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Here is a quick list of Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu, selected based on their rating
| Name of hotel | Accommodation Rating | Price, $ | |
| Valley Hotel |
7.0 / 10 (185 Reviews) |
From 19$ | |
| C'Haya Hotel |
8.2 / 10 (1739 Reviews) |
From 34$ | |
| Comfort Hotel |
5.9 / 10 (38 Reviews) |
From 30$ | |
| Walk In Hotel |
8.4 / 10 (136 Reviews) |
From 29$ | |
| Mandarin Hotel Kota Kinabalu |
8.4 / 10 (373 Reviews) |
From 31$ |
Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital of Sabah, Malaysia, offers a plethora of experiences without breaking the bank. For families on a budget, finding affordable accommodations can be a daunting task, but fear not! You can enjoy comfort and convenience without draining your wallet. In this bustling city, you'll discover a variety of economical hotels, each with its unique charm and amenities that make them perfect for those traveling with loved ones.
Imagine waking up in a spacious room where your family can stretch out comfortably after a long day of exploring the beautiful beaches and lush jungles of Borneo. The best low-cost hotels in Kota Kinabalu strike just the right balance between affordability and quality. With attentive staff, essential amenities, and excellent locations, these establishments provide a practical base for your adventures while ensuring that there’s enough left in your budget for activities and local delicacies.
From cozy lodgings in the heart of the city to family-friendly inns with pools and recreational areas, each option has something special to offer. You won’t have to compromise on comfort, as many cheap accommodations cater specifically to families, featuring spacious rooms, kid-friendly services, and easy access to local attractions. These places make it simple to enjoy both leisure and convenience, allowing parents to unwind while their children have fun.
As you dive into the realm of budget-friendly stays in Kota Kinabalu, you'll find that saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences. With careful planning and insightful choices, families can cherish quality time together without the stress of high expenses. Let’s explore the top options that will help make your getaway memorable, enjoyable, and, most importantly, wallet-friendly!
Best Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
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Valley Hotel
From 19$
Located about a 25-minute walk from Wisma Merdeka Shopping Centre, Valley Hotel Kota Kinabalu includes 31 rooms. The hotel provides 24-hour security to ensure guests' safety.
You'll need 15-minute drive to Kota Kinabalu International airport. Atkinson Clock Tower can be reached within a few blocks of this 2-star hotel.
There is Handicraft Market 2.5 km away, and Minivan to Ranau & Kinabalu NP bus station is just 450 m from the property.
Comprising a seating area, the rooms at Valley Hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Bathrooms with a bidet, a shower, and a toilet, also feature hairdryers and towels for guests' extra comfort.
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C'Haya Hotel
From 34$
The smoke-free C'Haya Hotel Kota Kinabalu, located in the Tanjung Aru district of Kota Kinabalu, 2.7 km from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village, offers cars for rent. The 3-star hotel has views of the city and features Wi-Fi throughout the property.
This chic hotel has a prime location not far from Perdana Park. Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort is about 10 minutes by car from the property, while SM Stella Maris bus stop is about 5 minutes' walk away.
The rooms at the cosy C'Haya Hotel include an ironing set, air conditioning, and a washing machine. Some of them comprise a sitting area and a dining area, furnished with a writing table. They come equipped with a minibar for self-catering along with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels for business and leisure. Offering amenities such as bath sheets and slippers, the bathrooms also feature a separate toilet.
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Comfort Hotel
From 30$
The 2-star Comfort Hotel Kota Kinabalu, located within 4 km of Monsopiad Cultural Village, offers guests a storage room and a restaurant. A 24-hour front desk and wake-up calls are also provided at this Kota Kinabalu hotel.
You'll need 5-minute drive to Kota Kinabalu International airport. Sabah Art Gallery in Kota Kinabalu is around a 15-minute ride from the hotel.
Bukit Kopungit is 4.5 km away, while North Borneo is situated 4.6 km from the accommodation.
Offering a flat screen TV, the 33 rooms come with ironing equipment to ensure a comfortable stay. A bidet, a shower, and a toilet, along with hair dryers and free toiletries, are provided. Guests can also enjoy views of the city.
Good Cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of good, budget-friendly accommodations that cater to travelers seeking comfort without breaking the bank. These hotels typically provide a clean and cozy atmosphere, allowing guests to relax after a day of exploration. Well-situated near popular attractions, they often feature knowledgeable staff ready to assist with local tips and recommendations. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family on a getaway, these affordable options ensure that you can enjoy a pleasant stay while keeping your expenses in check. With competitive pricing and a welcoming ambiance, you'll find that good cheap hotels in this vibrant destination make it easy to experience the essence of the area without overspending.
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Walk In Hotel
From 29$
Located 2.3 km from Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre Marine Sanctuary, the 2-star Walk In Hotel Kota Kinabalu offers Wi-Fi in public areas and parking. Local landmarks including Centre Point and Pasar Malam Sinsuran can be found within a walking distance.
You'll need 10-minute drive to Kota Kinabalu International airport. Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is in close proximity to the hotel, while airport T1 bus stop is approximately 400 metres away.
This Kota Kinabalu hotel is located 15 minutes on foot from Signal Hill Observatory Platform.
The 25 rooms at the accommodation are equipped with comforts such as ironing equipment, as well as a flat-screen television. They offer bathrooms fitted with a bidet, a shower, and a toilet along with hairdryers and bathrobes.
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Mandarin Hotel Kota Kinabalu
From 31$
The 3-star Mandarin Hotel Kota Kinabalu, located in the Downtown Kota Kinabalu district, 19 minutes' walk from Gaya Street Sunday Market, offers cars for rent. This perfect hotel provides guests with Wi-Fi throughout the property.
You'll need 15-minute drive to Kota Kinabalu International airport. Sunday Market can be reached only 1.6 km from the hotel.
Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre Marine Sanctuary is around 10 minutes away by car, while North Borneo is situated 10 minutes by car from this accommodation.
The 81 rooms at this Kota Kinabalu hotel are equipped with comforts such as climate control, as well as a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The bathrooms come with a bidet, a separate toilet, and a shower, along with hairdryers and bath sheets. Guests can take advantage of views of the city.
Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
| Most comfortable Hotel 🛏️ | Valley Hotel |
| Hotel with a view 🔍 | C'Haya Hotel |
| Best Price Hotel 🤑 | Comfort Hotel |
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Tang Dynasty Park Hotel
From 26$
Tang Dynasty Park Hotel Kota Kinabalu, located in the central district of Kota Kinabalu, also stands about 3 km from Signal Hill Observatory Platform and provides guided tour service for better sightseeing. Boasting a location not far from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village, this 3-star hotel features 190 rooms as well as a luggage room and a shopping area.
Situated in a prime touristic area of Kota Kinabalu, the hotel is within easy reach of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Pusat Sains Dan Teknologi is only an 8-minute walk from the Tang in Kota Kinabalu.
There is Kota Kinabalu City Mosque 2.9 km from this accommodation.
The hotel offers rooms with a seating area featuring an iron and climate control, along with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Guests can also make use of a separate toilet and a shower, as well as comforts such as hair dryers and shower caps.
Cheap Hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations that cater to travelers looking for economical options without sacrificing convenience. These cheap hotels provide a practical base for exploring the local attractions, dining, and entertainment options, making them ideal for both backpackers and families alike. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay in clean, cozy environments, with the opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and lifestyle of the area. Additionally, the central location of these hotels allows easy access to public transportation and popular landmarks, enhancing the overall travel experience.
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Casuarina Hotel
From 21$
The fantastic 2-star Casuarina Hotel Kota Kinabalu is situated around 5 minutes on foot from Tanjung Aru Beach 2 and provides shuttle service, along with cars for rent. Boasting a patio, various recreational opportunities, and a garden, the smoke-free hotel is in close proximity to Perdana Park in the Pantai Tanjung Aru district.
This Kota Kinabalu hotel boasts a prime location 2.4 km from North Borneo train station, just 400 metres from Tanjung Aru Beach. Taman Ujana Rimba Tropika is also located approximately a 10-minute ride from the Casuarina Kota Kinabalu.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Tanjung Aru Beach, which is merely 0.6 km away. Mamutik Island is also situated nearly a 15-minute drive away.
The Casuarina has 44 rooms, comprising a seating area. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, along with a mini fridge bar and coffee/tea making equipment, are offered. Ironing facilities and air conditioning are featured for guests' comfort.
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Cathay Hotel
From 22$
Featuring Wi-Fi in public areas, Cathay Hotel Kota Kinabalu sits 16 minutes' walk from Gaya Street Sunday Market. A warm atmosphere and flawless services make this hotel a great place to stay in Kota Kinabalu.
Located 6 km from North Borneo railway station, the 2-star hotel stands within reach of Central Market. Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is an 18-minute walk away, and there is Handicraft Market nearby.
This property is also just 1.6 km from IMAGO Shopping Mall.
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Borneo Inn
From 21$
Featuring Wi-Fi in public areas, the 2-star Borneo Inn Kota Kinabalu sits 10 minutes' drive from Monsopiad Heritage Village. The hotel entices guests with parking, available on site.
This affordable hotel is conveniently situated 6 km from Atkinson Clock Tower. The property is also 15 minutes by car from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village in Kota Kinabalu.
Borneo Inn welcomes guests to 22 rooms complete with a television, as well as comforts like climate control. Bathrooms feature a bidet, a shower, and a toilet along with free toiletries and towels.
Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu with Free Parking
When searching for budget-friendly accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, travelers will find a variety of affordable hotels that offer the convenience of free parking. These options cater to visitors looking to explore the area without the added stress of parking fees. With reasonable rates, guests can enjoy their stay without breaking the bank, making it an ideal choice for both short and extended visits. The availability of complimentary parking enables ease of access for those traveling by car, allowing for greater flexibility to discover local attractions and natural wonders at their own pace. Overall, these economical lodging options provide excellent value for money while ensuring a hassle-free experience.
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Howard Johnson By Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre, Formerly Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu
From 29$
Offering a lobby area and a luggage room, the smoke-free Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu lies in the business district of Kota Kinabalu, only 1.2 km from I Love KK and just a 12-minute walk from Sunday Market. This comfortable hotel is located not far from Atkinson Clock Tower and welcomes its guests to use a shared lounge and various recreational opportunities or to enjoy halal cuisine in the onsite Asian restaurant.
Nestled in the very heart of Kota Kinabalu, the 3-star Shangri-La is also 500 metres from Sabah State Mosque. From the hotel it will take 16 minutes to walk to Signal Hill Observatory Platform.
Hotel Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu has 187 rooms with a sitting area. Free wireless internet and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels along with a minibar fridge, tea and coffee making equipment are provided. Bathrooms, equipped with a separate toilet and a shower, also feature a hairdryer and toiletries. Guests can enjoy views of the hills from this modern hotel.
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Seaview Capsule Hotel
From 11$
Offering cars for rent, as well as Wi-Fi in public areas, the smoke-free Seaview Capsule Hotel Kota Kinabalu is 2.5 km from Gaya Street Sunday Market. Featuring a storage room, this 2-star hotel is located in close proximity to Mamutik Island.
The hotel lies in the business district of Kota Kinabalu with easy access to Weston Wetland Park, which is about 5 minutes' walk away. Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre Marine Sanctuary is 2.3 km from the comfortable property, while Kk03 bus stop is 150 metres away.
Atkinson Clock Tower is 2.6 km away, while North Borneo is situated 10 minutes' drive from this Kota Kinabalu hotel.
For your comfort, you will find climate control along with coffee and tea makers in each of the 35 rooms. Bathroom comforts include hair dryers and slippers, and such essentials as an additional toilet and a shower. Guests can also enjoy sea views.
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Hotel Tourist City Centre By Hotspot Essential
From 26$
Offering baggage storage, the fantastic 2-star Hotel Tourist City Centre By Hotspot Essential Kota Kinabalu lies in a central area, 2.3 km from Central Market and approximately 10 minutes' drive from Warisan Square. Situated 10 km from Kota Kinabalu International airport, the hotel features car hire service, as well as cars for rent.
This Kota Kinabalu hotel has a central setting 2.4 km from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village. At the Tourist Kota Kinabalu, guests will be within a few blocks of Likas Bay.
Offering a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, the 21 rooms come with air conditioning to ensure a comfortable stay. Furnished with a writing table, they also have sound-proofed windows. Bathrooms include a bidet and a separate toilet, along with comforts such as hairdryers and toiletries.
Family Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Family cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer budget-friendly accommodations that cater to travelers looking for a comfortable place to stay without breaking the bank. These options typically prioritize family-friendly environments, ensuring that guests of all ages feel welcome and at ease during their visit. With an emphasis on affordability, these hotels often provide essential services to meet the needs of families, allowing them to enjoy their trip while keeping expenses in check. The convenient locations of these establishments make it easy for families to explore nearby attractions, creating an ideal base for memorable adventures together.
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Switz Paradise Hotel - 5 Minute Walk To Centre Point And 10 Minute Walk To Waterfront-
From 11$
Offering cars for rent, the 2-star Switz Paradise Hotel - 5 Minute Walk To Centre Point And 10 Minute Walk To Waterfront- Kota Kinabalu is 2.5 km from Atkinson Clock Tower. Featuring a storage room, the hotel is located in the vicinity of Handicraft Market.
This Kota Kinabalu hotel in the Downtown Kota Kinabalu district, about a 25-minute walk from Sabah State Mosque. Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village is just around the corner from the accommodation, while airport T1 bus stop is approximately 400 metres away.
The 120 rooms at Switz Paradise Hotel - 5 Minute Walk To Centre Point And 10 Minute Walk To Waterfront- are equipped with comforts such as an air conditioner, as well as free wireless internet and cable channels. Guests can take advantage of a bidet, a separate toilet, and a shower, along with complimentary toiletries and bath sheets supplied in the bathrooms.
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Toojou Kota Kinabalu
From 13$
Offering a shared lounge and recreational facilities, as well as the views of the city, the 2-star Toojou Kota Kinabalu Hotel is located about 25 minutes' walk from Gaya Street Sunday Market. Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property, and a vending machine and a tour desk are also available on site.
The hotel is perfectly situated in proximity to IMAGO Shopping Mall. Atkinson Clock Tower is around 2 km from this hotel and Kota Kinabalu International airport is 10 km away.
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Cj Residence - Opposite Public Bank Centre Point
From 34$
Featuring air-conditioned rooms and an Asian restaurant, the 3-star Cj Residence - Opposite Public Bank Centre Point Kota Kinabalu hotel is approximately 25 minutes' walk from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village. Located just moments from Warisan Square, this Kota Kinabalu hotel offers a restaurant and a barber shop, and comforts such as an ATM and currency exchange.
You'll need 10-minute drive to Kota Kinabalu International airport. Mamutik Island is around 500 metres from the Cj Residence - Opposite Public Bank Centre Point Kota Kinabalu, which is also situated about 550 metres from KK Esplanade.
There is the Sizable Tanjung Aru Sandy Beach 4.5 km away, and West bus station is within reach of the hotel.
You can choose from one of the 102 smoke-free rooms with a television, and self-catering amenities like a kettle. Bathroom amenities include a bidet, a shower, and a toilet, as well as comforts such as hair dryers and bathrobes. Enjoy views of the city, while staying at the accommodation.
Pet-Friendly Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of pet-friendly hotels that cater to budget-conscious travelers looking to bring their furry companions along for the journey. These accommodations prioritize comfort for both guests and their pets, often featuring welcoming policies that embrace four-legged friends. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of affordable lodging options that not only provide a cozy stay but also allow for exploring the surrounding areas with pets in tow. Such hotels typically focus on creating a friendly atmosphere, making it easy for guests to find suitable spaces for relaxation and exploration without breaking the bank. Whether embarking on a city adventure or enjoying natural surroundings, pet owners can find satisfying options for a memorable stay in Kota Kinabalu.
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Flypod Hotel
From 31$
Featuring car rentals, as well as Wi-Fi throughout the property, the 3-star Flypod Hotel Kota Kinabalu is about 25 minutes' walk from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village. The hotel serves Asian dishes prepared in the Asian restaurant on site.
Located 2.5 km from Tanjung Aru Beach, this Kota Kinabalu hotel is also not far from North Borneo railway station. From the accommodation it will take approximately 30 minutes to walk to Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort.
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Tang Dynasty Bay Hotel
From 27$
Featuring a lift and complimentary newspapers, the fantastic Tang Dynasty Bay Hotel Kota Kinabalu is 3.8 km from Marine Aquarium and Museum. Highlights at this 2-star hotel include Wi-Fi in public areas.
Located about 10 minutes' drive from Surau Al-Jannah @ taman Sepanggar, the hotel is also about 40 minutes' drive from North Borneo railway station. The property is within a few blocks of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.
This Kota Kinabalu hotel is 4.6 km from UMS Mosque.
The Tang Dynasty Kota Kinabalu has 110 rooms with a sitting area. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels along with tea and coffee making facilities are provided. Bathrooms with a separate toilet and a shower, also include a hairdryer and towels.
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Kinabalu Daya Hotel At Gaya Street
From 24$
Located only 1.3 km from Central Market, the perfect 3-star Kinabalu Daya Hotel Kota Kinabalu offers general facilities such as currency exchange and a lift. The smoke-free hotel is nestled right in the centre of an entertainment area and offers an Asian restaurant.
Situated nearly a 10-minute drive from Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village, this Kota Kinabalu hotel is in proximity to Marlin Statue. The accommodation is 2 km away from the centre of Kota Kinabalu.
The smoke-free rooms at Kinabalu Daya Hotel are fitted with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable channels, some of them feature soundproof windows. Guests can make use of an iron with ironing board and climate control along with coffee and tea making facilities. Offering such amenities as hairdryers and complimentary toiletries, the bathrooms also include a bidet, a separate toilet, and a shower. The rooms also face the city.
Cheap Weekly Hotels in Kota Kinabalu
Cheap weekly hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer budget-conscious travelers an excellent opportunity to explore the region without breaking the bank. These accommodations typically provide convenient locations that allow guests easy access to local attractions, dining, and cultural experiences. With a focus on affordability, these hotels cater to both short and long-term stays, making them an ideal option for those looking to settle in for a week or more. The inviting atmosphere and friendly service create a welcoming environment for visitors, ensuring a comfortable experience while they enjoy all that the area has to offer.
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Kk Times Square Hotel
From 35$
Kk Times Square Hotel Kota Kinabalu features 46 rooms and lies an 18-minute walk from I Love KK. This comfortable hotel offers Wi-Fi throughout the property.
The hotel is located 150 metres from KK Times Square, 3.9 km from North Borneo train station. Take advantage of the closeness to Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village, which is 2.4 km away.
This accommodation is also within easy reach of Signal Hill Observatory Platform and KK Sentral - Sipitang Express to Brunei bus station is 5 minutes' walk away.
Some rooms include ironing facilities and air conditioning, as well as tea and coffee making equipment for guests' utmost comfort. They have a comfortable interior. A bidet and a separate toilet, along with such comforts as hairdryers and bath sheets, are also provided.
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Manja Hotel
From 25$
The comfortable Manja Hotel Kota Kinabalu is around 20 minutes' walk from Pasar Malam Sinsuran and offers tour/ticket assistance, as well as cars for rent. Situated in the immediate vicinity of IMAGO Shopping Mall, this 2-star hotel features an Asian restaurant serving halal cuisine.
KK Times Square is located just near the hotel, and Kota Kinabalu International airport is approximately a 10-minute drive away. Sunday Market is 2.1 km from the accommodation in Kota Kinabalu.
There is Jesselton Point Marina nearly 25 minutes' walk away, while KK Sentral - Sipitang Express to Brunei bus station is in close proximity to this Kota Kinabalu hotel.
Overlooking the city, the 10 rooms are appointed with an iron with ironing board and air conditioning, as well as modern facilities such as complimentary wireless internet and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. A separate toilet and a shower, along with such comforts as hair dryers and free toiletries are also at guests' disposal.
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Unikarya Lodge
From 63$
The 2-star Unikarya Lodge Kota Kinabalu hotel is located 2.9 km from Sabah Art Gallery and features a 24-hour front desk and wake-up service. There is baggage storage available on the premises.
You'll need 10-minute drive to Kota Kinabalu International airport. Sabah State Mosque is also approximately 10 minutes by car from the hotel.
Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village is 3.4 km away, while North Borneo is situated within an 8-km distance of this Kota Kinabalu hotel.
There are 12 rooms at Unikarya Lodge hotel, each of them has climate control, as well as entertainment amenities such as a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The bathrooms come with a separate toilet and a shower, along with a hair dryer and toiletries.