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Hotels with Airport Shuttle Service 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.
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!
My Misto Homestay, Riverson Soho
Homesuite' Home at Sutera Avenue
Sky Hotel
Oceania Hotel
Homesuite' Home at the Loft
THE LOFT IMAGO
Kinabalu Daya Hotel
Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay
Homi Breeze at Sutera Avenue
BER-Santai at Marina Court
Homi Oasis at KK Times Square
Homesuite' Home at Aeropod SOVO
Homesuite' Home at The Shore
Homesuite' Home at Riverson Soho
The Shore by Homesuite'
Flypod Hotel
Jesslton quay Dream stay
JESSLTON QUAY SWEET DREAM (NEAR SURIA ,GAYA STREET ,JESSLTON POINE)
Borneo Inn
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
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.
My Misto Homestay, Riverson Soho
Staying at My Misto Homestay was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk to the city center and surrounded by great local eateries. The room was clean, cozy, and well-maintained, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The host was incredibly welcoming and provided helpful tips on nearby spots and transport options. It felt like home from the moment we arrived. With such a great vibe, cleanliness, and value, I’d definitely book again. Highly recommend this hidden gem if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu!
Homesuite' Home at Sutera Avenue
The host went above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay. When I arrived, I noticed a plumbing issue in the initial unit, and without hesitation, they promptly arranged a larger two-bedroom apartment for me—no extra charge, no hassle. The new space was clean, spacious, and well-equipped. What really stood out was the daily refreshment of fresh towels, bottled water, tea, and coffee—small touches that made a big difference. Their responsiveness and genuine care made all the difference. I couldn’t have asked for better service. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking for comfort, flexibility, and exceptional hospitality.
Sky Hotel
The price is really reasonable for what you get—over $200 per night for a two-room unit? That’s a solid deal. I’ll be honest, you do need to bring your own bedding set, so don’t expect luxury. But considering the rate, it’s totally acceptable. After landing in Kota Kinabalu, staying here for two nights felt just right—perfect for a budget-friendly stopover. The location is convenient, and getting around the city by public transit is easy. If you’re looking for something simple, clean, and affordable with a bit of comfort, this place works well. It won’t blow you away, but for the price, it’s a great value option.
Oceania Hotel
I was pleasantly surprised by how great this hotel turned out to be—right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, with everything within walking distance. The location is perfect: short walk to the beach, local markets, restaurants, and attractions. The sea is incredibly blue, and sunset views are absolutely stunning. Security is solid—access requires a key card, which gives peace of mind. Staff are friendly and helpful, even with minimal English. Simple phrases like '1-10', 'bathroom', or 'how much' get the job done. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and offer good value for money. I’d definitely stay here again on my next trip to Sabah. A real gem!
Homesuite' Home at the Loft
The apartment was excellent overall—spacious, comfortable, and well-decorated with modern appliances that made the stay very enjoyable. The room layout is generous, offering plenty of space for a family getaway. Free parking access with ample space was a big plus, and it’s just a short walk to Imago Mall, making shopping and dining super convenient. However, there were a few drawbacks: the washing machine didn’t work at all, and the TV required excessive pressure on the remote control to respond. There were also persistent yellow lines on the screen, and frequent buffering disrupted movie-watching sessions. Most disappointing was the lack of Netflix access—no option to install it despite trying. For a 3-night stay where we planned to unwind together with some shows at night, this was a real letdown. That said, despite these issues, the positive aspects still stand out. The size, comfort, and clean design make it worth considering for future stays. I’d definitely revisit if we’re looking for a home-like retreat in Kota Kinabalu.
THE LOFT IMAGO
We had an amazing stay at Edward’s place—truly a highlight of our trip! The unit was spotless, spacious, and perfectly suited for our group of 12, including kids, with plenty of room to relax and unwind. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—the Imago Shopping Mall is right in the same building, so grabbing snacks, essentials, or just a quick stroll was effortless. Plus, most of the top attractions are just a 10-minute drive away, making exploration super convenient. Edward went above and beyond as a host—friendly, responsive, and full of thoughtful recommendations for local eats and hidden gems that truly enhanced our experience. If you’re traveling with family or a large group, this is an absolute must-book. Highly recommend!
Kinabalu Daya Hotel
I was completely blown away by how perfect the location is—just a 10-minute walk to Pasar Philipin, the local wet market, grocery stores, and more. Everything you need is within reach without needing a ride. The amenities are well thought out, and every single staff member I interacted with went above and beyond. I arrived late at night, and the front desk agent (even though I didn’t catch her name) was incredibly warm, welcoming, and helpful—she made me feel right at home. One thing that truly touched me: I accidentally left my wallet behind. Only after reaching the airport did I realize it was missing. I called the hotel immediately, and they confirmed they had kept it safe for me. I was so relieved and emotional—I couldn’t believe how thoughtful and responsible everyone was. From housekeeping to front desk, every team member showed genuine care and professionalism. This isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a memorable experience. I already know I’ll be back. Thank you all so much for your kindness and dedication. You’ve earned a loyal guest!
Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay
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!
BER-Santai at Marina Court
Staying at Ber-Santai at Marina Court was a highlight of my trip to Kota Kinabalu. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Marina Court, just steps from the lively waterfront promenade and an array of excellent dining options. I loved how convenient it was to have a 24-hour mini-market and McDonald's within walking distance—perfect for late-night snacks or quick meals. The apartment itself was spacious, spotlessly clean, and well-equipped with everything we needed. The balcony offered stunning sunset views that made every evening truly special. High-speed internet via Unifi and in-unit Wi-Fi kept me connected without any issues. The owner was exceptionally responsive and helpful—when our air conditioning broke, they replaced it promptly, which showed real dedication to guest comfort. The only downside was the swimming pool, which appeared neglected and unusable during our stay. Still, despite that, the combination of prime location, comfortable accommodation, great connectivity, breathtaking views, and outstanding hospitality made this a memorable experience. I’d definitely recommend this property—just be aware the pool might not be ready for use.
Homi Oasis at KK Times Square
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The host was incredibly responsive and always available to assist—whether it was a quick question or something more urgent. The room itself was well-equipped with everything I needed, and the cleanliness and comfort made it feel like home. The location is fantastic—just steps away from Imago Mall, making shopping, dining, and exploring super convenient. Plus, the price was so reasonable for what you get—excellent value for money. I had such a great experience that I’m already planning my next visit. Highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu!
Homesuite' Home at Aeropod SOVO
Located right across from I-Mago Mall, this property is just a 3-minute walk away—super convenient for shopping and dining. The room was on the smaller side, but incredibly clean and comfortable, making it easy to relax after a long day. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, so we never had trouble finding something to eat. We stayed with our child, and all three of us enjoyed a peaceful, stress-free break. Great value for money and highly recommend for travelers looking for a quiet, well-located base in Kota Kinabalu.
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