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Dive into the dreamy world of Colourful Borneo Diving Centre—where coral reefs burst with colour like underwater fireworks, clownfish dart between rocks, and gentle sea turtles glide past like ancient guardians. With friendly, certified guides leading every dive, you’ll explore the ocean’s hidden wonders safely and effortlessly. Every plunge feels like stepping into a living postcard.
This upscale hotel is a dream for both business travelers and families! With executive floors, fitness center, and outdoor pool, every need is covered. Kids will love the dedicated club, playroom, and children's pool. Unwind at the poolside bar with exotic cocktails while soaking in sunset views over the South China Sea. Superbly located—3 mins to the bus terminal, 10 mins to the airport, plus Chinese-speaking staff and airport transfers. Pure convenience meets luxury!
This hotel is a smart choice for travelers! Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, it's just a short walk to shopping malls and attractions, with free breakfast and high-speed Wi-Fi to make your stay hassle-free. The rooms are modern and cozy, featuring premium bedding for a perfect night's sleep. Love adventure? Try snorkeling, diving, or hiking, then unwind at the fitness center. Whether for business or family trips, the comprehensive amenities and thoughtful services here will exceed your expectations!
This hotel is perfect for both families and business travelers! With a kids' pool and children's meals, your little ones will be well taken care of, while the fitness center and non-smoking floors ensure adults can relax. Located just 15 minutes from the airport with a shuttle service, it's surrounded by the city's liveliest areas, making shopping and dining a breeze. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with brand TVs and high-speed internet, plus stunning views of the South China Sea and breathtaking sunsets. If you want to unwind, the barbecue facilities and bar are perfect for a cozy evening!
This 4.4-star gem offers executive floors and Chinese hospitality for both business and leisure. Steps away from IMAGO Mall and the seaside, it’s a paradise for shoppers and foodies! Choose sea-view rooms with cozy living areas, unwind at the pool or gym, and indulge in dim sum at the Chinese restaurant or global dishes at the café. With event spaces and top-notch service, it’s perfect for weddings, meetings—or just savoring Kota Kinabalu’s charm!
This hotel is perfect for both family vacations and business trips! Located in the city center, it's just a 13-minute drive to the airport and train station. With kids' pool and children's meals, your little ones will have a blast, while adults can unwind at the fitness center or swimming pool. Enjoy 24-hour front desk service and free WiFi to stay connected. Rooms are equipped with in-room safes and satellite TV for a comfortable stay. Whether you're traveling for leisure or work, this place has everything you need!
Everything you need to know about Diverse Borneo
Kota Kinabalu Beach Resort is a top choice, just a 5-minute drive from the Kinabalu Diving Centre. The resort offers dedicated dive guest services, including complimentary snorkeling gear and dive trip bookings.
Unique Experience: Early morning trips to Mabul Island, renowned for vibrant coral reefs, where divers often encounter clownfish, rays, and even reef sharks.
Accessibility: Free shuttle service runs between the resort and the dive centre. Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance of restaurants and shopping areas—perfect for divers seeking comfort and convenience.
The Kinabalu Diving Centre specializes in deep-sea coral reef expeditions and night snorkeling tours. Their guided dives showcase Malaysia’s richest coral ecosystem along the East Coast, featuring over 120 coral species and diverse tropical fish.
The highlight is night snorkeling, where guests can spot bioluminescent jellyfish, nocturnal rays, and elusive octopuses using professional underwater lights—creating a surreal, cinematic experience.
All tours are led by certified, experienced instructors ensuring safety and educational value, suitable for both beginners and advanced divers.
From the Kinabalu Diving Centre, guests can take a private speedboat transfer to Mabul Island and Sipadan.
Journeys take 30–45 minutes, offering views of turquoise waters and dolphin pods along the way. Boats provide refreshments, snorkeling gear, and expert guides who share insights on marine life.
Best Time to Depart: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy optimal lighting for coral and fish viewing.
All vessels meet international safety standards with life vests and wireless communication—ensuring a secure and unforgettable adventure.
After diving, visit the Kota Kinabalu Spa Resort for a natural mineral hot spring bath and a traditional Malaysian massage.
Highlight: Full-body massage using local herbal oils helps relieve muscle fatigue and enhances recovery.
Additionally, enjoy free cocktails and live music at the beachfront sunset bar, perfect for sharing dive stories with friends.
The resort also features an infinity pool overlooking the city and mountain range, offering a serene finale to your adventurous day.
Sabah Beach Resort is ideal for divers, just a 5-minute drive from Coral World Diving Centre. It features private beach access, on-site snorkeling, and expertly curated dive packages including coral reef eco-tours and night diving experiences. Rooms showcase indigenous Kadazan-Dusun cultural motifs and offer panoramic ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows, capturing the vibrant hues of the South China Sea. The resort also provides 24/7 dive gear rental and safety briefings, ensuring seamless and secure underwater adventures.
From Kota Kinabalu city center, guests can take a complimentary shuttle bus or book a private transfer—both taking about 15 minutes. The center also offers airport-to-resort transfers, ideal for international travelers. Additionally, several seaplane routes connect directly to nearby islands, providing fast access to remote dive sites. All transport options are synchronized with dive schedules, eliminating transfers and ensuring punctuality and comfort throughout your journey.
Beyond standard snorkeling and diving, Coral World Diving Centre offers hands-on coral restoration programs, where guests plant coral fragments to support reef recovery. There’s also a sea turtle tracking program, guided by experts observing wild turtles’ natural behaviors. During summer, the center hosts underwater art exhibitions, blending submerged sculptures with ecological tours for an immersive marine art experience. All activities are led by certified guides, ensuring safety and suitability for all skill levels.
Opt for an early morning dive tour (departing at 7:30 AM) from Coral World Diving Centre, which includes full gear, expert guidance, and transport. The itinerary covers two prime sites: Sacred Reef and Dolphin Bay, teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral. After diving, enjoy a local-style breakfast at the center and receive a personalized dive certificate. This well-optimized route minimizes travel time, includes insurance and emergency support, and delivers maximum value in a single day.
Yes, Coral World Diving Centre provides PADI Open Water Diver-certified courses for beginners. The program includes classroom sessions, pool training, and two open-water dives. Instructors are globally certified with extensive teaching experience, ensuring every participant masters essential safety skills. Full gear is provided, along with bilingual (Chinese/English) instruction. Upon completion, participants receive an international diving certification, enabling immediate exploration of natural dive sites.
Try Seafood Pier Restaurant, located right next to the diving centre, famous for fresh catches like grouper, lobster, and sea urchin. Their signature dish, Coral Seafood Pot, blends local spices with coconut milk, capturing the essence of the South China Sea. The restaurant uses eco-friendly bamboo furniture and features an ocean-view terrace. Additionally, the centre offers post-dive recovery bundles with high-protein drinks and fresh fruit to help restore energy quickly after diving.
See what other travelers say about Diverse Borneo
Staying at Ming Garden Hotel & Residences always feels like a treat. The room is spacious, spotlessly clean, and the bed is incredibly comfortable—perfect for unwinding after a busy week. The air conditioning keeps the room pleasantly cool, making it ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway. I’m already looking forward to coming back next week and hoping to book the same room again. Parking was a bit tight on Sunday, but since I was checking out that day, it wasn’t an issue. Overall, everything was excellent—from service to amenities. Highly recommend this place for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu!
My stay at Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre was truly impressive. I stayed for several days and was pleasantly surprised by the breakfast selection—there were always new options each day, which showed real effort from the team. While some flavors weren’t quite to my taste, especially compared to what’s common in Chinese cuisine, it’s clear they’re putting thought into variety and quality. The housekeeping staff were friendly and attentive—especially one young gentleman who was a bit shy but always ready to help with a smile. One highlight was the hotel’s flexibility with check-out time; they happily granted me an extra hour due to my travel schedule, which made my departure stress-free. The only minor issue was the complimentary bottled water in the room—it had a faint chlorine aftertaste that made it hard to drink straight. That said, it worked fine when used for tea or coffee. Overall, this is a well-run, convenient, and value-for-money option in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. I’d definitely return.
The hotel is exceptionally clean and doesn’t carry any of the typical local odors that can sometimes be off-putting—definitely a big plus. I was truly impressed with the overall atmosphere and comfort. Located right next to Suria Sabah Mall, everything you’d need—from shopping to dining—is literally just steps away. The view from the window was stunning, especially during sunset when the city lights began to sparkle. It’s also super convenient for getting to the airport via public transit. This stay exceeded my expectations, and if I ever return to Kota Kinabalu, I’d definitely book here again. Highly recommend this hotel for travelers who value cleanliness, location, and a great vibe.
From Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, this hotel has been the best value for money I've experienced so far. Though it has a long history, the renovation is recent and thorough—every facility feels modern and well-maintained. The restaurant and bar downstairs have a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with a drink while watching the sunset over the sea. My room was spacious and comfortable, with a deep bathtub that made soaking after a long day absolutely blissful. There’s even a large wardrobe—great for storing all my luggage. The staff are attentive and helpful, offering travel tips and currency exchange right at the lobby. Cleanliness is outstanding—spotless from top to bottom. Best of all? The view. Open the window, and you're greeted by the ocean and stunning sunsets every evening. Plus, it's just a 10-minute walk to Central Market and Gaya Street Night Market—perfect for grabbing local snacks, souvenirs, or just soaking in the lively street vibe. This place truly combines comfort, convenience, and charm in one.
This hotel in Kota Kinabalu is an absolute gem for value seekers! I was genuinely impressed by the combination of luxury amenities and affordability—feeling like I was getting a 5-star experience at a 4-star price. The fitness center is well-equipped, modern, and spotlessly clean, making it easy to stay active during my stay. The overall environment is peaceful and beautifully maintained, with excellent hygiene standards throughout. Best of all, it's just a 5-minute walk to the nearest shopping mall and some of the most authentic seafood stalls in town—perfect for a quick bite after a long day. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and great service without breaking the bank, this is definitely the place to stay.
Staying at this apartment was an absolute delight! The rooftop gym is well-equipped, and right below, there’s a beautiful pool with panoramic ocean views. Watching the sun set over the sea every evening was magical—planes flying overhead and boats gliding across the water made it feel like a scene from a dream. One of the best things? You can swim in your clothes—no need for swimsuits or swim caps, which felt so relaxed and authentic to local culture. The room itself was spotless, fresh-smelling, and incredibly comfortable. The housekeeping staff were super friendly—they even let us store our luggage in the room right away, so we didn’t have to carry it around. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed for guest comfort. If you’re looking for a peaceful, stylish, and hassle-free stay in Kota Kinabalu, this place is a must-try.
Staying at Borneo Coastal Residence @ Imago Mall was an absolute delight. The location is incredibly convenient—just steps away from a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets. Grab rides and pickups are super easy to arrange, making getting around hassle-free. What stood out the most was how many nearby spots stay open 24/7, which came in handy during late-night cravings or last-minute needs. The apartment itself is clean, well-maintained, and offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the action. With great access to everything and a comfortable, modern feel, this place truly delivers excellent value. I’d definitely book again and recommend it to any traveler visiting Kota Kinabalu.
The Luma Hotel is perfectly located in Kota Kinabalu, making it super convenient for exploring the city. Just a short walk from the hotel, you'll find a convenience store, several restaurants, and even a Bawang Cha Ji outlet. Across the street is a large shopping mall with familiar Chinese brands like Haidilao and other popular drinks—great for those craving home-style flavors. The room was spacious and quiet, which made for a peaceful stay, especially at night. Although the front desk doesn’t offer dedicated Chinese service, the staff speak a few basic phrases in Mandarin, so communication wasn’t an issue. Overall, the location, comfort, and thoughtful touches make this a standout choice for travelers who want both convenience and a relaxed atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again on my next visit to Sabah.
The location is perfect—right downstairs is a supermarket and Burger King, and it’s just a short walk to Jalan Gaya, where you’ll find tons of trendy restaurants and cafes. The sea view from the floor-to-ceiling windows is absolutely stunning; waking up to that view every morning felt like a dream. The building has secure access with keycard elevators, and there’s a lovely pool on the 6th floor—great for relaxing after exploring the city. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and even came with complimentary water and drinks. What stood out most was the service: they reached out before arrival to confirm details, making check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. No waiting, no hassle—just a seamless stay. Everything about this place exceeded expectations. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu looking for comfort, convenience, and a peaceful seaside vibe.
Located right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, this hotel offers unbeatable convenience with easy access to shopping malls, local markets, and city attractions. The price is incredibly affordable for such a central location, and having private parking on-site is a huge plus—no more stress searching for a spot. It's a perfect blend of comfort, value, and location. I’d definitely stay here again if I’m back in town.
Staying at Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu was an absolute highlight of my trip to Sabah. The view from the balcony is breathtaking—every evening, the sunset painting the sea in golden hues feels like watching a living postcard. The room itself is spacious and thoughtfully designed: a comfortable bedroom, a separate living area perfect for relaxing with a movie, and a fully equipped kitchenette that made preparing simple meals easy and enjoyable. The bathroom features a smart wet-dry separation, making it both practical and refreshing. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—just a short walk to the waterfront promenade, local night markets, and a variety of dining options. I loved strolling along the beach in the evenings, enjoying the cool breeze and the calming sound of waves. Everything about this stay was seamless—comfortable, convenient, and stunningly scenic. If you're visiting Kota Kinabalu, this is definitely a top pick for a memorable, stress-free experience.
Staying at this charming homestay was an absolute delight! The rooms were incredibly comfortable and spotlessly clean, with a cozy atmosphere that made it feel like home. What stood out most was the excellent value for money—pricing is very fair considering the quality of service and amenities offered. The infinity pool overlooking Sutera Avenue is simply stunning and perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Kota Kinabalu. On-site parking is secure and easily accessible, which added to the peace of mind during our stay. Friendly staff, quiet location, and easy access to local attractions made the entire experience seamless. Highly recommended for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.
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