Kota Kinabalu is located separately from Malaysia mainland – on the beautiful Borneo island. The sights of Kota Kinabalu are represented by modern architectural buildings and museums. There are traditional markets, parks and Malaysian nature reserves. Unfortunately, there are no ancient monuments in the city: during the Second World War, the city at the time known as Jesselton was destroyed by bombardments.
Check this travel guide for first timers on best things to do and places to visit in Kota Kinabalu, Borneo. Use the information provided to create your own list of tourist attractions you’d like to check.
Tun Mustapha Tower
One of the main Kota Kinabalu attractions is a 30-story glass tower Tun Mustapha Tower, which resembles a huge 122-meter popsicle on a stick. It is worth getting to the 18th floor of the building, which slowly rotates, making a complete revolution in an hour.
Tun Mustapha tower is one of the three tallest buildings in Borneo. From its observation deck you can enjoy scenic panoramas.
The Atkinson clock tower
This 50-feet tall, 15-meter Atkinson clock tower is one of the oldest buildings and popular tourist sight in Kota Kinabalu. This is one of the few buildings that has been preserved since the Second World War. Previously, it served as a guide for ships entering the harbor. About a kilometer away, on a hill, is the Signal Hill observation deck which is closed.
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
City mosque with golden domes is an example of modern Islamic architecture. This beautiful city mosque is located near Likas Bay.
It stands on the shore in the lagoon, because of its location it is known as “floating mosque”.
If you’re thinking on what to do in Kota Kinabalu, make sure to visit this mosque. It can accommodate up to 12,000 people. The city mosque is open for visitors every day, except Friday.
Sabah State Museum
One of the tourist attractions in Kota Kinabalu is Sabah state museum. There, you can find rich historical, archaeological, ethnographic, zoological and mineral exhibitions collected from all over the state.
Nearby, there is Sabah Art Gallery where you can find works of foreign and Malaysian artists. The ethno-botanical garden adjoins the gallery.
Walk Along Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
After a busy day you can relax walking along the waterfront. It is located within walking distance from most of the hotels. There are a large number of bars and restaurants, as well as retail outlets. Waterfront becomes very active during the night.
You can enjoy the atmosphere of this place while sitting in small, cozy restaurant and sipping drinks or enjoying fresh seafood and traditional Malaysian food.
Kota Kinabalu Wetland Center
In the Likas Bay area, Kota Kinabalu bird sanctuary is spread over an area of almost 10 hectares. About 80 species of birds live here in the mangroves. The park receives visitors daily, except Monday, from 08:00 to 18:00.
Tun Fuad Stephens Park
Tun Fuad Stephens Park is located 5 km east from the city center. On its territory there is a picturesque lake with floating restaurants. For sports lovers, the park has a jogging track.
A public park stretches along the beach, where gazebos and kiosks are located. A local notable art object is a shark head made from plastic bottles.
Not far from the beach is Tanjung Aru Perdana Park with attractions, fitness equipment. There are musical fountains, fireworks are arranged in the evenings.
Gaya Street Sunday Market
A popular tourist attraction in Kota Kinabalu is Gaya Street Sunday Market. People visit it to buy souvenirs and local products. There, you can find stalls with fruits, vegetables and fresh seafood. Prices there are often higher, so be ready to haggle.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Do not miss the opportunity to go to Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park. It is located on five miniature wooded islands, a 10-15 minutes boat ride from the city’s ferry terminal. The islands are fringed with coral reefs and are excellent locations for diving and snorkelling.
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
The next location on the list of things to do in Kota Kinabalu is Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, which is located about 20 km from Kota Kinabalu. This place includes zoological and botanical parks.
Monsopiad Heritage Village
Half an hour drive from this place is Monsopiad heritage village. There you can get acquainted with the life of the ethnic tribes of Sabah. The program includes an inspection of wooden dwellings, a show, and lunch.
Crocker Range National Park
Outside the city lies the Crocker Range National Park, the largest in the state of Sabah. All flora and fauna are endemic to this region of Malaysia and are under government protection. Tourists can walk along specially laid paths.
Mount Kinabalu
Visit Kinabalu Park, which is famous due to mountain of the same name with the highest point (4095 m). Climbing the mountain is suitable for people with different physical level.
If you want to climb to the top, it is recommended to plan up to 3 days for the ascent. This will make it easier for your body to acclimatize. Climbing the mountain is better to plan in advance, since only 135 people are allowed to climb the mountain every day.
