Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide

Activities

Watersports: the Tunka Abdul Rahman Marine Park is an ideal place to enjoy all kinds of watersports. Consisting of five beautiful islands and easily accessed from Kota Kinabalu by a speed boat, the marine park boasts white sandy beaches with crystal clear water and an array of stunning coral reefs. Choose from a variety of activities such as swimming, scuba diving and snorkelling, parasailing, kayaking, wind-surfing, water-skiing, jet skis and banana boat rides.

Sunset cruises: many tour operators in Kota Kinabalu provide sunset cruises that will take you through the islands and back, with some offering dining and activities on board. Watching the sun setting into the sea is a very memorable experience.

Golfing: can be enjoyed all around Kota Kinabalu. Golf courses here are popular destinations among international golfers. The notable ones include the Sutera Harbour Golf and Country Club, Nexus Karambunai Gold Course and the Borneo Golf Resort. You can find many golfers’ packages at one of the tour agents in the city.

Rail tours: taking a train to travel into the colonial days of British North Borneo on the North Borneo Railway train is one of the great ways to spend some quality time with your family. Operated by Sutera Harbour, the steam trains will take you around the city, with a stop at Papar to visit a local market. The wagons are beautifully decorated in a magnificent colonial style, with food and beverages served throughout the trip.

Market shopping: check out Gaya Street Fair held every Sunday morning for local handicrafts, souvenirs, food, drinks, and Chinese medicines. You can mingle with the locals while practice your bargaining skills here. Another place to buy good quality handicrafts is the Filipino Market where you can also find authentic Sabahan products at some shops in the market.

Shopping malls: shop ‘til you drop at one of five major shopping complexes in Kota Kinabalu: Centrepoint, Wisma Merdeka, Wawansan Plaza, Karamungsing Complex and KK Plaza. If you are here in March, August and December, prepare to spend lots of money on the Mega Sales held during these months.