Some info is shown in its original language. Translate
Become a host

Vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu

Find and book unique accommodations on Airbnb

Top-rated vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

%{current} / %{total}1 / 1
Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 44 reviews

The Shore KK | High Floor Sunset View & Balcony

High-floor unit at The Shore in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, offering beautiful sea views from your private balcony. On clear days,enjoy lovely sunset views and a charming photo spot. Walking distance to Gaya Street,Jesselton Point (island hopping), Suria Sabah Mall, local markets and the night market. It is convenient for exploring the city. Clean,comfortable and equipped with WiFi, air-conditioning and hot shower. High demand during weekends and peak seasons. Book early to secure your dates.

Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
5 out of 5 average rating, 13 reviews

【BaySuites#1】1BR Seaview | High floor near KK Town

Welcome to Wellstay peaceful retreat at Bay Suite, Kota Kinabalu — located on High Floor, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Tanjung Lipat , Mt Kinabalu, and the iconic Kota Kinabalu City Mosque. From the balcony, you can also admire the city skyline and the famous Yayasan Sabah Building shimmering by the waterfront. Our modern suite is designed for both comfort and convenience — perfect for family vacations, business trips, or weekend getaways. Enjoy the cool breeze, relaxing atmosphere.

Guest favorite
An open-concept studio suite showcases a comfortable seating area with a light-colored sofa and a stylish coffee table. A spacious bed is positioned near large glass windows, offering expansive views of the sunset. Light wooden flooring complements the modern decor, ensuring a warm ambiance.
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 113 reviews

Deluxe Studio Suites 日落海景2人小套房2

DELUXE STUDIO SUITES ~Sunset • Seaview Solo | Romance Couple | Business Trip | Small Family Bed Type : 1 King Bed & 1 Sofa Bed ( Chargeable ) Sunset Tanjung Aru & Seaview Level : 10， Size : 592 sqft ~ 豪华单间日落•海景套房 ~ SOLO ｜浪漫情侣 ｜闺蜜同床｜出差 | 小家庭 床型：1 张大床 （二位） 可安排另加1 张沙发床（另收费） 楼层：十楼 面积：592 平方英尺 车程：～亚庇机场- Queensland Suites ( Aru Suites ) : 7-8 分钟 GRAB：约马币6-8 Aru Suites - Imago Shopping Mall / 大茄来/市区/ ： 约 7-10分钟 GRAB：约马币6-10 步行约 10分钟 （捷径）丹绒亚卢海边 附近吃的：Burger King / KFC / 本地咖啡店/历史悠久1968北京鸭老店/等

Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
5 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviews

【TS14】Seaview Service Suites The Shore CBD@KK

Welcome to Laxzone Suite, your first choice Airbnb in Kota Kinabalu. Located in the heart of KK CBD, our cozy and stylish suite offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay. Our stunning unit come with a balcony and breathtaking sea views! You can step onto the balcony and be captivated by the panoramic vistas of the sparkling ocean. Whether it's enjoying your morning coffee or watching the sunset. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the beauty of Borneo.

Guest favorite
An infinity swimming pool is showcased atop a roof, featuring a sleek, tiled edge that appears to blend into the horizon. Surrounding glass railings provide unobstructed views, while the tranquil blue water reflects the sky and nearby landscape.
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviews

KShomesuites AS#1 Seaview|King Bed|Netflix|Wifi

Arusuites is strategically located at the heart of Tanjung Aru town, where you can conveniently find restaurants, grocery stores, park and beach within walking distance. The international airport and city is in short driving distance. ⭐️ Restaurants/Sabah state library/ Tanjung Aru Plaza - 5 min walk ⭐️ Perdana Park (Musical fountain/ jogging track) - 8 min walk ⭐️ Beach - 15 min walk ⭐️ Airport - 2 Km ⭐️ Imago shopping mall - 2.2 Km ⭐️ KK CBD - 15 min drive

Superhost
A minimalist workspace is presented with a wooden desk and a comfortable chair. Wall art by Matisse adds a cultural touch. A freestanding mirror and a clothing rack are positioned nearby, with a small potted plant adding a hint of greenery.
Condo in Kota Kinabalu
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews

The Shore@Centre of the City - Seaview

Our guesthouse, located in the centre of the city. It takes just 15-20 minutes to travel from the airport to THE SHORE KOTA KINABALU. All landmarks such as the Filipino Market, Bar Street, Shopping Centers, Ferry Terminal, Gaya Street, and renowned restaurants—all within a 5-15 minute walk. The apartment features a cozy bedroom with unparalleled sea views and comes with a private balcony. We also offer a high-quality 1.5-meter bed to ensure a restful night's sleep

Guest favorite
A spacious living area is furnished with a large gray sofa and a wooden coffee table. The room features light-colored walls and a mounted television. Natural light flows in through large windows, enhancing the open layout.
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews

Restful Respite Tanjung Aru Inifnity Pool 2BR

Welcome to Sabah! 欢迎来到沙巴！[SELF CHECK IN HOMESTAY] Situated in City Center - Kota Kinabalu, 2km away from KKIA. Guest could access roof top swimming pool/gym room on top of the floor. 无边泳池/健身房设于公寓楼顶。 [DEEP CLEANING] Our team is taking extra precaution to enhance our cleaning routine. We disinfect frequently touched surfaces (i.e. door knobs, table top, keypad button) between reservations just to ensure our guests have the safest and best stay experience with us.

Guest favorite
A cozy exterior view of the tiny house features large glass windows framed in wood, allowing soft light to illuminate the interior. A small tree is positioned in the foreground, and warm lights are strung overhead, enhancing the welcoming environment.
Tiny home in Kota Kinabalu
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 93 reviews

Tanjung Aru Tiny House 丹绒亚路高脚小筑

TINY HOUSE -one bedroom studio, built on stilts, exclusively surrounded by 2000 sqft of greens. It comes with a private garden and outdoor deck bar which offers the perfect pairing of an indoor-outdoor experience; with 5-star comfort inside, and nature right at your door step outside. 1km away from Tanjung Aru beach. 高脚小筑 （独门独院独户） 由约2000 平方英尺的绿地和花园四面环绕，并设有户外吧台；结合了室内外的完美体验。小筑里的每件物品，皆由我们精心挑选。不论是枕头的软硬度，床铺的质感，咖啡豆的选择，还是室内精油香氛。您可以一边享有小筑里的舒适，同时独享户外小院子。想看日落，步行十五分钟就到啦

Guest favorite
A modern living area features large windows showcasing a serene sunset over the water. A dining table is accompanied by four chairs, while a small balcony with a bistro set is visible. Decorative plants and soft furnishings enhance the inviting atmosphere.
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews

全海景日落阳台 The Shore Sunset Seaview Balcony

Stunning Sea view from the house. Chilling at the balcony. Swimming pool@level 6 Living Room, Queen Size bedroom, private sofa bed corner with curtains. Ensuite bathroom with hot and cold water shower. Large refrigerator with ice cube , mini kitchen with electric cooker, pot,plate,spoon,fork are available . Light cook at the kitchen. Filter water machine hot and warm. Please select 3 guest if you need single bed setting convert from sofa bed.

Guest favorite
A rooftop pool is featured, with clear blue water reflecting the sky. In the background, islands are visible on the horizon, framed by a vast expanse of ocean. The pool area includes glass fencing and lounge seating, creating an inviting space for relaxation.
Condo in Kota Kinabalu
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 40 reviews

Mercure |23-7 |3-min Walk to Jesselton Jetty |2R2B

Modern 2 bedroom & 2 bathroom apartment just 3 mins by walk from Jesselton Jetty! Enjoy a rooftop pool with epic sunset views, gym access and all the comforts of home - right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu city. Perfect for island hopping trips, couples, families or small groups. 现代化的两卧两卫公寓，步行3只需要分钟就即可到达亚庇码头！屋顶泳池可欣赏壮丽的日落美景，健身房设施齐全，尽享居家舒适，就在亚庇市中心。非常适合环岛游、情侣、家庭或小团体入住。

Guest favorite
Condo in Kota Kinabalu
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews

Riverson SOHO 1BR Cozy Apartment, Android TV box

Enjoy easy access to everything from this perfectly located home base. Imago Shopping Mall, a premium shopping and KK's famous Waterfront are just some examples of what's within walking distance. Whether you choose to kick back and relax, or go out exploring. This place has got you covered!

Guest favorite
A modern building is reflected in a serene swimming pool, with curved stone pathways leading to its entrance. Soft outdoor lighting highlights neatly landscaped greenery along the edges, while large windows reveal a warm glow from within as dusk approaches.
Condo in Kota Kinabalu
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

Charming Sunset in City Center

This special place is close to everything, making it easy to plan your visit. 2 minute walk to supermarket, to fish market, to Philipno market, to durian night market. Everything you want to eat is within walking distance. It is center of City.

Popular amenities for Kota Kinabalu vacation rentals

Self check-inGymBBQ grillLaptop-friendly workspaceWifi

Other great vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu

Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
5 out of 5 average rating, 7 reviews

Peaceful Seaview 1BR @TheShore | Self Check-in

Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

Sunset suite JQ Tower 2 | 5 minute walk to Pier

A cozy living area is featured with a comfortable gray sofa and a coffee table, all positioned near expansive windows offering a panoramic view of the sea. Dark curtains frame the windows, and a small plant adds a touch of greenery to the space.
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 74 reviews

JQ 25th floor Sea&Sunsetview | Netflix 4K

Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 19 reviews

JQ12 Seaview City Highfloor, Gaya Street 5 pax

Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.78 out of 5 average rating, 9 reviews

Seaview 21, The Shore, Kota Kinabalu (NEW)

Guest favorite
Condo in Kota Kinabalu
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviews

KShomesuites JQ #1 Smart Door Lock|Washer & Dryer

Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
5 out of 5 average rating, 14 reviews

KWEN Vetro - 2-4pax KK City Centre #8

Guest favorite
Apartment in Kota Kinabalu
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 62 reviews

The Shore #1 11 Kota Kinabalu

When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. priceG$10,252 GYDG$9,833 GYDG$8,369 GYDG$8,787 GYDG$9,415 GYDG$9,624 GYDG$10,043 GYDG$10,880 GYDG$9,415 GYDG$9,206 GYDG$8,787 GYDG$10,880 GYD
Avg. temp27°C28°C28°C29°C29°C29°C28°C28°C28°C28°C28°C28°C

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best places to stay in Kota Kinabalu?

    Kota Kinabalu has welcoming areas such as the city center, waterfront district, and Tanjung Aru, known for their dining, shopping, and seaside access. Staying near Gaya Street puts you close to local markets and cultural spots.

  • What are the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu with kids?

    Families can explore marine life at aquarium centers, play at sandy beaches like Tanjung Aru Beach, and discover local wildlife at nature parks. The city has hands-on cultural activities for kids to enjoy.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu?

    Explore vibrant markets on Gaya Street, relax at Tanjung Aru Beach, or wander the Sabah State Museum to learn about regional history. Nature lovers often visit Kota Kinabalu City Mosque for its architecture and scenic setting.

  • How is the weather in Kota Kinabalu?

    Kota Kinabalu has warm and humid weather year-round, with daily temperatures between 74–92°F (24–33°C). Rain is common, especially from May to December, so light clothing and a rain jacket are often recommended.

  • What are the best places to visit in Kota Kinabalu?

    Explore the Sabah State Museum, walk the Sutera Harbour, or enjoy Tanjung Aru Beach. The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque and handicraft market around Filipino Market are frequently suggested for local culture and scenic views.

  • What are some hiking trails in Kota Kinabalu?

    Hikers can try the Bukit Padang Trail for city views or explore rainforest paths at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Mount Kinabalu is often recommended for those wanting a challenging trek and panoramic mountain scenery.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Kota Kinabalu?

    Families can enjoy beach days at Tanjung Aru, interactive sessions at local museums, and river cruises to spot wildlife. Markets and cultural workshops around the city also invite families to explore regional traditions together.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas from Kota Kinabalu?

    Explore the islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, visit Mount Kinabalu and its surrounding park, or venture to local villages for craft markets and cultural experiences. Nature reserves near the city add opportunities for wildlife encounters.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Kota Kinabalu?

    Pet-friendly stays can be found in neighborhoods around the waterfront and city center, with some hosts welcoming dogs and cats. Green areas and walking paths near parks make it easy to bring your pet along for outdoor activities.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Kota Kinabalu?

    Try local seafood and tropical fruits at street markets, and consider lightweight clothing due to the humid climate. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor adventures, and be open to engaging with local communities to learn about traditions.

  • What is Kota Kinabalu known for?

    Kota Kinabalu is known for its blend of urban life with easy access to beaches, islands, and Mount Kinabalu national park. The city has multicultural heritage, bustling markets, and scenic sunsets along the waterfront.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Kota Kinabalu?

    Stroll through quaint neighborhoods featuring local coffee shops, spot murals around Jalan Gaya, or find handicrafts at lesser-known markets near Kampung Air. Secluded beach spots around the outskirts are suggested for quieter escapes.

  • What are the best foods to try in Kota Kinabalu?

    Sabah-style seafood, fresh grilled fish, and local specialties like hinava (marinated fish salad) are often suggested. Noodle dishes such as tuaran mee and tropical fruit desserts are popular choices in markets and coffee shops.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Kota Kinabalu?

    Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket for changing weather. Comfortable walking shoes and swimwear are recommended for outdoor and island activities, and a hat helps with the tropical sun.

  • What is the nightlife in Kota Kinabalu like?

    Kota Kinabalu's nightlife has lively bars, waterfront lounges, and casual music venues, especially near the city center. Night markets and food stalls open into the evening, making it easy to relax and sample local flavors.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Kota Kinabalu?

    Kota Kinabalu hosts cultural festivals celebrating Sabah's heritage, food fairs with local dishes, and sporting events such as marathons. The Harvest Festival in late spring is frequently suggested for experiencing regional traditions.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu?

    Kota Kinabalu has family-friendly vacation rentals, especially near the waterfront, city center, and beach areas like Tanjung Aru. Many homes provide open layouts and easy access to parks or markets, making group stays convenient.

  • When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?

    Visitors often prefer the drier season from February to April, when rainfall is lower and outdoor activities are more accessible. Lush greenery follows the wetter months, and cultural festivals are held throughout the year.

All about Kota Kinabalu

Featuring stunning islands set in cerulean waters, a bustling coastline, and Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of the state of Sabah. Partly surrounded by rainforest, the town itself is home to vibrant markets, a modern boardwalk, and a waterfront mosque. Despite being a rapidly modernizing city, the past is preserved here through historical sites like the Petagas War Memorial Garden, which honors fallen resistors of Japanese occupation during WWII, and the Double Six Monument — a striking white arch that commemorates Sabah’s late Chief Minister. The city also houses several art galleries along with the Sabah Islamic Civilization Museum, where you’ll find intricate brass antiques under its five domes, and the Sabah State Museum, which is home to galleries focusing on archaeology and natural history. There are plenty of restaurants and bars offering a wide array of cuisines at the waterfront, where you can enjoy dinner with a spectacular view.

Just outside the city, you’ll find white-sand beaches leading to calm, clear water, hot springs where you can soak after a long day of hiking, and wetlands where you can take a river cruise through the mangrove forests. There are several unspoiled islands off Kota Kinabalu’s coast, and you can reach them by ferry or boat for a day of tranquil sunbathing and watersports.

Kota Kinabalu is also known as the gateway to Borneo, the third-largest island in the world that is almost entirely overrun by rainforest and features incredible biodiversity.

What are the top things to do in Kota Kinabalu?

Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia, stands over 13,000 feet tall at the center of Kinabalu National Park. A trek to the top of Mount Kinabalu is a two-day adventure with mountain accommodations along the way where you can stop for rest and food. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded for your efforts by exquisite views of the Sabah region.

Kinabalu Handicraft Market

Kinabalu’s Handicraft Market, located along the scenic waterfront, is a popular place to pick up handmade souvenirs and gifts. You’ll find signature items, such as sarongs, pearl jewelry, and traditional instruments like the sompoton alongside one-of-a-kind handmade gifts.

Tanjung Aru Beach

Between the peaceful pockets of Tanjung Aru Perdana Park and Prince Philip Park in the south of town, this 1.3-mile expanse of coastline is fringed by aru and palm trees. Bring a frisbee and join the locals in the late afternoon sun or grab some satay at a street food stall and watch kites and blue-naped parrots zig zag across the sky.

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 4,290 vacation rentals in Kota Kinabalu

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 81,190 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    2,100 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 70 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    2,960 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    1,980 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    3,900 of Kota Kinabalu vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Self check-in, Gym, and BBQ grill across Kota Kinabalu rentals

  • 4.6 Average rating

    Kota Kinabalu stays receive an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from guests

  • Nearby attractions

    Kota Kinabalu's top spots, include Welcome Seafood Restaurant, Wisma Merdeka, and Kolkol Mountain

Destinations to explore

  1. Airbnb
  2. Malaysia
  3. Sabah
  4. Kota Kinabalu