12 of the Best Small Luxury Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria

Nestled within a nature reserve with stunning views of the South China Sea, Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Kota Kinabalu offers a luxurious and peaceful retreat. The hotel features beautifully furnished guest rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a golf course, and six dining options. Each room is decorated in soothing earthy tones and equipped with modern amenities including a flat-screen TV and minibar. Guests can enjoy picturesque views from their private balcony overlooking the garden or sea. The resort's dining options cater to various international cuisines, including Japanese, Western, Malaysian, and Oriental dishes. Additionally, guests can unwind at the beachside bar or music lounge for a relaxing drink. For those seeking adventure or relaxation, the hotel offers activities such as horse riding and jungle trekking along with indulgent spa treatments at their in-house spa. With its convenient location just 35 km from Kota Kinabalu city center and 40 km from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Shangri-La Rasa Ria provides an idyllic escape surrounded by nature.

Pros:
– Breathtaking views overlooking the South China Sea
– Luxurious guest rooms furnished with modern amenities
– Wide selection of dining options offering international cuisines
– Relaxing spa treatments available on-site
– Convenient access to outdoor activities like horse riding and jungle trekking

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru

Located in Tanjung Aru, just 7 km from Kota Kinabalu, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru offers luxurious beachfront accommodation with stunning views of the ocean or mountains. The hotel features six dining options, including Shang Palace specializing in Chinese cuisine, and Borneo Lounge and Bar offering live entertainment. Guests can enjoy a range of water sports activities such as jet skiing, surfing, and diving, as well as relax at the outdoor pool with water jets or indulge in a massage at Chi, The Spa. Other amenities include a 9-hole golf course and a kids' pool with waterslides. The spacious rooms are elegantly decorated and equipped with air-conditioning, flat-screen satellite TV, and private balconies with outdoor seating.
– Beachfront location
– Variety of dining options
– Range of water sports activities
– Outdoor pool with water jets
– Kids' pool with waterslides

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious small hotel located on top of One Place Mall. The hotel offers elegant guest rooms with free WiFi throughout the property, as well as an outdoor swimming pool and two dining options. Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool or work out at the gym. The hotel also offers affordable airport transfers to and from Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Each well-appointed room features air conditioning, a flat-screen cable TV, and an en suite bathroom with a shower and complimentary toiletries. Some rooms even offer city views. The Coffee House serves daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while cocktails are available at the Lobby Lounge. In addition to these amenities, guests will find plenty of local eateries within walking distance of the hotel. The friendly staff at the 24/7 reception are happy to assist with laundry requests for an additional fee, and luggage storage is provided for free. There is also a prayer room available on-site, along with a business center and meeting facilities for those traveling on business purposes. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu provides easy access to Tanjung Aru Beach (9 km away) and Kota Kinabalu City Centre (11.6 km away). The nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (3.7 km away).

– Outdoor swimming pool
– Free WiFi throughout
– Affordable airport transfers
– Well-appointed rooms with city views available
– Two dining options: Coffee House and Lobby Lounge

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Manukan Island is a luxurious resort that offers an idyllic retreat in the heart of nature. With its stunning private beach overlooking the South China Sea and an outdoor pool, guests can unwind and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings. The spacious villas and suites provide a comfortable and stylish accommodation option, with amenities including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private terraces offering breathtaking beach views. For dining options, guests can indulge in delicious meals at Prahu Restaurant which serves breakfast daily and offers all-day dining. Room service is also available for those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own room. Additionally, the staff at the reception are always ready to assist with arranging outdoor activities such as diving and snorkeling so guests can fully explore the wonders of the ocean. With facilities including daily housekeeping and retail shops on-site, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges provides everything needed for a truly memorable stay.

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Situated in the heart of Kota Kinabalu City, Hilton Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious hotel offering guests a range of amenities and services. The hotel features four dining options, including Urban Kitchen which serves Malaysian and International cuisines for daily buffet breakfasts, Drip for light meals, Breakout Lounge for alcoholic beverages, and Rooftop Poolside Bar & Grill with an extensive menu of Western and Asian specialties. Guests can also enjoy live music and craft cocktails at Club Bar located in the hotel lobby. The elegantly decorated rooms come with modern furnishings and amenities such as a flat-screen TV and minibar. Executive Floor rooms enjoy exclusive access to the Executive Lounge where evening cocktails, afternoon high tea, and private meeting rooms are available. Other facilities include an outdoor rooftop pool with stunning city views, car hire services, valet parking (additional charge), daily housekeeping, luggage storage, and friendly 24-hour reception staff for assistance or local area information. The hotel's prime location allows easy access to nearby attractions such as Jesselton Jetty (10 minutes away), the famous handicraft market (5-minute drive), Kota Kinabalu Waterfront (5-minute walk), Sabah State Museum (1.3 miles away), Suria Sabah Shopping Mall (1.5km away), Imago Shopping Mall (920m away), and Sabah International Convention Centre (2.8km away).

Pros:
– Prime location in the heart of Kota Kinabalu City
– Four dining options offering a variety of cuisines
– Exclusive access to Executive Lounge for Executive Floor guests
– Outdoor rooftop pool with breathtaking city views
– Friendly 24-hour reception staff providing excellent service

The Cara Boutique Hotel

Located in Kota Kinabalu, The Cara Boutique Hotel is a newly opened luxury hotel that offers air-conditioned rooms just 2.4 km away from the stunning Tanjung Aru Beach. This boutique hotel is conveniently situated near popular attractions such as the Filipino Market Sabah and the North Borneo Railway, both within a short distance of 5.4 km. The hotel features modern amenities including a hot tub, an ATM, and free WiFi throughout the property. Each room at The Cara Boutique Hotel is elegantly furnished with a seating area, desk, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom equipped with all necessary amenities. With its prime location and comfortable accommodations, this hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring Kota Kinabalu's vibrant city life and cultural attractions.

– Newly opened luxury hotel
– Conveniently located near popular attractions
– Modern amenities including a hot tub and free WiFi
– Comfortable and elegantly furnished rooms
– Ideal base for exploring Kota Kinabalu's city life

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, just 800 meters from Filipino Market Sabah, the Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel offers a luxurious stay with its array of amenities. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, fitness center, and terrace. The hotel also features a restaurant, room service, and a 24-hour front desk for convenience. Each air-conditioned room is well-appointed with modern facilities including a desk, coffee machine, fridge, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bidet. Some rooms even offer balconies with breathtaking sea views. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Guests can indulge in a buffet or continental breakfast to start their day right. For those looking to explore the area further, cycling opportunities are abundant nearby and car hire services are available at this 5-star hotel.

Pros:
– Convenient location in downtown Kota Kinabalu
– Luxurious amenities including an outdoor pool and fitness center
– Spacious and well-equipped rooms with stunning sea views
– Excellent dining options including room service
– Friendly and attentive staff

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Avangio Hotel

Avangio Hotel is a newly opened luxury hotel located in the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu. With its convenient location, guests can easily access popular attractions such as the Filipino Market Sabah and Likas City Mosque. The hotel offers a range of amenities including a bar, restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, and free WiFi throughout the property. The rooms are elegantly designed and equipped with modern facilities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet or choose from à la carte and continental options. With its excellent service and comfortable accommodations, Avangio Hotel is the perfect choice for travelers seeking luxury and convenience.

– Newly opened luxury hotel
– Convenient location near popular attractions
– Elegant rooms with modern facilities
– Excellent amenities including a bar and restaurant
– Free WiFi throughout the property

Horizon Hotel

Located in Kota Kinabalu, Horizon Hotel offers guests a luxurious stay with its elegant and air-conditioned guest rooms. Boasting four dining options and an outdoor swimming pool, this hotel is perfect for those seeking both comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy the stunning views of either the sea or the city from their room, which also features a flat-screen satellite TV and minibar. The hotel offers free WiFi throughout and free parking for added convenience. With a daily buffet breakfast served at Deco Cafe & Grill, guests can start their day off right before exploring all that Kota Kinabalu has to offer. Malaysian specialties are also available at The Asian Restaurant, while Pastria provides a quick grab-and-go option for pastries and coffee. Those looking to stay active can make use of the gym facilities on-site. Additionally, the friendly staff at the 24-hour reception are always ready to assist with car rentals and tour queries. Situated just 1 km away from Jesselton Point ferry terminal and 2.2 km from IMAGO Shopping Mall, Horizon Hotel is perfectly located for guests to explore nearby attractions. For travelers arriving by plane, Kota Kinabalu International Airport is only an 8.4 km drive away.

Pros:
– Elegant and comfortable guest rooms
– Four dining options offering diverse culinary experiences
– Outdoor swimming pool for relaxation
– Convenient location near attractions such as Jesselton Point ferry terminal and IMAGO Shopping Mall
– Free WiFi throughout the property

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious hotel located just a 5-minute walk from Oceanus Waterfront Mall, offering stunning views of the South China Sea. The hotel features 5 dining options, an outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi throughout the property. Each elegantly furnished room includes a satellite flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom with a shower, soap, and shampoo. Guests can enjoy a delicious daily buffet breakfast at Promenade Café which offers Asian, Halal, and International cuisine. For those craving Chinese Szechuan delights, Dynasty Restaurant is the place to go. The hotel also boasts a well-equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts and a salon for indulgent pampering sessions. The friendly staff at the 24/7 reception can assist with airport transfers (additional charge) and currency exchange services. Other amenities include a ballroom and meeting facilities for business travelers. Located just 1.4 km from Filipino Market and 2.5 km from Atkinson Clock Tower, Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu provides easy access to popular attractions in the area while being conveniently close to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (9 km away).

The Magellan Sutera Resort

Nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens and boasting expansive outdoor pools, The Magellan Sutera Resort in Kota Kinabalu offers a luxurious retreat for discerning travelers. The resort features elegantly decorated guest rooms and suites, each with a private balcony overlooking either the garden or the sea. Guests can indulge in a range of dining options, including a daily breakfast at Five Sails and Italian cuisine at Ferdinand's. The resort also offers amenities such as free WiFi, free parking, access to the Magellaan Club, and an array of recreational facilities including golf, tennis, bowling, billiards, and a fitness center. Families will delight in the kids' club and outdoor playground. Convenient shuttle service to the city is provided along with 24-hour reception staff who are happy to assist with tour arrangements. With IMAGO Shopping Mall just 3 km away and Kota Kinabalu Airport within an 8 km car drive from the resort, guests have easy access to explore the vibrant surroundings.

– Beautifully landscaped gardens
– Expansive outdoor pools
– Wide range of dining options
– Access to recreational facilities
– Convenient location for shopping and exploring nearby attractions

The Pacific Sutera

The Pacific Sutera is a luxurious resort located near the scenic Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club. It features an impressive Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool and offers free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy delicious drinks and snacks at the Pool Bar, Lobby Lounge, and Breeze Beach Club. Each room is elegantly decorated and equipped with modern amenities such as a flat-screen satellite TV, an electric kettle, and a minibar. The en suite bathroom includes a bath, shower, and complimentary toiletries. With stunning views of the sea or golf course, guests can truly unwind in style. Indulge in mouthwatering meals at Cafe Boleh for daily buffet breakfast and all-day dining options or savor Chinese cuisine at Silk Garden. For ultimate relaxation, guests can pamper themselves with massages at Chavana Spa or have some fun in the bowling alley. The friendly staff at the 24/7 front desk are always ready to assist with any outdoor activities or tour queries. Additional facilities include a fitness center and a children's playground. Located just 1.8 km from IMAGO Shopping Mall and Sabah Museum, The Pacific Sutera is conveniently situated near Kota Kinabalu International Airport (6 km away).

– Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool
– Multiple dining options
– Stunning sea or golf course views from rooms
– Chavana Spa for indulgent massages
– Convenient location near popular attractions