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Featured Hotels Near Tanjung Aru Beach
Wander barefoot through the soft sands of Danjon Aru Beach, where the turquoise waters of Kota Kinabalu whisper summer dreams. This is pure, unfiltered paradise—golden sunlight glinting on gentle waves at dawn, and skies painted in dreamy peach hues at sunset. Stroll along the shore, listen to the rustle of coconut palms in the breeze, or watch local fishermen haul in their nets with quiet rhythm. It’s not just a beach; it’s a feeling. And yes, every photo here feels like it’s straight out of a travel magazine—perfect for that candid shot of you, the sea, and the sky. Come here not to check a box, but to truly slow down and breathe.
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 Magellan Sutera Resort
This resort is a paradise for families and couples! Located in Kota Kinabalu, its longhouse-style lobby showcases Borneo’s traditional charm, while the 456 beautifully decorated suites offer stunning views of the South China Sea and lush gardens. Kids will love the children’s club, water slides, and kiddie pool—guaranteed fun! Foodies rejoice: Ferdinand’s is hailed as one of Malaysia’s top Italian restaurants, and Five Sails serves a lavish breakfast buffet and Sunday brunch for lazy mornings. Unwind with spa treatments, tee off at the golf course, or dive into adventures at the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Whether you seek relaxation or excitement, this place has it all.
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!
Hilton Kota Kinabalu
This hotel is perfect for family vacations and business trips! Located in the city center, it’s just a short walk to shopping hotspots. With a kids’ pool and children’s meals, little ones will have a blast while parents relax. Chinese signage makes communication effortless. Unwind at the fitness center or outdoor pool, and enjoy the warm hospitality tailored for Chinese guests. The breakfast is fantastic, offering great value. Don’t miss out!
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!
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
This hotel is perfect for both family vacations and business trips! The infinity pool offers stunning ocean views, while the kids' pool and play area keep the little ones entertained. Conveniently located near popular attractions and dining spots, it also features a 24-hour fitness center and business facilities to meet all your needs. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, quality is guaranteed. Don't miss out!
Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B
This hotel is a perfect choice for family trips! Kids will love the water slides and playground, while adults can relax at the spa or sauna. Located just steps away from Imago Mall, it offers 20 restaurants and 3 bars to choose from. The rooms are luxurious with free minibar and Egyptian cotton sheets, plus free WiFi and a 24-hour business center for both fun and work. A truly convenient and comfortable stay!
Loft B Imago Mall Sunset Seaview Golf Course 8-9pax 3Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms
This is a perfect family-friendly hotel with a kids' playground and water park, ensuring endless fun for the little ones! The children's pool is safe and enjoyable. Adults can unwind at the fitness center or relax in the sauna. The spacious rooms feature 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, ideal for 8-9 guests, and come with a dryer and laundry room for added convenience. Located near a golf course with stunning sunset sea views, it’s the ultimate getaway spot!
Sheraton Kota Kinabalu
High Floor City View @ JQ Central Near Suria Sabah
Nervalogy24 Suites Ming Garden
JQ TriPPlay
Jesselton quay by sabah lover
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!
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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.
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre
This hotel is a smart choice for travelers! Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, it's just a short walk to shopping malls and attractions, with free breakfast and high-speed Wi-Fi to make your stay hassle-free. The rooms are modern and cozy, featuring premium bedding for a perfect night's sleep. Love adventure? Try snorkeling, diving, or hiking, then unwind at the fitness center. Whether for business or family trips, the comprehensive amenities and thoughtful services here will exceed your expectations!
Grandis Hotel Kota Kinabalu
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!
Seaview Jesselton Quay Near Suria Sabah, Gaya Street
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Tanjung Aru Beach
Stay at Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu Resort, located directly on Tanjung Aru Beach, offering unobstructed ocean views and direct access to private sandy shores. The resort features a dedicated beachfront pool, spa services, and complimentary shuttle to downtown attractions. Its prime location ensures easy access to nearby landmarks like the Sama-Sama Tower and Gaya Island, making it ideal for both relaxation and exploration. Guests enjoy seamless connectivity and world-class hospitality in a tropical paradise setting.
Choose Hilton Kota Kinabalu Resort & Spa, situated just steps from Tanjung Aru Beach and within 10 minutes’ walk of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park entrance and City Mosque. The hotel provides free shuttles to the airport and city center, ensuring effortless travel. Nearby dining, shopping, and cultural sites are all within walking distance. With its central position and comprehensive amenities, it’s the perfect base for travelers seeking both convenience and coastal charm in Sabah.
Experience thrilling adventures such as snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, or join a sunset catamaran cruise across the South China Sea. Try banana boat rides or parasailing for an adrenaline rush—ideal for families and groups. All excursions are led by certified guides with full safety gear. These activities highlight the crystal-clear waters and pristine marine life surrounding Tanjung Aru, offering unforgettable moments amid Sabah’s natural beauty.
Evenings at Tanjung Aru Beach come alive with the beachside night market, where you can savor authentic grilled seafood, coconut rice, and durian desserts. The illuminated shoreline creates a romantic ambiance perfect for strolls or relaxed drinks at open-air bars. Some resorts host live music and traditional performances, including indigenous dance and kulintangan music. Additionally, the area’s low light pollution offers exceptional stargazing opportunities, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
From Kota Kinabalu International Airport, take a private car transfer or taxi—just a 15–20 minute ride costing around MYR 30–50. Most hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles upon reservation. Alternatively, public buses run from the airport terminal to city stops, with transfers needed to reach the beach. Using ride-hailing apps like Grab ensures transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and reliable service, allowing for a swift and stress-free arrival.
Absolutely! Resorts like Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu and Hilton Kota Kinabalu feature family-friendly rooms, kids’ pools, and children’s activity programs including craft workshops and beach games. Safety is prioritized with guarded private beaches and lifeguard supervision. Family-oriented dining options and babysitting services enhance comfort. With easy access to parks, markets, and scenic trails, these hotels deliver a balanced mix of fun, relaxation, and convenience—perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones in Sabah.
Recommended is the Marriott Resort Kota Kinabalu, located steps from Tanjung Aru Beach, offering private beachfront rooms and family-oriented amenities. With direct access to the sand, it features indoor/outdoor pools, a spa, and multiple seafood restaurants. Free shuttle services run to the city center, and its infinity pool with panoramic ocean views is perfect for memorable photos. Ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience.
Travel from Tanjung Aru Beach to Kota Kinabalu city center via free shuttle buses or taxis, taking just 10–15 minutes. Major attractions like D’Suites Mall and night markets are within walking distance. Many hotels also offer complimentary airport transfers, making navigation effortless. The coastal promenade links key sites, allowing easy access on foot or by bike.
Must-try experiences include snorkeling tours and sunset catamaran cruises. Local operators provide full gear and guided dives into vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Additionally, beach yoga sessions and stargazing meditation are held weekly, blending wellness with nature. These immersive activities offer a genuine taste of Sabah’s laid-back island lifestyle.
Consider staying at Amanara Bay Resort, a luxury seaside retreat renowned for its secluded ambiance and contemporary design. Each room features an outdoor hot tub and ocean-view balcony, perfect for intimate evenings. Private beach dinners with live acoustic music create a dreamy atmosphere. Its quiet location ensures privacy—ideal for honeymoons or anniversary celebrations.
Highlights include the night market along the shore and beachside light shows. From 7 PM, vendors sell fresh seafood, local snacks, and handmade crafts in a lively setting. Some resorts host outdoor movie screenings and live music nights, enhanced by sea breezes and ambient lighting. For a quieter option, try night snorkeling to witness glowing plankton and bioluminescent corals beneath the waves.
Start your day with a morning beach jog, then take a boat tour to Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park for snorkeling. Return for lunch at a seafront restaurant serving authentic Sabahan cuisine. Afternoon options include a traditional Malay massage or visiting the Water Temple. End with a sunset view on the beach, followed by a bonfire gathering. This balanced itinerary blends adventure, culture, and relaxation seamlessly.
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