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小月帶你玩China

The off-season in Kota Kinabalu is absolutely stunning!

The sunsets here are truly deserving of their global top 3 ranking. As the sun sets, the entire sky transforms into a moving masterpiece, shifting from brilliant golden orange to fiery crimson and finally to romantic pastel purple—each moment is breathtakingly beautiful. But it's not just the sunsets; the islands here are equally mesmerizing. With crystal-clear waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life, it's a paradise that beckons to all. If you're looking for a journey full of surprises, Kota Kinabalu is the perfect destination! 🌈 Itinerary D1: Nationwide departure to Kota Kinabalu D2: Mermaid Island - Two snorkeling sessions + dual beaches + Long Tail Beach + Glass Sea + buffet lunch + various island activities D3: Kota Kinabalu - Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia - Nabalu Viewing Platform + Desa Dairy Farm (includes famous milk) + Nyonya cuisine with Malaysian flavors + fish spa "SPA" + Rafflesia flower (seasonal, additional cost) + canopy walk + fresh juice + famous Sabah roasted wild boar + handmade pulled tea D4: Free activities (optional upgrades available) - Option 1: City Mosque + Foundation Building + KAWA Mangrove Forest + Proboscis Monkeys + world-class sunset + fireflies + iron flower performance - Option 2: Mantanani Island excursion D5: Free activities (optional upgrade to Dinawan Island mud bath) D6: Kota Kinabalu Airport - Return home 🌟 Must-visit attractions ✅ Mangrove Eco Tour: Search for rare proboscis monkeys by day and encounter fireflies resembling a sea of stars by night ✅ Tanjung Aru Beach: Witness one of the world's top 3 sunsets as the sky is painted in gradients of golden orange and crimson ✅ Kinabalu Park: Challenge yourself with ATV rides, paragliding, and other thrilling activities, or enjoy the natural serenity of hot springs and canopy walks while trekking Southeast Asia's highest peak ✅ Mantanani Island: Experience the untouched beauty of this island, explore coral reefs and tropical fish through snorkeling or diving, and try deep-sea fishing ✅ City Mosque: Capture the reflection of this pure white structure in the water and feel the tranquil blend of religion and nature 🌟 Travel Tips ☁️ Weather: Always check the weather forecast before your trip; carry an umbrella during the rainy season 🚗 Transportation: Use Grab for rides or book a car in advance for convenience and peace of mind 🏨 Accommodation: Stay near Gaya Street for its central location, abundant dining options, and easy access to transportation 🌞 Sun Protection: The local UV rays are strong, so ensure you have sunscreen, sunglasses, and a parasol ready at all times
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Posted: Nov 11, 2025
Chow Chin Chung
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Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu

4.5/51692 reviews | Night view
Kota Kinabalu
No. 4 of Night Attractions in Sabah
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Here’s why Ranau is the go-to spot for epic outdoor vibes: picture yourself conquering the legendary Mount Kinabalu, catching that sunrise over a wild sea of clouds under a blazing blue sky. 🌄✨ This adventure was next level! Must-See Spot: 🏔️ Mount Kinabalu (Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia. Open daily 07:00–17:00) Asia’s tallest granite peak is a must for any hiker or nature buff. The trek is intense (bring good shoes!), but worth every step for those unforgettable sunrise moments. I recommend starting early—around 2am—so you reach the summit right as the clouds light up. And yes, PACK snacks and tons of water. There are checkpoints like Laban Rata where you can rest and grab a hot meal (trust me, you’ll need it). Permits are required, so book in advance via trip.com. Personal tips: Plan your hike for a clear day to maximize views and avoid slippery trails. The weather changes fast, so layer up. A lightweight windbreaker made all the difference for my climb! If you want a true local flavor after the descent, check out Ranau town for Sabah tea and simple eateries—perfect way to chill and refuel. Getting Around: The easiest way is to hire a driver from Kota Kinabalu (2 hours each way), or use a shared minivan. Buses are available but often crowded—book transport early through trip.com for the smoothest experience. Essential Tips: No visa needed for most travelers. Bring cash for permits and food on the mountain. Weather is tropical but cool on the summit—don’t skip a warm layer! #MountKinabalu #RanauTrails #SunriseHike #SabahNature #tripdotcom

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