At over RM1,000 ($250) a night, this is not for the faint of heart (or wallet). With a private jetty, a healing spa, and several trendy restaurants and bars, you might be tempted to spend your entire vacation within the resort. Be sure to venture out into the city though, which is only 10 minutes away.
A short walking distance from Gaya Street Market (the most popular Sunday market in KK), location doesn’t get better than this. It’s even been nicknamed ‘Kilometer Zero’! Pop out for street food, local crafts and souvenirs, before crashing out in your crash pad.
Travelers rave about Le Méridien, and for good reason — the rooms are cosy, the restaurants are fancy, and when the sun sets, it’s like red and gold ribbons have been set wild on your window. Centrally located on Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, this hotel is close to the night food market, the handicraft market, and the Waterfront.
The Hyatt is exactly what you’d expect upscale hotels to be — spacious, stylish, and well-serviced. Street markets and shopping malls are within walking distance, and if you request for a room on the higher floors, the sea view is breathtaking.
If you’ve got money, this is where to spend it. The Magellan boasts an exclusive beach front with fine, pale sand, artistically landscaped swimming pools, and the largest convention facility in Kota Kinabalu. For a relaxing treat, book yourself a Balinese massage at the spa, where you get to unwind under an open-air pavilion or in a private room.
The fun-colored exteriors hint at the vibrant feel of Zara’s rooms and suites. With striped carpets (not unlike the Thousand Layer Cake) and silken cushion-pillows, this hotel is the perfect place to rest your feet (and arms) after shopping at Imago. Hotel facilities are basic (no gym), but the breakfast selection more than makes up for it.
This no-frills hotel marries the best of value and service. At less than RM150 ($38.70) a night, you’ll get friendly, accommodating staff and a central location close to bars, eateries, and Suria Sabah (a busy shopping mall). Hotel vibe is young, with an interesting palette of colours.
Little Gaya has some gaya (style)! Wooden floorboards, standing lamps, and even a faux fur rug (for selected suites) help inject this budget-friendly hotel with chi-chi glamour. Facilities are basic, but breakfast is included. Local eateries are close by.
If you want to touch the sky, make sure you’ve got a rooftop pool to catch you if you fall. So check in at the Sky Hotel, which features LED TVs, vegetarian cuisine, and an open deck at the topmost floor — all the better to catch you with!