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Discover LIKAS LAGOON, a hidden gem nestled right in the heart of town. Crystal-clear waters mirror the sky and trees, creating a peaceful mirror-like oasis. Sit on the wooden boardwalk, sip a chilled drink, and watch ducks glide across the surface. It’s not a far-off retreat—it’s the calm breath the city needs.
This luxury ocean-view hotel is your perfect getaway! Located in the city center, it offers stunning sea views, an outdoor pool, and a poolside bar for ultimate relaxation. With an executive lounge and business center, it caters to both work and leisure. Families will love the kids' pool and children's meals, while the spa massage and sauna are ideal for unwinding. Enjoy Chinese-friendly services and shuttle transfers for a seamless stay!
This hotel is perfect for both family vacations and business trips! The infinity pool offers stunning ocean views, while the kids' pool and play area keep the little ones entertained. Conveniently located near popular attractions and dining spots, it also features a 24-hour fitness center and business facilities to meet all your needs. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, quality is guaranteed. Don't miss out!
Everything you need to know about Likas Bay
Regency Resort Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, just 10 minutes from Likas Lagoon, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, a kids' playground, and a seaside promenade. The resort offers complimentary shuttle service to the city center and can arrange private guides for nearby mangrove tours. Rooms blend local Kadazan-Dusun designs with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering stunning views of the sunrise over the lagoon, making it ideal for a relaxed family getaway.
From the city center, take a taxi or Grab—it’s only about 8 km and takes 15 minutes. Fares range from RM25 to RM35. For budget travelers, bus line 79 stops at "Likas" station, a 10-minute walk from the lagoon. Visit early in the day to avoid afternoon heat and enjoy the serene beauty of the morning light reflecting on the calm waters.
Join a mangrove ecosystem boat tour guided by local experts, navigating through towering roots and spotting crabs, birds, and even monitor lizards. Nighttime snorkeling reveals vibrant coral reefs and nocturnal marine life. Some operators offer photography packages capturing flying fish leaping and shadowy predators gliding beneath the surface—rare, unforgettable moments in nature.
Yes! The mangrove boardwalk is a prime spot, especially during golden hour, when sunlight filters through the canopy, creating dreamy patterns on the water. The waterfront viewing platform in the lagoon’s center offers panoramic shots of the lagoon and distant hills. Bring waterproof gear and lightweight clothing for optimal photo opportunities amid humidity and breeze.
Must-try dishes include Sambal Ikan (spicy grilled fish) and Nasi Lemak from street vendors. Visit the fresh seafood market daily to pick your catch and have it cooked at your hotel—affordable and delicious. Don’t miss handmade coconut candy from local workshops, best enjoyed with a cup of local coffee for an authentic Sabahan taste experience.
The ideal season is March to September, when weather is dry and skies are clear, perfect for boat rides and snorkeling. June to August is peak season for flying fish sightings, while evening visits may reveal fireflies dancing among trees. Book accommodations and tours in advance to avoid crowds and ensure smooth access during high season.
Radisson Resort Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, just 10 minutes from Likas Lagoon. The resort features a private beachfront pool, eco-guided walking trails, and stunning views of the lagoon blending with surrounding hills. Rooms incorporate indigenous Kadazan-Dusun motifs, offering air conditioning and free Wi-Fi for comfort.
Families can enjoy daily marine life educational workshops, learning about mangrove ecosystems firsthand. Complimentary shuttle buses connect to downtown and major attractions, ensuring easy access. Nearby, local night markets and restaurants serve fresh seafood and authentic Malaysian dishes, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed, immersive family getaway.
Travel from Kota Kinabalu city center via local bus (e.g., Route 702) or Grab ride-hailing service, taking approximately 25 to 30 minutes to reach Likas Lagoon. For self-drive, head along Jalan Gaya then turn onto Jalan Likas, where clear signage guides you. Free parking is available on-site.
Note that weekends and public holidays see higher foot traffic; avoid peak hours between 10 AM and 2 PM for a quieter experience. Several tour operators also offer guided eco-tour shuttles including pickup, drop-off, and expert commentary—ideal for exploring the lagoon’s rich mangrove ecosystem efficiently.
Likas Lagoon is one of Sabah’s well-preserved mangrove wetlands, offering guided canoe rides through winding waterways, revealing hidden species like mudskippers, crab-eating raccoons, and kingfishers. Some tours include nighttime spotlighting walks, allowing visitors to observe nocturnal creatures such as frogs and small mammals.
Local community-run eco-farms also provide hands-on workshops in making natural coconut soap and mangrove plant specimens, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts. All activities follow sustainable tourism principles, minimizing impact on wildlife habitats—perfect for an educational and enriching adventure.
Lagoon View Restaurant, located on a wooden pier beside the lagoon, specializes in fresh seafood and traditional Sabahan cuisine, with signature dishes like grilled grouper and coconut curry chicken. Ingredients are sourced daily from the local fishing port, ensuring peak freshness.
Another standout is Mangrove Café, known for its organic ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, serving unique treats like mango sticky rice and mangrove herbal tea. Both restaurants feature outdoor viewing decks overlooking the shimmering waters and flying birds.
Some meals can be booked as part of eco-tour combo packages, combining guided tours with culinary experiences—a perfect way to savor authentic Sabahan flavors in a serene setting.
See what other travelers say about Likas Bay
Staying at Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu was an absolute delight, especially the Executive Lounge—definitely worth upgrading to if you can. The sunset views from the lounge are breathtaking, and sipping a drink there as the sun dips below the horizon is pure magic. The room itself was spacious and well-maintained, with clean lines and a nice modern vibe. However, I did notice a slight sewer odor in the bathroom—something that could be improved with better ventilation or maintenance. The bed was on the softer side, which didn’t suit my preference for firmer support. That said, the overall experience was excellent, the staff were attentive, and the location made exploring Kota Kinabalu super convenient. A truly memorable stay with only minor tweaks needed.
We debated a lot with the family when booking—my main draw was the pool, but they preferred the new Hyatt for being closer to the pier and Gaya Street. In the end, we went with Marriott, and I’m so glad we did! The online reviews mentioned issues with hot water and constant airplane noise, but neither of those were problems here. Hot water was consistently strong every day, and while I could hear planes occasionally before bedtime (I’m a light sleeper), I actually slept well throughout our four-night stay—maybe there weren’t many flights late at night? Getting around wasn’t an issue either; taxis to both piers were quick and affordable, and dining near Dataran Square was just a short ride away, even within the first fare. The only thing that could use improvement is breakfast—it was exactly the same each morning for four days. A little variety would go a long way. But honestly, the highlight was the pool. At about 25 meters long, it’s perfect for laps. I love swimming year-round, so I’d swim after returning from evening boat trips or early in the morning during mangrove tours. After each swim, just floating on my back and watching planes fly overhead? Pure relaxation. It’s one of those moments you don’t want to leave.
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.
Staying at Sunset Seaview Vacation Condos @ Infinity Avenue was an absolute delight. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to IMAGO Shopping Mall, and the ground floor is packed with great dining options, so you can grab a meal without even stepping outside. The sea views from the rooms are stunning, especially at sunset. Everything was clean, modern, and well-maintained, making it a perfect base for exploring Kota Kinabalu. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of coastal charm.
This was our first stay at Hotel Five 2, and it absolutely exceeded our expectations. We arrived early at 8:00 AM, and the front desk staff were incredibly welcoming—they happily stored our luggage without any hassle. During checkout, a kind staff member even offered us complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby, which added such a warm, personal touch. The bed was comfortable, the bathroom was simple but spotlessly clean, and the overall atmosphere felt cozy and well-maintained. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—just a 5-minute walk to Centre Point, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers great value and genuine hospitality. We’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.
Arrived in Kota Kinabalu late at night after an early flight, and chose this apartment hotel as a convenient overnight stop. I got a taxi right outside the airport for just MYR 30—only about 15 minutes to reach the property. Since it was so early, the security staff hadn’t arrived yet, but luckily ran into another guest heading out who helped me access the unit using the password provided by the host. The apartment itself is clean, well-equipped, and perfect for a quick layover. Everything you’d need is there—kitchenette, bedding, Wi-Fi—no complaints at all. The location is fantastic: right below Imago Shopping Mall, so dining and shopping are just steps away. And in under 5 minutes on foot, you’re at the beach—beautiful views, gentle sea breeze, ideal for relaxing after a long trip. Honestly, the value-for-money here is outstanding. I’d definitely come back if I ever visit Kota Kinabalu again.
Staying at Green Apple Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The room was incredibly comfortable, with a modern and clean design that made me feel right at home. The view from the window was stunning—perfect for watching the sunrise or enjoying the city lights at night. Location-wise, it's convenient and close to everything I needed: great restaurants, shopping spots, and local attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the entire experience even better. It’s clear this hotel values guest comfort and quality. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’ll definitely be back.
My stay at Lintas View Hotel was absolutely delightful. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. The room was clean, well-maintained, and offered a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Located just minutes from the city center, it's incredibly convenient for getting around by public transit. The hotel’s modern design and quiet ambiance made it a great base for both business and leisure travelers. I especially appreciated how responsive and genuine the team was throughout my visit. It’s clear they truly care about guest satisfaction. I’d happily return and recommend this hidden gem to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu.
This stay was absolutely fantastic! The location is unbeatable—right next to a convenience store, making late-night snacks and essentials super convenient. Public transit access is just steps away, and everything in town is within easy reach. The staff were incredibly responsive—any request I had was handled promptly and with great care. The room itself was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The pool area is stunning—serene, beautifully designed, and perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun. One standout feature? The hot water—it’s consistently hot and the flow is strong, which is rare in this type of accommodation. Overall, this was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. Will definitely be returning.
Staying at Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from both Gaya Street and the waterfront, perfect for hopping on island tours without any hassle. The building has a Korean restaurant, convenience stores, a laundry facility, and even a charming cat mascot who runs the front desk—such a cute touch! Getting around is super easy too; taxis are always quick to arrive, whether you're heading to the airport or exploring the city. I actually misplaced my wallet once, and the staff returned it untouched—truly heartwarming and incredibly reassuring. This place offers comfort, convenience, and genuine hospitality. 10/10 would recommend to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu!
I can't say enough good things about my stay at Riverson Soho KK - Home Suite. From the moment I arrived, everything felt seamless and thoughtfully planned. The management sent a clear message beforehand with instructions to download and save the self-check-in PDF—reading it in advance made the process smooth and stress-free. Though there was no staff waiting to greet us personally, the setup was so intuitive that we never felt overlooked. My room was spotless, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a deep, restful sleep—truly felt like home. The on-site facilities were excellent: my car was safely parked in the reserved underground lot, and I enjoyed using the pool and gym, both well-maintained and inviting. Location-wise, this hotel is perfect. Just a short walk to The WALK, where you’ll find a great variety of dining options, and only a few minutes away from the popular IMAGO shopping mall. Whether you're here for leisure or business, this place offers convenience, comfort, and luxury all in one. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and hassle-free stay—and I’m already planning my next visit!
Everything was great overall! The hotel was spotlessly clean, and the staff were very friendly. The only downside was that the pool was closed—apparently due to an unknown reason—which was a bit disappointing since my kids were really looking forward to swimming. Still, the room was comfortable, the location was convenient, and the value for money was excellent. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to families traveling with children.
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