Planning a visit to Kota Kinabalu or just touched down in Sabah? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this guide is packed with the best experiences to enjoy in and around KK—from cultural gems to natural wonders, culinary treats to relaxing escapes.

At Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency, we’re proud to be one of Kota Kinabalu’s most trusted travel providers, licensed and locally based in the heart of the city. We love helping visitors explore Sabah in a meaningful and personalised way, whether you’re joining us for a one-day excursion, a bespoke private tour, or a once-in-a-lifetime Mount Kinabalu climb.

We’ve brought together 20 of our favourite experiences in KK—click through for more detail on each, and remember: we can help you combine these into a complete itinerary tailored to your style of travel.

Take the 'Heritage Walk'

Walk through KK’s layered history on a guided stroll past the Atkinson Clock Tower, Padang Merdeka and beyond. A great way for the first-time visitor to KK to orientate themselves and learn about KK and Sabah’s history Read more »

The Heritage Walk starts at the Sabah Tourism Board office

Relax on the North Borneo Sunset Cruise

Watch the sun dip behind the islands accompanied by live music and a sea breeze. Speak to Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency about securing the best seats. Cruise details »

Sample local cuisine

From fresh seafood to street satay, food in KK is unforgettable and It’s a passion of all the Blue Kinabalu team; we love to take our guests to the best, authentic local restaurants loved by Sabahans in and around KK! Local food guide »

Haggle at the Sunday Morning Market

Held in Gaya Street, this bustling market is a must for local crafts and products. We’ll make sure you’re dropped off closest to the action and our knowledgeable local Tour Guides will guide you to the best stalls and provide haggling tips! Market tips »

Kota Kinabalu Gaya Street Sunday Morning Market

Visit the Sabah State Museum

Learn about Sabah’s diverse cultures, colonial history and tribal traditions. Our guests are always impressed by the variety of exhibits and how well it captures the essence of Sabah. Our great Local Guides will provide extra context and information. Museum blog »

Traditional Bajau dress in the Sabah Museum in Kota Kinabalu

Stroll up to the Atkinson Clock Tower

A slice of British North Borneo history with panoramic city views. Currently closed for renovation but on a Blue Kinabalu KK city tour we’ll make sure guests can still see this historic and impressive structure. More info »

View KK from the Signal Hill Observatory Tower

Capture the postcard-perfect view over the city and sea. Get directions »

There are 267 steps to climb on Signal Hill in Kota Kinabalu

Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village

Step inside longhouses and a fun learn about the culture of five of Sabah’s indigenous groups. Blue Kinabalu continue to receive excellent feedback about Mari Mari Cultural Village from the parents of young kids through to seniors - let us guide you there Cultural visit »

Visit ‘Likas Floating Mosque’

A serene and photogenic site, reflecting beautifully on the lagoon. A very popular location that our guests always enjoy visiting. More information »

Try Durian

It’s smelly, spiky and controversial—do you dare? Blue Kinabalu Travel will guide you to the best durian stalls in town and whatever you make of the fruit you’ll have a wonderful story to tell back home! Tasting notes »

Ripe and read to eat durians in Kota Kinabalu!

Visit Sabah Art Gallery

Modern and traditional art in a beautifully designed space. Visit guide »

Sabah Art Gallery showcases local Kota Kinabalu talent

Admire the architecture of Yayasan Sabah

A rare cylindrical skyscraper and iconic KK landmark. Another must-see on Blue Kinabalu’s City Tour Yayasan Sabah was once the highest on the whole island of Borneo. Architecture fans »

Enjoy the sunset at Tanjung Aru

Possibly the most famous sunset in Borneo. Bring a picnic or let Blue Kinabalu guide you to the very best street food stalls on the beach! Sunset scenes »

Explore the waterside markets

Fish / Veggie / Fruits / Local Snacks and Handicrafts - it’s all here and a totally authentic experience that Blue Kinabalu Tour Guides love to share with our guests. A glimpse inside »

Visit Kionsom Waterfall

Cool off just outside the city in a lush rainforest setting. Kionsom Waterfall is one of KK’s hidden gems - request Blue Kinabalu Travel to add to your Mari Mari Cultural Village tour. Get there with us »

Taste delicious Sabah chocolate at Cocoa Kingdom

Chocolate lovers rejoice—taste locally grown, handmade treats. This is authentic Sabah chocolate made from cocoa harvested predominantly in theTawau area - request Blue Kinabalu to include Cocoa Kingdom as part if your KK city tour Sweet treats »

Relax on a Pulau

Island-hop to Maunkan & Manutik for Sea Walking, Parasailing and other fun water sports. Whether your priority is Island Hopping, Island exploration, visiting the famous “Survivor Island”, Water Sports, Diving, Wreck Diving, Discover Scuba Dive or simply relaxation away from the crowds let Blue Kinabalu suggest the best package for you Island advice »

Sip something cool at The Waterfront

A sunset / evening hub with ocean views, bars, and fresh seafood. A super location to see the sunset, the Blue Kinabalu office is just a four minute walk away so make sure you come in and say hello! Evening plan »

Visit Pu Tuo Si Buddhist Temple

A peaceful hilltop temple with stunning views and calming atmosphere. Pu Tuo Si Buddhist Temple is another location we love to take Blue Kinabalu guests to. See more »

Pu Tuo Si Buddhist Temple in Kota Kinabalu

Shop for Local Products

From Sabah tea and coffee to handicrafts family and friends will love the slice of Borneo. Let Blue Kinabalu’s team provide suggestions of the best local products to take back home to gift and delight family, friends and colleagues! Gift guide »

Sabah Tea is a super and authentic gift from Sabah

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Kota Kinabalu

At Blue Kinabalu, we go beyond a checklist. We build memories. Whether you want to climb mountains, relax on islands, or discover Sabah’s rich cultural mosaic—we’re ready to help. Start with this blog and let us create the adventure of a lifetime.

We specialise in helping guests experience the real Sabah—not just the main sights, but the stories, people and hidden corners too. Whether you want a laid-back island break or an adventurous mix of rainforest trekking, wildlife encounters and cultural discovery, please contact Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency so we can design your perfect trip.

About Martin

I am a British expat living in Kota Kinabalu who arranges tailored tours within Sabah at Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency. Contact me if you have any questions about Sabah, I'll be happy to help plan your next adventure!

Top 20 fun things to do in Kota Kinabalu!