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

Can you hear that? It's not just the call of wanderlust — it's the buzz around Kota Kinabalu making a comeback on every traveller’s radar. Often called KK, this laid-back coastal city in Sabah, Malaysia has long been a favourite for Filipino travellers thanks to its mix of nature, culture, and affordability. Now that international travel is back in full swing, it’s the perfect time to rediscover what makes KK so special. From island-hopping and seafood feasts to scenic hikes and local markets, here are the top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

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

1. Proximity

Getting to Kota Kinabalu from Manila is quick and easy — direct flights take just around 1 hour and 40 minutes. With regular routes available, it's a convenient weekend or holiday escape. Even better, Filipino passport holders can enter Malaysia visa-free for short leisure trips, so all you need is a valid passport and your itinerary. That means less hassle and more time to explore — another one of the top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu.

2. A safe and traveller-friendly destination

Kota Kinabalu is known not just for its natural beauty, but also for being a safe and welcoming city for visitors. Local establishments — from hotels to cafés and tour providers — maintain high standards of cleanliness and customer care. Whether you're exploring the city streets or heading off on a nature tour, you’ll find that the local tourism industry is geared towards creating a secure and comfortable travel experience. It’s one more reason to visit Kota Kinabalu with peace of mind.

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 descends along the KK coastline, you are greeted by a cluster of islands that make up the — beautiful emerald gems and golden strips of sand surrounded by the sparkling waters of the South China Sea.

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

The best part? These five islands are no more than 20 minutes away from the city’s main coastline. Day-trippers can enjoy parasailing, scuba diving, snorkelling or just lazing on the beach, soaking up the sun. Want to spend a night or two in this paradise? You’re spoilt for choice with the many award-winning island resorts that await you, including the Manukan Island Lodge and luxurious 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

KK has many open-air and semi-outdoor spaces that are safe for you and your barkada to sit back and have a good time. All establishments strictly adhere to the customer quota based on their establishment size to avoid overcrowding.

Did we mention the spectacular sunsets in KK? Book front row seats to the sunset show at any of the coolest rooftop bars in town (try the Hilton) or sea-side lounges (Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is a favourite).

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 time to eat or makan as the locals say! From fresh seafood to tea time delights that are uniquely Sabahan, be ready for a food trip like no other. Kedai kopi or coffee shops are at every corner and the best place to truly eat like a local.

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

Order a plate of Tuaran Mee or savour a bowl of Ngiu Chap (noodles in a beef broth), which many locals claim to be the breakfast of champs! Want to learn traditional recipes? Sign up for a cooking class at a homestay programme where you can shop for your ingredients at a local market (or tamu) and learn from your host how to whip up a local dish so you can impress your friends back home!