Hostels in Sabah

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Sabah hostels
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312 Hostels in Sabah

Best Sabah hostels with breakfast

Among the 312 accommodations in Sabah, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

Bigfin Beach Resort - Sabah
9.1 263 reviews

Bigfin Beach Resort

hostel, Kota Belud
Bigfin Beach Resort is located in Kota Belud, just 64 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu and 69 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu International Airport. The resort enjoys a peaceful setting on the beachfront, offering a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The resort has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness.
The property features a range of amenities for guests to enjoy, including a restaurant serving delicious meals and a daily buffet breakfast. Guests can also take advantage of the private beach access, fitness centre, garden and terrace, as well as partake in activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and hiking.
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Poring Hot Springs - Sabah
8.6 1942 reviews

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Poring Hot Springs

hostel, Ranau
This house is situated in the Poring Hot Springs & Nature Reserve, just a 160km drive from Kota Kinabalu's city centre, offering easy access to the foot of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding natural beauty. It has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The house features separate bedrooms and living rooms, providing a comfortable and spacious layout. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a spa, and a restaurant, as well as access to the Poring Hot Springs and the Canopy Walkway.
The Bed Bukit Bintang - Sabah
9.0 6386 reviews

The Bed Bukit Bintang

hostel, Kuala Lumpur
The Bed Bukit Bintang is located in the bustling Bukit Bintang district, just a short walk from Starhill Gallery and within easy reach of KLCC Park and the Petronas Twin Towers. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness.
This budget-friendly hostel offers a shared kitchen, air-conditioned rooms and a communal lounge. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities including a swimming pool, a spa and a restaurant, as well as parking and a concierge service.
Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort - Sabah
8.5 372 reviews

Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort

hostel, Bilit
The Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort is located in the village of Bilit, Malaysia, a 2.5-hour drive from Sandakan, offering a peaceful escape into the lush rainforest along the Kinabatangan River. The property has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The resort features a unique design built on stilts above the river, offering stunning views of the rainforest. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including air conditioning, private balconies, a restaurant, and a spa, as well as opportunities to observe wildlife like proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants.

Top cities

Best Sabah hostels with a locker

Sea House Hotel Sdn. Bhd. - Sabah
No reviews

Sea House Hotel Sdn. Bhd.

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Sea House Hotel Sdn. Bhd. is located in a district of Kota Kinabalu, offering convenient access to local amenities and attractions. This hostel provides complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, on-site parking, a restaurant, and room service, with laundry service available in select rooms and enhanced bathroom amenities in some.
Tanini Sepilok Formerly Known As Nature Lodge Sepilok - Sabah
8.5 831 reviews

Tanini Sepilok Formerly Known As Nature Lodge Sepilok

hostel, Sepilok
Nature Lodge Sepilok is situated just 16 kilometres from Sandakan Airport, making it a convenient base for exploring the nearby Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The lodge has received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, while its location has been praised as excellent.
The lodge offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and some feature balconies. Guests can enjoy on-site dining with a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, relax in the garden, or make use of the free Wi-Fi to stay connected.
Concrete Jungle Cabin - Sabah
10 1 review

Concrete Jungle Cabin

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Concrete Jungle Cabin, a well-located backpackers' hostel in Kota Kinabalu, offers a central base on Jalan Gaya, placing guests within easy reach of the city's markets and street food.
This accommodation provides essential amenities including internet, air conditioning, and a communal kitchen, serving as a social hub for travellers planning excursions to Borneo's natural attractions.
Travelogue Guest House - Sabah
8.7 6675 reviews

Travelogue Guest House

hostel, Kuala Lumpur
Travelogue Guest House is situated in Kuala Lumpur's city centre, just a short walk from the Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park, making it a great base for exploring the city's attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and an excellent location rating.
The hostel features a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for meeting fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including air conditioning, a terrace, a bar, a fitness centre, and parking.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Sabah

  • What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Sabah, Malaysia?

    For budget-conscious travellers, Sabah offers plenty. Exploring the beaches of Tanjung Aru, near Kota Kinabalu, is free. Hiking Mount Kinabalu's lower trails, while the summit requires a permit, offers stunning views without the high cost of the full climb. Visiting the local markets, like the Gaya Street Sunday Market in Kota Kinabalu, provides a vibrant cultural experience at no cost. Many of the smaller islands, accessible by local ferries, are also relatively inexpensive to explore.
  • What are the best hostels in Sabah?

    Among the hostels in Sabah, Faloe Hostel, Homy Seafront Hostel and Toojou Kota Kinabalu are the most popular ones.

  • What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in Sabah, Malaysia?

    Beyond the usual tourist trail, consider exploring the Danum Valley Conservation Area, a rainforest teeming with biodiversity. The Kinabatangan River offers incredible wildlife spotting opportunities, particularly for orangutans, although a guided tour is recommended. For a quieter beach experience, head to the less-developed areas of the Kudat peninsula.
  • What are the best hostels with a pool in Sabah?

    Dimple -life - Hostel and Nuluhon Garden Retreat House are the best hostels with a pool in Sabah.

  • What fun and budget-friendly events or festivals are happening in Sabah, Malaysia?

    Sabah's annual Harvest Festival, celebrating the state's diverse cultures, is a vibrant and affordable event. The Pesta Kaamatan, a harvest festival celebrated primarily by the Kadazan-Dusun people, is another colourful celebration. Local community events often feature traditional dances and food, offering a glimpse into Sabah's rich culture at little to no cost.
  • What are the best hostels for families and kids in Sabah?

    The best hostels for families and kids in Sabah are Faloe Hostel, Akinabalu Youth Hostel and Jesselton Cabin - Hostel.

  • What are the best nightlife spots in Sabah, Malaysia?

    Kota Kinabalu offers a range of nightlife options. The bars and clubs along Gaya Street provide a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed setting, numerous bars and pubs are scattered throughout the city, offering a variety of drinks and atmospheres. Many hotels also feature rooftop bars with city views.
  • What are the best pet friendly hostels in Sabah?

    The best pet friendly hostels in Sabah are Miniinn Guest House and Nuluhon Garden Retreat House.

  • What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Sabah, Malaysia?

    A minimum of 10 days allows for a good overview of Sabah, balancing city exploration with nature experiences. Two weeks would be ideal to explore more of the diverse regions, including the islands and rainforest areas, at a more relaxed pace. Longer stays allow for deeper exploration of specific interests, like diving or trekking.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in Sabah?

    Faloe Hostel, Homy Seafront Hostel and Toojou Kota Kinabalu are the best hostels with parking in Sabah.

  • Does Sabah, Malaysia offer any iconic natural events?

    While not a regular, scheduled event, the annual turtle nesting season on various beaches in Sabah offers a truly unique natural spectacle. The best time to witness this is between March and October, depending on the specific beach.
  • Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Sabah, Malaysia?

    Yes, many villages offer cultural workshops. Learning traditional weaving techniques from the Kadazan-Dusun people or participating in a cooking class focusing on Sabah's unique cuisine are popular options. These are often organised through local tour operators or homestays.
  • How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Sabah, Malaysia?

    Staying in homestays provides an immersive cultural experience. Participating in local festivals and events offers a chance to interact with locals. Taking a cooking class or learning some basic phrases in Bahasa Malaysia or other local languages can also help facilitate meaningful interactions.
  • Which restaurants and bars in Sabah, Malaysia offer the best local cuisine?

    Many restaurants in Kota Kinabalu and other towns serve delicious local dishes. Look for restaurants specialising in seafood, as Sabah is known for its fresh catches. Trying traditional dishes like Hinava (a raw fish salad) or Nasi Minyak (fragrant coconut rice) is a must. Local markets also offer the chance to sample a variety of local delicacies.
  • What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for Sabah, Malaysia?

    Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for both warm and humid weather and occasional rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring. Insect repellent is a must, particularly when visiting rainforest areas. A raincoat or umbrella is also recommended, especially during the wet season. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.

Nearby regions

Best Sabah hostels with air conditioning

Chinatown Hostel By Mingle - Rooftop Private Jacuzzi With Bar - Sabah
9.0 6738 reviews

Chinatown Hostel By Mingle - Rooftop Private Jacuzzi With Bar

hostel, Kuala Lumpur
Chinatown Hostel By Mingle is situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, just a short walk from Petaling Street Night Market and Central Market, offering easy access to the city's main attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with an excellent rating for its location.
The hostel provides a choice of both private rooms and shared dormitories. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a cafe, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, and a terrace, making it ideal for both independent travellers and social groups.
The Freedom Club Hostel Kl - Sabah
8.3 1599 reviews

The Freedom Club Hostel Kl

hostel, Kuala Lumpur
The Freedom Club Hostel KL is located in the Bukit Bintang district, a short walk from Berjaya Times Square and within easy reach of KLCC Park and Suria KLCC. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The hostel has a shared lounge where guests can socialise and relax. It offers modern amenities like air conditioning, a terrace, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel.
Signel Poshtel, The Rare Gem Of North Borneo - Sabah
8.9 743 reviews

Signel Poshtel, The Rare Gem Of North Borneo

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Signel Poshtel, The Rare Gem Of North Borneo, is conveniently located in Kota Kinabalu, an 8-minute walk (approximately 0.6km) from the Filipino Market Sabah and close to the Atkinson Clock Tower, KK Esplanade, and Signal Hill Observatory, offering easy access to major attractions.
This family-friendly guesthouse features rooms with one bedroom and one bathroom, a shared kitchen and lounge, free Wi-Fi, and some rooms include kitchenettes with a fridge, microwave, and stovetop; family rooms are also available.
Grapevine Garden - Sabah
8.9 2847 reviews

Grapevine Garden

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Grapevine Garden, a budget-friendly guesthouse in Kota Kinabalu's business district, is situated approximately 8km from Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, offering convenient access to these landmarks and other attractions in Donggongon.
This 21-room lodging features 18-square-metre rooms, each with a bathroom, air conditioning, and complimentary Wi-Fi; on-site parking is available (limited spaces).

Best Sabah hostels with laundry available

Faloe Hostel - Sabah
9.5 1678 reviews

Faloe Hostel

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Faloe Hostel is located in Kota Kinabalu, just a short distance from the Filipino Market Sabah and Oceanus Waterfront Mall, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
Faloe Hostel offers a variety of shared facilities, including a kitchen and lounge areas, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, laundry service, and a fitness centre, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Habibi Home Klcc - Sabah
8.8 701 reviews

Habibi Home Klcc

hostel, Kuala Lumpur
Habibi Home KLCC is located just 1.8km from Kuala Lumpur city centre, close to the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC shopping mall, making it a great base for exploring the city. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness, user experience and location.
The hostel can accommodate two guests in a single bedroom with one bathroom. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities including an outdoor fireplace, a shared lounge, a swimming pool, a terrace or balcony, parking, and a kitchen with a fridge, microwave oven, and dishwasher.
Hushed Dorm Kl - Sabah
8.8 35 reviews

Hushed Dorm Kl

hostel, Kuala Lumpur
Hostel Hub KL is situated in Kuala Lumpur, less than 1 km from the Petronas Twin Towers and within walking distance of Suria KLCC shopping mall and the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
This budget-friendly guesthouse offers a single room with one bathroom, accommodating one guest, and features a shared kitchen with a fridge and microwave, an outdoor swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi; barbecue facilities are also available.
Mercu Summer Suite Klcc @ Penguin Homes - Sabah
8.4 28911 reviews

Mercu Summer Suite Klcc @ Penguin Homes

hostel, Kuala Lumpur
Dolphin Platinum KLCC Kuala Lumpur is conveniently situated in the city centre, just a short walk from major attractions like Suria KLCC and the Petronas Twin Towers. This 5-star aparthotel has received very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The self-catering apartments offer spacious living areas, ideal for families or groups. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a rooftop pool, fitness centre, on-site restaurant and bar, and a tennis court.
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