
Kota Kinabalu/Tun Mustapha Tower Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Rising proudly in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Tun Mustapha Tower is more than a building—it’s a symbol of the city’s spirit. From its vibrant murals telling local tales to panoramic views from the rooftop, every step here pulses with the rhythm of history and modernity.

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!

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 Tun Mustapha Tower
Near Dataran Tun Mustapha, the Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel stands out with its prime location just a 5-minute walk from the square, offering sea-view rooms and 24-hour concierge service. It’s surrounded by shopping malls and local eateries, perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant culture. For a quieter stay, consider Mount Kinabalu Resort, slightly farther but nestled in serene natural surroundings with lush greenery and panoramic views. Public transport options like buses and taxis are readily available nearby, making travel to the airport or other attractions seamless.
From Dataran Tun Mustapha, you can easily walk 10 minutes to Kota Kinabalu Central Market and the Waterfront Promenade, enjoying scenic views of the South China Sea. To visit landmarks like Our Lady of the Assumption Church or Sacred Heart Church, take a 5-minute taxi ride or hop on local bus line 7, which stops nearby within 10 minutes. Ride-hailing services are widely available at designated pickup points, ensuring convenient access. Additionally, the coastal bike trail starts right beside the square, ideal for cyclists seeking an active way to explore the waterfront area.
Near Dataran Tun Mustapha, enjoy unique local experiences such as jogging or evening strolls along the Waterfront Promenade, soaking in sea breezes. Visit weekend markets to savor authentic Sabahan dishes like grilled fish, coconut rice, and durian desserts. Rent bicycles and ride the coastal bike trail for a scenic tour of the shoreline. The floating mosque opposite the square is a photogenic hotspot, especially during golden hour. For cultural immersion, join traditional dance workshops led by local guides, learning rhythms and rituals of indigenous Sabahan communities.
Near Tun Mustapha Tower in Kota Kinabalu, the Regency Hotel Kota Kinabalu is highly recommended for its prime location just a 5-minute walk from the landmark. The hotel offers seaview rooms and a sky garden, providing panoramic views of the city and surrounding waters. With 24-hour concierge services, guests can easily arrange tours to attractions like Mount Kinabalu or day trips to nearby islands via ferry.
The tower itself is a historic colonial-era building located in the heart of downtown, with multiple bus routes passing by, making it easy to reach other key sites such as Waterfront Temple and Kinabalu Park. For short-distance travel, taxis and electric scooters are convenient options.
Must-try experiences include watching the sunrise at the tower’s plaza, sampling local delicacies like Sarawak laksa and nasi lemak at nearby markets, and strolling along the Kina Balu Riverwalk in the evening—perfect for blending urban charm with natural serenity.
To reach Mount Kinabalu from Tun Mustapha Tower, the most convenient option is joining a guided one-day tour offered by local travel agencies, which includes round-trip transfers, guided trekking, and park permit assistance. For independent travelers, book a private car via the tourist information center near the tower—approximately 2 hours’ drive through lush tropical rainforests.
It’s advisable to depart early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and ensure ample time for summit ascent. Before climbing, visitors must register at the Kinabalu National Park entrance, where gear rental (e.g., hiking poles, headlamps) is available.
Near the tower, several travel agencies also offer half-day cultural tours covering local ecology and indigenous heritage—ideal for first-time visitors. Don’t miss the street vendors at the tower plaza selling snacks and souvenirs to fuel your journey. Safety tip: Wear proper hiking shoes, carry insect repellent, and bring plenty of water.
Near Tun Mustapha Tower, must-try local experiences include joining community morning exercises at the plaza to witness local vitality, then exploring the Old Town Market for authentic bites like nasi lemak, grilled fish, and durian ice cream.
In the evening, stroll along the Kina Balu Riverwalk, where golden sunsets reflect off the city skyline. The tower itself is a colonial-era structure with original stone walls and wooden shutters; it occasionally hosts free art exhibitions. Its exterior features historical bronze plaques detailing key moments in Sabah’s independence movement—ideal for cultural insight.
Rent an electric scooter to explore narrow alleys, uncovering hidden cafes and craft shops. On weekends, enjoy live street performances showcasing traditional dances and musical instruments, adding rich cultural atmosphere to your visit.
See what other travelers say about Tun Mustapha Tower

My stay at Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre was truly impressive. I stayed for several days and was pleasantly surprised by the breakfast selection—there were always new options each day, which showed real effort from the team. While some flavors weren’t quite to my taste, especially compared to what’s common in Chinese cuisine, it’s clear they’re putting thought into variety and quality. The housekeeping staff were friendly and attentive—especially one young gentleman who was a bit shy but always ready to help with a smile. One highlight was the hotel’s flexibility with check-out time; they happily granted me an extra hour due to my travel schedule, which made my departure stress-free. The only minor issue was the complimentary bottled water in the room—it had a faint chlorine aftertaste that made it hard to drink straight. That said, it worked fine when used for tea or coffee. Overall, this is a well-run, convenient, and value-for-money option in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. I’d definitely return.

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.

The location is perfect—right downstairs is a supermarket and Burger King, and it’s just a short walk to Jalan Gaya, where you’ll find tons of trendy restaurants and cafes. The sea view from the floor-to-ceiling windows is absolutely stunning; waking up to that view every morning felt like a dream. The building has secure access with keycard elevators, and there’s a lovely pool on the 6th floor—great for relaxing after exploring the city. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and even came with complimentary water and drinks. What stood out most was the service: they reached out before arrival to confirm details, making check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. No waiting, no hassle—just a seamless stay. Everything about this place exceeded expectations. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu looking for comfort, convenience, and a peaceful seaside vibe.

Staying at The Shore Kota Kinabalu City Centre was an absolute delight. The spacious two-bedroom unit offered plenty of room, perfect for families or a group of friends. Everything you’d need was included—fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, refrigerator—making it super convenient to prepare meals and keep things organized. Located right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, it’s just steps away from local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Check-in and check-out were smooth and hassle-free, with friendly staff who made the experience even better. The best part? The view from the window—it opens up to stunning sea vistas, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and a great location all in one, this place is a top choice. I’ll definitely be coming back.

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 was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right above Imago Shopping Mall, so everything you need is just steps away. From dining and shopping to entertainment, it’s all within easy reach. The apartment itself was clean, well-maintained, and had a lovely sea view that made every moment feel special, especially during sunset. The convenience of being in the heart of the city without sacrificing comfort or privacy is hard to beat. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and accessibility—truly a standout choice.

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 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.
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