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)

Staying at Toojou Kota Kinabalu was a fantastic experience overall. The hostel is clean, spacious, and well-maintained with a generous shared lounge area perfect for relaxing after a day out. Located right on Jalan Gaya, it's incredibly convenient—just steps away from restaurants, local shops, and markets. Getting around town is easy, whether by taxi or public transport. For sunset views, a short ride to the public beach does the trick, and walking north leads you straight to the Shangri-La area—quiet, peaceful, and ideal for unwinding. If you're into nature, I highly recommend the Weston mangrove tour. I booked the Adventure package (available via Taobao), and it was absolutely worth it. The guide was knowledgeable and friendly, the food served during the trip was delicious, and the wildlife spotting—especially monkeys in the mangroves—was unforgettable. The one downside? It’s a 2.5-hour one-way journey, but honestly, the scenery and experience make every minute worthwhile. This place offers great value and a genuine local vibe—definitely coming back.

Staying at Skypod Hostel was an absolute highlight of my trip to Kota Kinabalu! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from local markets, restaurants, and attractions. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and helpful service, making me feel welcome from the moment I arrived. The rooms are clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly spacious for a hostel. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches like reliable Wi-Fi and quiet common areas. With such a great vibe, excellent value, and top-notch hospitality, this place truly deserves every single point on the rating. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit Sabah!

This is hands down the most beautiful hostel I've ever stayed at, and it offers incredible value for money. The place is spotless—every corner is clean and well-maintained. The interior design is stylish and inviting, with a cozy, homely vibe that makes you feel right at home. Facilities are top-notch: laundry machines, drinking water, tea and coffee supplies, a fully equipped kitchen, board games, books, hairdryers, irons, and even quality toiletries—basically, everything you could possibly need. But what truly sets Faloe apart is the team. The owners and staff are incredibly friendly, helpful, and always going the extra mile to make your stay comfortable. They genuinely care about guests’ experiences. I had such an amazing time here—so much so that I stayed for two nights and didn’t want to leave. Thank you for the unforgettable memories!

Stayed at RWS South China Sea Place Suites multiple times now, and each visit has been exceptional. The private suites are spacious, well-appointed, and offer a peaceful retreat just minutes away from all the action in Kota Kinabalu. The owner is genuinely welcoming—always attentive, friendly, and ready to help with anything. What stands out most is the personal touch; it feels less like a hotel and more like staying at a trusted friend’s place. Clean, quiet, and perfectly located for exploring the city or relaxing by the sea. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a warm, home-like atmosphere, this is the spot. I’ll definitely be back.

My stay at Global Residency was absolutely fantastic from start to finish. The moment I arrived, the staff made me feel welcome with their warm and attentive service — helping with luggage, offering local tips, and always smiling. The room was spotless, comfortably furnished, and well-maintained, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Every detail, from the clean bathrooms to the quiet ambiance, showed real care. The location is excellent — just a short walk to the city center and surrounded by great dining options and local markets. It’s rare to find such a peaceful yet convenient place, especially with such high-quality service. I left feeling completely satisfied and already planning my next visit. If you're in Kota Kinabalu, this hotel is a must-try — I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for comfort, cleanliness, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Staying at X-Plorer Backpackers Hostel was a fantastic choice for exploring Kota Kinabalu on foot. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center, making it easy to access local attractions, restaurants, and shops. The hostel itself is clean, well-maintained, and has a friendly, welcoming vibe. Staff are helpful and always ready to assist with travel tips or recommendations. I loved the social atmosphere—great way to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Rooms are basic but comfortable, perfect for a budget-friendly stay without sacrificing quality. With a 10/10 rating, this place truly delivers on every level. Definitely coming back next time I visit KK!

Staying here for the third time and still absolutely impressed! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to Imago Mall, with plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby. The bed was super comfortable, perfect for a good night’s sleep, and the shower setup is excellent with strong water pressure and a relaxing experience. I especially love that the room comes with Netflix—great for unwinding after a long day. It's become my go-to choice in Kota Kinabalu, and I can’t recommend it enough. Clean, well-maintained, and consistently great service. Definitely returning on my next trip!

Lanvin Hotel is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for convenience and comfort. Located just a short walk from major attractions, it’s easy to explore everything in Kota Kinabalu without needing long commutes. The hotel itself is quiet and well-maintained, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. Clean rooms, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere make it feel like home. It’s not in the busiest part of town, but that’s part of its charm—great for those who want a relaxed stay with easy access to local gems. I’d definitely recommend this spot for a stress-free getaway.

Staying at CU Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right across from Jalan Jalan, with easy access to local dining, shopping, and the famous Chikas Dock. I walked to the dock in just a few minutes, making it perfect for exploring the area. The room matched the photos exactly—no surprises, just clean, well-maintained space. The air conditioning worked perfectly, keeping the room cool without being too chilly. Daily housekeeping was a nice touch, with fresh linens and a tidy space every day. Staff at the front desk were friendly and always available whenever needed. From start to finish, the experience felt seamless and welcoming. With such great value for money and a fantastic location, this place truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.

I arrived much later than expected, but the host was still waiting for me with a warm smile—such a thoughtful gesture! Despite the late hour, they made me feel welcome and took care of everything without any hassle. The hostel is perfectly located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, just a short walk from everything I needed. Clean, friendly, and super affordable—definitely my top choice for future visits to Kuching. Highly recommend this gem!

This has become my go-to choice whenever I travel with my family. The place is incredibly clean, and the staff are genuinely warm and welcoming. Everything about the stay felt seamless—from the cozy, well-maintained rooms to the helpful service. It’s perfectly located near great dining options and just a short walk from public transit, making it easy to explore Kota Kinabalu. With such a high level of comfort and hospitality, it’s hard not to give it a perfect 10. If you’re looking for a reliable, family-friendly retreat in Sabah, this is it. I’ll definitely be back.

I stayed here for one night and was genuinely impressed by how clean, quiet, and welcoming this hostel felt. The room was spotless and peaceful—so quiet that you could hear the gentle hum of the sea outside. The common areas were just as well-maintained, with cozy seating and a few thoughtful touches like potted plants and natural lighting, making it a relaxing space to unwind. What stood out most was the front desk staff—they were incredibly friendly and helpful, offering genuine local tips on where to eat and explore nearby. Their warm hospitality made me feel right at home. If you're traveling solo and looking for a safe, comfortable, and authentic stay in Kota Kinabalu, this is a must-try. I’ll definitely be coming back on my next visit.
Explore more amazing destinations