the city. At night, these markets come alive, buzzing with activity and waiting to be explored. You will feel like you are on a treasure hunt when you head to the famous Satay Legend Lok Kawi 1 with delicious street food such as meat fried on sticks available here. There are also plenty of wares you can find here that you might not find anywhere else at very reasonable prices.
Satay Legend Lok Kawi 1
Address: Gaya Street, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 5pm - 12am (closed from Sun - Thu)
14. Treat yourself to a fine-dining experience at OITOM
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Hey friends! We've taken it up a notch for our brunch menu by bringing back a wider variety of delicious smorrebrods...
Posted by OITOM KK on Thursday, December 10, 2020
If you are celebrating a special occasion such as a birthday or an anniversary, then you should check out an upscale dining restaurant here called OITOM. With an open-kitchen concept and a classy ambience featuring French windows, this restaurant has mastered the art of creating a sophisticated experience for its guests. Another thing that you will love about this restaurant is that they only use local ingredients in their dishes. They focus on preserving the local economy so it’s worth supporting this cause. Guests mentioned that the service was impeccable and the food was absolutely delicious and world class in quality.
OITOM
Address: Lot J-1-1 1st Floor Block J Lorong Pusat Komersil 88/1 88 Market Place Jalan Pintas, Lorong Sri Kepayan, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website: OITOM
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 6pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 4pm, 6pm - 10pm (closed on Mon)
15. Enjoy some delicious Irish food at The Shamrock Irish Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Shamrock Bar and Restaurant offers a truly Irish dining experience. Decorated in the style of an authentic Irish pub, this restaurant offers delicious food alongside an array of cocktails and alcoholic drinks. The restaurant often invites local bands to perform live music for the guests, and it can be a thrilling experience to listen to your favourite songs being performed live as you dine.
The Shamrock Irish Bar
Address: 1664, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 12pm - 1:30am (daily)
16. Taste some great Sabahan food
The capital city of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, is a melting pot for traditional and contemporary Sabahan cuisines! Lucky for us, this means we can enjoy most of Sabah’s gastronomical delights without traveling too far! With a great number of ethnic groups living in Sabah, expect a variety of bold flavours and textures when tasting all its local cuisines. Especially known for some of the freshest and most affordable seafood you’ll come across, don’t forget to bring some loose pants when you visit Kota Kinabalu! Don’t know where to start? Check out my other blog post for the Top 10 Best Things To Eat In Sabah!
Kedai Kopi Wan Wan
Address: Hsk Industrial Centre, 89500 Penampang, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 7.00 am – 2.15 pm
Contact: +60 88-716 698
Welcome Seafood Restaurant
Address: GF, G-15 - G-18 , Asia City , Jalan Coastal , Kota Kinabalu , 88000 Kota Kinabalu , Sabah, 88000, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 12.00 pm – 12.00 am
Contact: +60 88-447 866
Sri Lantha Curry House
Address: No. 28, Jalan Berjaya, Bandat Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 6.45 am – 5.00 pm
Contact: +60 88-253 669
17. Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village
With over 32 officially recognized indigenous tribes, Sabah can be said to be the most culturally diverse state in Malaysia! Learn about some of the traditional culture by visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village, deep in the Sabahan jungle. A village that is comprised of five different ethnic tribes, you’ll get a chance to visit a traditional Rungus Longhouse at Kampung Bavanggazo, where you can observe the makings of beautiful local handicrafts as well as witness (and maybe participate in) their cultural dances. You’ll also have a chance visit the hunters and fisherman of Lundayeh, the Bajau Sea Gypsies, who live exclusively on water and the famously feared headhunting tribe, the Murut.
Mari Mari Cultural Village
Address: Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10 am - 10 pm
Contact: +60 13-881 4921
Near by Food: Lots available in the area.
Website: Mari Mari Cultural Village
18. Visit the Tip of Borneo in Kudat
For some of the best views in Sabah, take a drive to the Kudat, also known as the Tip of Borneo! Have a picnic at Pantai Kalampunian (Kalampunian Beach) where the sands are as golden as the spectacular view of the sunset in the evening! Then head out over the rocks at Simpang Mengayau (Loitering Junction), and just enjoy the stunning views of the ocean, where the waves of the South China Sea meet the Eastern Sulu Sea Waves!
The Tip of Borneo
Address: Jln Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, 89050 Kudat, Sabah, Malaysia
19. Island-hopping at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
A very popular attraction in Sabah, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a group of five islands: Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug. On an island-hopping tour, you can look forward to some of the most picturesque island views you’ll ever lay your eyes on! There are plenty of beach activities readily available at Pulau Sapi, Manukan and Mamutik, and you can also explore the ocean with some relaxing snorkeling in the sea, or go deeper into the Sabahan waters with a diving trip!
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Website: Sabah Tourism
20. Take a river cruise tour - Catch Proboscis monkeys & fireflies
Furthering your admiration for the beauty of Sabah, you can take a river cruise tour through the Klias Wetlands, where you can catch a glimpse of indigenous primates, such as Proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques and the rare silver languor as well as other wildlife along the river bank. During night time, you’ll be taken through a mangrove swamp to observe the flickering of thousands of fireflies.
Amazing Borneo Tours
Address: L1.39 1st Floor, Star City North Complex,, Jalan Asia City, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website: Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise
Traveler's tips
📍 Tamparuli River, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, East Malaysia:
Gentle waters, calming breezes, and flourishing trees make the Tamparuli River a relaxing place to capture Malaysia's natural beauty. The scenic river is located in Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah, East Malaysia. Sabah is also known as the Land below the Wind because it is located below the typhoon belt of East Asia, sheltering the state from major typhoons.
Tamparuli River flows through natural rainforests and rugged terrain across the vast landscapes of rural Kota Kinabalu. It supports the local ecosystem and provides a livelihood for local communities. Tourists can enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking and riverboat cruises along its waters.
21. Trekking at Kinabalu National Park
Put on your trekking shoes, there are many short trails you can trek to admire the beauty of Kinabalu Park! Formed about 10 - 35 million years ago, Mount Kinabalu is one of the youngest non-volcanic mountains in the world! To catch a sight of this majestic mountain, you should take a hike to Timpohon Gate, where you’ll get a great view of the mountain from the park center.
If you’re feeling slightly more adventurous, you can attempt to climb Mount Kinabalu itself! At 4,095 meters (13,436 feet) tall, it’s the highest mountain in Southeast Asia! You’ll need to make plans and reservations six months before your hike, as they’ve limited the number of climbers to 135 pax, daily!
For a more comprehensive guide to trekking Kinabalu National Park, here’s a great article you can read
Kinabalu National Park
Address: 89300 Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia
Website: Sabah Tourism
22. Explore wildlife at Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Basically a mini zoo with a botanical garden, you can see many endangered species being rehabilitated at the Lok Kawi National Park! In an initiative to highlight some of Borneo’s wildlife and protect endangered species, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park has designed the park to mimic the natural habitats of the animals. Some animals to look forward to here are the Sumatran rhinoceroses, Orangutans, Proboscis monkeys, Malayan tigers, extremely colorful Hornbill birds, rare species of deer and, last but not least, Borneo Pygmy elephants!
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Address: 63, Jalan Penampang, 88200 Penampang, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9.30 am - 5.30 pm (Closed on public holidays.)
Contact: +60 88-765 710
Website: Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
23. Visit Danum Valley Conservation Area
Home to half of the bird species in all of Borneo, the Danum Valley is a haven for birdwatchers around the world! With over 92,400 hectares (228,325 acres) of virgin forest, you can visit the Danum Valley to admire rare animals like the Sumatran rhinoceros, Sun Bear, Benteng and Pygmy Elephants and primates such as the Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey and Leaf Monkey!
Danum Valley Conservtion Area
Address: Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia
Contact: +60 88-486 168
Website: Danum Valley info
24. Watch the sunset at the Signal Hill Observatory Tower
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
For a picturesque view of Sabah during sunset, that you would otherwise only see on postcards, take a nice walk up to the Signal Hill Observatory Tower for the best view of Kota Kinabalu, during sunset!
Signal Hill Observatory Tower
Address: Jalan Bukit Bendera, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9am - 11pm
Contact: +60 13-858 6018
Website: Signal Hill Observatory Tower
25. Shopping at KK Night Market
Of course, a visit to a new city in Malaysia wouldn’t be complete without visiting at least one night market. Kota Kinabalu’s Night Market will overwhelm your senses! You can get many things here, but what you need to look out for is their street food seafood!
Sinsuran Night Market
Address: Lorong Guamantong, Sinsuran Kompleks, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah,
Opening Hours: 3pm - 11pm
Contact: +60 11-2659 3138
A new adventure on every corner
There’s no telling how exciting your trip to Sabah is going to be. With great untamed forests, urbanized cities, great local cuisine as well as various traditional villages, there’s always something new to experience every time you visit!
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