0

Traveloka Team

18 Mar 2024 - 5 min read

10 Fun Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu Malaysia 

Kota Kinabalu, a captivating destination in Malaysia, offers more than just its enchanting natural beauty. In this article, we will discuss 10 exciting activities that you can enjoy in this city.

Kota Kinabalu has everything from thrilling outdoor adventures to rich cultural explorations. Surrounded by lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu presents boundless natural beauty, providing ample trekking, diving, and wildlife exploration opportunities. Prepare for an unforgettable experience in Malaysia's most enticing destinations.

What to Do in Kota Kinabalu?

Here is an array of exciting activities that can enhance your experience on this tropical island. Treat yourself to amazing adventures and unforgettable natural beauty in Kota Kinabalu.

1. Kayaking Experience at Tanjung Aru Beach

Enjoy the breathtaking panorama of Kota Kinabalu Beach, Sabah, through the experience of kayaking at Tanjung Aru Beach. Get a kayak, paddles, and a life jacket from the base centre. Before starting the activity, participants will receive a briefing session. Witness the mesmerising sunrise or sunset while enjoying the beauty of Kota Kinabalu Beach in Sabah from atop a kayak.

Address: Tanjung Aru Beach, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Kayaking Experience at Tanjung Aru Beach in Kota Kinabalu

2. Sepanggar Island Snorkeling

Enjoy the beauty of Kinabalu Island by walking along the white sandy beach, climbing wooden bridges to the hill's peak, snorkelling on Sepanggar Island, and taking in the untouched panorama of the tropical rainforest. This place is a paradise for nature lovers, showcasing a variety of captivating flora and fauna.

Address: Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, Jln Haji Saman, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Sepanggar Island Snorkeling Day Tour

3. Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour with Klias River and Fireflies Cruise

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the Mari Mari Cultural Village, located in a secluded forest setting in Kionsom. Immerse yourself in a cultural experience through guided tours, enjoy local cuisine, and witness traditional dances. Continue your adventure to Klias to discover proboscis monkeys on a river cruise, followed by an evening cruise to witness the beauty of fireflies.

Address: Mari Mari Cultural Village, Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour with Klias River and Fireflies Cruise in Kota Kinabalu

4. Kota Kinabalu by Night with Seafood Dinner and Cultural Show

Explore Kota Kinabalu at dusk, from Tanjung Aru Beach to the food stalls in Segama. Climb to the top of Signal Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of the city, and head to the Observation Point on Signal Hill to witness the night view of Kota Kinabalu before enjoying a seafood dinner in Kota Kinabalu at a local restaurant.

Address: Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu by Night with Seafood Dinner and Cultural Show

5. Sunset SUP Stand up paddle at Tanjung Aru Beach

Sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach is listed as one of the best sunsets in the world. Experience the beauty of nature by kayaking, enjoying the stunning sunset views, and relaxing on a coral island in the middle of the sea. Explore the charming natural beauty and capture beautiful moments during sunrise and sunset.

Address: SUP Base Camp TravelMate Holidays SDN BHD, Tanjung Aru Marine Ecosystem Center (TAME)

Sunrise/Sunset SUP Stand up paddle at Tanjung Aru Beach | Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

6. Kota Kinabalu City Half Day Tour

Explore Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, by visiting interesting places such as Tun Mustapha Tower, Kota Kinabalu Mosque, and Toh Tze Buddhist Temple. Enrich your knowledge at the Sabah Museum and enjoy a half day tour in Kota Kinabalu to discover famous landmarks. Additionally, plan a short trip to this island to experience its natural beauty and explore the culturally rich rural life of Malaysia.

Address: Kota Kinabalu City

7. Mountain Biking Adventure and Kiulu Rafting

A recommended 2 days 1 night vacation in Kota Kinabalu can be enjoyed by exploring challenging bike trails through Kadazan and Dusun villages and fruit orchards. Experience staying at Kiulu Homestay, managed by local hosts, providing a deep cultural insight. Enjoy the stunning views at St. Michael Church, the second oldest stone church in Sabah. Then, complete your adventure by experiencing white-water rafting on the Kiulu River, through 11km of challenging rapids.

Address: Kota Kinabalu

8. Mandara Spa at The Magellan Sutera Resort Massage Treatments

While in Kota Kinabalu, a recommended activity is to visit Mandara Spa for a quality massage experience. Choose the Bali Massage treatment using premium products from Elemis Spa-therapies. Discover the unique urban sanctuary that offers rejuvenation and refreshment for the body, mind, and soul. Afterward, indulge in the sensations of freshness and tranquillity.

Address: The Magellan Sutera Resort, 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

9. Bongawan Mangrove, Fireflies River Cruise, and Sky Mirror with Dinner

The next recommended activity is to take a tour through rural settlements and mangrove forests in Kota Kinabalu along the Bongawan River. In addition to exploring the diversity of native plants and animals in Sabah, you can join a boat tour to observe Borneo's wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and silver langurs. After enjoying dinner, a captivating experience awaits as you marvel at the beauty of fireflies illuminating the night sky.

Address: Kota Kinabalu

10. Kota Kinabalu City Tour - 2.5 Hours

Looking to explore Kota Kinabalu briefly? Join a Kota Kinabalu city tour with an exploration of the Po Toh Tze Buddhist Temple, one of the most popular Buddhist temples in the country. Explore the Rainforest City in the East with stops at beautiful and photogenic locations. Witness the famous floating concept-designed Sabah Foundation building.

Address: Kota Kinabalu

With so many exciting activities offered in Kota Kinabalu, your travel experience is guaranteed to be unforgettable. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the cultural and natural beauty of this destination. To plan your trip, quickly book your flight ticket from Manila to Kota Kinabalu with Traveloka and enjoy the ease and convenience of planning your adventure. Have a great journey and seize extraordinary experiences in Kota Kinabalu!

Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe