Hostels in Kota Kinabalu

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Kota Kinabalu hostels
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166 Hostels in Kota Kinabalu

Best Kota Kinabalu hostels with breakfast

Among the 166 hostels in Kota Kinabalu, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

Akinabalu Youth Hostel - Kota Kinabalu
8.4 1287 reviews

Akinabalu Youth Hostel

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Akinabalu Youth Hostel is conveniently located on Gaya Street in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, just a short walk from Atkinson Clock Tower and within a 10-minute walk of Handicraft Market and Suria Sabah shopping mall. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, with an excellent location rating.
The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and dormitories. Guests have access to a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, a fitness centre, and a restaurant, along with a 24-hour front desk, parking, and bike rentals.
Faloe Hostel - Kota Kinabalu
9.5 1682 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.
Sabah Oriental Hotel - Kota Kinabalu
8.0 18952 reviews

Sabah Oriental Hotel

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Sabah Oriental Hotel, a well-rated establishment in Kota Kinabalu, offers convenient access to the city's attractions, with the Atkinson Clock Tower located 1.5 kilometers away and the Jesselton Point ferry terminal just 1.2 kilometers from the property.
This hotel provides guests with complimentary Wi-Fi, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a spa, alongside on-site dining options and room service for added comfort.
Akinabalu Youth Hostel - Kota Kinabalu
8.4 16 reviews

Akinabalu Youth Hostel

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Akinabalu Youth Hostel is located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, approximately 5 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers air-conditioned rooms, a shared kitchen and lounge, organised tours, and vegetarian and halal breakfast options, alongside a 24-hour front desk and paid airport shuttle service.

Best Kota Kinabalu hostels with a locker

H2 Segama Backpacker - Kota Kinabalu
8.0 1250 reviews

H2 Segama Backpacker

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
H2 Segama Backpacker, located in Kota Kinabalu, offers adults-only accommodation within a 5-minute walk of Filipino Market Sabah, 400 metres from KK Esplanade, and less than 1 kilometre from Signal Hill Observatory, with the airport situated just over 5 kilometres away.
This hostel provides rooms with air conditioning, balconies, and free WiFi, alongside communal facilities including a shared kitchen, garden, lounge area, and an outdoor fireplace, ensuring a comfortable stay for travellers.
Concrete Jungle Cabin - Kota Kinabalu
9.7 2 reviews

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.
Grapevine Garden - Kota Kinabalu
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).
Triple Room - 3 Pax (Common Bathroom) - Kota Kinabalu
8.8 1595 reviews

Triple Room - 3 Pax (Common Bathroom)

house
This smoke-free guesthouse is located in the city centre, within a 10-minute walk of Sedco Square, Kompleks Asia City, and Atkinson Clock Tower, making it a great base for exploring Kota Kinabalu. The guesthouse has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The guesthouse features a single bedroom and offers a range of facilities, including a restaurant, room service, and a tennis court. Guests can also enjoy a coffee shop, a computer station, and tour/ticket assistance, as well as free Wi-Fi in public areas.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Kota Kinabalu

  • What affordable attractions should backpackers visit in Kota Kinabalu?

    For budget-conscious travelers, Kota Kinabalu offers plenty of free or low-cost attractions. You can explore the vibrant Filipino Market, wander through the Atkinson Clock Tower, or enjoy the scenic views from Signal Hill. For a unique experience, visit the Sabah State Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of Sabah.
  • What are the best hostels in Kota Kinabalu?

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

  • What nightlife options are popular among hostel guests in Kota Kinabalu?

    The lively area around Gaya Street is a popular spot for backpackers to enjoy the nightlife. You'll find plenty of bars and pubs like The Red Box and The Loft, offering live music, drinks, and a social atmosphere. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the waterfront bars along Jesselton Point, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and watch the sunset.
  • What are the best hostels with a pool in Kota Kinabalu?

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

  • What budget-friendly events or festivals are taking place in and around Kota Kinabalu?

    Kota Kinabalu hosts several festivals throughout the year, offering a glimpse into the local culture. The annual Harvest Festival in May celebrates the abundance of the land, with traditional dances, music, and food stalls. The Sabah International Folklore Festival in August showcases diverse cultural performances from around the world. These events are usually free or have a small entrance fee.
  • What are the best hostels for families and kids in Kota Kinabalu?

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

  • What are the top social spots in Kota Kinabalu for hostel guests to meet other travelers?

    The backpacker-friendly atmosphere of the hostels in Kota Kinabalu makes it easy to meet other travelers. The common areas of hostels like The Backpackers Kota Kinabalu and The Hive 5.0 are often buzzing with activity. Many hostels also organize social events like pub crawls and group dinners, providing opportunities to connect with fellow travelers.
  • What are the best pet friendly hostels in Kota Kinabalu?

    The best pet friendly hostel in Kota Kinabalu is Nuluhon Garden Retreat House.

  • What’s the best budget-friendly way to reach Kota Kinabalu?

    The most affordable way to reach Kota Kinabalu is by flying into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI). Budget airlines like AirAsia and Malindo Air offer competitive fares, especially if you book in advance. You can also consider taking a bus from nearby cities like Sandakan or Tawau, but this option takes longer and might not be as convenient.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in Kota Kinabalu?

    Faloe Hostel, Toojou Kota Kinabalu - Hostel and Akinabalu Youth Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Kota Kinabalu.

  • What should you know before renting a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?

    When choosing a hostel in Kota Kinabalu, consider the location and amenities. Hostels near the city center offer easy access to attractions, while those closer to the waterfront provide a more relaxed atmosphere. Check the hostel's reviews and ensure it offers basic amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a communal kitchen.
  • What's the best time of the year to visit Kota Kinabalu?

    Kota Kinabalu enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from March to October, when the weather is sunny and dry. However, if you're looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, you can visit during the shoulder seasons, from February to March or November to December.
  • Where in Kota Kinabalu can you find the best areas to stay in a hostel?

    The most popular areas for hostels in Kota Kinabalu are around Gaya Street and Jesselton Point. These areas offer a vibrant atmosphere, easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions, and are within walking distance of the waterfront.

Popular destinations

Best Kota Kinabalu hostels with air conditioning

Vibrant Hostel - Kota Kinabalu
8.3 382 reviews

Vibrant Hostel

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Vibrant Hostel is located in Kota Kinabalu, a short distance from the Filipino Market Sabah and within easy reach of the Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village. The hostel enjoys excellent user, location and cleanliness ratings, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers.
The accommodation offers a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for socialising with other guests. Amenities include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, shared bathrooms with hairdryers, and parking, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
*New* 窝旅舍Sarang Hostel 独立双人房源Private Queen Bedroom - Kota Kinabalu
9.3 344 reviews

*New* 窝旅舍Sarang Hostel 独立双人房源Private Queen Bedroom

hostel
Sarang Hostel At City Centre is located in Kota Kinabalu, within easy reach of the Filipino Market Sabah, Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village, and the North Borneo Railway. The hostel is highly rated, with excellent scores for location, cleanliness, and user satisfaction.
The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, from private rooms to shared dormitories. Guests have access to a communal kitchen, a restaurant, a bar, and parking facilities.
Homesuite Hotel - Kota Kinabalu
No reviews

Homesuite Hotel

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
The Homesuite Hotel is conveniently located a short distance from Kota Kinabalu's city centre, offering easy access to local attractions.
This 2-star accommodation provides essential amenities including air conditioning, an on-site restaurant, a fitness centre, and room service, with car rental and laundry services available for guest convenience.
Jiran Hostel - Kota Kinabalu
9.1 81 reviews

Jiran Hostel

hostel, Kota Kinabalu
Jiran Hostel, located in Kota Kinabalu, offers the "Jiran Hostel" deal and provides complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and on-site parking, with a 24/7 reception for concierge and ticket booking services. This budget-friendly accommodation option is situated conveniently for exploring local attractions.
Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, and select rooms feature in-room beverages and en-suite bathrooms with bathrobes, towels, and hairdryers, ensuring a comfortable stay at this non-smoking establishment.

Best Kota Kinabalu hostels with laundry available

Faloe Hostel - Kota Kinabalu
9.5 1682 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.
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