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Sabah Accommodation: Most Popular Cities to Stay

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Our top choices for Sabah hotels

1. Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Absolutely fantastic property with incredible staff.Rooms were huge and very clean and well equipped.Lovely pools and beach,great range of activities and restaurants. Free shuttle bus into KK and easy to arrange excursions through the hotel."
United Kingdom
Eleanor
The price is ฿4,627
฿5,079 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

2. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Super nice and scenic place to stay. Excellent swimming pools, huge gym. Marina nearby to visit islands. Beautiful beach nesrby"
United States
Linda JUNE
The price is ฿5,360
฿6,407 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

3. Hello Kitty Signature Suite

Hello Kitty Signature Suite
3.5 star property
Sandakan
6.8 out of 10, (6 reviews)
"Overall okay. Only thing is the master bedroom aircon which takes awhile to fix. Owner very responsive and provided welcome drinks when arrived. The area is good and quite close to shops. Good to have a car though."
Malaysia
Zoe
The price is ฿1,577
฿1,944 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
Hello Kitty Signature Suite

4. Lankayan Island Resort

Lankayan Island Resort
3.0 star property
Sandakan
Lankayan Island Resort

5. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Everything was 10 out of 10 breakfast was excellent. The only thing I don’t like is the bar by the pool it’s not necessary. There was a bar on the rooftop."
United States
Fakhruddin
The price is ฿3,057
฿3,384 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

6. The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Fun place to stay with a family. Lots of kid friendly areas and activities. "
United States
Bethany
The price is ฿4,973
฿5,453 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
The Magellan Sutera Resort

7. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Great location - close to all amenities and the waterfront Great roof top pool although very overpriced food in the restaurants. Great staff Would definitely recommend"
Australia
Michaela
The price is ฿2,710
฿3,009 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

8. Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (527 reviews)
"We stayed in the room which had a private pool. It had a very nice view. Staffs are very nice. Great food. We were the first customers enjoyed the special local produced three course meal. Fantastic!"
Australia
Kiu Hung Wilson
The price is ฿6,663
฿7,278 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Gayana Marine Resort

9. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"We thought the staff were wonderful and the hotel was very elegant. The breakfast was especially good."
United States
Kip
The price is ฿2,826
฿3,135 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

10. Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (52 reviews)
"Great stay, helpful staff and the restaurant was lovely too."
United Kingdom
Sarah-Jayne
The price is ฿2,444
฿2,722 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Ormond Sandakan

11. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (200 reviews)
"We stayed in the double bungalow, Perfect for 3 seperate friends, so much private space. Just beautiful."
Australia
Nikko
The price is ฿9,452
฿10,621 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

12. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (225 reviews)
"Very helpful staff good location"
United Kingdom
MRS
The price is ฿3,639
฿4,013 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

13. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (451 reviews)
"We had an amazing time at Gaya Island Resort. It is a luxury resort with great food and drinks, comfortable rooms, and incredible views/proximity to the ocean. Worth noting is that this is in a nature reserve, surrounded by jungle and ocean, and the resort embraces and supports this, which means coexisting with wildlife. You can walk out from the resort beach to their own protected reef and swim with dozens of species of beautiful fish (equipment is available for free). We didn’t see any snakes,...
United States
Eric
The price is ฿8,933
฿14,710 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Gaya Island Resort

14. Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
4.0 star property
Sandakan
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (390 reviews)
"Lovely hotel with friendly staff and nice food. Amenities were great and would definitely stay here if in Sandakan again"
United Kingdom
Michael
The price is ฿2,638
฿3,113 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Nov - 13 Nov
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

15. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (630 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is ฿3,143
฿3,477 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

16. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (999 reviews)
"We love the place Very nice lication"
United Kingdom
Antonette
The price is ฿2,792
฿3,098 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

17. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (83 reviews)
"Great locations and tidy facilities"
Australia
Thomas
The price is ฿2,313
฿2,581 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

18. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
4.0 star property
Karambunai
7.8 out of 10, Good, (791 reviews)
"Great polite staff, very helpful, very happy. Nexus is a beautiful, picturesque escape from the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life. We would definitely book this place again. Just be sure to pack the insect repellent as you would going to any beach."
Australia
Kunthea
The price is ฿2,926
฿3,243 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

19. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (205 reviews)
"The complimentary airport shuttle (one-way only) was very useful along with the breakfast buffet. Definitely worth staying if you do not want to go island hopping or to the city centre"
Australia
Velmor
The price is ฿1,231
฿1,412 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Nov - 15 Nov
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

20. Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort
2.5 star property
Sandakan
7.6 out of 10, Good, (248 reviews)
"It was an amazing lodge. We could see animals inside the hotel grounds orangutans five minute walk to Rehab center and sun bear."
United States
jerald
The price is ฿1,123
฿1,408 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Sepilok Jungle Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Top Sabah Hotel Reviews

Guide to exploring Sabah

Top reasons to visit Sabah

  • Stunning Natural Landscapes: Sabah boasts breathtaking scenery, from lush rainforests to the majestic Mount Kinabalu, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
  • Vibrant Capital City: Kota Kinabalu offers a lively atmosphere with markets, shopping centres, and local cuisine, ideal for cultural immersion.
  • Exotic Islands: Explore picturesque islands with pristine beaches, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
  • Rich Wildlife: Experience unique wildlife in national parks, including the chance to see orangutans and diverse marine life.
  • Night Tours: Enjoy exhilarating night tours that reveal Sabah's enchanting beauty after dark.

Find great hotels in Sabah

Explore a diverse range of accommodation options in Sabah, Malaysia, including hotels and guesthouses tailored for every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a family getaway, a business trip, or a relaxing beach holiday, Sabah's hotels offer excellent facilities and services. Discover popular choices in Sandakan and read reviews to find the perfect lodging for your unforgettable Sabah experience.

  • Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Nestled along the stunning coastline, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious 5-star resort that exudes a family-friendly atmosphere. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.2, this property offers direct access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a sun-soaked vacation. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including a free children's club, a shared playground, and supervised childcare services. Guests can indulge in a range of recreational activities, ensuring a delightful stay for both adults and youngsters alike.
  • Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu: For adventure seekers and golf enthusiasts, Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu is a top-notch 5-star resort boasting a guest rating of 9.2. Situated adjacent to a pristine beach, this property provides an exciting range of activities, including golf, kayaking, horse riding, and rock climbing. The resort seamlessly blends adventure with relaxation, offering guests the chance to explore the beauty of Sabah while enjoying luxurious accommodations. The diverse recreational opportunities ensure an exhilarating experience amidst the lush surroundings.
  • Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: A sophisticated choice for families seeking luxury, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu enjoys a commendable guest rating of 8.4. This 5-star hotel offers a range of amenities tailored for children, including a pool and babysitting services, ensuring peace of mind for parents. Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, guests can easily access local attractions. The hotel’s upscale facilities and attentive service provide a comfortable base for families looking to enjoy a memorable stay in Sabah.

Where to stay in Sabah

Experience the enchanting allure of Sabah, Malaysia, where outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities abound. Begin your journey in Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital, and explore its friendly atmosphere. Discover stunning natural wonders, from lush rainforests to breathtaking mountains. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat, Sabah offers diverse experiences that cater to every traveller's desires. Embark on an unforgettable exploration of Sabah, where each moment is filled with charm and adventure.

  • Kota Kinabalu: Nestled on the western coast of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city known for its stunning sunsets and rich cultural diversity. The city experiences a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peaks in August and during the festive December-January period. Travellers flock here for family outings, business meetings, and city experiences. Notable activities include shopping at local malls and enjoying the lively marina. The city's proximity to parks and the harbour makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby islands and engaging in water sports. Visitors can indulge in local cuisine at various dining establishments while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal city.
  • Sandakan: Located on the east coast of Sabah, Sandakan is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. With a consistent influx of tourists, particularly in April, July, and September, Sandakan offers a unique blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. The city is well-known for its shopping centres and campgrounds, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Sandakan serves as a gateway to stunning islands and lush parks, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can experience the local culture and cuisine while enjoying the scenic views that this charming city has to offer.
  • Semporna: Situated on the southeastern coast of Sabah, Semporna is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in February, September, and December. Offering a plethora of family-oriented activities, Semporna is renowned for its beautiful islands and world-class diving spots. The local markets provide an authentic shopping experience, while the nearby island resorts offer luxurious accommodations. Semporna's mosques and cultural sites add to its charm, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation in a breathtaking setting.

Things to do in Sabah

Shopping

In Sabah, visit Imago Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu, a modern venue with a variety of shops and eateries. For a more local experience, explore the Handicraft Market, offering unique souvenirs and traditional crafts that capture the essence of Malaysian culture.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Gaya Island Spa, where traditional Malaysian therapies blend with stunning beachfront views. Engage in yoga sessions surrounded by nature at Sutera Harbour Resort, or unwind with holistic treatments at the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort, all while enjoying the serene landscapes of Sabah.

Adventure

Zip Borneo offers an exhilarating zipline and ropes course experience amidst Sabah's stunning natural scenery. Feel the rush as you soar above the treetops, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature, making it an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers.

Nightlife

In Kota Kinabalu, enjoy the vibrant nightlife at the waterfront bars, where you can sip cocktails while soaking in the ocean breeze. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Night Market for local food and entertainment, or dance the night away at popular clubs like The Loft.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering a wealth of adventure and cultural experiences. Key attractions include stunning national parks, beautiful mosques, and picturesque islands. A must-visit is Mount Kinabalu, which provides breathtaking scenery and hiking opportunities. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Sabah's diverse offerings promise an unforgettable holiday.

  • Mount Kinabalu National Park: Nestled in the heart of Sabah, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor adventures. With its diverse flora and fauna, the park is a haven for nature lovers and hikers alike, showcasing stunning landscapes that change with the altitude.
  • Mt Kinabalu: Standing majestically at 4,095 metres, Mt Kinabalu is renowned for its challenging treks and panoramic views. Adventurers can experience the thrill of climbing to the summit while enjoying the changing vistas of lush forests and rocky outcrops along the way.
  • All Saint's Cathedral: This striking Anglican cathedral features beautiful architecture and intricate stained glass windows. It serves as a cultural landmark in Sabah, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and spiritual heritage.

Best time to go to Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January, October and November are its coolest month on average. At the time of October, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
February77.9°F (25.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.6°F (25.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September78.4°F (25.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October77.7°F (25.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December80.6°F (27.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Frequently asked questions

How much do hotels in Sabah cost?
The season and factors like school holidays and Easter can influence the price of a hotel in Sabah. You can find cheap options from ฿1,408 in a few different ways on Expedia. First, select the dates you'd like to get away, then use the filters such as amenities and property type to narrow down your search. You can also sort by price, so the most affordable options appear at the top.
When is the best time to go to Sabah?
The timing of your trip will depend on which part of Sabah you want to travel to, as temperatures vary in different areas. For a summer adventure with a tropical rainforest climate, consider Kota Kinabalu during the months of June to August. Here you can expect average temperatures between 26ºC and 30ºC.
What is the best area to stay in Sabah?
Sabah has plenty of thrilling areas to stay, including Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. Each has its own fabulous attractions, so why not schedule time to visit both?
Are there any luxury hotels in Sabah?
Some of the top-rated hotels in Sabah are in Kota Kinabalu. Have a look at indulgent options such as Hilton Kota Kinabalu, which offers designer toiletries, concierge services and room service. Grandis Hotel is another terrific choice in this city.
What are the top all-inclusive hotels in Sabah?
Nature Lodge Kinabatangan is one of the top-rated hotels in Sabah that offers all-inclusive deals. With drinks, food and entertainment usually included in one flat rate, you can put your wallet to one side and experience the ultimate stress-free holiday at this stay.
How can I find cheap hotels in Sabah?
The best place to begin searching is by using our "Price per night" filter. At the moment, the least expensive hotels start at ฿1,408 per night. Other ways to grab a wallet-friendly Sabah escape are by booking well in advance and being flexible with the dates you travel. For more superb deals, visit our cheap hotels in Sabah page.
What are the best hotels in Sabah for families?
Orion Residence At Tanjung Aru is one of the most popular hotels for families, located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Stay here and make full use of conveniences like a playground and laundry facilities. Hotel Lintas Plaza is another favourite escape where kiddos are welcome. For more hotel options, fine-tune your search results by selecting "Family friendly" under the "Traveller experience" filter section.
What are the top beach hotels in Sabah?
You'll be swept away by the perfect combination of relaxation and fun at our Sabah ocean-view hotels. One of our more popular getaways is Orion Residence At Tanjung Aru, which offers amenities like a terrace and a garden. Another pick promising beachside bliss is Hotel Lintas Plaza. These two properties are located in Kota Kinabalu.
Why should I book my Sabah hotel with Expedia?
Incredible prices on Sabah hotels are just the beginning of the reasons to book your stay with Expedia. Become an Expedia Rewards member for free today and earn points with every booking, along with fabulous membership perks. We're talking savings worth 10% or more on select hotels! Not only that, most of our hotels come with free cancellation, so you can lock in the getaway of your dreams without worrying about your plans changing. Just look for options marked "Free Cancellation".