14 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia - Updated 2024

Sonia
Sonia 
Updated
| 4 min read

The lovely city of Kota Kinabalu will bowl you over with its exquisite beauty and extreme richness. While you are here, take in the splendor of magical sunsets and an amazing amalgamation of lip-smacking dishes, along with the cultural heritage. You will find so many things to do and places to see in Kota Kinabalu that you will feel overwhelmed by all the magic. You will find everything from scenic roads, beaches, and natural areas to the best bars to end your night here. Some of the places that you must visit are the Sabah State Museum, Mamutik Island, and Tabin Wildlife Reserve. For accommodation, if you are wondering about the best places to stay, there are plenty of homey Airbnbs with a private pool in Kota Kinabalu. Booking one of them will ensure a comfortable stay. Scroll down for the best Airbnb vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 06, 2024.

1. Spacious studio for four with free car parking (from USD 40)

This studio apartment for rent in Kota Kinabalu makes for a delightful stay in the heart of the city. It comes equipped with a cosy double bed that promises a night of peaceful slumber. Air conditioning and ceiling fans ensure added comfort, especially when the temperature starts to soar. A stove and microwave in the kitchen let you fix light meals when you are craving homemade fare.

If you are travelling in a car, you can park it conveniently on the premises without a surcharge which is a great plus.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
60 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE CONDO 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
air conditioning is good
the pool has a nice view over the water
stunning sunrise and sunset views from the infinity pool overlooking gaya island and fisherman's boats
we also enjoyed the great view from the pool area
excellent location and great pool with views over the waterfront and sea
Cleanliness:
the apartment was very clean and comfortable and well equipped for a great stay
very clean house and there're all home appliances
their house really clean & nice & complete with all the item that u need to use
there are several 24-hour convenience stores on the first floor and the infinity pool is kept clean
Host:
the host is friendly and fast response
great stay and great hosts
beverly was a great host quick to respond to all our enquiries
and such a great service from our host always available for any kind of question
their agent helped with the checkin which was very fast and she's very friendly
Location:
a simple walk to nearby places of interest
this is superb place for tourist with mix shopping mall hotel and surrounded by main features of kk
also close to the night market with delicious local food
great place to explore the city from
Read more reviews

2. Stylish Airbnb with a patio (from USD 63)

This rented house in Kota Kinabalu is minutes away from the malls, markets, and pubs and is best suited for big families. A baby monitor is placed for guests travelling with their little munchkins. An indoor fireplace keeps the place warm on a drizzly afternoon. Guests can make use of an internet connection furnished inside the Airbnb to stay connected with loved ones back home.

A beautiful patio with a manicured lawn awaits you at the end of the day where you can savour a quiet meal with the family in an alfresco setting.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu , Sabah, Malaysia
168 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE CONDO 4 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
everything was good except for the ceiling fan in the master room
it was so comfortable all utilities in working order and beautiful decoration great stay
my kids was excited with the swimming pool and the double decker bed
the toilet seats are heated which is very thoughtful of suen
very beautiful home i love that the toilet seats have warmers haha
Cleanliness:
the place was very clean and comfy
great place and clean unit to stay
clean and nice place to stay with young kids
house is nice and clean
the place was so big and clean
Host:
may suen is a friendly and helpful host
the host is very friendly and responsive
host was very responsive at all times
owner was great at communicating with us and checked we were ok during our stay
host are friendly and very considerate to provide full information before check-in
Location:
great location good for families with kids
a great place for a family holiday near the swimming pool gym and playground
so convenient few step to the shopping mall very clean and nice place for small family stay in
beautiful place with direct access / straight access to garden and swimming pool
nice and cozy place to stay in
Read more reviews

3. The Loft Imago (from USD 57)

With its two bedrooms and eight beds, this super-spacious apartment can house a large group of eight members. It is located just 15 minutes from the airport. Amenities such as WiFi and cable TV are available to keep you connected to the rest of the world. A well-equipped and stocked kitchen is also available where you can cook your meals. You can check-in anytime between 3 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
206 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE CONDO 3 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi speed is fast and smart tv provided
wifi coverage is good smart tv were provided
wifi speed and smart tv covarage were all excellent
comes with a great balcony view an amazing pool and gym on the top floor
the 6th floor has 2 pools & beautiful gardens feels like you're in a park
Cleanliness:
cleanliness to be improved
vey clean and convenient
very clean homestay and spacious unit
the place was very clean and beautiful
very clean nice and comfortable room
Host:
the host treated us really well
friendly & very accommodating host
the host is kind and helpful
the host is very friendly
the host was easy to communicate and helpful
Location:
good location that connected to imago shopping mall
good location as it's just located above the imago mall
fully furnished and nice location
the apartment is centrally located downtown perfect walking distance to shops
nice apartment very close to the shopping mall
Read more reviews

4. Affordable bedroom in the heart of the city (from USD 40)

Stay close to the waterfront, restaurants, markets, and other top attractions in the heart of the city, while enjoying the high-toned hospitality of this plush bedroom. The interior is well-equipped for your pleasure, from the air conditioning to the large window with city vistas. The accommodation for two also comes with laundry amenities, a workspace, and WiFi for your convenience. Note that it’s perched on the second floor of the building with no elevator so you’ll have to climb up a flight of stairs.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
386 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN RENTAL UNIT 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
come in into the room is like a suprise luar macam biasa sekali dalam macam kondo
turned the ac on for us just before our arrival so the room was already cool
the room was clean and basic amenities were provided
there is fast wifi and a nice desk for my online work
the toilet was great
Cleanliness:
clean and tidy room
clean and beautiful design
always clean and comfortable
a very clean room and toilet
spotless clean easy to communicate
Host:
helpful host as well
staff were polite and helpful showing us around
nice hospitality and the staff here is nice
friendly hosts accommodating to needs and requests
the host was very accommodating and helpful
Location:
the location is ideal and walking distance to most areas
perfect location for exploring the city
location wise it seemed very central to kota kinabalu
location is excellent walkable distance to shopping centres handicraft market eateries
10 min walk to the bus stationslept well and had easy check out
Read more reviews

5. Amazing studio with city views (from USD 35)

You’ll feel at home in this spacious studio sitting on the first floor of a condominium. The cosy apartment, which can sleep four guests, is equipped with every necessity to make your stay lovely, from a fully equipped kitchen to a smart TV facing the comfy seating area. The air-conditioned home comes with sizable windows with lots of natural light, and you can enjoy beautiful views of the city from the balcony. IMAGO shopping mall is located right by the apartment and there are tons of dining options around to check out. Free parking on the fourth floor, laundry amenities, a shared pool, and a gym are also provided.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
224 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire loft 2 Beds 4 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the air conditioning was in good order and so was the water heater
Cleanliness:
communication and cleanliness were superb
sparkling clean very recommended
the room is so clean and tidy
very clean & worth staying
place is stylish and clean
Host:
host is friendly and quick response
great host in providing fast response
host was very accommodating and helpful
great place and great host
the host is super friendly as well as the assigned operator
Location:
great location everything near
and the location is excellent very close to the shopping mall
good location and comfortable stay
it's right above imago shopping mall so excellent location
the environment and location is superb
Read more reviews

6. Home like hostel (from USD 10)

This modern apartment is suitable for a large group of up to eight guests. During your stay, you will be provided with complimentary breakfasts. WiFi is also available for your convenience. The apartment is also located at a convenient distance from the airport and other places of interest. There are also two computers available if you would like to use them. The hostel provides a shared room where you get the opportunity to meet other guests. You can check-in anytime between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
104 reviews   Wifi Available
ROOM IN HOSTEL 8 Beds 8 Guests 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great amenities provided (towel shampoo locker laundry machine and etc
free breakfast and washer + dryer are additional points
it is a cozy place to relax and meet fellow travelors
Cleanliness:
the environment is so clean that u cannot even find a dust on it
place was clean comfortable and homey
the room is very clean and comfortable
clean modern cosy and nice people
high value for money such a clean place with nice touches
Host:
very nice host and team
thank you sarah and your staff ian
sarah & ryan are extremely friendly and helpful
it was wonderful the staff there is warm
sarah and ryan were warm friendly and helpful
Location:
the hostel is in great location
the place is strategically located near all the tourist attractions
excellent location in city centre clean and comfortable bed
good place to stay everything is prepared
an amazing place to stay and value for money
Read more reviews

7. Cosy and comfortable room

This brand new guest house is an ideal option for a small family of four members. It is located at a distance of only ten minutes from the airport and only five minutes from the city center. Each room in the apartment has a private bathroom and a couch. Modern amenities are available in the apartment such as WiFi and air conditioning. You can check-in at any time after 3 p.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
88 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room was very comfortable with all amenities present
we received a personal welcome message in the room which was very warm and thoughtful of them
staff was so thoughtful to cool the room before we arrived then helped us rent a car
comfortable beds microwaves and a large fridge
Cleanliness:
very clean and homefeeling stay
very clean and accommodating
a clean and comfortable room
very clean and comfortable to stay
the room is spacious clean and exactly as advertised
Host:
the staff were nice and willing to help
still i have to praise the awesome hospitality of the staff there
cozy place and friendly helpful staff
a r residence staff were so kind and helpful and easy to communicate
the booking was super efficient fast response from the host
Location:
great location to travel around
the location is very near at kk city
good location and room is nice
great place in the middle of the city
good place to stay for short trip
Read more reviews

8. Studio room

This newly renovated studio room can accommodate four persons and will make you feel comfortable and cozy. It is located at a convenient distance from some of the must-see destinations of the city. WiFi, air conditioning, and microwave oven are some of the facilities provided. If you are an international guest, a tourist tax of RM 10 per night/ per room is required to be paid. You can check-in at any time after 3 p.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
61 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the room is clean and stylish
the place is very clean and new
the room was very clean stylish and comfortable
clean and good place for family to check in
their rooms are spacious and clean with a little bit of style
Host:
the staff is welcoming and helpful
the staff are very nice and helpful
i was pleasantly surprised by the hospitality of the staff at ar residence
the hosts were friendly helpful and responsive
the communication was simple and the staff eagerly responded with helpful tips
Location:
fantastic location and great value for money
spacious room stylish and great location
very convenient location as we can get grab easily
overall it’s good place
Read more reviews

9. Spacious room with complimentary breakfast

This comfortable and spacious Airbnb in Kota Kinabalu is an ideal option for solo travelers as well as couples. The room has a comfortable queen size bed and air-conditioning to keep you cool. From the corner window, you get to enjoy the wonderful view of the setting sun. For your entertainment, there is a play area in the backyard where you can enjoy the various games available, such as pool and darts. For active and adventurous souls there is a calisthenic gym and a rock climbing wall. There are also other amenities available such as WiFi and cable TV. During your stay, you also get complimentary breakfast. A well-equipped kitchen is also available for your use. You can check-in anytime after 3 p.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
140 reviews  
Private room in house 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
good wifi cool a/c and hot water
air conditioning hot shower and free use of the kitchen were wonderful as well
the patio in very inviting with a pool table places to seat and smoking area
particularly liked the outdoor chill zone with pool table
clean space private bathroom and not too far from attractions via grab
Cleanliness:
the room is clean and tidy
the room is clean and comfortable
the room was clean and looked great
and the room is very clean and comfortable
cheap clean and perfect people around you to have fun
Host:
really awesome hosts and company
jack the host was very friendly and kind
host made a good effort to show us around the house
lovely place to staythe host can bring you to dive
i like the facilities and the host was a nice friendly guy
Location:
excellent location for a stay near the airport
very nice place close to the airport
the location is in a nice and safe residential area
nearby is a good tea restaurant and a grocery shop
i like the place its peaceful and near the aiport
Read more reviews

10. Charming apartment

With one bedroom, this charming apartment is one of the luxurious best places to stay in Kota Kinabalu and a great option for a couple who want to get away from everyday life. The accommodation is exclusively designed and is located in the heart of the city. The room is fully air-conditioned and comes with a queen size bed and a sofa. To make sure you are connected to the world, wifi is available. A well-equipped kitchen with basic cooking utensils and other modern appliances is also available for your use. A fiber optic (night glowing) swimming pool, hot tub, and a modern gym are available to provide you with the luxury of a five-star hotel. You can check-in at any time after 3 p.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
131 reviews  
Entire apartment 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice place with basic utilities and wifi
top apartment and great amenities
ling's space was comfortable and clean it has two air-conditionals tv comfort bed and couch desk and chairs
it was facilitate with nice swimming pools we do loved it alot
great place a personalised hand written note on the coffee table was just awesome
Cleanliness:
great spacious and very clean apartment
the place is clean and well maintained
very clean unit especially the bed sheet
the apartment was also clean and comfortable
beautiful cozy and clean place
Host:
host was very responsive
the host is kind because she answered my questions so kindly
good hospitality host was very efficient and helpful to answer any questions
host is very responsive and friendly
overall stay was good owner & staff were accommodating & helpful
Location:
nice location and easy check in
great location with a lot of restaurants and mall nearby
located at kk times square about a minute walk to imago
good location and plenty of restaurants around
it's was a great location if you have a plan to kk
Read more reviews

11. Spacious apartment

This spacious apartment can accommodate six people or more. Even though the accommodation is simple it is very comfortable and will make you feel at home. All the bedrooms have air conditioning and other amenities such as a wardrobe and a dressing table. Extra mattresses, pillows, and blankets are available at an additional cost if there are more than six guests. WiFi is also available along with other facilities like swimming pool and gym. You can check-in anytime between 2 p.m. and 12 a.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
98 reviews  
Entire condominium 4 Beds 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
master bedroom had a good view of pool and there is a nice balcony for smokers
full of amenities and spacious apartment with good facilities of gym and swimming pool
Cleanliness:
clean and very reasonable price
clean and comfortable to live with
the place is spacious clean and newly updated
everything was clean and most of the bedrooms were really spacious
this is a very spacious neat and clean apartment
Host:
great host service
the host was nice and friendly
the host is friendly and helpful
the host is very friendly and helpful
lovely place friendly and helpfull host
Location:
comfortable and good location to places we wanted to go
place is ideal for families and a huge group
definitely a great place to stay at kota kinabalu great location and easy access to town centre
the house is clean and comfortable good location with beautiful and high viewing scenery having all facilities provide
will return back to this place in the future :)
Read more reviews

12. Cosy and trendy private rental

This cosy and trendy studio apartment is the perfect Airbnb in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, for solo travelers and couples. It is located only 15 minutes from the airport. The interior design of the apartment is very comfortable. There are amenities such as a swimming pool and a gym available for your access. Basic cooking utensils and equipment are also provided. To book the accommodation, a minimum of two nights’ booking is required. You can check-in anytime after 3 p.m.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
93 reviews  
Entire apartment 1 Bed 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very nice very nice apartment with a great view overlooking the pool
modern styling with nice furniture the pool is also a nice addition
there was a balcony and we could see a swimming pool and played there
apartment is really better than expected
good place but i found ants on the bed hope to improve that in the future
Cleanliness:
place is okay clean and nice
very nice and clean apartment
nice environment and clean room
rita's apartment was clean new and nicely designed
the apartment was very clean
Host:
rita was a nice host
the host rita is kind and her response to any questions is very fast
rita is a really nice host
rita is a great host
the host is extremely helpful and easy to contact for any last minute requests
Location:
location is perfect just few steps away from imago mall so it's very convenient to shop
nice and big apartment very central and nearby shops
location is great next to a new mall with good restaurant and shops to get all daily necessities
cozy & very nice location
easy to get around (using grab) near to shopping malls and places of attraction
Read more reviews

13. Comfortable apartment

Located in the heart of the city, this vacation rental in Kota Kinabalu can accommodate three persons comfortably. It is located next to the Imago mall and KK Times Square. The studio is exclusively designed and will make sure that you feel comfortable at all times. Modern amenities such as a fiber optic swimming pool, hot tub, and gym are available. WiFi services are available. A minimum of a two-night stay is required. You can check-in anytime after 3pm.

Stayed at this property?
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
97 reviews  
Entire apartment 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
excellent apartment nice view of pool and sea from balcony
nice and cosy apartment with lovely view from the balcony
it was good except that tv was not shown
apartment had washing machine electrical stove microwave and kettle which is great for us
very thoughtful of putting some snacks on the table
Cleanliness:
room - nice and clean
lovely apartment- very clean and bright
ling has a very beautiful and clean lovely place
this is a clean and comfortable apartment in a well-maintained high rise building
a clean and modern apartment in a great location
Host:
great host very considerate
great host great place and reasonable
ling was also a fantastic host
the host and her teams were very efficient and prompt on responding on my emails and request
we didn’t meet ling but she was very nice and attentive
Location:
great location good for sightseeing and shopping
i love the location with a mall just beside and also not too far from the airport
nice place and good location for shopping malls
a nice place which close to shopping mall and restaurants
it's a good place to stay and close to the mall
Read more reviews

14. Home away from home

Located only two kilometers from the airport, this apartment can accommodate up to four people. A swimming pool and gym are available at no additional charge. You also get to use the living room and the kitchen. Air conditioning, TV and a washer are also available. You can check-in anytime after 3 p.m.

Stayed at this property?
81 reviews   Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN RENTAL UNIT 2 Beds 3 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
clean and comfortable like home and exactly same as picture
i really loved this airbnb it was cute very clean and the hosts were very friendly and accommodating
Host:
and friendly with her husband
Location:
such a good location
a very nice host and guidance a perfect location with convenient transportation
Read more reviews

Book today

These are some of the best Airbnb homestays in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Getting perfect accommodation is an important part of holiday planning. We have tried to make your task easy by putting together this list. Book the one that best suits your needs!

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Sonia is a voracious reader, a passionate writer, and a connoisseur of all things unique, colorful, and exotic.

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