2024 Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)
Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of Malaysia's Sabah, or Borneo. In downtown Kota Kinabalu, there are cultural sites such as the astounding Masjid Bandaraya (Kota Kinabalu City Mosque) and the Atkinson Clock Tower as well as gastronomical ones like Welcome Seafood Restaurant and Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant. Leaving the city proper, Kota Kinabalu has islands such as Pulau Mengalum and Sapi Island, which are suitable for snorkeling. There are also mountains to go climbing, such as Malaysia's famous Gunung Kinabalu, or Mount Kinabalu.
Today's Weather
Partly cloudy 24-30℃
Popular Attractions
Tanjung Aru Beach
Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu
Mengalum Island
Manukan Island
Gaya Street
Mari Mari Cultural Village, all about indigenous ethic groups of Sabah
#100WaysOfTravel#naturalbeauty#sabah#culture
Mari Mari Cultural Village is one of the best cultural villages I've ever been, it was an interesting and interactive way of experience. This cultural village is nestled in the middle of a remote forest setting, it has 5 ethnic traditional houses, and offers an interesting overview of indigenous ethnic groups of Borneo, West Malaysia.
Our tour guide was very engaging and friendly, the performers/musicians of difference ethic are showcasing their culture, music & dance, food cooking & previous lifestyle. You get to try multiple drinks and snacks, inclusive buffet lunch. Moreover, visitors can play games and get free henna tattoo with traditional motifs.
▶Mari Mari Cultural Village location: Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The easiest way to access is to rent a car, it's about 20 km away from Kota Kinabalu town area.
▶Admission ticket:
Malaysian
RM 110(adult), RM 100(child)
International Traveler
RM 130(adult), RM 110(child)
Open daily, 2 sessions available(10:00-13:00; 14:00-17:00). Duration: 4 Hours.
Paradise Quest: Hop Through Island Wonders
#islandtours #100waysoftravel
I recently went island hopping to Manukan and Sapi Island, and it was an incredible experience. The crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning beaches made the trip unforgettable. It was the perfect escape!
🗓️Itinerary Scheduling:
8.45 : Depart from Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty
9.00 : Arrived at Manukan Island (Enjoy snorkeling and some water sport activities)
12.00 : Lunch at Manukan Island
13.30 : Boat transfer to Sapi Island
15.30 : Depart back to Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty
💰Average Price per Person: RM175/pax (all included)
Tanjung Ria Kitchen
#buffets
lovely food, great food just like we had them in 2015, love the indian, malaysian, chinese food, lovely garlic naan bread and butter chicken, chefs are professional and every staff is friendly and helpful, spacious with sunset view, so comfortable, we must come again before we leave sabah, it takes a whole good team to make great food and provide good services, thank u all, oh dessert are yummy too, love the cheese cake 🎉🎉😘😘🥰 ox tail are fantastic too, deep fried prawn with sesame with sweet sauce …well we ate so much!
#100waysoftravel
Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping
#summerdestinations
Mamutik Island is a beautiful destination located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Here are some tips for your visit:
Getting There:
- You can take a boat from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu. The ride usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Activities:
- **Snorkelling and Diving**: The island is known for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- **Beach Relaxation**: Enjoy the sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- **Hiking**: There are short trails on the island where you can enjoy the natural scenery.
Best Time to Visit:
- The dry season from March to October is ideal for visiting as the weather is generally clear and the sea is calm.
Environmental Responsibility:
- Be mindful of the environment and avoid leaving any trash behind.
- Do not touch or step on the coral reefs as they are delicate and can be easily damaged.
Enjoy your trip to Mamutik Island!
#explorer #localguides #kotakinabalu
Comfortable Stay at Le Meridien KK
#travelanywhere
A staycation at Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of urban luxury and coastal charm in Sabah, Malaysia. Located along the waterfront, the hotel provides stunning views of the South China Sea and easy access to local attractions like Gaya Street Market and Kota Kinabalu City Mosque. Stylish rooms and suites feature contemporary design, plush bedding, and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests can indulge in diverse culinary experiences at the hotel's restaurants, including seafood specialities at Latest Recipe and refreshing drinks at Latitude 05. Relaxation awaits at the outdoor pool or with a pampering spa treatment. With its warm hospitality and scenic surroundings, Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu offers a perfect retreat for a memorable staycation experience by the sea.
Must-see One Day City Tour in Kota Kinabalu: Floating Mosque + Pink Mosque
Our one-day city tour in Kota Kinabalu mainly included two mosques, and in the evening we went to Tanjung Aru Beach to watch the sunset. Getting a taxi in the city is quite convenient, usually within a 10-15 minute ride.
🕌 For the Floating Mosque, please take a taxi to 📍 Masid Bandarava Kota Kinabalu, 🎫 the entrance fee is 10RM, which includes 5RM for the attire, but if you only take photos from the outside, it's just 5RM. We rented the clothes, which was a very novel and fun experience, definitely worth a try!
📸 Photo spots:
✅ Reflection of the mosque
✅ Swing by the seaside
✅ Inside the mosque
🕌 For the University of Sabah Mosque, please take a taxi to 📍 Masjid UMS Kota Kinabalu, 🎫 the entrance fee is 10RM
It's not far from the Floating Mosque, but be sure to locate the Pink Mosque to avoid taking a detour!
👉 It is recommended to hire a car for the tour, as the University of Sabah has a large campus with many photo spots, and the price for a two-hour car hire is about forty to fifty yuan. However, please make sure to agree on the price with the driver to avoid being overcharged!
📸 Photo spots:
✅ The exterior of the mosque, you can walk on the road like in the first picture
✅ There is a small garden behind the mosque, the architecture with the lawn also looks very nice
✅ The Pink Mosque's famous wall
✅ Rainbow 🌈 stairs
🇲🇾 Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Address: 18, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
A 20 minute drive from Kota Kinabalu airport will get you to Hyatt Centric KK. You can follow me and stay at their seaview room for the most enjoyment. You will get to see amazing sunsets every evening from your own balcony. This hotel is super convenient and popular with many tourists. You can get around easily by staying here. If you also join a day trip to climb the mountain or diving, the tour operators can pick you up at the hotel lobby too.
#malaysiatrip #familytrips2024 #mytripvlog #kotakinabalu #malaysia #liveyourdreams #takethattrip
After taking the advice to visit this place, I was truly, truly moved to tears
How to get to Huan Tan Island?
❶ Huan Tan Island can only be visited by joining a day tour, and it is recommended to book online in advance.
We booked a package that includes transfers, lunch, and 2 snorkeling sessions, around ¥480 per person.
❸ We set off around 7:30 am, arrived at Magellan Pier, and returned around 2:30 pm, with the boat journey taking about an hour.
About safety
-Before getting into the water, I was actually quite nervous, as we didn't prepare any equipment and just wore ordinary swimsuits.
-Liu doesn't know how to swim, and I can only swim in a pool.
!But it turned out that snorkeling is so much fun! We both fell in love with snorkeling and are now preparing to get our own snorkeling gear!
Diving masks, life jackets, and diving socks are provided, and it's essential to wear the life jacket throughout. If you can't swim, just hold onto the rope.
Snorkeling experience
-At the first snorkeling spot, we held onto the rope and had a shallow experience, saw some colorful fish and corals, it was okay, but not astonishing, just felt snorkeling was interesting.
-The second snorkeling spot was amazing! The water was very shallow, so you can stand up, which makes it very safe!
-There were super many clownfish and living corals! We really saw Nemo here! So many! The coral reefs were also very numerous and large! You must go into the sea to see!
-We added an underwater GoPro photo shoot on the boat, and after bargaining, it was 50rm for two people, which was quite a good deal. Xiao Hei was very reliable, pulling us around one-on-one to find spots. In the end, we got 7 videos and 80 photos!
Other tips
After snorkeling, we returned to Huan Tan Island for lunch. The lunch and drinks were buffet-style, which was okay, don't have too high expectations.
❷ The afternoon is free time, you can take photos or rest on the island, the beaches and sea water of Huan Tan Island are really great!
It's advisable to prepare seasickness medicine in advance, as it's quite easy to get seasick. Sun protection is really too important! Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential!
🌴 Beach Bliss at Nexus Karambunai
#beachlife
Nexus Karambunai is a luxurious 5 star beach resort located in Sabah Malaysia. Nestled amidst lush rainforest and facing the South China Sea, it offers a serene escape with stunning views. The rooms designed with modern amenities and traditional Malaysian influences. Here, you can indulge in various recreational activities such as golf, water sports, sunbathing and a variety of spa treatments.
Its picturesque beach setting and top-notch facilities make it an ideal destination for relaxation, adventure, and tropical bliss.
🌅🏨 Kota Kinabalu's Top Hotels for Stunning Views and Comfort 🌴🛏️
Ah, travelers! If you're planning a trip to Kota Kinabalu, you're in for a treat with its breathtaking views and cozy stays. Here's the lowdown on the best spots to crash in KK!
🌟 Shangri-La Tanjung Aru 🌅
For a room with a sunset view, look no further than Shangri-La Tanjung Aru. Chill by the adult pool, dip your toes in the private beach, or sip a cocktail at the beachfront bar. It's a sunset chaser's paradise, and the Sunset Bar is the cherry on top! 🍹🏊♂️
📍 No. 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88100, Malaysia
🌆 Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu 🍽️
Feast your eyes and your taste buds at ON22, the rooftop gem of Hyatt Centric. With a menu as panoramic as the views, it's a culinary adventure you won't forget. A modern urban oasis in the heart of the city! 🌃🍸
📍 18, Jln Haji Saman, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88000, Malaysia
🌊 Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel 🛋️
Marriott's service is as golden as the sunsets you'll catch from their rooftop. With a sea view that'll make you swoon and a staff that's as attentive as they come, it's a solo traveler's dream. 🍷🏊♀️
📍 Lot G, 23A, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88000, Malaysia
🍹 Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu 🌇
Le Meridien offers a rooftop bar experience that's second to none. Sip on stylish cocktails as you take in the views of KK. Their service? It's like the friendliest hug from a hotel you'll ever get. 🛏️🌟
📍 Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Jln Dua Puluh, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88000, Malaysia
🏖️ The Pacific Sutera Hotel ⛳
Lavish rooms, a sea-view pool, and a private beach, The Pacific Sutera has it all. Plus, the Silk Road restaurant's dim sum will have you coming back for more. Don't miss the sunset at Horizons Sky Bar! 🍤🏌️♂️
📍 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88100, Malaysia
🛍️ Hyatt Regency Kinabalu 🥐
Shop, dine, and unwind at the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu. With spacious rooms and a breakfast buffet to die for, it's grandeur in the heart of the city. 🏨🌴
📍 Jalan Dato Salleh Sulong, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88991, Malaysia
#KotaKinabalu #KotaKinabaluHotel #KotaKinabaluTravel
Local Sang Nyuk Noodle in Sabah 🇲🇾
#winhkflight
📍Jia Siang Coffee Shop
Lot 1-0, Lintas Plaza, Lorong 3, Lintas Plaza Ring Road, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Our first stop right after touching down in Sabah was Jia Siang Coffee Shop. Highly recommended with top rated reviews, this place selling sang nyuk mian definitely did not disappoint! The restaurant was huge with plenty of seatings and tables! All of us ordered an order of sang nyuk mian and sang nyuk mian soup to pair with it. The noodles was delicious and chewy, great texture! Love that the sauce was thick and flavourful, covering and cling to the noodles well, topping with minced meat! The soup was comforting and warm, great pair with the noodles!
I wish to travel to Hong Kong for the food!
Island hopping in Kota Kinabalu is truly possible! Learn to snorkel!
🏝️ Island Selection
Before coming, I looked at some guides, mainly recommending 4 islands: Mermaid Island, Sapi Island, Manukan Island, and Mamutik Island. The choice was effortless because I only considered the distance It is said that it takes three hours to get to Mermaid Island, which means a six-hour round trip, so I didn't consider it without staying on the island; Sapi Island requires one hour, so two hours for a round trip, and thinking about my seasickness, I gave up. So my choices were narrowed down to Sapi Island and Manukan Island
🌟 Highlights
I signed up for a one-day tour of Sapi + Manukan, starting at 8:30 in the morning, gradually filling up a car, about 10 people, and we were the last two. (It turns out that it's only a 10-minute walk from our hotel to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
Waiting for the speedboat 🚤 at the terminal, it took 15 minutes to reach Sapi, and the trip included a seafood buffet lunch. (Pretty bad
First, we played some water sports at Sapi, and at 1 PM, we moved on to Manukan. There were obviously more fish 🐟 at Manukan, and even my husband, who is usually a landlubber, couldn't resist snorkeling. As for me, lying on the white sand, I was drowsy 😪 and very comfortable, with the ants on the sand being insignificant ☁️
We returned to the terminal around 4:40 PM and went back to the hotel 🏨, changed clothes, and went straight to watch the sunset, which we made in time.
PS. 🏨 The Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is very convenient for transportation, just across the street from Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, where you can buy clothes directly if you didn't bring enough - and there are many restaurants worth checking in nearby: oldtown white coffee (everyone should go, just order anything ), Sin Kee Bak Kut Teh (the dry noodles and bak kut teh are really good), and the seafood 🦞 lobsters really need to be garlic-flavored!!!
Can you imagine this is in Sabah Malaysia?😨
#freehotelstay
Sabah is the state of Malaysia that located in the region of East Malaysia, right next to Sarawak and Brunei. This is the favourite state of mine out of all other states as there are full of natures here such as the tropical rainforests, animal and plants species.
If you are visiting to the Sabah, no not miss out the capital city - Kota Kinabalu as Tanjung Aru beach here is a world-famous spot with the panoramic orange sunset and purple sky after the sunset.
Other than that, Kundasang is one of the best place to visit to which is 2-4 hours away from KK by driving!! Mountains and rivers are surrounded where you can enjoy the chill weather here. Remember to get a villa or homestay with the cloud view and you wont be disappointed with it.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Touring Malaysia's Pulau Tiga, the jellyfish sea is full of fish
Only when I went to Pulau Tiga in Sabah did I realize,
The blue sea is really not a legend💙.
The journey is closer than Mermaid Island, and there are fewer people than island hopping,
Our boat of 20 people almost chartered the island🏝.
Snorkeling in the middle of the sea is completely different from the shore,
The water is clear, and there are as many fish as Finding Nemo🐟,
There are clownfish nemo and the same pink coral.
I was also lucky to find a little turtle swimming🐢.
There is a buffet lunch at noon, and drinks are free.
It's not delicate but it tastes good🦀.
Then go to the beach to step on the white sand and take pictures,
Dancing under the bubble machine while listening to music,
For a complete guide, see below😎
🗺Itinerary & Tips:
👉07:20 Pick up from the hotel to the pier.
👉09:30 Arrive on the island (1.5 hours by speedboat)
Depart early, it is recommended not to arrange too full the day before or rest early. There is no bathroom on the boat, so go to the pier. I squinted on the boat and slept very sweetly in the sea breeze.
🐠🐠10:00 Change into a swimsuit and go out to sea for snorkeling🐠🐠
There are two snorkeling points in total, and places with many fish and corals will stay longer. Even if you can't swim, you can have a lot of fun. If you are really scared, you can get on the boat in advance.
There will be precautions on the boat, and free activities after getting off the water. Everyone is in one area, and Xiao Hei is also around you. The life jacket has a large buoyancy and is generally safe.
📌Snorkeling Tips:
①Be sure to wear a jellyfish suit or sun protection suit, otherwise it is easy to get sunburned. Some fish bite people, the wound is not big and not painful but it will break.
②The rented face mirror is of good quality, not easy to enter the water, if you need glasses, you can tell the guide. There is no disposable mouthpiece, if you mind, you can bring your own.
③It is necessary to rent a pair of flippers, it is better to kick water when encountering waves and currents, especially for those who can't swim.
④Buy some bread in advance and stuff it in a plastic bottle. The effect of attracting fish is very good. It costs 5RM/bottle on the boat.
⑤Gopro follows the shooting according to the number of tourists, 50RM/person/snorkeling all the way. The shooting is really good, and it is more reassuring to have Xiao Hei staring at you. You can bargain to 30RM/person, and the guide will give it to you before leaving the island.
👉12:00-13:00 Beach buffet lunch, free activities.
It is recommended not to change the swimsuit first, it will spray bubbles at 13:30.
👉14:30 Board the ship and return, 16:00 Arrive at the city pier. You can go to Tanjung Aru Beach to watch the sunset.
💡Reservation:
There are 3 companies on the island, I chose "Love of Pulau Tiga". The service is very good, and one of the guides can speak Chinese. Xiao Hei is also very enthusiastic, helping to take pictures on the boat, and actively communicating with you in English.
You can bargain if you book one day in advance at the pier, 260RM or 300RM can be booked.
🎒Suggested to bring:
Sunscreen/mud, hat, sunglasses, mobile phone waterproof bag, swimsuit, slippers, towel, bread for feeding fish
Kota Kinabalu, known as the 'Land Below the Clouds', is an unmissable landmark at the city center's 0km point
☁️ The 'Land Below the Clouds', also known as Kota Kinabalu, and more affectionately referred to as KK by the locals, is the capital of Sabah and a famous tourist city in West Malaysia, boasting beautiful mountain and sea scenery🌊, and is a necessary transit point on the way to Semporna.
The KK city center is not large, but it exudes a strong old Hong Kong vibe, with many highly-rated seafood restaurants🦞, Hong Kong-style tea restaurants🍵, and the Southeast Asia-popular Bak Kut Teh. Walking along Gaya Street in the city center, the weekend night market is bustling with crowds
At the end of the street is the Kota Kinabalu City Tourism Bureau, where the entrance features the KK tourism landmark—the 0km sign, which serves as a great spot for a tourist check-in .
4-Day Tour in Sabah | Street Photography in Kota Kinabalu
Guangzhou cannot fly directly to Semporna, many people just use Kota Kinabalu as a transit without staying, but if you have enough time, remember to leave 1 day for a city walk in Kota Kinabalu.
🗺️My 4-day tour itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kota Kinabalu➡️University of Sabah (Pink Mosque)➡️Floating Mosque➡️Tanjung Aru Beach➡️Gaya Street Night Market
Day 2: Tawau➡️Jellyfish House
Day 3: Island hopping (Mataking Line)➡️Semporna Town
Day 4: Stroll around Semporna Town➡️Fly to Kota Kinabalu➡️Buy souvenirs at Gaya Street➡️Return to home country
🚗Most of the travel times between attractions in the city are about ten minutes, and it's very convenient to take a Grab taxi.
🌈University of Sabah
📍 Universiti Malaysia Sabah, if you only want to see the Pink Mosque, you can navigate to Mosque UMS
🎫10 MYR
⏰No entry after 17:30, the tour takes about 2-3 hours.
Most people go straight to the Pink Mosque for a photo, but I think there are many places to visit on campus.
👍I highly recommend renting an electric skateboard, which is available at the ticket office, for 26 MYR
①The campus is large, and the skateboard is labor-saving.
②There is a dedicated lane, which is safe.
⚠️You will be given a tour map when you buy a ticket. The art gallery closes at 4 o'clock, remember to check the time.
💔The day I went was Friday, they were praying and we couldn't go inside the mosque for a visit, but it was great to take pictures outside.
🌈Floating Mosque
📍Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
🎫5 MYR for taking photos outside; if you want to visit inside, you need to rent clothes, 5 MYR
⏰No entry after 17:00
The blue and white color scheme + water reflection is very beautiful. Similarly, because of Friday prayers, I didn't go in.
🌈Tanjung Aru Beach
📍Tanjung Aru Beach
The sunset is absolutely beautiful‼️It's now the rainy season, the weather is not very good, the clouds are thick, but you can still see the sun dyeing the sea pink. Even in the rainy season, you can imagine how beautiful the sunset clouds would be in summer.
⏰Check the sunset time in advance, there is a bit of traffic on the way to the beach
✅The view from the Sunset Bar at the nearby Shangri-La Hotel is very good, but you need to make a reservation
💔Although there are many tourists, it's not too bad, but there is a night market next door and there will be a smell of garbage
🌈Gaya Street
Morning market: Sunday morning 6:00-12:00
Night market: Every Friday/Saturday 18:00-24:00
I only went to the night market, the snacks and juices are good.
On the way back, there was a 2-hour gap in the transfer, and I also went to Gaya Street. Although there is no morning market, most of the buildings here have graffiti, suitable for taking pictures, and you can buy some souvenirs to take home.
🍜Food Recommendations
✅Hung Jin Rice Shop - Highly recommended‼️
The shop is unremarkable, the decoration is similar to ordinary noodle stalls in China, but the taste is unique and the price is very affordable.
👍Oyster sauce chicken wings, tree vegetable scrambled eggs are a must, each bite is amazing; garlic shrimp balls are also delicious.
⚠️You need to go early, the shop is small and there are few seats.
✅Da Jia Lai Seafood Restaurant
The cream shrimp is a must-try, the remaining sauce is also great with white rice. The egg yolk crab is not bad, suitable for Chinese taste.
If you don't order lobster and pipi shrimp, the per capita cost is 150-200 MYR.
✅CFC Mongkok Restaurant on Gaya Street
Next door is Yifeng Laksa, but it closes at 18:00, so I went to this restaurant temporarily.
The laksa is okay, the durian shaved ice is great. A full cup, the ingredients are generous, and the taste is good.
🏠Accommodation Recommendations
Hyatt Regency Hotel, more than 600 per night, can be directly booked on Ctrip.
The facilities are relatively new, it is a ten-minute drive from the airport, and it is also close to Gaya Street and Hung Jin Rice Shop, you can start a city walk right out of the hotel.
✨Other tips
1️⃣The front desk of the hotel and many shop assistants are Malays, it's best to be able to communicate in simple English
2️⃣Malaysian hotels charge a tax of 10 MYR per night, payable at the hotel
Tanjung Aru beach. Breathtaking sunset
Tanjung Aru Beach in Sabah, Malaysia, is a coastal gem celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and serene ambiance. Nestled along the shores of the South China Sea, the beach is a haven for those seeking tranquility and natural splendor. The golden sands stretch along the coastline, inviting visitors to indulge in leisurely strolls while enjoying the gentle sea breeze.
The highlight of Tanjung Aru Beach is undoubtedly its spectacular sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, vibrant hues paint the sky, creating a mesmerizing backdrop over the calm waters. This daily spectacle has made the beach a favored spot for locals and tourists alike, who gather to witness nature's vivid display.
Apart from its natural allure, Tanjung Aru Beach boasts amenities that enhance the overall experience. Nearby resorts and restaurants offer a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, allowing visitors to unwind and savor local delights. Whether it's a peaceful day by the sea or a vibrant evening admiring the sunset, Tanjung Aru Beach captivates with its beauty and beckons those in search of a coastal escape in the heart of Sabah.#awesomepic #Sunset #Beach #Kota kinabalu #Sabah #Sabah #Malaysia #sabahtourism #malaysiatrulyasia #kkcity #cuticutimalaysia #sabahtravel
Follow my footsteps: Malaysia (Eight)
Malaysia·Asia Mount Kinabalu
On the way back to the hotel, I chatted with the white-haired Chinese old man. Their taxi company also provides a chartered service to the sacred mountain, 450RM, which is almost the same as the one contacted online, so I asked him to come to the hotel at seven o'clock the next morning. At six thirty in the morning, the famous Fuyuan near the hotel finally opened.
Before setting off to watch the proboscis monkey firefly sacred mountain, the temptation of Mount Kinabalu, which is as high as 4095 meters, is particularly great to me.
The morning wind carries a cool feeling. It takes about two hours to leave Yabi. The car starts to go uphill in the bend. The large clouds slowly spread in the pine forest, gather in the mountain concave, and the flowing beauty makes me excited. I said to the driver: I want to take pictures of the sea of clouds, and he slowly brought a kind smile: There are many above, many. The car is estimated to be about a kilometer away, the white clouds are still lingering at the foot of the mountain, the mountain situation begins to appear, there is no possibility of a sea of clouds above, my regret, for a long time to come back, with his Chinese level is not he simply do not know what is called the sea of clouds? These sceneries are nothing strange to him, and the sea of clouds?
The car continues to move upwards, thick dark clouds begin to gather and roll, the peak is hidden in the clouds from time to time, the sun is hidden behind the mountain, the nearby mountains present a green-black color, reaching the viewing platform at 1500 meters, except for the nearby pink mandala swaying in the wind, the peak is already in the deep clouds.
On the other side of the mountain, a fully armed team is heading towards the top of the mountain. I have been muttering for a long time that the registration has not been realized. To climb this highest peak in Southeast Asia, you need to make a reservation about three months in advance. Along the way, you can see from the tropical rainforest at the foot of the mountain to the cold needle forest on the mountain top to the shrub on the top of the mountain. This huge and ancient plant gathering place has become one of my wishes.
At this time, a small squirrel magically appeared, she suddenly jumped to the railing of the viewing platform in the pine branches, her eyes were shining at me, the girl was rare, said she was hungry must be hungry, she took out her treasured chocolate bar, I broke a little biscuit layer at the end, sure enough, this little thing quickly held up with both hands, small mouth chewing like flying cute, eating and flying charming eyes, and then shyly ran to the side to continue eating, I held the camera left and right to follow, the girl was even more excited, even the military brother took off his hat to let her in. When her other little friend called from the tree, she quickly climbed up, the clouds and mist came up, you can hear their happy running.
When we arrived near Poring Hot Springs, it started to rain in the sky, and the Chinese food in Dongling Restaurant made us feel at home.
Most of the people in the hot springs are locals. They all wear clothes and go directly into the hot springs. The colorful clothes make this place surrounded by green plants full of brilliance. On the island of Donggong Abdul Rahman in the future, the girl and I went directly into the sea, then wet and waited on the shore to the dock speedboat for a round, the clothes were dry.
Along the mountain path, we walked deep into the mountain, the slope began to increase, the lush branches and leaves covered the sky, there were sporadic raindrops falling, the feeling of hot and stuffy, the military brother was a little breathless, the road ahead was still far away, the military brother hesitated a little, I suggested to accompany him down, he let us go first, said if not, just go down, then call us, but when we arrived at the entrance of the rainforest suspension bridge soon, the military brother came up, he still did not give up this rare trip. This longest rainforest suspension bridge in the world is built between huge trees, with wooden boards two feet wide and a net on the side, about forty meters above the ground. We have not yet set off, a little girl walked backwards, with the help of security, pulled a big locust from her foot, looking at the girl's somewhat frightened eyes, we helped her apply insect repellent water, but as soon as she stepped on the shaking suspension bridge, she shrank back, this is the rain gradually increased, looking up, fine water arrows fell from the green leaves full of eyes, the sound of brushing slowly spread... Only six people are allowed on the bridge at a time, the people blocked by the rain on this suspension bridge slowly increased, under our encouragement, the girl took the first step, the suspension bridge looked far away, a misty rain, the clouds rose in the distance, the surrounding leaves were green and shiny, before the fifth section of the suspension bridge was finished, this wonderful journey has made the girl reluctant to stop, and another little girl went back and forth is another round trip.
Practical guide to visa-free travel to Malaysia to watch the sunset in Sabah
During the rainy season in Malaysia,
The sunset becomes rare and splendid✨.
If you want to see the century-old sunset by the sea,
7 points depend on the weather, and 3 points depend on yourself💪.
Keep this guide handy, and rush after reading it!
⏰Important time:
👉You can check the sunset time in Sabah on your mobile phone. The probability is around 18:00 recently, and it is completely down around 18:30. You can see the sunset changing different colors throughout the process. It is recommended to wait until it gets dark before leaving. If you are lucky, you can also encounter beach fireworks.
🗺Recommended itinerary before watching the sunset:
Island hopping or around the beach island, basically return to the pier at 16:30.
👉Take a taxi to the beach at 16:40, navigate to 'Tanjung aru first beach', you need to grab a good position for taking pictures, otherwise there will be people in the picture. Traffic in Sabah starts to jam from 17:00 in the evening, you can take a taxi in advance or walk a distance after watching the sunset.
📍Location:
Many people are hesitant to go to the beach or Shangri-La Hotel Sunset Bar to watch the sunset. Don't worry about coming out on vacation, if you can't, just watch! Two! Scene!
🏖Tanjung Aru Beach
Advantages: Free, wider view.
Disadvantages: There are many people, you need to queue up early.
The drop-off point is the first beach, and there will be fewer people going south to the second beach.
🍸Shangri-La Sunset bar
Advantages: Few people, with coconut trees and other scenery not monotonous.
Disadvantages: Need to book, there is a minimum consumption of 48-388RM.
📌Warm little Tips
⛅There may be beautiful sunsets on cloudy or cloudy days.
If it's not raining, don't give up, there may be surprises. The weather was average when I went, and the sunset burned the entire sky through the thick clouds.
🗓Arrange to watch the sunset in advance, don't just rely on the mangroves.
The itinerary of the mangroves mostly includes watching the sunset. But the half-day tour itinerary is full, and each family arranges differently. Eating buffet dinner + watching the sunset is free activity time, and it is likely to have missed the beach.
🎒The sunset is high tide, wear slippers and bring a waterproof bag.
Don't throw things on the beach just to free your hands to take pictures. Some are not safe, and the tide is likely to wet the backpack. If you bring a tripod to take pictures, try to choose a sturdy one or insert it into the sand.
📷Most of the sunsets are silhouettes, and the flash is turned on after dark.
You can make some big moves, pretend to take pictures and look at the phone, or directly record the video and screenshot it later.
🎈Additional information:
The world's three major sunsets👇Let's go see it together in the future!
①Tanjung Aru Beach in Sabah, Malaysia
②Puglia in Italy
③The Caribbean in Cuba
Catching sunset on North Borneo Cruise
#weekendgetaways #awesomepic #deliciousfood #couplestrip
No doubt that Kota Kinabalu are one of the best place to watch the sunset. Even better to witness it from a luxury yacht that provide you with delicious food, live music and fresh air from the sea. I was able to be onboard this North Borneo cruise that sail for two hours from 5pm to 7pm for only RM139. Waiting area for the yacht was easy access as well as it is at Sutera Harbour, you wouldn’t missed such a extraordinary place. It was one of the best highlights this year and I would definitely suggest it if anyone interested to visit Kota Kinabalu.
🚶🏻♂️Livin’ on the tree
#weekendgetaways
This cultural village share the history of all ethnic in Sabah, their day to day livings and also how they create rice spirits by themselves! Of course, this does not represent entire Sabahan but only still applicable to some ethnics within.
By the end of the journey, they also draws Henna (with your own liking design) as a memory, the Henna could stay with you for the next couple of days.
Psst! Remember to bring sunshade or umbrella as it is quite hot going through the couple hours of tour under hot sun.
MALAYSIA’S FIRST HYATT CENTRIC HOTEL!
I visited Kota Kinabalu, Sabah for the first time! In this trip, I booked the King Bed Deluxe room (60SQM) at Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, which features a 7SQM balcony, modern lux bathroom with separate walk-in shower and bathtub! The room gives CLEAN, SPACIOUS vibes! Of course I had to review the facilities, Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu features a rooftop lap pool next to the sky bar and restaurant! The best part? A night stay at this beautiful contemporary award winning hotel starts from only $129/night on TRIP!🤑 Talk about value for money right?! Follow me as I review more hotel stays and secret gems! #freehotelstay
LET'S EXPLORE: THE PACIFIC SUTERA HOTEL
#hotelreview
Need an idea about where to stay for your next visit to Sabah Borneo?
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Why not try to consider staying at one of the well established resort in Kota Kinabalu and located by the sea!! This Pacific Sutera Resort is located just a few minutes drive from BKI International Aiport and it is half way in between airport and Kota Kinabalu city centre.
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Even this property is a bit dated exteriorly but it was just renovated recently and you will be surprise how modern the rooms look. To make it more interesting, all rooms here comes with a huge bathtub as well.
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Another plus point about this resort is the view if you opt for Seaview rooms. Even the cost will be way expensive, I truly believe it will provide a very perfect view of the sea and you can watch sunset too. Golf course view is also nice with a lot of greeneries and access to the private beach is just a walk away.
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It is now on my favorite hotel list in Kota Kinabalu. Highly recommended!!
Best Viral Port Ever!
#malaysia
The Magellan Sutera Resort
Getting there - 1 , Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Highlight - A world class 5-star resort in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. From the moment you step into the magnificent longhouse-style lobby of the hotel, an architectural tribute to the Rungus natives of Sabah with fine timber furnishings and traditional handicraft artifacts to the understated ambience of the guestrooms and suites, the gleaming pools beyond and the choicest of gourmet meals. #awesomepic
Picturesque spots at Kokol Hill Elf
#malaysia
This place is a haven for photography enthusiasts, offering numerous picturesque spots that are perfect for Instagram-worthy shots with Kota Kinabalu in the distance.
The views are stunning and amazing.
When we went, the weather was good with relatively good visibility.
The place had different nooks, crannies and props for you to take photos with.
Go in the late afternooon so that you can stay for the sunset and take even nicer pictures!
Entrance fee is RM10 for adult.
THIS HOTEL COMES WITH NETFLIX?
Experience the Best of Kota Kinabalu at The Cara Boutique Hotel - The Shore Room at only $177 per night (602sqft)
Discover the charm of Kota Kinabalu at the exquisite 4-star Cara Boutique Hotel, strategically located to provide you with a truly memorable stay.
🌴 Location:
Nestled within the city's heart, The Cara Boutique Hotel offers easy access to some of Kota Kinabalu's most treasured attractions. Just 3.2 km away, you can explore the Weston Wetland Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts. The beautiful Tanjung Aru Sandy Beach is also a mere 25-minute stroll, perfect for leisurely seaside adventures.
✈️ Convenient Proximity:
Traveling couldn't be more convenient! The hotel sits just 0.5 km from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, ensuring a stress-free arrival or departure. For culture seekers, the Sabah Art Gallery is only a short 5-minute drive away. The Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village is a 25-minute walk, allowing you to immerse yourself in local history and culture.
🌆 Entertainment Options:
When it's time for some entertainment, look no further than the nearby B.E.D (Best Entertainment Destination), a mere 3.4 km away, offering a vibrant nightlife experience.
🚗 Easy Transportation:
Getting around Kota Kinabalu is a breeze from The Cara Boutique Hotel. It's just a 5-minute walk to the kereta api bus stop and in close proximity to the North Borneo train station, making your exploration of the city hassle-free.
🚗 Parking:
Rest easy knowing that The Cara Boutique Hotel provides convenient parking options, ensuring that your visit is as stress-free as possible.
Experience the warmth of Kota Kinabalu's hospitality while indulging in the comforts of The Cara Boutique Hotel. Make your stay unforgettable! Don’t forget to quote my name when you’re booking!
#TheCaraBoutiqueHotel #KotaKinabalu #TravelConvenience #ExploreKotaKinabalu #CulturalHeritage #EntertainmentDestination #fallishere
CALLING FOR COFFEE LOVERS @DRIP HILTON
#malaysia
Calling for coffee lover to get a variety of coffee beans form different origin at this exclusive cafe which is located on lobby level of Hilton Kota Kinabalu.
Known as DRIP, this cafe also serves a variety of pastries and sandwiches for guests to dine in as well as grab and go concept.
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The marble concept and decor really gives another exclusive vibe of this cafe. Price range around MYR10 to MYR 30. Indeed a nice place to relax and enjoy ur evening!!
TIMES THREE : JAPANESE VIBE CAFE
#malaysia
Finally came to this Tokyo feel cafe “Times Three” at Lido Plaza…their foods and drinks certainly ichiban and a must check in place cum instagramable
Definitely a great place to hang out and relax with friends and family.
Times Three
📍 Location: Lot.22, 1st Floor, Lido Plaza. ( Above Tipsy Cow )
🕙 Operating Hours :
Mon-Fri 9am-10pm
Sat-Sun 10am-11pm
MURAL ARTS HUNTING : KOTA KINABALU
#malaysia
Wall arts are now new type of attractions which is interesting to explore when you are visiting any cities. The vibrant colors of the art together with some characters will definitely make the city looks more beautiful.
If you happen to visit Kota Kinabalu, mural arts hunting should be one of your things to do as you will get a chance to explore every inches of this city. It is recommended to explore by foot as normally all the arts are located in some narrow road and back alley.
Don't forget to bring your camera with full batteries capacity as these arts are really great to become your photo background.
Happy hunting peeps!!
SEAVIEW HOTEL : MARRIOT KOTA KINABALU
#malaysia
if you are looking for a perfect Seaview hotel with scenic sunset, here is the hotel that you are looking for!! Marriot Kota Kinabalu Hotel.
The Marriott Kota Kinabalu is a luxury hotel located in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysia. It offers a range of amenities and services for travelers, including comfortable accommodations, dining options, and meeting rooms. The advantage of this hotel over the rest is its prime location and overlooking a very nice south China sea. But for those who are really concern about the sounds of airplane, then this hotel might not be a perfect place for you.
With only less than 3 hours flight from Kuala Lumpur, this city is such a great place to visit as part of your adventure in Malaysia. Make sure to include this hotel in your next bucket list!
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