Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. From stunning beaches and lush rainforests to fascinating cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Kota Kinabalu.
In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu by 2025. These activities and attractions are not only popular among tourists but also highly recommended by locals, ensuring that you’ll have an unforgettable experience during your visit.
1. Climb Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s Highest Peak
Towering at an impressive 4,095 meters above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Southeast Asia. Climbing to its summit is a challenging but rewarding experience that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The climb typically takes two to three days, and there are several different routes to choose from. The most popular route is the Ranau Trail, which starts from the Kinabalu Park headquarters.
2. Visit the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a group of five islands located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. These islands are home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and sea turtles.
There are several ways to explore the marine park, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping. You can also relax on the white-sandy beaches or enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park’s many designated areas.
3. Explore the Sabah Museum
The Sabah Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Sabah. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, including traditional costumes, weapons, and artifacts.
There is also a section on the natural history of Sabah, which includes displays on the state’s flora and fauna. The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
4. Visit the Atkinson Clock Tower
The Atkinson Clock Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kota Kinabalu. The tower was built in 1905 to commemorate the coronation of King Edward VII.
The tower is located in the center of the city, and it offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee.
5. Shop at the Gaya Street Sunday Market
The Gaya Street Sunday Market is a popular tourist destination in Kota Kinabalu. The market is held every Sunday from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
The market is a great place to find souvenirs, handicrafts, and local produce. You can also find a variety of food stalls selling traditional Malaysian dishes.
6. Take a sunset cruise on the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
The Kota Kinabalu Waterfront is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the sunset. There are several restaurants and bars along the waterfront, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal while watching the sun set over the South China Sea.
You can also take a sunset cruise on one of the many boats that depart from the waterfront. These cruises typically last for about an hour, and they offer stunning views of the city skyline.
7. Visit the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
The Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is home to a variety of animals, including orangutans, sun bears, and proboscis monkeys. The park is located about 30 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, and it is a great place to learn about the wildlife of Sabah.
The park has a number of different enclosures, where you can see the animals up close. There are also several trails that you can explore, where you can see the animals in their natural habitat.
8. Go white-water rafting on the Padas River
The Padas River is one of the best places in Sabah for white-water rafting. The river has a number of different rapids, which range from Class II to Class IV.
There are several different rafting companies that offer trips on the Padas River. The trips typically last for a full day, and they include all of the necessary equipment.
9. Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village
The Mari Mari Cultural Village is a great place to learn about the different cultures of Sabah. The village has a number of different traditional houses, where you can see how the different ethnic groups of Sabah live.
There are also several cultural performances throughout the day, where you can see traditional dances and music. The village is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
10. Climb the Signal Hill Observatory Tower
The Signal Hill Observatory Tower is located on Signal Hill, which is the highest point in Kota Kinabalu. The tower offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee. The tower is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
11. Visit the Kinabalu National Park
The Kinabalu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the endangered orangutan.
There are several different hiking trails in the park, which range from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Summit Trail, which leads to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
12. Enjoy the nightlife in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars and nightclubs to choose from. The most popular nightlife area is the Tanjung Aru area, which is home to a number of bars and nightclubs that cater to both locals and tourists.
You can also find a number of live music venues in Kota Kinabalu, where you can see local and international bands perform.
Tips for Planning Your Trip to Kota Kinabalu
- The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is during the dry season, which runs from March to October.
- Kota Kinabalu is a relatively safe city, but it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.
- English is widely spoken in Kota Kinabalu, but it is helpful to learn a few basic Malay phrases.
- The currency of Malaysia is the Ringgit (MYR).
- Kota Kinabalu is a major transportation hub, with flights and buses available to all major cities in Malaysia and around the world.
Conclusion
Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. From stunning beaches and lush rainforests to fascinating cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Kota Kinabalu.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Kota Kinabalu.
