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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.
This hotel is the perfect choice for family vacations! Just a 5-minute drive from the airport and directly connected to a shopping mall, making dining and shopping incredibly convenient. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, some even offering stunning views of the South China Sea or Mount Kinabalu! Kids can have a blast in the game room and children's pool, while adults can unwind at the bar or sing their hearts out at the KTV. Don’t miss the outdoor pool and spa center for ultimate relaxation. Whether it's a family trip or a business meeting, the versatile banquet hall and professional team here will meet all your needs.
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!
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 this hotel in Kota Kinabalu was an excellent choice for both business and leisure travel. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short ride to the airport and close to downtown attractions. The staff were welcoming and attentive, and the room itself felt modern, clean, and well-maintained. I was especially impressed with the bedding quality and overall hygiene—everything felt fresh and reassuring. While there are minor areas that could be improved, they didn’t take away from the overall experience. For anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu, whether for work or vacation, I’d highly recommend this place. In fact, I’d definitely book here again on my next trip. With such a strong performance across comfort, cleanliness, and service, it easily earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars—perfect for professionals, couples, or travelers who value a high-quality stay.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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