Top Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Only Handpicked and Verified Accommodations for Your Stay in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Check-in
06Feb2026Select date
Check-out
07Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Kota Kinabalu, a coastal city in Malaysia, features Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, famous for its snorkeling spots and beaches like Manukan Island. Check out the vibrant local markets at Gaya Street and dine at the waterfront Tepi Laut Seafood Restaurant. There are lovely beach hotels and luxury hotels with stunning ocean views, as well as cozy boutique hotels in the city center. You'll find a selection of carefully curated accommodations on this site, ensuring quality and comfort. Book early, especially in summer, and consider using ride-sharing apps to explore the city.
View map
1-20 out of 154
Sort by: high popularity
  • Price: low to high
  • Price: high to low
  • Guest rating: high to low
  • Popularity: high to low
Map4.0 mi from City Centre1.5 mi from
FromUS$ 23 /nightSelect
Map4.8 mi from City Centre600 yd from
FromUS$ 30 /nightSelect
Map1000 yd from City Centre400 yd from Filipino Market Sabah
FromUS$ 34 /nightSelect
FromUS$ 20 /nightSelect
Map1800 yd from City Centre100 yd from Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
FromUS$ 26 /nightSelect
Map5.3 mi from City Centre100 yd from
FromUS$ 17 /nightSelect
Map2.1 mi from City Centre700 yd from
FromUS$ 35 /nightSelect
Map600 yd from City Centre600 yd from Gaya Street (Sunday Market)
FromUS$ 19 /nightSelect
Map1.1 mi from City Centre200 yd from Imago Shopping Mall
FromUS$ 35 /nightSelect
Map2.9 mi from City Centre600 yd from
FromUS$ 21 /nightSelect
Map7.5 mi from City Centre700 yd from
FromUS$ 27 /nightSelect
Map2.2 mi from City Centre1.2 mi from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village
FromUS$ 23 /nightSelect
Map5.3 mi from City Centre100 yd from
FromUS$ 35 /nightSelect
Map900 yd from City Centre400 yd from Filipino Market Sabah
FromUS$ 29 /nightSelect
Map4.0 mi from City Centre1.2 mi from
FromUS$ 18 /nightSelect
Map900 yd from City Centre300 yd from Gaya Street (Sunday Market)
FromUS$ 27 /nightSelect
Map2.7 mi from City Centre1000 yd from
FromUS$ 43 /nightSelect
7.2
Very good
Map2.8 mi from City Centre1400 yd from North Borneo Railway
FromUS$ 21 /nightSelect
Map2.6 mi from City Centre500 yd from
FromUS$ 17 /nightSelect
Map600 yd from City Centre500 yd from Gaya Street (Sunday Market)
FromUS$ 31 /nightSelect

Kota Kinabalu hotel price guide

A world of accommodation options awaits, from budget-friendly stays to luxurious retreats, with prices suited to every traveler's dream vacation.

⬆️ The highest price
US$ 54
⬇️ The lowest price
US$ 10
💸 Average price for
3-star hotels
US$ 30

Top-rated hotels in Kota Kinabalu

According to guest feedback from the past year

Luxury Retreats with Stunning Views:
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
Charming Heritage Stays:
The Klagan Regency 1Borneo
Affordable Comfort in the City:
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre By Ihg
Family-Friendly Resorts by the Beach:
The Magellan Sutera Resort
Modern Convenience in the Heart of the City:
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Budget-Friendly Hostels for Adventurers:
Homy Seafront Hostel
Elegant Stays with Scenic Surroundings:
Hilton Kota Kinabalu
Unique Boutique Experiences:
Monocolo Boutique Hotel
Cozy Accommodations for Backpackers:
Signel Poshtel, The Rare Gem Of North Borneo

Getting to Kota Kinabalu: Travel tips

A list of all available types of transport

Airports
Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

FAQs about hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Use these answers to help plan your perfect trip

Which hotels in Kota Kinabalu are best for families?
The Promenade Service Apartment and Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu are family-friendly options. The Promenade features spacious suites with kitchenettes, while Shangri-La offers family-oriented amenities like Kids' Club and large pools.
Which hotels provide scenic views in Kota Kinabalu?
The Magellan Sutera Resort and Horizon Hotel are known for stunning views. The Magellan Sutera overlooks the South China Sea, while Horizon Hotel features city and mountain views from its rooftop.
What are the top-rated hotels in Kota Kinabalu according to guest reviews?
According to guest reviews, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu and Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel consistently rank highly for their service and facilities, with scores typically above 8.5 out of 10.
Which hotels are closest to the major attractions in Kota Kinabalu?
The Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu is approximately 1 km from the Jesselton Point ferry terminal, while Hilton Kota Kinabalu is just a 5-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu City Park.
What are the most budget-friendly hotel options in Kota Kinabalu?
Budget-friendly options like C'Haya Hotel and Homy Seafront Hostel typically offer rates starting at $20 to $40 per night. These hotels focus on essential amenities while being wallet-friendly.
Are there any romantic hotels in Kota Kinabalu for couples?
Couples may enjoy the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, known for its private beaches and sunset views, or The Pacific Sutera Hotel, which offers a luxurious stay with spa services.

Essential Hotel Guide for Kota Kinabalu

This guide evaluates 100 hotel properties in Kota Kinabalu, providing essential details to help travelers select suitable accommodations for their stay.

Typical nightly rates range from $30 to $150.

Peak seasons are June to August and December.

Most hotels charge a local tax of 6% plus RM3 per room per night.

Key attractions like Tunku Abdul Rahman Park are within 8 km.

Booking in advance may secure better rates, especially in peak seasons.

Other cities in Malaysia

Check-in
06Feb2026Select date
Check-out
07Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room