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Hotels with Airport Pick-up 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.
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
In Kota Kinabalu, this resort is your dream getaway! With a private beach, stunning sea views, and luxurious spa, your perfect vacation starts here. The water park and kids' club keep the little ones entertained, while adults can relax at the sunset bar, sipping signature cocktails while watching the Borneo sunset. Explore coral island snorkeling and water sports, with surprises around every corner. The suites blend Borneo’s rich culture, and the 6 unique restaurants offer everything from seafood feasts to BBQ. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, it’s a must-visit!
The Pacific Sutera Hotel
Perfect for both family vacations and business trips! Kids will love the water slides, playroom, and kids' club, while parents can unwind with spa treatments or a round of golf. With convenient airport transfers and Chinese signage, communication is effortless. Enjoy top-notch amenities like the pool, fitness center, and bar, all in a beautiful setting with friendly staff. Whether you're here to relax or work, this hotel has it all!
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
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!
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Nestled in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, this newly listed 2024 hotel is your perfect getaway! Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from the infinity pool and rooftop bar, or stay active at the 24-hour fitness center. Spacious rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies with stunning city and mountain views. Ideally located, it’s just steps away from shopping malls and the ferry terminal, making it great for families. With kid-friendly amenities like a play area and special meals, plus Chinese-speaking staff, every guest feels at home. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel has it all!
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Looking for a taste of Sabah's legendary hospitality? This luxury hotel is your perfect choice! Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, just 15 minutes from the airport, it offers 288 spacious rooms and suites with stunning views of the South China Sea or the city. Dine on everything from local buffets to Japanese cuisine and Western dishes. Kids will love the children's pool and play area, while adults can relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy spa treatments, or hit the gym. Ideal for business meetings, weddings, or family getaways – it’s got it all!
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!
Borneo Coastal Residence @ Imago Mall
Covesign Suite, The Shore Kota Kinabalu City Centre
The Voyagers Home Borneo Kota Kinabalu
My Misto Homestay, Riverson Soho
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay.
Homesuite' Home at Sutera Avenue
Polaris Suite
Sky Hotel
Homesuite' Home at the Loft
THE LOFT IMAGO
Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay
KK Vacation Apartments-Marina Court - Stay and Get Cash Rebate
Homi Breeze at Sutera Avenue
BER-Santai at Marina Court
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
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
Staying at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu felt like stepping into a tropical dream. The moment you arrive, you're surrounded by lush gardens and the gentle sound of waves—seriously, it's like being transported to a hidden paradise. The resort has multiple pools, including a stunning infinity pool with panoramic sea views, plus a fun kids' water slide that kept the little ones entertained all day. I highly recommend the Chi Spa—had a traditional Asian treatment that left me completely relaxed and refreshed. The private marina, STAR Marina, is perfect for adventure seekers: we went snorkeling and kayaking right from the dock, and the crystal-clear waters were full of colorful fish. Every detail, from the service to the ambiance, feels thoughtfully crafted. It’s not just a stay—it’s an experience. Definitely one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever had.
The Pacific Sutera Hotel
I booked this room during a promotion and got the sea-view twin room with breakfast for under $600—such a great deal. The Pacific Sutera Hotel shares facilities with the nearby Magellan Sutera, which has a larger pool area and even a small waterfall—perfect for relaxing after a day out. One of the biggest perks is having their own private dock, making it super easy to book boat trips directly on-site. Yes, it’s a bit pricier than going through external vendors, but the convenience and time saved are totally worth it. I arrived in the morning and asked if early check-in was possible—surprisingly, they accommodated me right away with no deposit required. Super friendly staff and smooth process. Unfortunately, it rained for both days of my stay, so I missed seeing the sunset from the hotel—but if the weather had been sunny, that view would’ve been absolutely stunning. Overall, an excellent experience with fantastic value and service. Definitely coming back.
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
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.
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
This hotel is brand new and located in a fantastic spot right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. The moment you step inside, you can tell it’s clean and well-maintained—everything feels fresh and modern. Just across the street is a shopping mall with tons of dining options, from local favorites to international cuisines. It’s only a short walk to Gaya Street, so exploring the vibrant night market or grabbing a bite after dark is super convenient. The pool area is excellent—spacious, inviting, and peaceful even early in the morning when I went for a swim. No crowds, just calm and relaxation. Staff are friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. From check-in to checkout, every interaction was smooth and pleasant. Overall, this is an outstanding choice if you’re looking for comfort, location, and quality service—all in one. Highly recommend!
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Staying at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu was an absolute delight from start to finish. The facilities are top-notch—everything from the infinity pool to the well-equipped fitness center is modern, clean, and thoughtfully designed. Housekeeping is outstanding; every day, rooms are meticulously cleaned with attention to detail, leaving no corner untouched. The location is unbeatable—right on the beach, with a scenic overlook just steps from your door. There’s even a dock nearby for island excursions, and it’s only a 10-minute walk to the shopping mall, making dining and errands super convenient. What truly stood out was the service—staff are warm, welcoming, and incredibly responsive. Whether I needed extra towels or help arranging activities, everything was handled quickly and with a smile. It felt less like a hotel stay and more like being welcomed into a home. This place offers incredible value and unforgettable views. I’ll definitely be returning.
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!
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.
Covesign Suite, The Shore Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Staying at The Shore Kota Kinabalu City Centre was an absolute delight. The spacious two-bedroom unit offered plenty of room, perfect for families or a group of friends. Everything you’d need was included—fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, refrigerator—making it super convenient to prepare meals and keep things organized. Located right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, it’s just steps away from local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Check-in and check-out were smooth and hassle-free, with friendly staff who made the experience even better. The best part? The view from the window—it opens up to stunning sea vistas, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and a great location all in one, this place is a top choice. I’ll definitely be coming back.
The Voyagers Home Borneo Kota Kinabalu
This stay at The Voyagers Home Borneo Kota Kinabalu was absolutely perfect — one of those rare experiences that truly exceeds expectations. From the moment we walked in, the thoughtfulness of the host stood out: snacks like chips, juice, milk, and even a little ice cream waiting for us! It felt so welcoming, like coming home after a long trip. The location is unbeatable — just a 6-7 minute walk to bustling Jalan Gaya, with local markets and great food options right around the corner, yet the building itself is quiet enough for a peaceful night’s sleep. What really made it special was the personalized travel guide the host provided — way more detailed and practical than anything we found online. Every recommendation, from restaurants to attractions, turned out to be spot-on and unforgettable. And the host? Super friendly, responsive, and genuinely helpful throughout our stay. It felt less like renting a place and more like staying with a local friend who genuinely wants you to enjoy your trip. No matter how many times I come back to Kota Kinabalu, this will definitely be my first choice. A top-tier experience in every way — highly recommended!
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.
Polaris Suite
The location is excellent—just a 1-minute walk to Gaya Street, making it super convenient for dining and exploring. The apartment was clean and well-maintained, which added to the positive experience. However, nighttime noise was quite noticeable, so if you're a light sleeper or sensitive to sound, it might be challenging to get a good night’s rest. I booked a room with two queen beds, expecting it to accommodate up to eight guests, but only three queen-sized beds were actually provided. After contacting the hotel, they confirmed the discrepancy was likely due to a system error on the booking platform. They offered to arrange a sofa bed, but by then it was already late, so my sister ended up sleeping on the couch. Despite this minor issue, the staff were very helpful and accommodating. Overall, I’m still happy with the stay—great value for money and a solid choice for travelers looking for convenience and comfort in Kota Kinabalu.
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