Hotels in Sabah, Malaysia

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Look out for Sabah hotels with free cancellation or excellent ratings

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Prices may change – pop in your dates for the best estimate. Note that prices are based on previous traveller searches and partner prices.
Prices may change – pop in your dates for the best estimate. Note that prices are based on previous traveller searches and partner prices.
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Find a Sabah hotel in the heart of the action

Beat the queues at the top Sabah attractions by staying close to them.

Where to stay in Sabah

Welcome to Sabah, a fascinating part of Malaysia. In Kota Kinabalu, experience a lively urban atmosphere combined with a strong local heritage that's hard to miss. It's a city where the modern meets the traditional. Over in Sandakan, you'll find a rich history intertwined with nature, making it a captivating choice for those curious about the past. It's a place where stories seem to come alive.

Then there's Tawau, known for its fresh, diverse produce that attracts food enthusiasts from various places. This city is a must-visit for culinary lovers. Each of these cities in Sabah presents its unique appeal, demonstrating various facets of life in this diverse region.

Things to do in Sabah

In Sabah, explore Tanjung Aru Beach, known for its stunning sunsets. Spend a day relaxing on the sandy shores and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline. For a diving adventure, head to Mataking Island, famous for its underwater wonders. Snorkelling here reveals colourful marine life and coral gardens.

Venture to Mabul Island for world-class diving experiences. Discover diverse marine species amidst coral reefs. These locations provide ideal settings for recreation and exploration. Embrace the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Sabah a must-visit destination.

Planning your trip to Sabah

Sabah, the "Land Below the Wind," is perfect for tropical adventures year-round. For optimal weather, aim to visit from May to September when there's generally less rain and wildlife sightings are plentiful.

Budget-savvy travellers can consider visiting during the low season from November to February. Though wetter, it’s less crowded and tranquil, suiting eco-tourism. Choose affordable options like Hotel O Hotel Ramai, De Choice Hotel Tawau, or OYO 89619 De Choice Hotel for comfort without breaking the bank.

Top hotels in Sabah

In Sabah, highly rated hotels are cherished for their comfort, cleanliness, and friendly service. At Jesselton Quay Days, guests often appreciate the convenient location close to city attractions and amenities. Travellers praise the well-maintained rooms and the attentive staff dedicated to ensuring a pleasant stay. Similarly, Check Inn 5 is celebrated for its cleanliness and the warm hospitality offered by the staff.

The rooms at Ming Garden Hotel & Residences impress with their comfort and thoughtful amenities, alongside an excellent breakfast that guests highlight as a memorable start to their day. Its close proximity to major city sites further enhances its appeal to travellers. These elements collectively contribute to their high ratings.

From weekend breaks to extended stays

For a weekend in Sabah, start your adventure by exploring Kota Kinabalu. Spend a day at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where you can snorkel or dive, then unwind on the beautiful beaches. Head to Kinabalu Park for a brief hike and a soak in the Poring Hot Springs. Ensure you visit a local restaurant to enjoy authentic Sabah cuisine before heading home.

A 10-day journey allows you to explore Sabah's diversity fully. Begin with Mount Kinabalu, spending a couple of days trekking and enjoying Kinabalu Park. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary for immersive wildlife experiences. Include island hopping at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and perhaps a day to relax on Kota Kinabalu's beaches. Conclude with a cultural exploration in the city’s museums and markets.


Sabah hotels: FAQs

You can always cancel or amend your hotel reservation if you need to, but look out for hotels in Sabah with free cancellation or flexible booking options if you want to protect your money. Some hotels allow you to cancel and get your money back if your plans change.

Of course - the cheapest hotel deal we found within the next seven days is $8 per night. If you need somewhere in the next 24 hours, we've found you somewhere to stay for $8 per night.
The average price of a hotel during the week is $108 per night, and the average price on weekends is $115. Overall, it looks like the cheapest day to stay in Sabah could be Wednesday.
We crunched some numbers on our calendar and found that Wednesday is the cheapest day to stay in Sabah. And the most expensive day seems to be Saturday.
The average price of a 3-star hotel in Sabah is currently around $64 per night. And the cheapest 3-star hotel we found is $14 per night.
The average price of a 4-star hotel in Sabah is currently around $142 per night. And the cheapest 4-star hotel we found is $24 per night.
The average price of a 5-star hotel in Sabah is currently around $256 per night. And the cheapest 5-star hotel we found is $26 per night.
The cheapest month to stay in a hotel in Sabah is October, with an average price of $107 per night. The most expensive month is February, when the average room rate can rise to $184 per night. These average prices are based on all the hotels we found – from hostels through to fancy 5-star hotels.
The average price of a hotel in August is $109 per night, which is around 3% lower than the rest of the year.