A calm sea with a boat anchored near a small island.

Find Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Kota Kinabalu Cheap Hotels

Tonight
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Tomorrow
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Next weekend
14 Aug - 16 Aug
In two weeks
21 Aug - 23 Aug

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

1. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Singapore
KIAN HEONG
AED 214
AED 279 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sep - 5 Sep
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

2. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Ines
AED 317
AED 351 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sep - 5 Sep
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

3. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Claire
AED 122
AED 141 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

4. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Kingsley
AED 357
AED 394 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

5. Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Canada
Donna
AED 130
AED 140 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

6. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Leila
AED 332
AED 368 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sep - 5 Sep
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

7. Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Canada
Tamara
AED 144
AED 165 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Mandarin Hotel

8. Qlio Hotel

Qlio Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Malaysia
Myona
AED 102
AED 119 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
Qlio Hotel

9. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United States
Raul Miguel
AED 295
AED 327 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sep - 5 Sep
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

10. Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Brittany
AED 77
AED 101 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Hotel Gaia 95
View all properties

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Discover cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital of Sabah, offers a paradise of budget-friendly activities that will delight quality-seeking travelers. Begin your adventure at the stunning Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where you can take a short, affordable boat ride to explore beautiful islands like Manukan and Sapi, perfect for snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs. For a taste of local culture, visit the bustling Pasar Besar Kota Kinabalu, where you can wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce and local handicrafts, and savor delicious street food without breaking the bank. A trek up to Signal Hill provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding islands, and it’s free! Don’t miss the chance to explore the lush trails of the Kinabalu National Park, where you can enjoy both easy hikes and stunning flora and fauna at no cost. For accommodation, consider staying in the lively area of Gaya Street, where you’ll find a range of affordable hotels and boutique guesthouses. This area not only offers close nearby the bustling Sunday market but also creates an opportunity to experience the local community, with its friendly atmosphere and diverse dining options. With attentive service and comfortable lodging, Gaya Street is the perfect base for your Kota Kinabalu adventure.

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Travelers looking for affordable accommodations in Kota Kinabalu will find these top budget hotels to be excellent choices. Each offers essential amenities and great service without breaking the bank.Signel Hostel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Signel Hostel is a top-rated budget option in Kota Kinabalu, achieving an impressive review rating of 10.0. This hostel provides essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, making it a great base for travelers looking to explore the city without overspending.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include shared refrigerator and kitchenette facilities, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. The hostel also offers terrace access for relaxation, along with nearby street parking for convenience, ensuring a comfortable and budget-friendly experience.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.6 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.66 miles, Kompleks Asia City - 0.51 miles

Hotel 17

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Hotel 17 is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort and convenience in downtown Kota Kinabalu, a solid review rating of 8.0. Guests enjoy complimentary daily newspapers, free Wi-Fi, and toiletries, ensuring a pleasant stay without the extra costs.
  • Other amenities: In addition to budget amenities, Hotel 17 offers daily housekeeping for added convenience. The hotel features premium bedding and air conditioning to enhance guest comfort, while the concierge is always available to assist with local inquiries and recommendations.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.36 miles, Anjung Samudera - 0.75 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 0.62 miles

KK Times Square Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: KK Times Square Hotel is a fantastic option for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations with a rating of 8.0. The hotel provides a range of complimentary services, including 24-hour airport shuttle, free Wi-Fi, and daily newspapers, making it an excellent base for exploring Kota Kinabalu.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a room service option for convenient dining, as well as various transportation services such as area shuttle and airport transportation. Guests can also take advantage of self-parking and air conditioning for a comfortable stay.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Imago Shopping Mall - 0.82 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.99 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.28 miles

Homesuite’ Home @ Riverson SOHO

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Homesuite’ Home @ Riverson SOHO is an excellent choice for budget travelers seeking a bit more space and facilities, with a review rating of 8.0. The hotel offers essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour airport shuttle, ensuring a straightforward stay for guests.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the basics, this hotel features an outdoor pool and spa services, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring. Guests can enjoy self-parking, access to a fully equipped kitchen, and a furnished balcony with sea views, enhancing the overall experience.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Imago Shopping Mall - 0.76 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 1.16 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.25 miles

Seaview Capsule Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Seaview Capsule Hotel offers a unique budget experience for travelers in downtown Kota Kinabalu, with a review rating of 6.0. Guests appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, perfect for starting the day right without any added expenses.
  • Other amenities: The hotel boasts a prime location near the ocean and a shopping center, for added convenience for travelers. Additional amenities include self-parking, air conditioning, and a waterfront location, making it easy for travelers to enjoy the beauty of Kota Kinabalu.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.29 miles, Centre Point - 0.35 miles, Anjung Samudera - 0.4 miles

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel location is fantastic. We had a sea facing room and had a wonderful view of the ocean and mountains in the background, as well as fishing boats. The gym is also well equipped - multiple stationary bikes, treadmills, exercise machines. The only down side is that there is a strong odor of cigarettes in there all the time. May be due to bad air circulation in that room. There is also a nice outdoor pool. The breakfast buffet was very good, with lots of local and western choices. Hotel staff are wonderful, very helpful, polite and customer focused."
Merkna 2-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel for the price. Clean and staff were very welcoming. Plus, a great area with shops and restaurants."
Christopher 5-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Grandis Hotel
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

8/10 Good
"Great location , rooms were spacious but very dated property needing updating . Carpets were stained . Buffet was very good with a good selection of local cuisine."
Kingsley 2-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Gym was in a separate building which was a little bit of a pain and yoga sessions were further still which wasn’t great"
Jyoti 3-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
The Magellan Sutera Resort
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

10/10 Excellent
"I would say this resort has plenty of activities and amenities which is very convenient. Peaceful resort with a beautiful beach right in front of me. I wish the food selection and taste could be improved."
Madihah 2-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Frequently asked questions

What is Kota Kinabalu like for travelers on a budget?
Kota Kinabalu has a variety of cheap accommodations and places to visit, making it a great vacation choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions like Centre Point, KK Plaza, and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveler reviews, Signel Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good choices for your budget-friendly stay include Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu and TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Hostel.
How many low cost hotels will I be able to find in Kota Kinabalu?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet among Expedia's 18 budget hotels in Kota Kinabalu.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Kota Kinabalu?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Kota Kinabalu, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually May and June with an average temp of 82°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 80°F. The rainiest months in Kota Kinabalu are January, November, December, and October, with each month seeing an average of 10 inches of rainfall.
What is there to see and do in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu attracts visitors with its major shopping area and island views, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then make time for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. Check out the area's cultural spots like Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Centre Point.
How can I get to Kota Kinabalu and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Kota Kinabalu can help keep you on budget. The closest airport is 4 mi (6.5 km) away from the center in Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI). To see more of the surrounding area, hop aboard a train at Tanjung Aru Station or Putatan Station. You can find out about your water travel options at the marina.