The best available hotels & places to stay near Sabah

August 13, 2022 Moriah Teneyck

Discover the best hotels in Sabah including Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Hotel Grandis, The Pacific Sutera Hotel - Sutera Harbor Resort, Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, The Magellan Sutera Resort, Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabulu.
Things to do in Sabah

1. Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Pantai Dalit, Tuaran 89208 Malaysia
Excellent
72%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 7315 reviews

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Escape out of the city and journey into nature; where the sea meets the rainforest and a warm welcome awaits. With vast acres of untouched natural beauty, Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu is a stunning sanctuary that makes each moment of your holiday matter. Find yourself being entertained with the best dining in all of Kota Kinabalu, nurtured at our spa and delighted by our unique signature experiences. You’ll be immersed into this enchanting Borneo paradise, creating memories that last a lifetime. Experience the stunning outdoors of Borneo with over 60 land and water activities for adults and children at the Rasa Ria Resort. Unwind at our Spa or indulge with our extensive dining options with 6 restaurants and 2 bars. You can also choose our customised dining experiences curated just for you at breath-taking locations across the 400-acres of the resort. Rasa Ria is also home to an 18-hole championship golf course with picture-perfect views of Mt Kinabalu (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Create memories that last a lifetime at this Borneo paradise with our stay offers.

The perfect antidote to post-pandemic fatigue

Reviewed By Tanya1184

My family and I (husband and 2 children age 4 and 7) stayed at the Rasa Ria resort over the long weekend. It was our first visit to Rasa Ria having previously stayed at Shangrila Tanjung Aru on our previous visits. We stayed at a family room in 201. The room is perfect for families with children as it comes with a bunk bed. There were thoughtful additions such as children’s toothbrushes, a step stool for easy access to the wash basin, rubber duckies at the bathtub and a plush toy for each of the children to take home as a souvenir. Crayons and coloring pages were also provided. We had a memorable stay at the resort. The resort’s best feature, to our minds at least, is the vast expanse of beach. Coming from busy KL, the beach was exactly what we needed to rejuvenate ourselves! We were blessed with the most beautiful sunsets every evening. Do opt for the dine and play package as there is a variety of restaurants to dine at and food options around Tuaran area is scarce, especially if you do not have a car to move around with. We dined at Kozan, the coffee terrace and Oceano. Food was good although there is room for improvement for service at Oceano as we had to wait about 45 minutes for our food to arrive. My children loved the pool even if the slides were not as exciting as the ones at Tanjung Aru. Most of our time was spent at the beach anyway. Do order the Kitchai Ping (sabah’s version of lemonade) at any one of the restaurants or at the Sampan bar as it’s a great thirst quencher. Very refreshing! I would highly recommend getting a foot massage at the poolside. Do look out for Mr Raymund who was our therapist - thank me later! A true gem who spoke to us like a long lost friend without even realizing that he had exceeded the time allotted to us for our massage. Thank you Raymund! I would also like to commend and thank Alice, Anisah and Febby at the coffee terrace who were very accommodating and took the time to speak to us despite the busyness of the restaurant. Gabriel at the sports recreation counter was also very friendly and patiently answered all our questions. Sadly I did not get the name of the front desk lady who checked us in - thank you madam for your hospitality! We expected a large crowd as our visit coincided with a long weekend as well as the start of the school term break. Do be patient as the number of staff probably isn’t enough to deal with the sudden influx of hotel guests post-pandemic. All in, I am glad we chose Rasa Ria for our stay in Kota Kinabalu. We look forward to returning for a visit in the near future.

2. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

20 Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu 88100 Malaysia
Excellent
57%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 4377 reviews

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Located 10 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, coral islands and the city centre, just 150-minute flight time from Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu is a tranquil retreat offering 498 beautifully appointed mountain and seaview rooms and suites, six restaurants and bars, and a wealth of enjoyable recreational opportunities for families and leisure travellers. The resort is home to Chi, The Spa, a luxurious private spa experience based on traditional Asian healing philosophies. The spa comprises of 5 single villas, 3 couples' villas and an open Yoga Pavilion, all located on Pulau Bayu, the resort’s private island. It is one of the only two five-star spas in Kota Kinabalu.

Great Staff, Great Experience and Looking Forward for Another Stay

Reviewed By Thomas235711

Shangri-La Group never let me down. It is great to stay with especially when considering there is nice and efficient staff. My trip was disturbed by a ridiculous hotel group leading to a sudden changes. However, the staff in Shangri-La helped me amend my booking at once and answer my questions patiently. They are with professional attitude and friendly tone which totally respectable. I do recommend others staying in Shangri-La, and you

3. Hotel Grandis

Suria Sabah Shopping Mall 1, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu 88000 Malaysia
Excellent
42%
Good
42%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 741 reviews

Hotel Grandis

Named after Ascidieria Grandis (Eria Grandis), an endemic orchid found on Mount Kinabalu. The latest hotel to grace Kota Kinabalu's sublime landscape sits in the heart of the city, a mere 15 minutes' drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, and right next to the hippest mall in town. Our ideal location makes us the perfect retreat for those wishing to explore the area's eclectic shopping, dining, and tourist attractions.

WORST EXPERIENCE & THEIR STAFF RUDENESS

Reviewed By MingMing1994

One of my worst hotel stays was at the Grandis Hotel Kota Kinabalu. The timing wasn’t the best either, after endemic hotel seem fully book and back to back i understand. Even this is my first time and first experience check in 4pm but get the room key 8.20pm. I have call 12pm to let receptionist about my arrival time of coz I did my request with seaview room booking through synexis and I pay for Rm140 superior and upgrade to Deluxe studio additional want me pay RM195 per night but what I have with my upgrade room licking in bathroom and 2 sius head at study table not working I did make my complaints but no fix or and action from any maintenance. I felt so disappointed, but the worst thing experience from hotel staff. when the senior reception told my brother her sister so demand for room need same floor so u guy have to wait until 8pm???? for me that no right telling your customer like that. It is rude way I am paying for the room that why we book your hotel with facilities we want. it hurt me with the word that u have mention to my bro. with all this incident, I can't blame anyone but I am sharing hope you guy be prepare if wanna stay here as a customer u guy need to be prepare facing same thing like me . I hope management can relook back your staff behaviour. my total stay revenue RM950 spending in your hotel what I want is my family to enjoy stay but not the worst memory you give me and ruin my day. for you maybe my revenue it not worth you might find other customer to replace like us. but remember there is always circle back to you. am sure you might not want experience something like me this the worst keamatan years I spend in your hotel.

4. The Pacific Sutera Hotel - Sutera Harbor Resort

1 Sutera Harbour Blvd, Kota Kinabalu 88100 Malaysia
Excellent
45%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
5%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 3697 reviews

The Pacific Sutera Hotel - Sutera Harbor Resort

"The Pacific Sutera Hotel features 500 immaculately appointed rooms and suites with contemporary décor and amazing views of either the championship golf course or the South China Sea and Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park islands. The Pacific Club guests enjoy the magnificent sea view from the 11th floor, where breakfast and cocktails are served in the exclusive Pacific Club Lounge. Strategically located close to the shopping and business centres of Kota Kinabalu City, this hotel is perfect location to work, live and play."

Great value

Reviewed By jamesmcvig

Food was a little expensive at the restaurants, but still was fairly good. You get vouchers for breakfast and dinner which is really nice. The rooms were really great and had comfortable beds. I found the price for the resort to be a good price for what is all included.

5. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Asia City, Kota Kinabalu 88000 Malaysia
Excellent
67%
Good
21%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1016 reviews

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu is enhanced by its prime location in the heart of the business district with easy access to the airport. The Hotel features a stunning lobby decorated with crystal chandeliers to a rooftop swimming pool with a sweeping view of the city. With a range of stylish and ergonomically designed rooms and suites, authentic dining experiences and state-of-the-art facilities for weddings, meetings and events, Hilton Kota Kinabalu offers both business and leisure travelers a memorable stay like no other.

Nice room, good facility and good breakfast

Reviewed By wennitiong

The hotel bed is so comfy, with a very clean room. I love their breakfast because of its many choices. Gym and pool facilities are good, just too bad the steam spa is not opened for use during the time I was staying. Easily grab a taxi or Grab, so finding food for delivery or going elsewhere for dining has not been a challenge.

6. Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu

No. 1 Jalan Singgah Mata Asia City, Kota Kinabalu 88000 Malaysia
Excellent
13%
Good
46%
Satisfactory
31%
Poor
6%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 574 reviews

Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu

Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu, a 100% Smoke-Free Hotel since 1 November 2017, offering 275 guestrooms with all the essential amenities for a refreshing experience with great value. Guestrooms are cosy with eclectic mix of stylish feature wall, anchored along efficiency with essential amenities such as Wi-Fi (inclusive of all public areas), LCD TV with satellite channels, electronic safe and power shower. Each guest floor from Level 1 to Level 11 offers common ironing room and hot & cold water dispenser. Located strategically in the heart of the city within Asia City complex, a mere 10-minute drive from the airport and walking distance to several local shopping centres, the hotel operates on the philosophy of “Smart, Clean, Simple”, offering a different dimension of accommodation to the business and leisure travelers – simplicity with a value-focus experience.

Friendly Staff, Efficient Service & Wonderful Carpark

Reviewed By imio2022

I travelled from KL to KK in mid March 2022, booked directly into Cititel Express Hotel. As I reached the hotel, was greeted by courteous security guard. The receptionist was efficient and polite. What I like best is the huge free gated carpark in front of the hotel. When I needed to extend my stay, the sales personnel was kind enough to give a good discount package. The only negative comment is the room is small.

7. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Jalan Datuk Salleh Sulong, Kota Kinabalu 88991 Malaysia
Excellent
45%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 2192 reviews

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Experience five-star Sabahan hospitality at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, the premier choice for business and leisure travellers to Sabah, the Land Below the Wind. This luxury hotel in Sabah is a mere 15 minutes drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, offering a central location in the heart of the city close to tourist attractions and stunning views of the famed sunsets in Kota Kinabalu. Unwind in one of our 288 spacious rooms and suites all exquisitely designed with sophisticated comfort in mind plus some of the best views in Kota Kinabalu including those of the sparkling South China Sea or the Kinabalu city surroundings. Dining options at our three Kinabalu restaurants and bars are a food aficionado's delight with some of the best food the city has to offer. Be it a dip in the blue waters of the outdoor pool, a relaxing massage at the Avantang Spa and fitness centre or a party at our Shenanigan's Fun Pub, our Kota Kinabalu hotel in Sabah has it all for you.

LOCATION IS NICE, NEAR TO JETTY, MORNING & NIGH MARKET AND RESTAURANT

Reviewed By Joey O

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is a nice location for those just want to enjoy to walk around this city. Gaya Street, Philipino night /wet market, Water Front, Jesselton Point Waterfront & Jetty and about 10 - 15 minutes to reach KK Airport.

8. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Sinsuran, Kota Kinabalu 88000 Malaysia
Excellent
50%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2683 reviews

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is a contemporary 5 star hotel, strategically located at the heart and city center of downtown Kota Kinabalu across the fresh and handicraft markets and Kota Kinabalu waterfront. Overlooking the sea, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu features newly renovated rooms, leisure outdoor pool, a sunset rooftop bar and a pool side bar and cafe. Convenient within easy walking distance of other local attractions like Gaya Street in less than 10 minutes walk, retail and entertainment facilities in less than 20 minutes walk like Centrepoint, Suria and Imago Shopping Malls. Enjoy access to local art gallery, golf courses and other island excursions.

What a surprise!

Reviewed By kyogokuy

We stayed in this hotel during the long weekend, didn’t expect the staff member will arrange for a special setup for our wedding anniversary! There was even cake to wish us! During our stay we got upgraded to the club room, and this was the highlight of our stay since we get to view such a breathtaking view of sunset. The complementary evening cocktail was nicely done with simple but scrumptious food, the diy sandwich was nice for kids to do too! We as a family of four with 2 small kids had a really good time here, our son really enjoyed the swimming pool. Our room was spacious and cleaned, even with an extra bed there is still plenty of room for two kids to run around. The breakfast had a nice spread, with few selections for us to choose. We will definitely come back for the service and the sunset in the club lounge!

9. The Magellan Sutera Resort

1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Kota Kinabalu 88100 Malaysia
Excellent
60%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
6%
Terrible
9%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 143 reviews

The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort

Reviewed By hairolfaizalhussin

My dream comes true when i arrived at The Magellan Sutera Resort. The best resort, the best food, the best room that i slept, the best services by all the employees. Thank you so much, The Magellan Sutera Resort. I hope that i will come again to this dream resort

10. Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabulu

No. 4, Lorong Api-Api 3, Api-Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu 88000 Malaysia
Excellent
17%
Good
41%
Satisfactory
28%
Poor
8%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 782 reviews

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabulu

Promenade Hotel is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Kota Kinabalu, offering a family-friendly environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay. While staying at Promenade Hotel, visitors can check out Sabah State Mosque (Masjid Negeri Sabah) (0.6 mi) and I Love KK (0.8 mi), some of Kota Kinabalu's top attractions. Promenade Hotel offers guests an array of room amenities including a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and air conditioning, and getting online is possible, as free wifi is available. The hotel offers a 24 hour front desk, room service, and a concierge, to make your visit even more pleasant. The property also features a pool and free breakfast. Guests arriving by vehicle have access to parking. When you’re feeling hungry, be sure to check out Breeze Beach Club, Seoul Garden, and Koryo-Jeong BBQ Restaurant, which are some barbeque restaurants that are popular with locals and out-of-towners alike. Kota Kinabalu is also home to Sabah State Museum, a popular history museum that is not too far from Promenade Hotel. Enjoy your stay in Kota Kinabalu!

DIM

Reviewed By mav-kayz

Lighting is seriously dim in the rooms. Pretty dark. Minimal lights in bathrooms. No lights at all in shower tub. Lack of hooks in bathroom to hang towels or clothes. Should look into detailing. Bed and space size reasonable. But even the rooms are poorly litted. Light switches are Not very user friendly . Breakfast is essentially sufficient. Basic spread and acceptable.

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