The Shell House isn’t just a building—it’s the heartbeat of Kota Kinabalu! Step into this iconic red-brick landmark and time travel to colonial elegance. The rooftop viewpoint offers jaw-dropping panoramas of the city and bay, especially at sunset when golden light spills across the water. Grab a coffee nearby, soak in the vibe, and feel the pulse of this vibrant coastal town.


Everything you need to know about Sabah Shell Petroleum Co Ltd
Holiday Inn Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, just a 5-minute walk from Shell Tower, offering modern rooms with views of the South China Sea. The hotel features an indoor pool, spa services, and 24-hour concierge, plus free Wi-Fi and airport shuttle service. Located in the heart of the city’s commercial district, it provides easy access to local street food stalls, boutiques, and vibrant evening events like the light show and harbor plaza performances, making it perfect for travelers seeking urban convenience and cultural immersion.
Yes, Shell Tower is centrally located in Kota Kinabalu, surrounded by major roads and bus routes. The Interstate Bus Terminal is just 100 meters away, providing direct access to destinations like Mount Kinabalu, Kinabalu National Park, and Kota Kinabalu Port. Local taxis and e-scooters are readily available via mobile apps for quick travel. Across from the tower lies the Seafront Promenade, where visitors can stroll to the water sports center or take a ferry to Manukan Island, ensuring diverse and efficient transit options ideal for independent travelers.
Around Shell Tower, visitors can enjoy a range of unique activities: join a sunrise yoga session at the Seafront Plaza for serene ocean views; wander through the market streets to savor local favorites like coconut sticky rice and Kinabalu grilled fish; visit the Sky View Deck at sunset to witness the dramatic blend of sky and city lights; and end the day at the cultural night market, featuring traditional Sapas dance performances and handmade crafts. These experiences beautifully merge nature, cuisine, and heritage, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Kota Kinabalu.
Marriott Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Shell House. Its modern design blends local Malaysian aesthetics with luxury amenities, including an indoor pool, spa, and rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Mount Kinabalu and Sabah Bay. The hotel’s prime location provides easy access to ferries heading to Kinabalu National Park and Mount Kinabalu, making it an ideal base for exploring Sabah’s natural wonders.
From Shell House, a 10-minute walk leads to Tanjong Aru Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. For Kinabalu National Park, take a bus or book a private transfer—approximately 45 minutes by car. The iconic Water Mosque is just a 15-minute drive away, featuring stunning reflections on its mirrored surface. Use local ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient, affordable transportation across Kota Kinabalu.
Head to Market Street near Shell House for authentic Sabah Bak Kut Teh and Coconut Rice, served by local families with rich culinary traditions. Nearby seaside restaurants offer freshly caught lobster and grouper, cooked to order with ocean-fresh flavor. Visit during sunset for a memorable dining experience, as the golden light reflects off the Malaysian coastline, capturing the essence of South-East Asian coastal life.
The area around Shell House features child-friendly facilities such as playgrounds and splash pads ideal for family relaxation. Join a guided marine life boat tour to explore coral reefs and spot sea turtles—2-hour tours that are safe and educational. Nearby, Kota Kinabalu Museum offers free entry and showcases indigenous cultures and history of Sabah, perfect for kids and adults alike. Most attractions accept cash and digital payments, with excellent connectivity for hassle-free family travel.
Kinabalu City Hostel, located just a 5-minute walk from Shell House, offers clean and affordable rooms starting at MYR 30 per night, including shared dorms and private double rooms. Amenities include 24-hour laundry, a shared kitchen, and free Wi-Fi. Its central location puts guests within walking distance of the night market and bus terminal, ideal for backpackers and budget travelers. Staff are helpful and often provide complimentary maps and travel tips to enhance your journey.
Shell House is a striking example of modernist architecture with glass and steel façades, set against the backdrop of Sabah Bay, making it a prime urban photography spot. Visit during sunrise or golden hour for dramatic lighting and reflective water effects. Nearby seaside cafés add charming compositional elements. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full structure, and include pedestrians and sea reflections for dynamic, vibrant cityscapes perfect for Instagram.
From Shell House, take a pre-booked private car or a Sabah Tour Bus, approximately 2 hours by road. Reserve via HopeGoo or Grab in advance to secure a seat. Upon arrival, choose between hiking (2–3 hours) or taking the cable car to the summit. Bring insect repellent, rain gear, and plenty of water, as trails can be slippery and weather unpredictable. Along the way, spot diverse flora and rare orangutan sightings—ideal for nature enthusiasts.
See what other travelers say about Sabah Shell Petroleum Co Ltd

Staying at Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Gaya Street, Jesselton Jetty, and Suria Mall. There’s even a supermarket right downstairs, which made our stay incredibly convenient. The room was spotless, and the housekeeping team went above and beyond to keep everything tidy and fresh. The staff were warm, welcoming, and always ready to help—genuine hospitality that made us feel at home. We truly loved every moment of our stay. The only minor suggestion would be upgrading the gym facilities, as it’s functional but could use some modernization. Other than that, we have nothing but praise for this hotel. A perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and great service—highly recommended!

The value for money here is outstanding! The room was much larger than the photos suggested—especially the bathroom, which felt spacious and well-designed. Right across from the hotel is a convenience store, and there are several restaurants nearby that look promising. I especially loved the retro-inspired design with exposed concrete and brick walls—it gives the place a unique, cozy atmosphere. At night, it’s incredibly peaceful and relaxing, making it feel like a quiet retreat in the middle of the city. Cleanliness, layout, and attention to detail are all top-notch. This is definitely a standout choice if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’d absolutely stay here again.

Staying at Sunset Seaview Vacation Condos @ Infinity Avenue was an absolute delight. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to IMAGO Shopping Mall, and the ground floor is packed with great dining options, so you can grab a meal without even stepping outside. The sea views from the rooms are stunning, especially at sunset. Everything was clean, modern, and well-maintained, making it a perfect base for exploring Kota Kinabalu. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of coastal charm.

This was our first stay at Hotel Five 2, and it absolutely exceeded our expectations. We arrived early at 8:00 AM, and the front desk staff were incredibly welcoming—they happily stored our luggage without any hassle. During checkout, a kind staff member even offered us complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby, which added such a warm, personal touch. The bed was comfortable, the bathroom was simple but spotlessly clean, and the overall atmosphere felt cozy and well-maintained. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—just a 5-minute walk to Centre Point, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers great value and genuine hospitality. We’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.

Arrived in Kota Kinabalu late at night after an early flight, and chose this apartment hotel as a convenient overnight stop. I got a taxi right outside the airport for just MYR 30—only about 15 minutes to reach the property. Since it was so early, the security staff hadn’t arrived yet, but luckily ran into another guest heading out who helped me access the unit using the password provided by the host. The apartment itself is clean, well-equipped, and perfect for a quick layover. Everything you’d need is there—kitchenette, bedding, Wi-Fi—no complaints at all. The location is fantastic: right below Imago Shopping Mall, so dining and shopping are just steps away. And in under 5 minutes on foot, you’re at the beach—beautiful views, gentle sea breeze, ideal for relaxing after a long trip. Honestly, the value-for-money here is outstanding. I’d definitely come back if I ever visit Kota Kinabalu again.

Staying at Green Apple Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The room was incredibly comfortable, with a modern and clean design that made me feel right at home. The view from the window was stunning—perfect for watching the sunrise or enjoying the city lights at night. Location-wise, it's convenient and close to everything I needed: great restaurants, shopping spots, and local attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the entire experience even better. It’s clear this hotel values guest comfort and quality. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’ll definitely be back.

My stay at Lintas View Hotel was absolutely delightful. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. The room was clean, well-maintained, and offered a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Located just minutes from the city center, it's incredibly convenient for getting around by public transit. The hotel’s modern design and quiet ambiance made it a great base for both business and leisure travelers. I especially appreciated how responsive and genuine the team was throughout my visit. It’s clear they truly care about guest satisfaction. I’d happily return and recommend this hidden gem to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu.

This stay was absolutely fantastic! The location is unbeatable—right next to a convenience store, making late-night snacks and essentials super convenient. Public transit access is just steps away, and everything in town is within easy reach. The staff were incredibly responsive—any request I had was handled promptly and with great care. The room itself was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The pool area is stunning—serene, beautifully designed, and perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun. One standout feature? The hot water—it’s consistently hot and the flow is strong, which is rare in this type of accommodation. Overall, this was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. Will definitely be returning.

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!

I can't say enough good things about my stay at Riverson Soho KK - Home Suite. From the moment I arrived, everything felt seamless and thoughtfully planned. The management sent a clear message beforehand with instructions to download and save the self-check-in PDF—reading it in advance made the process smooth and stress-free. Though there was no staff waiting to greet us personally, the setup was so intuitive that we never felt overlooked. My room was spotless, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a deep, restful sleep—truly felt like home. The on-site facilities were excellent: my car was safely parked in the reserved underground lot, and I enjoyed using the pool and gym, both well-maintained and inviting. Location-wise, this hotel is perfect. Just a short walk to The WALK, where you’ll find a great variety of dining options, and only a few minutes away from the popular IMAGO shopping mall. Whether you're here for leisure or business, this place offers convenience, comfort, and luxury all in one. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and hassle-free stay—and I’m already planning my next visit!

Everything was great overall! The hotel was spotlessly clean, and the staff were very friendly. The only downside was that the pool was closed—apparently due to an unknown reason—which was a bit disappointing since my kids were really looking forward to swimming. Still, the room was comfortable, the location was convenient, and the value for money was excellent. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to families traveling with children.

The room was extremely comfortable and perfect for a family stay. The location is fantastic—just a short walk to the beach and surrounded by great local restaurants. Everything was clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough for our group. A few small upgrades would make it even better: a taller ironing board, pool-friendly slippers, and maybe a microwave in the room would be a nice touch. But honestly, I couldn’t be happier with the overall experience. The staff were prompt and friendly, always ready to help whenever we needed something. Great value for money, and I’d definitely book again. Highly recommend this place if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu!
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