Kota Kinabalu is a beautiful coastal city in Malaysia that offers many activities for tourists. From nature and wildlife tours to shopping, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Visitors can explore the area’s stunning natural beauty, immerse themselves in the local culture, or simply relax on the beach.
One of the most popular things to do in Kota Kinabalu is to visit the Atkinson Clock Tower. This iconic landmark dates back to 1902 and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Visitors can also stroll along Tanjung Aru Beach, which offers stunning views of the South China Sea. For those looking for adventure, there are plenty of activities, including kayaking, white water rafting, and scuba diving.
Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, Kota Kinabalu has something to offer. With so many activities, visitors will surely find something that interests them. So, if you are planning a trip to Malaysia, add Kota Kinabalu to your itinerary and experience all this amazing city has to offer.
Top Attractions
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysia, offers visitors various attractions. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Kota Kinabalu:
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The mosque is built on a man-made lagoon and appears floating on water. It is a beautiful sight, especially at sunset and night when the mosque is lit up. Visitors can enter the mosque and explore its intricate architecture and design. The mosque is open to visitors every day except during prayer times.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
The Manukan Island Resort is a hideaway that is one of the 5 tropical islands that comprise the Tunku Abdul Rahman ParkThe Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a group of five islands off the Kota Kinabalu coast. The islands are known for their crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life. Visitors can take a boat tour of the islands and enjoy snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. The marine park is also a great place for bird-watching and hiking. Visitors can spend a day or two exploring the islands and enjoying the area’s natural beauty.
Signal Hill Observatory Platform
The Signal Hill Observatory Platform is located on top of Signal Hill, the highest point in Kota Kinabalu. The platform offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Visitors can see the platform from the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and the South China Sea. The best time to visit the platform is sunset, when the sky turns orange and the city lights up. The platform is accessible by car or by hiking up the hill.
Kota Kinabalu offers visitors a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. These top attractions are just a few things to see and do in the city.
Outdoor Activities
Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. Here are some popular outdoor activities visitors can enjoy in Kota Kinabalu.
Island Hopping
Island hopping is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Kota Kinabalu. There are several islands near Kota Kinabalu that visitors can explore. Some popular islands include Sapi Island, Manukan Island, and Mamutik Island. Visitors can enjoy various water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.
White Water Rafting
White water rafting is a thrilling outdoor activity popular among adventure enthusiasts. The Kiulu River, about an hour’s drive from Kota Kinabalu, offers a great white water rafting experience. The river has gentle flow makes it ideal for beginners and families with children.
Hiking Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s highest mountain and a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The mountain is located about 90 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can hike to the mountain’s summit and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is challenging and requires a good fitness level, but the experience is rewarding.
Overall, Kota Kinabalu offers various outdoor activities catering to different interests and fitness levels. Visitors can enjoy island hopping, white water rafting, and hiking Mount Kinabalu, among other activities.
Cultural Experiences
Kota Kinabalu is a city rich in culture and history. Visitors to the city can experience the local culture through various activities. Here are three cultural experiences that are worth checking out:
Sabah State Museum and Heritage Village
The Sabah State Museum and Heritage Village is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Sabah. The museum has a collection of artifacts showcasing the different ethnic groups in Sabah. Visitors can also explore the Heritage Village, a replica of a traditional village that showcases the various types of houses and architecture of the various ethnic groups in Sabah.
Mari Mari Cultural Village
Mari Mari Cultural Village is a living museum that showcases the traditional way of life of the different ethnic groups in Sabah. Visitors can experience the different customs, traditions, and practices of the various ethnic groups through interactive activities such as cooking, dancing, and handicraft making. The village is located in a lush rainforest, providing a unique cultural experience.
Kota Kinabalu Night Market
Kota Kinabalu Night Market is a bustling market that comes alive at night. Visitors can experience the local food and culture by trying out the different street food stalls and browsing through handicraft and souvenir shops. The night market is a great place to experience the local way of life and immerse oneself in the local culture.
Overall, these cultural experiences provide visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the local culture of Kota Kinabalu.
Food and Drink
Seafood
Kota Kinabalu is known for its fresh seafood, and plenty of restaurants serve delicious dishes. Some popular seafood options include grilled fish, prawns, and crab. One of the best places to try seafood is the Filipino Night Market, open every night. Visitors can try various seafood dishes, including grilled fish, crab, and prawns. Another popular seafood restaurant is Welcome Seafood Restaurant, located in the city center. They offer a variety of seafood dishes, including steamed fish, grilled prawns, and crab.
Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a popular dish in Malaysia and a must-try in Kota Kinabalu. The dish consists of coconut rice, sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and a hard-boiled egg. One of the best places to try Nasi Lemak is Restoran Yee Fung, in the city center. They serve up a delicious version of the dish, and it is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Tuaran Mee
Tuaran Mee is a type of noodle dish unique to Sabah, and it is a must-try in Kota Kinabalu. The dish consists of stir-fried egg noodles with vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood. One of the best places to try Tuaran Mee is at Tuaran Mee Restoran, in the city center. They serve up a delicious version of the dish, and it is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Overall, Kota Kinabalu is a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of delicious options. Visitors looking for fresh seafood, Nasi Lemak, or Tuaran Mee will surely find something satisfying their taste buds.
Shopping
Kota Kinabalu has a variety of shopping options for visitors to explore. From modern shopping malls to traditional markets, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to go shopping in Kota Kinabalu.
Imago Shopping Mall
Imago Shopping Mall is a modern shopping mall located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. It features many shops, including international brands, local boutiques, and restaurants. The mall is air-conditioned, making it an excellent place to escape the heat. Visitors can also catch a movie at the cinema or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Centre Point Sabah
Centre Point Sabah is another popular shopping mall in Kota Kinabalu. It is located in the city center and features a variety of shops, including clothing stores, electronics stores, and food outlets. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants or catch a movie at the cinema. The mall is air-conditioned, making it a comfortable place to shop.
Filipino Market
The Filipino Market is a traditional market located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. It is a popular tourist destination and features a variety of stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and food. Visitors can negotiate prices with the vendors, making it an excellent place to find a bargain. The market is open from early morning until late at night, making it a convenient place to shop.
Overall, Kota Kinabalu has various shopping options for visitors to explore. Whether looking for modern shopping malls or traditional markets, there is something for everyone.
