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University of Malaysia Sabah isn’t just a campus—it’s a serene sanctuary of greenery and modern design. Wander its tree-lined pathways, where palm trees sway above sleek buildings and students lounge on grassy lawns under the sun. Climb to the lookout point for panoramic views of the Sulu Sea and distant mountains—nature’s masterpiece unfolding before your eyes. Whether you’re here for peace, photos, or a quiet moment, this campus feels like a secret escape within the city.
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!
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!
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!
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 University Malaysia Sabah
UMS Campus Guesthouse offers a unique stay within the university grounds, blending academic tranquility with sea views. For luxury, Kota Kinabalu Beach Resort is just 15 minutes away, featuring private pools and direct access to coral reef snorkeling. Convenient transportation options include airport taxis and pre-booked shuttle services.
Visit the Kota Kinabalu Marine Research Centre for educational insights into marine life. Join a mangrove ecosystem tour to explore the rich biodiversity of tidal forests. Explore nearby Kinabalu foothill villages to experience indigenous culture and traditional crafts. At night, enjoy a beach bonfire party with local grilled seafood and coconut rice for an authentic South-East Asian vibe.
Take the direct shuttle bus (30 minutes) from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), stopping at city center before reaching campus. Alternatively, book a taxi for around MYR 80, taking about 25 minutes. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttles—confirm in advance for seamless travel.
Oasis Resort near UMS features family suites, a kids’ pool, playroom, and proximity to Kota Kinabalu Coastal Park for outdoor fun. The on-site dining offers local and international cuisine, plus accessible facilities for seniors and children—perfect for a stress-free family getaway.
The modern architecture of UMS campus against turquoise waters creates stunning backdrops, especially the glass-domed library and seaside promenade—ideal for sunset and lifestyle shots. Weekends feature vibrant student cultural markets, adding dynamic elements for photographers seeking authentic local scenes.
Bay Bistro, located just outside campus, specializes in fresh catches like lobster, grouper, and sea urchin, served in creamy coconut broth for a rich, sweet flavor. Another must-try is Kinabalu Seafood Market, where vendors prepare dishes on-site—affordable, authentic, and perfect for food lovers seeking local taste.
Stay at UMS Campus Accommodations or nearby Kota Kinabalu Beach Resorts, both offering a short walk to the university and access to private beaches. These lodgings provide breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu and the South China Sea, ideal for students, travelers, and academic visitors. Many rooms feature private balconies and modern amenities including free Wi-Fi and shuttle services to campus and city centers, ensuring convenience and comfort.
Travel from UMS to Kota Kinabalu city center via shuttle services or local bus routes (e.g., Route 801), taking about 25–35 minutes. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttles connecting campus and downtown. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps like Grab—affordable, reliable, and widely available. For peak hours, it’s advisable to book in advance via app to secure timely transportation, especially after classes or events.
Near UMS, enjoy snorkeling expeditions, night wildlife tours, and mangrove kayaking within the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. The campus’s own tropical botanical garden showcases native Borneo flora. Additionally, day trips to Sipadan Island offer world-class diving among vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. These activities blend eco-education with adventure, perfect for nature lovers and researchers seeking immersive experiences.
Must-try dishes include grilled lobster and steamed fish in coconut milk from Kota Kinabalu night markets. The campus’s International Food Court offers Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, and Japanese cuisines. Don’t miss local favorites like coconut coffee and durian pancakes from family-run cafes—rich in flavor and deeply rooted in Sabahan culture. These culinary delights reflect the region’s cultural diversity and fresh, tropical ingredients.
See what other travelers say about University Malaysia Sabah
Staying at Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu was an absolute delight, especially the Executive Lounge—definitely worth upgrading to if you can. The sunset views from the lounge are breathtaking, and sipping a drink there as the sun dips below the horizon is pure magic. The room itself was spacious and well-maintained, with clean lines and a nice modern vibe. However, I did notice a slight sewer odor in the bathroom—something that could be improved with better ventilation or maintenance. The bed was on the softer side, which didn’t suit my preference for firmer support. That said, the overall experience was excellent, the staff were attentive, and the location made exploring Kota Kinabalu super convenient. A truly memorable stay with only minor tweaks needed.
This hotel is brand new and located in a fantastic spot right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. The moment you step inside, you can tell it’s clean and well-maintained—everything feels fresh and modern. Just across the street is a shopping mall with tons of dining options, from local favorites to international cuisines. It’s only a short walk to Gaya Street, so exploring the vibrant night market or grabbing a bite after dark is super convenient. The pool area is excellent—spacious, inviting, and peaceful even early in the morning when I went for a swim. No crowds, just calm and relaxation. Staff are friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. From check-in to checkout, every interaction was smooth and pleasant. Overall, this is an outstanding choice if you’re looking for comfort, location, and quality service—all in one. Highly recommend!
Staying at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu was an absolute delight from start to finish. The facilities are top-notch—everything from the infinity pool to the well-equipped fitness center is modern, clean, and thoughtfully designed. Housekeeping is outstanding; every day, rooms are meticulously cleaned with attention to detail, leaving no corner untouched. The location is unbeatable—right on the beach, with a scenic overlook just steps from your door. There’s even a dock nearby for island excursions, and it’s only a 10-minute walk to the shopping mall, making dining and errands super convenient. What truly stood out was the service—staff are warm, welcoming, and incredibly responsive. Whether I needed extra towels or help arranging activities, everything was handled quickly and with a smile. It felt less like a hotel stay and more like being welcomed into a home. This place offers incredible value and unforgettable views. I’ll definitely be returning.
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 this apartment was an absolute delight! The rooftop gym is well-equipped, and right below, there’s a beautiful pool with panoramic ocean views. Watching the sun set over the sea every evening was magical—planes flying overhead and boats gliding across the water made it feel like a scene from a dream. One of the best things? You can swim in your clothes—no need for swimsuits or swim caps, which felt so relaxed and authentic to local culture. The room itself was spotless, fresh-smelling, and incredibly comfortable. The housekeeping staff were super friendly—they even let us store our luggage in the room right away, so we didn’t have to carry it around. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed for guest comfort. If you’re looking for a peaceful, stylish, and hassle-free stay in Kota Kinabalu, this place is a must-try.
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 Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu was an absolute highlight of my trip to Sabah. The view from the balcony is breathtaking—every evening, the sunset painting the sea in golden hues feels like watching a living postcard. The room itself is spacious and thoughtfully designed: a comfortable bedroom, a separate living area perfect for relaxing with a movie, and a fully equipped kitchenette that made preparing simple meals easy and enjoyable. The bathroom features a smart wet-dry separation, making it both practical and refreshing. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—just a short walk to the waterfront promenade, local night markets, and a variety of dining options. I loved strolling along the beach in the evenings, enjoying the cool breeze and the calming sound of waves. Everything about this stay was seamless—comfortable, convenient, and stunningly scenic. If you're visiting Kota Kinabalu, this is definitely a top pick for a memorable, stress-free experience.
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.
Staying at Horizon Hotel was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The hotel ambiance is peaceful and well-maintained, with a charming small rooftop infinity pool that’s perfect for relaxing or snapping some great photos. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Kota Kinabalu’s bustling Jalan Gaya for shopping and street food, and even closer to Sunrise Mall for dining and entertainment. What really stood out? Right outside the door, there’s a Misto Ice Cream shop—perfect for grabbing a cool drink anytime. Everything is so convenient, yet the place still feels quiet and private. With top-notch service and an excellent balance of comfort and value, this hotel truly delivers on every level. I’d definitely recommend it to travelers who want a hassle-free stay in Kota Kinabalu.
This stay at The Voyagers Home Borneo Kota Kinabalu was absolutely perfect — one of those rare experiences that truly exceeds expectations. From the moment we walked in, the thoughtfulness of the host stood out: snacks like chips, juice, milk, and even a little ice cream waiting for us! It felt so welcoming, like coming home after a long trip. The location is unbeatable — just a 6-7 minute walk to bustling Jalan Gaya, with local markets and great food options right around the corner, yet the building itself is quiet enough for a peaceful night’s sleep. What really made it special was the personalized travel guide the host provided — way more detailed and practical than anything we found online. Every recommendation, from restaurants to attractions, turned out to be spot-on and unforgettable. And the host? Super friendly, responsive, and genuinely helpful throughout our stay. It felt less like renting a place and more like staying with a local friend who genuinely wants you to enjoy your trip. No matter how many times I come back to Kota Kinabalu, this will definitely be my first choice. A top-tier experience in every way — highly recommended!
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!
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.
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