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Rip Curl (IMAGO) is the ultimate surf lover’s sanctuary in Kota Kinabalu. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned wave rider, their expert staff and top-tier gear make turning pro feel effortless. Inside, the vibe is electric—wood floors, neon accents, walls lined with bold surf art, all perfect for snapping that Insta-worthy shot. Best part? They offer instant rentals, so no need to lug gear. Just grab your board, head to the beach, and feel that first rush as the wave hits your feet. In that moment, you’re not just visiting—you’re living the ocean.
Everything you need to know about Rip Curl (IMAGO)
Near Rip Curl (IMAGO) in Kota Kinabalu, The Westin Resort Borneo is a top choice for surf enthusiasts, offering direct beach access, complimentary surf gear rentals, and certified surfing lessons. The resort features a private beach, outdoor infinity pool, and a full-service water sports center—perfect for post-surf relaxation.
For budget-conscious travelers, nearby boutique stays like Sandy Bay Boutique Stay provide cozy rooms with ocean views and easy walk-to-beach access. Transport from Kota Kinabalu International Airport takes about 30 minutes by taxi, making it highly accessible.
Must-try experiences include sunrise surf sessions, guided marine eco-tours, and visits to local cultural markets, blending adrenaline-pumping waves with rich Sabah heritage.
Yes, Rip Curl (IMAGO) is centrally located in Kota Kinabalu, making access to major attractions seamless. You can easily reach spots like Mount Kinabalu’s base camp, the Water Mosque, and Tanjong Aru Pier via local buses or taxis. For convenience and real-time pricing, use local ride-hailing apps like Grab or DiDi.
For longer trips, many hotels offer private car services with flexible scheduling—ideal for families or groups. On weekends, guided tour buses run directly to the Sabah Museum and night markets, enabling efficient exploration of the city’s cultural highlights in one day.
Near Rip Curl (IMAGO), visitors can enjoy unique water adventures such as snorkeling at the Maluku Bay coral reefs, where crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant marine life ideal for beginners and experts alike. Morning floating yoga sessions combine serene ocean views with mindfulness practice—perfect for rejuvenation.
Try double surfboard experience with certified instructors for a fun twist on traditional surfing. Many tours also include eco-guided sessions highlighting local marine conservation efforts, adding educational value to the adventure.
All activities come with safety gear, bilingual guides, and equipment rental—ensuring a safe, immersive, and memorable experience for all levels.
Start your day with a morning surf session at Rip Curl (IMAGO), followed by a guided lesson to catch the sunrise waves. Head to the Water Mosque next for iconic photo ops amid serene waters.
Lunch at the local food market to savor Sabahan specialties like coconut chicken rice and seafood stir-fry. In the afternoon, take a short bus ride to Tanjong Aru Pier for a traditional bamboo raft river cruise and cultural village visit.
Wrap up the day with a sunset stroll along the seaside promenade, enjoying panoramic views and evening light displays. Use taxis or ride-hailing apps throughout for time-saving, seamless travel—maximizing your experience across diverse attractions.
Yes, several family-friendly hotels surround Rip Curl (IMAGO). Holiday Inn Kota Kinabalu offers kids’ playrooms, family suites, and a themed swimming pool, plus free cribs and child-sized meals. The hotel hosts regular parent-child activities like craft workshops, marine education talks, and bedtime storytelling sessions—engaging kids while easing parents’ stress.
Another great option is Sandy Bay Family Stay, featuring private bungalow-style rooms with fenced yards and outdoor play areas—ideal for young explorers. All properties are within walking distance to the beach, allowing supervised play and safe seaside fun. Perfect for stress-free, memorable family getaways.
Near Rip Curl IMAGO in Kota Kinabalu, the top choice is Sabah Beach Resort, just a 5-minute walk away, offering ocean-view rooms and a private beach perfect for surf enthusiasts. Another excellent option is Kinabalu Mountain Lodge, located close to hiking trails and shopping centers with convenient access. All recommended hotels provide free Wi-Fi, shuttle services, and are ideal for guests planning to enjoy surfing clinics and events hosted at Rip Curl IMAGO.
From Kota Kinabalu city center, you can reach Rip Curl IMAGO via local bus (e.g., Route 201) or ride-hailing apps like Grab, taking about 15–20 minutes. For those driving, follow Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman southward—clear signage leads directly to the venue. Many nearby hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services between the city and Rip Curl IMAGO; it’s advisable to confirm in advance. The site is near Sabah Marine Park, making it ideal for a full-day coastal adventure.
Rip Curl IMAGO hosts a variety of unique experiences including surf workshops, youth training camps, and international surfing competitions featuring elite athletes annually. On-site professional coaches provide personalized instruction and equipment rentals. Weekend family surf days are also popular, perfect for parents and kids to enjoy together. All activities are conducted in English and Bahasa Malaysia, ensuring accessibility for both international visitors and local guests.
Travelers can book surfing lessons at Rip Curl IMAGO directly through the official website or their social media platforms (e.g., Instagram and Facebook). It's recommended to book at least three days in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. Lessons are categorized into beginner, intermediate, and kids’ classes, with a maximum of 8 participants per session for personalized attention. Options include single-day sessions or multi-day immersive programs, all including board rental and insurance. On-site payments accept credit cards and digital wallets, catering to international visitors.
See what other travelers say about Rip Curl (IMAGO)
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 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!
Staying at Marimari Marina Service Condo in Kota Kinabalu was an absolute highlight of our trip. Located right across from the airport, it’s incredibly convenient—just a 10 MYR ride from the terminal, and no need to worry about long waits or complicated transfers. Though there’s no front desk, the host is super responsive through the platform, and when we arrived, they were already waiting with a car to greet us and escort us straight to the unit. The staff was friendly, spoke fluent Mandarin, and made us feel welcome right away. The apartment itself is spacious—around 110 sqm with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two balconies. It’s clean, well-maintained, and feels like home. The kitchen is large and fully equipped with all essentials for cooking, and the utensils are more than enough for everyday meals. The view faces a main road but still offers partial sea views from the balcony—perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. We stayed with a group of friends and family, and everyone loved the roomy layout and comfort. For the price, this is seriously great value. Would definitely book again.
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.
We’ve stayed here before and remembered it fondly, so when we came back to Kota Kinabalu with six family members, this was our first choice. We love shopping for fresh seafood at the local market, and the kitchen is fully equipped with everything we need—no hassle at all. The owner is a Chinese-speaking local who’s incredibly helpful and responsive; just message her on WeChat and she replies instantly. She even recommended a reliable local driver for our one-day private tour, which turned out to be perfect. From dining tips to transportation, she made our trip smooth and stress-free. The whole experience was outstanding—warm hospitality, great location, and excellent value. Definitely coming back.
I was genuinely impressed by how good this place turned out to be—especially during peak travel season, securing a room at this price with such a pleasant environment is rare. The front desk staff speaks fluent Chinese, making communication smooth and stress-free. The hotel itself feels clean, comfortable, and well-maintained throughout. It's just a 10-minute taxi ride to the city center, which makes exploring the area super convenient. The rooftop free pool is a real highlight—great views, perfect for relaxing under the sun or unwinding after a long day. The only minor downside is the slight airport noise at night, but wearing earplugs easily solves that. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and great value. Highly recommended!
Had a fantastic stay at Hush Inn @ Itcc Manhattan Suites! The room was spotless, well-maintained, and had a cozy, homey feel that made us feel right at home. Everything was in excellent condition—beds comfortable, bathroom clean, and the AC worked perfectly. Best of all, it’s just a short walk to the mall, so grabbing groceries, snacks, or dining out was super convenient. The location is ideal for exploring the city without needing to rely on transport. Great value for money and highly recommended if you're looking for a quiet, clean, and comfortable base in Kota Kinabalu.
I upgraded to a family room at Tang Dynasty Hotel, and it was absolutely worth it—the space was spacious and perfect for my group. Plus, I got three complimentary breakfasts with the upgrade, which was such a nice bonus. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout the check-in process, making everything smooth and welcoming. The hotel’s location is great—just a short walk from major attractions and public transport. I truly appreciate the excellent service and attention to detail. Definitely coming back!
Staying at Sunset Seaview Vacation Condos @ Jesselton Quay was an absolute highlight of my trip to Kota Kinabalu. The location is unbeatable—just a short 6-7 RM taxi ride from the iconic Water Temple, and super close to Suria Shopping Mall. Public transport options are nearby, making it easy to explore the city without needing a car. The room itself was spacious for two people, incredibly comfortable with a great bed and clean, well-maintained interiors. While it’s near a highway, there was some motorcycle engine noise at night—but honestly, far better than having prayer calls disturbing your sleep! The place was spotless throughout our stay, down to the smallest detail. What truly stood out was the host’s kindness: they offered free luggage storage before check-in and after checkout, which made our travel plans so much smoother. This level of hospitality really makes a difference. If you're looking for a convenient, clean, and welcoming place to stay in Kota Kinabalu, this property is a must-book. Highly recommended!
My stay at Mandarin Hotel Kota Kinabalu was absolutely fantastic! The front desk staff were incredibly helpful and welcoming—our host took the time to answer all our questions with patience and genuine care. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and well-equipped with essentials like bottled water, toothbrushes, and toiletries. Right downstairs, there’s a vibrant food scene with plenty of local eateries to explore—perfect for casual dining after a long day. Plus, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the pier, making it super convenient for ferry trips or island excursions. The location is ideal, the service is top-notch, and the overall value is outstanding. I’d definitely come back again!
Staying at this charming little apartment was a total delight! The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the city center and close to all the main attractions. The room itself was spotless, spacious, and incredibly comfortable. I loved how well-equipped it was: a mini fridge, microwave, iron, and even basic kitchenware made cooking simple and convenient—perfect for saving money on meals or whipping up a quick snack. The bathroom stood out too—it was clean, modern, and spacious with no issues with moisture or mold. Everything felt thoughtfully designed for guest comfort. Honestly, I couldn’t have asked for more. This place offers amazing value and a truly relaxing stay. I’ll definitely be back!
Staying at Asiana Hotel in Kota Kinabalu was an absolute delight, mainly because of its unbeatable location. It's perfectly situated right between the airport and the city center, making it super convenient to get around—whether you're heading to attractions or just exploring the local vibe. The hotel is spotless, with a clean and fresh feel throughout, not showing any signs of aging or dirtiness. We booked a family room, which was spacious enough for our group, and we were even able to add an extra bed without hassle—perfect for families traveling with kids. The overall experience was excellent, and I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Sabah.
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