10 Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu for First Time Visitors

Kota Kinabalu or KK, the capital of Sabah, East Malaysia, is widely known to be a mix of nature, culture, food scenes and local charm. Surrounded by stunning beaches, tropical islands and lush rainforests, Kota Kinabalu is also home to the highest mountain in Malaysia, commonly known as Mount Kinabalu. 

 

With many things to do in Kota Kinabalu, it’s a great destination for first-time visitors to Borneo. If you’re wondering what to do in Kota Kinabalu, here’s a list of the 9 best things to do in KK for first-time visitors!

 

10 Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

1. Visit Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu

Image Source: maps

 

Often referred to as the "floating mosque," Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sabah. Located just a short 15-minute drive from the city center, this stunning white mosque sits beside a man-made lagoon, creating a picturesque reflection that draws both worshippers and tourists alike.

Built in classical Islamic architecture with modern touches, the mosque features a grand blue-and-gold dome and four minarets, making it a striking sight against the backdrop of the South China Sea. Visitors are allowed to enter outside of prayer times, with proper attire provided for those who need it. Inside, the mosque offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful Islamic calligraphy and spacious prayer halls. 

Address: Jalan Pasir, Kampung Likas, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

 

2. Snorkelling Tour at Mamutik Island

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Mamutik Island is known for its clear water and vibrant marine life, making it a great spot for snorkelling. You will start your journey with a 10-minute boat ride to the island, which is part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The marine park is home to colourful corals and many other sea creatures, waiting to be explored. 

 

If you’re not into snorkelling, you can also relax on the white sandy beach and enjoy a quick island getaway. You can get to Mamutik Island from Jesselon Point Ferry Terminal, Kota Kinabalu. Snorkeling at Mamutik Island is one of the best things to do when you’re in Kota Kinabalu.

 

3. Island Hopping from Jesselton Point

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If you’d love to get some sun, sand and sea, go for an island-hopping adventure where the islands are easily accessible from Kota Kinabalu Jesselton Point. Nearby islands include Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, Gaya and Sulug islands, each with their own unique attractions. Some of the activities you can try are snorkelling, hiking, trekking, diving as well as relaxing on the beach. 

 

Read more about Tropical Islands of Sabah here

 

4. Visit Sabah State Museum

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Just a 10 minute car ride from Kota Kinabalu city, Sabah State Museum is where visitors can dive deeper into Sabah’s rich cultural heritage, natural history and tribes spanning over 5 different zones. 

 

Here, you can see the traditional Rungus longhouse, discover artefacts, archaeology, ceramics and more. Besides that, there is also a skeleton of Malaysia’s largest whale! It’s a must visit for visitors in Kota Kinabalu to learn more about the history and culture of Sabahan.

 

Address: sabah museum complex, Jalan Muzium, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

 

5. Sunset View Tanjung Aru Beach

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Tanjung Aru beach is popular for its golden sands and breathtaking sunsets, perfect for an evening stroll along the beach. Be sure to be there earlier, grab some snacks and drinks, prepare a picnic setting and enjoy the beautiful sunset views, with stunning colours reflecting off the ocean. Enjoying the sunset view at Tanjung Aru beach is one of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu especially if you’re a first timer.

 

Address: Tanjung Aru Beach Resort, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Operating Hours: Daily, 10AM-11PM

 

6. KK Waterfront

Image Source: https://www.kkwaterfront.com.my/about.html

 

Another amazing location worth visiting is the KK Waterfront, the city’s premier entertainment and dining spot in Kota Kinabalu Sabah. It is a bustling hub of restaurants, cafes, and bars that serve a wide variety of local and international cuisines while overlooking the scenic sea views. It’s also a great place to unwind after a long day exploring the city. Be sure to be there early to get a good view of the stunning sunset! 

 

Address: Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Operating Hours: Daily, 4PM - 3AM

 

7. Shopping at Gaya Street Weekend Market

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The Gaya Street Sunday Morning Street Market is an open-air market full of vendors selling a wide range of products from fresh produce to batik sarongs and local snacks. It’s also an excellent place to find souvenirs to bring home to your loved ones. For first-timers in Kota Kinabalu, this is a must-visit market! 

 

Address: Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Opening Hours: 5PM - 12AM (Friday, Saturday) 

Sunday, 5AM - 12:45PM

Closed (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday)

 

8. Visit the Filipino Market (Handicraft Market)

Image Source: kotakinabalu

 

The Filipino Market is widely known for its handicraft items, including jewellery, handwoven bags, textiles and pearl accessories. It’s a great place to try local street food and snacks. The market is open daily from morning to evening and don’t forget to bargain to get the best deals in town!

 

Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Operating hours: Daily 8AM - 10PM

 

9. Learn Sabah Culture at Mari Mari Cultural Village

Image Source: marimariculturalvillage 

 

Mari Mari Cultural Village offers visitors a unique and immersive experience into the traditional lifestyles of Sabah’s five major ethnic groups, the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. Set in a serene jungle setting, the village is designed as a living museum where you can step back in time and experience the daily life, customs, and rituals of these indigenous communities.

 

From learning how to start a fire using bamboo to sampling authentic tribal cuisine and watching traditional dance performances, Mari Mari Cultural Village is both educational and entertaining. Guided tours take you through traditional homes, explaining the architecture, tools, and cultural practices specific to each tribe. The highlight for many visitors is the interactive demonstrations, such as blowpipe shooting, tattoo-making, and rice wine tasting. Mari Mari Cultural Village is more than just a tourist attraction, it’s a cultural bridge that helps preserve and celebrate Sabah’s rich indigenous heritage. 

 

Address: Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Operation Hours: Daily, 10AM - 1PM and 2PM - 5PM

 

10. Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

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Situated about 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is a family-friendly destination that blends a botanical garden and a zoo into one spacious, walkable park. Managed by the Sabah Wildlife Department, the park was established with a strong focus on conservation, education, and the rehabilitation of endangered species native to Borneo.

Here, you’ll find a wide range of animals including Bornean pygmy elephants, orangutans, Malayan tigers, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears, among others. The park also houses a children's zoo where younger visitors can get closer to domestic animals and learn through interaction. The botanical section features walking trails lined with native flora, ideal for a relaxing stroll or light trek through Sabah’s greenery.

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park offers a rare opportunity to see Borneo’s wildlife up close in a setting that supports education and awareness about local conservation efforts. It's a great stop for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in learning more about the island's unique biodiversity without venturing deep into the jungle. The park’s manageable size, variety of animals, and close proximity to the city make it an easy and rewarding half-day trip from Kota Kinabalu.

Address: Lok kawi Putatan, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Opening Hours: Daily, 930AM - 4PM

 

Travel Tips in Kota Kinabalu

To make the most of your trip in Kota Kinabalu, here are some travel tips for an enjoyable experience:

1. Weather: It is generally hot and sunny all year round in Sabah, pack comfortable clothes. But do keep in mind that the temperature at Mount Kinabalu has its own temperature and can drop to freezing temperatures.
2. Book in Advance: Book your flights, accommodation and attraction tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. 
3. Plan your itinerary: It’s always best to plan your trip ahead of time for a smooth and enjoyable experience. 
4. Book a rental car: If you’re planning to rent a car to explore more of Kota Kinabalu, we recommend booking a car rental as there’s so much to explore and the best places to visit are not walking distant. 

 

Transportation in Kota Kinabalu

Whether you're planning to explore local markets, visit mountain towns, or relax on a tropical island, getting around Kota Kinabalu efficiently can make a big difference in your travel experience. Below are the main transportation options available, along with their pros and cons to help you decide what suits your travel style best.

 

1. E-Hailing Services 

E-hailing apps like Grab are widely used in Kota Kinabalu, especially within the city center and nearby towns.

 

Pros:

• Convenient to book via mobile apps
• Great for short trips within the city, such as from Imago Shopping Mall to Gaya Street Sunday Market
• Generally safe and reliable

 

Cons:

• Can be costly for longer rides, such as to Mari Mari Cultural Village or to the foothills of Mount Kinabalu
• Limited coverage in more remote areas like Kiulu or rural parts of Kundasang
• You will need to pay every time you hire a ride
• Surge pricing applies during peak hours or bad weather

 

2. Renting a Car in Kota Kinabalu

For those wanting to explore beyond the city—including scenic drives along the Crocker Range or day trips to Kundasang—renting a car offers unmatched freedom and flexibility.

 

Pros:

• Lets you travel on your own schedule to destinations like Desa Dairy Farm, Poring Hot Springs, and Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
• Ideal for families or groups—it can be more cost-effective than multiple Grab rides
• Convenient for visiting places with limited public transport such as Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Upside Down House, or Tuaran Crocodile Farm
• Pickup and drop-off can be arranged at KKIA (Kota Kinabalu International Airport), ferry terminals, hotels, or even at specific town centers

 

With WAHDAH, you get access to one of the largest car rental fleets in Malaysia, offering everything from fuel-efficient compact cars for city roads to spacious SUVs for mountain travel

 

Cons:

• Can be tiring for the driver on long routes
• Navigating unfamiliar roads may require reliance on GPS or mobile data

 

Best for:

Travellers planning multi-day road trips, visits to highland towns, or those with tight or custom itineraries.

 

3. Travel Guide or Group Tours

Opting for a guided tour can be a great way to maximize your experience, especially if you're new to Sabah or prefer not to worry about driving yourself.

 

Pros:

• Local guides offer cultural insights and historical context, ideal for places like the Sabah State Museum or the Monsopiad Heritage Village
• All logistics—transportation, entrance tickets, and even meals—are taken care of
• Perfect for travelers who want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.

 

Cons:

• Less flexibility, especially if you want to spend more time at a location or change your destination mid-day
• Higher cost
• Might feel rushed or overly structured for independent travelers

 

Having a travel guide is suitable for first-timers to Sabah or those interested in cultural and eco-tourism.

 

Essentials to Bring to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Before you hit the road, make sure to pack these items:

 

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap/hat: The tropical sun is strong, especially around the coast areas and open spaces. 
• Comfortable walking shoes: Many attractions like the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque or nature trails at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park involve walking
• Light, breathable clothing: Suitable for the warm and humid climate
• Swimwear and waterproof bag: A must if you plan to snorkel or island-hop (e.g., Sapi Island, Manukan Island)
• Mosquito repellent: Especially useful in forested or rural areas.

Explore Kota Kinabalu with Wahdah!

 

Kota Kinabalu is home to many beautiful islands, stunning beaches, lush rainforests and amazing food. With plenty of things to do and see in this city, from firefly tours to feeding calves at the Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, KK is a city you don’t want to miss! 

 

To make your trip convenient and hassle-free, why not rent a car in Kota Kinabalu with Wahdah’s online car rental service? No matter where you’re heading, having your own vehicle gives you flexibility and allows you to travel at your own pace. Book your affordable car rental today through our car rental app with just a few taps and get started on your adventure!