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Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysia, offers a variety of experiences and things to do in Kota Kinabalu, from outdoor adventures to cultural insights. It is the starting point for exploring Borneo’s landscapes, including Mount Kinabalu, island parks, and nature reserves. You can hike, snorkel, or learn about indigenous traditions through cultural villages and museums. The city is home to diverse wildlife, fresh seafood, markets filled with handmade crafts and lovely waterfront areas. This guide highlights the things to do, covering historical landmarks, scenic spots, and adventure-filled locations to help travellers plan their trip to Kinabalu efficiently.
Top 10 Things To Do In Kota Kinabalu
Listed below are the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu, for your next trip to this city of Malaysia:
1. Climb Mount Kinabalu
Photo: Ryan ‘O’ Niel / Wikimedia Commons
Mount Kinabalu is one of Southeast Asia’s highest peaks. The climb requires endurance as it is located at a height of 4,095 metres, but it’s a rewarding experience. The journey starts at Kinabalu National Park, where climbers pass through several ecological zones filled with diverse plant life, including orchids and the rare Rafflesia flower. The final ascent to Low’s Peak begins before dawn, allowing climbers to reach the summit in time to witness the sunrise.
Ideal Duration: 2 days (1-day ascent, 1-day descent)
Best Time To Visit: Start early morning
Location: Kinabalu National Park, 80 km from Kota Kinabalu
2. Visit Sabah Tea Garden
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Just a two-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tea Garden offers a refreshing escape into nature. This tea plantation is known for producing some of the finest tea in the region. Visitors can explore the vast tea estates, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu, and sample locally grown tea. For those seeking an affordable and relaxing experience near Kota Kinabalu, this destination is a must-visit.
Ideal Duration: Half-day to full-day
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Km 17, Ranau-Sandakan Road, Nalapak, Ranau 89309, Malaysia
3. Visit The Mari Mari Cultural Village
Photo: MaxixKatana / Wikimedia Commons
The Mari Mari Cultural Village provides an opportunity to learn about the traditions of Sabah’s indigenous tribes. You can watch demonstrations of rice wine-making, fire-starting without matches, and blowpipe hunting techniques. The village showcases traditional bamboo houses the Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut people built. The guided tour offers insights into the history and daily life of these communities, making it one of the top things to do in Kota Kinabalu.
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Location: Inanam, 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu
4. Relax At Tanjung Aru Beach
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Tanjung Aru Beach is a popular spot for enjoying the evening by the sea. The beach is lined with food stalls selling satay, grilled seafood, and coconut drinks. Locals and tourists gather to sit on the sand, take a stroll, or fly kites. The soft waves make it suitable for swimming, while nearby cafes provide a place to sit and enjoy the view, making swimming and relaxing here one of the fun things to do in Kota Kinabalu.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours (late afternoon to evening)
Location: 6 km from Kota Kinabalu city centre
5. Discover The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is a beautiful building that is flanked by a man-made lagoon. The mosque can hold a maximum of 12,000 congregation members and invites you outside of prayer time. Modest attire is necessary, and robes are available for rent at the entrance. Guided tours share information about Islamic custom and history about the mosque so praying here is definitely one of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (closed on Fridays)
Location: Likas Bay, 3 km from city centre
6. Stroll Through The Gaya Street Sunday Market
Photo: Bahnfrend / Wikimedia Commons
The Gaya Street Sunday Market is a lively market where locals sell handmade crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. You can find souvenirs such as woven baskets, batik prints, and Sabah pearls and shopping here is one of the great things to do in Kota Kinabalu. The market also has food stalls offering traditional snacks like kuih (local cakes) and grilled meats. It’s an ideal place to experience the local shopping culture and interact with vendors.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours (Sunday mornings)
Location: Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu
7. Experience Poring Hot Springs
Photo: Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
Poring Hot Springs is a popular stop for you seeking to relax in warm, mineral-rich waters. The site also has a canopy walkway, a butterfly garden, and an orchid conservation area. The hot springs were originally developed during the Japanese occupation in World War II and are now part of Kinabalu National Park. The pools are filled with naturally heated water, believed to have health benefits. Private tubs are available for those who prefer a quieter experience.
Ideal Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Location: Ranau, 136 km from Kota Kinabalu
8. Visit The Sabah State Museum
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
The Sabah State Museum provides a deep dive into the region’s history and culture. Exhibits include tribal artefacts, traditional clothing, and old photographs. The museum complex also includes an ethnobotanical garden, a heritage village with traditional houses, and a section dedicated to the oil and gas industry. The natural history section showcases Borneo’s diverse wildlife, including preserved specimens of orangutans and the rare clouded leopard.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: Jalan Muzium, Kota Kinabalu
9. Explore Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Photo: Pangalau / Wikimedia Commons
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is a family-friendly destination where you can see animals native to Borneo, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys. The park has both zoological and botanical sections, offering a mix of animal exhibits and plant conservation areas. The highlight is the wildlife feeding sessions, where you can observe how the animals are cared for. It’s an educational experience for those interested in Sabah’s wildlife.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30
Location: 25 km from Kota Kinabalu
10. Visit Monsopiad Heritage Village
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Monsopiad Heritage Village is dedicated to the legacy of the Kadazan warrior Monsopiad. The village displays traditional Kadazan-Dusun houses and artefacts, including skulls from Monsopiad’s headhunting days. You can learn about ancient warrior customs, take part in traditional dances, and see how the locals lived centuries ago. The village provides guided tours explaining the historical significance of the site and the region’s indigenous culture, making visiting it one of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: Penampang, 16 km from Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu brings together adventure and culture, from climbing Mount Kinabalu to exploring coral reefs; from learning about indigenous traditions to enjoying the local markets, there are plenty of things to do in Kota Kinabalu. Whether you’re hiking, diving, or just taking in the surroundings, the city has plenty to experience. Plan your trip with TripXL and discover what makes this destination worth visiting.
Cover Photo: Andy Wang / Unsplash
