KOTA na Tayo! Kota Kinabalu — 5 Reasons to Pack Your Bags For KK

Can you hear that? It’s not just wanderlust calling. Kota Kinabalu, often called KK, continues to hold its spot on many travellers’ must-visit lists. This laid-back coastal city in Sabah, Malaysia has long been a favourite among Filipino travellers for its mix of nature, culture, and easygoing charm. From island hopping and seafood feasts to scenic hikes and lively local markets, here are five reasons why Kota Kinabalu is always worth packing your bags for.

Also read: DIY Kota Kinabalu: Tips & Trip Ideas From an Experienced Visitor

1. Proximity

Getting to Kota Kinabalu from Manila is quick and convenient, with direct flights that take under two hours. With regular routes available, KK makes for an easy holiday escape, even if you’re short on time. Filipino passport holders can also enter Malaysia visa-free for short leisure trips, which means fewer requirements to worry about and more time to enjoy the destination. It’s one of the simplest international trips you can take from the Philippines

2. A safe and traveller-friendly destination

Kota Kinabalu is known for being welcoming and easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors. From hotels and cafés to tour operators and transport services, the city is well set up for travellers. Whether you’re strolling around the city centre, exploring markets, or heading out on a day tour, KK offers a relaxed environment that lets you focus on enjoying the experience rather than stressing over logistics.

3. Beach within reach

KK is home to some of the best sunset views in the world. | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

As your plane approaches Kota Kinabalu, you’re greeted by a cluster of islands just off the coast, with emerald waters and stretches of sand framed by the South China Sea.

Lazy beach days on your island of choice within the . | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

The best part is how accessible everything is. The islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park are only about 20 minutes away by boat. You can go snorkelling, scuba diving, parasailing, or simply spend the day lounging by the sea. For those who want to stay overnight, there are island resorts to choose from, including Manukan Island Lodge and the eco-luxury Gayana Eco Resort.

4. Safety-first sunset drinks

Plenty of al fresco places to wine and dine in KK — from rooftop bars with city vistas to ocean-side pubs.| Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

Plenty of al fresco places to wine and dine in KK, from rooftop bars to ocean-side lounges. | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

Kota Kinabalu has no shortage of spots where you can unwind as the sun goes down. Open-air restaurants, rooftop bars, and seaside lounges make sunset watching part of the daily routine here.

Catch the golden hour at a rooftop bar overlooking the city or enjoy drinks by the sea at well-loved resorts like Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa. With the sky turning shades of orange and pink, sunset drinks in KK feel less like an activity and more like a ritual.

Also read: An Unplanned Kota Kinabalu Trip Showed Me Sabah’s Unsung Destinations

5. Makan time!

IG-worthy eats: The must-try roti tisu that towers above the rest! | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

Gutom ka na ba? Then it’s definitely time to makan, as the locals say. Kota Kinabalu’s food scene is one of its biggest highlights, especially if you love seafood and local comfort food. Kedai kopi or neighbourhood coffee shops are everywhere and are often the best places to eat like a local.

A tea-time favourite — The UFO Tart, named after its unique shape. | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

Don’t leave without trying Tuaran Mee or a hearty bowl of Ngiu Chap, a beef noodle soup many locals swear by. If you want to take things a step further, some homestays offer cooking experiences where you can shop at a local market or tamu and learn how to prepare Sabahan dishes from scratch, perfect for bringing a taste of KK back home.