Hotel Filters
4-Star Hotels Near Merdeka Square
Step into Merdeka Square, where history lingers in every brick. The old red-walled monument stands tall, honoring Sabah’s independence, while sunlight filters through palm trees casting gentle shadows on the grass. Sit a moment, listen to the breeze, and feel the quiet pulse of the past still alive today.
Ming Garden Hotel & Residences
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!
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre
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!
Grandis Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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!
Seaview Jesselton Quay Near Suria Sabah, Gaya Street
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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!
The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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!
Jesselton Quay - Sunset Ocean View Apartments by Quality Home Living
Borneo Coastal Residence @ Imago Mall
The Luma Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels
Seaview Bliss Studio By Tropical Elegance
Sabah Oriental Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
Lss HomeStay@Sutera Avenue Infinity Pool Kota Kinabalu
Covesign Suite, The Shore Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Horizon Hotel
Asaya Hotel Kota Kinabalu - Refurbished 2024
HoneyMoon Suites @ Sutera Avenue with Infinity Pool
SummerSet The Shore at Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Riverson SOHO - Sunset Sea View Apartments by Quality Home Living
The Voyagers Home Borneo Kota Kinabalu
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Merdeka Square
InterContinental Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Merdeka Square, offering panoramic views of the monument and surrounding greenery. Its rooftop pool and floor-to-ceiling windows provide an immersive urban experience. Nearby, Kinabalu Park Resort offers a tranquil retreat with nature-focused amenities. Both properties are easily accessible via taxi (15 minutes from airport) or local bus routes, making them ideal for exploring the city center and cultural landmarks.
Hotels near Merdeka Square offer exceptional access to key sites: walking or short electric rides reach the Kota Kinabalu Tower, Maritime Museum, and Market Street. The square itself hosts daily cultural performances and night markets, perfect for evening strolls. For trips to Mount Kinabalu or Kinabalu National Park, many hotels arrange private transfers. Additionally, free city buses stop directly at the square, connecting guests to the airport and major shopping centers, ensuring seamless exploration.
Near Merdeka Square, visitors can enjoy weekend traditional dance performances showcasing Sabahan indigenous culture. The nearby Japanese-style teahouse serves authentic coconut coffee and local pastries, a favorite spot for photos. Evening guests can join a night market food tour, sampling specialties like Sabah fried noodles and durian skewers. The central monument blends Malaysian and Sabahan architectural elements, offering insight into regional history. Early morning visits provide cool air and ideal lighting for photography.
InterContinental Kota Kinabalu is ideal for families, featuring a children’s playroom, family suites, and 24-hour room service. Located steps from Merdeka Square, it offers easy access to the interactive children’s exhibition hall (3-minute walk). The hotel provides family-friendly guided tours combining nature education and cultural immersion. With safe walking paths and shaded areas, it’s perfect for outdoor family time. The infinity pool allows parents to relax while kids play safely under supervision. Numerous family-friendly dining options are available on-site, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable stay.
Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Merdeka Square. The hotel offers modern amenities and breathtaking sea-view rooms, some with panoramic views of the Mount Kinabalu skyline and cityscape.
Another excellent option is Marriott Kota Kinabalu, situated close to shopping malls, waterfront promenades, and ferry terminals—ideal for travelers wanting to explore the city or enjoy snorkeling trips. Both hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi and airport transfer services, enhancing convenience and comfort for guests.
From Merdeka Square, it’s a 5-minute walk to St. John’s Church, a historic colonial-era building showcasing elegant architecture. Continue walking 10 minutes to reach the Sabah State Government Building, known for its modernist design and green rooftop garden.
For Tanjong Manis Beach, take a short e-hailing or taxi ride (about 8 minutes) along scenic coastal roads. Alternatively, visit the nearby Kota Kinabalu Central Market directly across the square—perfect for sampling local delicacies like grilled Sabah fish and pandan-coconut rice cakes while immersing in authentic local culture.
Near Merdeka Square, visitors can enjoy traditional indigenous performances held on weekends at the open-air stage, featuring vibrant dances and native musical instruments from the Kadazan-Dusun and Bajau communities.
Just steps away, the Sabah Museum offers free admission and showcases authentic artifacts, traditional costumes, and historical exhibits highlighting the heritage of local tribes. For a hands-on experience, join a guided market tour led by local experts, exploring spice stalls and craft workshops where you can try making traditional woven baskets or batik fabrics, offering an immersive connection to Sabahan culture.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Merdeka Square
Ming Garden Hotel & Residences
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!
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre
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.
Grandis Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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.
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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.
The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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.
Jesselton Quay - Sunset Ocean View Apartments by Quality Home Living
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.
Borneo Coastal Residence @ Imago Mall
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, a Member of Design Hotels
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.
Seaview Bliss Studio By Tropical Elegance
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.
Sabah Oriental Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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.
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
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.
Lss HomeStay@Sutera Avenue Infinity Pool Kota Kinabalu
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.
Other Destinations You Might Like
Explore more amazing destinations