The Best Hotels Closest to Kota Kinabalu Esplanade in Kota Kinabalu for 2026

A crowded riverside dining area with tables and chairs, string lights, and flags.

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu Esplanade hotels

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a desk with a chair, and a window with a view of buildings.

A street with buildings, cars, and a sign for a health care laboratory.

Two pairs of grey socks in plastic packaging on a tan leather surface.

A modern bathroom with a glass-enclosed shower, a toilet, and a sink with a mirror above it.

1. CJ Residence

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.5 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Kunthea

₩36,689

₩42,913 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A hotel room with a neatly made bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a view of the city through the window.

A minibar setup with a selection of beverages, a coffee machine, and a small shelf with decorative flowers.

A shower with a handheld showerhead and a wall-mounted control panel.

A hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent sign for 'City Express' and a visible 'KINABALU SPORTS' sign.

2. A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Kampung Air, 0.6 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Imran

₩55,494

₩63,223 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A spacious bedroom with a large bed, a sitting area, and a view of the outdoors through large windows.

A hallway with a wooden door, a mirror, and a chandelier.

A balcony with a glass railing overlooking a road and greenery.

A modern bathroom with a large mirror, a bathtub, and a view of a parking lot through a glass door.

3. Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.8 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Heidi

₩78,608

₩84,908 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 29 - Oct 30

A hotel room with a bed, a window with a view of a cityscape, a wooden door, and a wall-mounted coat rack.

A compact minibar with a coffee maker, a glass, and a vase with flowers.

A hotel room with a large window, a clear view of the cityscape, a vase with flowers, and a table with a menu.

Two white towels with embroidered text and decorative flowers.

4. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Kampung Air, 0.4 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Zhen

₩36,689

₩42,913 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 19 - Oct 20

A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, large chandeliers, and a seating area.

A modern bar area with a long counter, bar stools, and a television mounted on the wall.

A buffet with various food options, a counter with plates, and a modern interior design.

A beach scene with a couple embracing, a clear sky, and calm sea.

5. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.7 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Genya

₩64,784

₩86,112 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 30 - Oct 31

A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a wardrobe, and a window with a city view.

A hallway with marble walls, wooden doors, and chandeliers.

A hotel bathroom with a vanity, a mirror, a shower area, and a door.

6. ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.7 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Yuta

₩44,324

₩51,159 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 21 - Oct 22

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by a modern building with large windows.

A modern hotel lobby with a marble floor, a wooden bench, a glass railing, and a decorative wall piece.

A modern interior with three arched windows, leather seating, and a central table.

A spacious lobby with a large chandelier, seating areas, and a patterned carpet.

7. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Kampung Air, 0.6 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Michaela

₩107,865

₩119,783 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 6 - Nov 7

A modern interior with a spiral staircase, a kitchen area, and a dining space.

An indoor swimming pool with a clear view of the water, surrounded by a modern architectural design with vertical wooden slats and a glass barrier.

A person standing by a window with arms raised, overlooking a lush green landscape and distant mountains.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, and a balcony with a city view.

8. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.7 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

MRS

₩136,804

₩151,037 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 22 - Oct 23

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand, a mirror, and a window with a view of the interior.

A hotel hallway with a marble floor, wooden doors, and a chandelier.

A street view with a building featuring a restaurant named 'Mint' and a pharmacy.

A compact kitchen with a built-in refrigerator, a microwave, and a small oven.

9. AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Kampung Air, 0.6 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Ganesh

₩44,974

₩51,861 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A buffet with various food items and a view of the sea.

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, and a chair. There is a view of the sea through large windows.

A terrace with tables and chairs, overlooking a body of water with a sunset.

A modern hotel room with a curved ceiling, a large window offering a view of the sea, two green armchairs, a wooden coffee table, and a chandelier.

10. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.4 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Sri Ganesh

₩121,690

₩134,714 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 24 - Oct 25

A modern building with a glass facade, a pool area with a curved edge, and a view of the sunset over the water.

A modern gym with treadmills, stationary bikes, and exercise equipment. Large windows provide natural light and views of the outdoors.

A modern kitchen with a central island, stainless steel appliances, and wooden cabinetry.

A modern hotel lobby with a large sofa, armchairs, a coffee table, and a view of the sunset over the water.

11. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.7 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Thomas

₩92,079

₩102,734 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 16 - Oct 17

A calm water body with a paved walkway alongside.

A hotel room with a bed, a TV, and a balcony with a view of a building.

A hotel entrance with a modern design, featuring a large glass door and a wooden slatted facade above.

A modern living room with a grey sofa, a coffee table, a TV mounted on the wall, and a ceiling fan.

12. Borneo Coastal Residence - IMAGO Mall

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.8 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Ong

₩68,237

₩76,985 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 17 - Oct 18

A spacious lobby with modern seating arrangements, a large abstract wall art piece, and a view of the outdoors through large windows.

A modern building with a prominent sign reading "Sutera Bay."

A hotel room with three beds, a desk, a chair, and a TV.

A rooftop pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by modern buildings and a clear sky.

13. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

0.9 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Kevin

₩81,373

₩91,172 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 15 - Nov 16

A spacious restaurant with multiple tables and chairs, a buffet area, and large windows providing natural light.

A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, several receptionists, and a large potted plant.

A hotel room with a bed, a television, a desk with a computer, and a window with curtains.

A window with sheer curtains, a view of a body of water, and a distant hill.

14. The Klagan Hotel

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.3 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

John

₩65,212

₩80,239 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 16 - Oct 17

A modern interior with a central spiral slide, seating areas, and a neon sign.

A modern lounge area with sofas, chairs, and tables, featuring large windows and a ceiling with exposed ductwork.

A modern interior with green armchairs, a wooden table, and a staircase with a railing.

A modern living room with a sofa, a hanging chair, and a laptop on a table.

15. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social

Kampung Air, 0.9 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Kim

₩86,651

₩96,872 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A modern bathroom with a large bathtub, a shower, and a view of the cityscape and sea.

A modern living room with a sofa, a TV, a small table, and a dining area with chairs.

A modern hotel with a prominent 'Shore' sign, featuring a grid-like facade and a central entrance.

16. The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.8 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Yan Ting

₩46,763

₩74,912 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 15 - Nov 16

A balcony with a table and chairs, offering a view of the sea and distant land.

A person sitting in a clear blue infinity pool with a view of a distant island and a calm sea.

A spacious lobby with a modern chandelier, a reception desk, and a decorative wall.

A modern hotel with a waterfront view, featuring a large building with multiple floors and a parking area adjacent to the water.

17. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.1 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Savannah

₩134,502

₩148,551 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 17 - Oct 18

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sitting area with a bathtub, a large window with a view, and a wooden interior.

A view from a window with a glass of red wine and a magazine on a cushioned seat.

A hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent sign at the top and multiple floors with illuminated windows.

A swimming pool with metal railings, a wooden deck, and a view of buildings in the background.

18. Horizon Hotel

Downtown Kota Kinabalu, 0.9 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Michelle

₩72,782

₩85,915 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 22 - Oct 23

A rooftop terrace with potted plants and a view of the city skyline.

A modern hotel building with a glass facade, a white van parked in front, and a car parked to the side.

A hotel hallway with doors on both sides, numbered signs, and a carpeted floor.

A hotel room with two beds, a round mirror, and a wall with a wave design.

19. Oceania Hotel

0.9 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Jane

₩60,656

₩68,797 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 28 - Oct 29

A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a computer, a microwave, and a small refrigerator.

A modern hotel lobby with a white leather sofa, blue cushions, and framed artwork on the wall.

A modern hotel room with a sofa, a bed, a glass coffee table, and a ceiling light fixture.

A modern hotel room with a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, a compact kitchenette with a microwave, a small refrigerator, and a built-in oven.

20. HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

Kampung Air, 0.6 km from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Zachary

₩40,850

₩47,407 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 29 - Oct 30

View all properties

Compare popular hotels close to Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Property	Property class	Guest rating
CJ Residence	9.6 Exceptional 57 reviews	View
A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group	10.0 Exceptional 5 reviews	View
Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group	9.8 Exceptional 37 reviews	View
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group	9.6 Exceptional 100 reviews	View
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG	9.2 Wonderful 252 reviews	View

Top Kota Kinabalu Esplanade Hotel Reviews

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Room was very clean and maintained well by the service staff. Breakfast was reasonable and staff was friendly"

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent

"VERY NICE"

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent

"We stayed for one week and the room was very comfortable. The breakfast included was worth the extra fee. 24/7 Gym and laundry services available. Infinity pool was relaxing and has a great view of sea. Citadines is a popular meet up spot. We went on two tours and they picked us up right outside our hotel. There is a restaurant, massage spa, burger king, cafe and lemon tea shop in the same building."

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent

"Good location, very alert staff who demonstrated initiative in many small ways."

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent

"Great location - close to all amenities and the waterfront Great roof top pool although very overpriced food in the restaurants. Great staff Would definitely recommend"

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

10/10 Excellent

"The room was spotlessly clean and well maintained. There was even a nice little common hallway with extra toiletries and coffee/tea packets. The host provided a waterproof beach pouch which was exactly what I needed that day. The location is unbeatable. It's literally upstairs from the most amazing grilled seafood night market. 10/10. I will definitely book here again"

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent

"The pool area was lovely and the rooftop bar was fabulous. Friendly and helpful staff. Food by the pool was great."

The Klagan Hotel

8/10 Good

"Room is clean and comfortable. Staff are friendly and attentive to requests. Walking distance to Centrepoint shopping mall and Handicraft market."

Hotel 7 Suria

8/10 Good

"Located in the Suria mall"

Other attractions near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

A sunset with a dramatic sky and silhouettes of trees.

Oceanus Waterfront Mall

7.6/10 (15 reviews)

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Oceanus Waterfront Mall during your stay in Pusat Bandar. Check out the shops and seafood restaurants in this romantic area.

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A table with various dishes including shrimp, soup, and a lobster.

Kompleks Asia City

7.4/10 (41 reviews)

During your visit to Pusat Bandar, you can enjoy retail therapy at Kompleks Asia City. Amble around the area's marina or seek out the local tours.

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Anjung Samudera

7.6/10 (408 reviews)

During your visit to Pusat Bandar, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Anjung Samudera. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the local tours.

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Warisan Square

7.2/10 (44 reviews)

During your trip to Pusat Bandar, you can do some window-shopping at Warisan Square. Stroll along the marina or seek out the local tours.

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Centre Point

7.8/10 (402 reviews)

During your visit to Pusat Bandar, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Centre Point. Stroll along the marina or seek out the local tours.

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Local Fruits Market

8.4/10 (17 reviews)

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Local Fruits Market during your stay in Sinsuran Kompleks. Check out the shops and seafood restaurants in this romantic area.

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Anjung Kinabalu

You can do some window-shopping at Anjung Kinabalu during your visit to Pusat Bandar. Discover the beautiful sunsets and seafood restaurants in this family-friendly area.

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Plaza Wawasan

7.6/10 (4 reviews)

During your visit to Kota Kinabalu, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Plaza Wawasan. Stroll along the marina or seek out the local tours.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Kota Kinabalu Esplanade?

Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is located in Pusat Bandar. This family-friendly area is known for its beautiful island views and top seafood restaurants. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 356 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.

What's the best place to stay near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade?

Adjacent to Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers a full-service spa and 2 restaurants. Other good options within a short distance include Hyatt Regency Kinabalu and Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu.

How many hotels will I be able to find close to Kota Kinabalu Esplanade?

Expedia has 356 hotels and other accommodations within a mile from Kota Kinabalu Esplanade.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, will I receive a refund?

Yes, the majority of room reservations are fully refundable if cancelled prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might be able to cancel it and get a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Enter dates in and click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to get the top deals on offer near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade?

To access more information about picking new dates or cancelling your stay near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.

What can I see and do near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade?

Learn about local history at Atkinson Clock Tower and Koisaan Cultural Village. Enjoy the outdoors at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, or Kota Kinabalu Wetlands Centre. Create some family memories at Downbelow Adventure Centre and Aquascape Center.

Find hotels near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, Kota Kinabalu from ₩42,913

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Treat yourself

Be picky

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu Esplanade hotels

1. CJ Residence

2. A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

3. Ritz Residence - A Member of The Luxury Hotel Group

4. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

5. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

6. ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

7. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

8. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

9. AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

10. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

11. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

12. Borneo Coastal Residence - IMAGO Mall

13. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

14. The Klagan Hotel

15. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social

16. The Shore Kota Kinabalu by Five Senses

17. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

18. Horizon Hotel

19. Oceania Hotel

20. HotSpot at City Centre by SSVC

Compare popular hotels close to Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Top Kota Kinabalu Esplanade Hotel Reviews

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

The Klagan Hotel

Hotel 7 Suria

Other attractions near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade

Oceanus Waterfront Mall

Kompleks Asia City

Anjung Samudera

Warisan Square

Centre Point

Local Fruits Market

Anjung Kinabalu

Plaza Wawasan

Frequently asked questions