Local area

Spread over 4,929 hectares (two-thirds of which covering the sea), the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (TARP) is a cluster of 5 islands comprising of Gaya Island, Manukan Island, Mamutik Island, Sapi Island and Sulug Island. Getting to any of islands is only a 20-minute speedboat from downtown Kota Kinabalu.

Gaya Street, also known as the Sunday Market, is a must-visit for travelers with its rich, century-old history as a vibrant trading hub. This bustling market, which transforms into a lively street fair on Sunday mornings, offers a diverse selection of items, including traditional Malayan ingredients, seafood, arts and crafts, batik sarongs, footwear, fresh produce, flowers, local snacks, antiques, souvenirs, pets, and herbs.

At Mari Mari Cultural Village, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Sabah by exploring traditional homes representing key ethnic groups—Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus, and Dusun—constructed by their descendants. Experience interactive demonstrations of traditional crafts, including blowpipe-making and bamboo fire-starting, and gain insights into the cultural significance of these practices, such as tattoo artistry. Additionally, savor traditional dishes from each ethnic group.

Kiulu River, located in the town of Kiulu in Sabah’s Tamparuli District, offers a family-friendly rafting adventure. This Class I-II river features a 15-kilometer stretch with gentle rapids, making it suitable for all ages. You'll navigate Grade 1 and 2 rapids with the help of a guide and can enjoy scenic views during the calm stretches. Body rafting is also available at designated safe spots.

Kokol Hill (Bukit Kokol) offers breathtaking views and a refreshing escape from the city’s heat. Situated in the Crocker Range, it provides a cool climate with temperatures between 18°C and 24°C, making it ideal for enjoying spectacular sunsets. Activities at Kokol Hill include exploring herb gardens with a strawberry farm and flower garden, hiking trails near the communications tower, and experiencing the “Mega Swing.”.

Mamutik Island, the smallest of the five islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, is just a short boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. At 15 acres, it offers stunning views of the city and is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, with calm, shallow waters perfect for families. Enjoy snorkeling near the rocky and coral beaches, or dive with Borneo Divers. The island also provides a private beach experience, a 385-meter jungle trek, and camping options with prior approval.

A striking white mosque by the sea, is one of Malaysia’s largest and most beautiful, often likened to the Nabawi Mosque in Medina. Featuring a prayer hall with three madrasahs, it accommodates 9,000 to 12,000 people and is surrounded by a picturesque man-made lagoon. The mosque is open to visitors, who must register with the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque Tourism Management. Visitors must cover up and dress modestly, with coveralls available for rent.

Renowned for its world-record Coral Flyer zipline, the island offers thrilling activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming in its clear blue waters. With its beautiful beaches, exotic wildlife, and lush forests, Sapi Island attracts many tourists. Notable features include the zipline adventure, vibrant marine life, and a secret cliff with breathtaking views.

A popular spot for nature lovers and families, covering 280 acres, it features both botanical and zoological sections, including Borneo Pygmy elephants, orangutans, and Malayan tigers. Visitors can explore a 1.4-kilometer trail, enjoy a vibrant aviary, and take advantage of daily elephant rides for children.

Discover the rich history and culture of Sabah and Borneo at the Sabah Museum, located just 6 km from the airport. The museum, inspired by the traditional Rungus longhouse, offers diverse exhibits across several zones, including ethnography, natural history, and archaeology. Highlights include Malaysia’s largest whale skeleton and the Science and Technology Centre with its North Borneo Railway carriage.

Kota Kinabalu, situated along the South China Sea with views of emerald islands and forested hills leading up to Mt. Kinabalu, is home to The Waterfront, the city's premier entertainment and dining center. This vibrant hub offers a range of dining options from local and international cuisine to lively pubs, karaoke bars, and a dance club. It's the perfect spot for a fun night out.

Perched on the rugged slopes of Mt. Kinabalu, the Kinabalu Botanical Garden is a verdant retreat tucked away in a secluded valley. Although compact, the garden showcases a variety of tropical plants and is the starting point for those tackling the mountain trails.

Kinabalu National Park offers a range of activities to enjoy. Hiking and jungle trekking are popular, with numerous trails around the park headquarters for exploring the rich cloud forest. Bird watching is also a highlight, as the park is an Important Bird Area with endemic species like the Bornean Treepie and Chestnut-crested Yuhina.