Top 10 Night Attractions in Kota Kinabalu
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Top 10 Night Attractions in Kota Kinabalu

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Tanjung Aru Beachtop_1
    󰺂7.0
    Kota Kinabalu.Tanjung Aru5.3 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
    󱨠Saved by 840 users󱨠1322 positive reviews
    4.8/5
    BonnieBonnie

    Stunning Sunsets: Ranked as one of the world's most beautiful beaches for watching sunsets by National Geographic, it boasts the second-most beautiful sunsets in the world, offering stunning views of the fiery clouds. As the sun sets, the sky glows red, and the sea shimmers. Soft and Fine Sand: The sand is as soft as carpet and feels comfortable on bare feet. The waves are gentle, perfect for playing in the water, and you can even spot small crabs crawling around on the beach. • Convenient Location: Located west of Kota Kinabalu city, it's only a 10-15 minute drive from the city center and close to Kota Kinabalu Airport, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. • Abundant Amenities: The beachfront promenade often hosts evening barbecues with live bands. Nearby is King Philip Park, featuring gardens, recreational facilities, a children's playground, a jogging path, and a central artificial lake with a musical fountain show.

  • Mengalum Islandtop_2
    󰺂6.7
    Kota Kinabalu58.2 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
    󱨠Saved by 649 users󱨠123 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    randyjunrandyjun

    1. It is worth going. If you are in Kota Kinabalu, you can choose a one-day tour to Pulau Mantan, which is about 500 including pick-up and drop-off. 2. The boat takes 2 hours, so you must take seasickness medicine in advance. It is basically very bumpy and half of the people may vomit. 3. Sunscreen is a must, it is very sunny, going out to sea. 4. There is food on the one-day tour, which is actually OK. If you think it is not OK, bring some food with you. 5. There are places to change clothes, toilets and wifi on the island.

  • Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalutop_3
    󰺂6.1
    Kota Kinabalu3.7 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 3 of Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
    󱨠Saved by 589 users󱨠293 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    Mr.TouristMr.Tourist

    Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is a stunning architectural gem that appears to float on its surrounding lagoon, creating a mesmerizing sight at sunrise and sunset. Inspired by the Nabawi Mosque in Medina, its elegant blue and gold dome, along with its towering minarets, makes it one of the most picturesque mosques in Malaysia. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the opportunity to explore the mosque by paddle boat, adds to its unique charm. Whether visiting for prayer, photography, or quiet reflection, this mosque is a must-see landmark in Sabah. Five stars – A blend of spiritual beauty and breathtaking scenery. #KotaKinabaluMosque #FloatingMosque #SabahTravel #MalaysiaBeauty

  • Gaya Street
    4
    󰺂5.8
    Kota Kinabalu.Kota Kinabalu City Center297m from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 4 of Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
    󱨠Saved by 404 users󱨠166 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    虱子多了不怕咬虱子多了不怕咬

    Gaya Street is great, with many delicious foods. You don't need to look at the guide. Any store you go to is delicious. The food in the night market is just average, similar to our night market. Gaya Street exchange money, the exchange rate is very cost-effective, much more cost-effective than Semporna! But in Kota Kinabalu, you almost don't need to exchange money, Alipay is universal. It is very convenient to eat durian in Gaya Street. You can sit in the store and eat slowly. They will prepare paper towels and gloves for you. Gaya Street has many souvenirs and gifts, and you can pay with Alipay. Gaya Street is also close to the pier. It is recommended to stay in Gaya Street. You can go back to the hotel to rest at any time when you are tired of shopping. It is very convenient.

  • Sapi Island Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia
    5
    󰺂5.6
    Gaya Island8 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Kota Kinabalu
    󱨠Saved by 142 users
    4.7/5
    _M1***93_M1***93

    The smallest island feels like playing with the general and the other island. I think it is generally the best, or Mamoody Island. It is clearer and you can see a little more beautiful fish.

  • Filipino Market
    6
    󰺂5.2
    Kota Kinabalu.Kota Kinabalu City Center752m from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 9 of Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
    Highlights:
    󱨞Large open-air market | Diverse cuisine
    󱨟Tropical fruits | Local specialties
    󱨠Saved by 285 users󱨠79% positive reviews
    4.5/5
    miel@999tovmiel@999tov

    Great place for those who are seafood lovers, easy to find fresh fishes , crabs, lobsters in this place with a good price. Fresh vegetable and fruits stall located just beside this building .

  • North Borneo Cruises
    7
    󰺂4.9
    Kota Kinabalu.Kota Kinabalu City Center3.1 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 10 of Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
    4.9/5
    Marsaulina SMMarsaulina SM

    I had an amazing experience! I prefer the sunset cruise, the buffet was great, wonderful live music, friendly and helpful crews. Reasons to Recommend: It’s a really enjoyable activity to do in Kota Kinabalu and I highly recommend it! Worth the money!

Best night attractions in Kota Kinabalu (2025)

Looking for the best nightlife and evening experiences in Kota Kinabalu? From dazzling light shows to vibrant night markets, Kota Kinabalu offers an exceptional collection of night attractions that entertain and delight after sunset.

Whether you're here for cultural experiences, evening strolls, or lively entertainment, these top-rated attractions promise memorable nights.

Top-rated night attractions in Kota Kinabalu

If you want to enjoy the city after dark, these attractions deliver the full evening experience. Expect illuminated landmarks, cultural performances, night tours, and lively entertainment spots.

Tanjung Aru Beach

• Kota Kinabalu.Tanjung Aru | 5.3 km from downtown

Mengalum Island

• Kota Kinabalu | 58.2 km from downtown

Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu

• Kota Kinabalu | 3.7 km from downtown

Night attractions offering unique experiences

These attractions offer distinctive evening experiences, from cultural shows and night cruises to illuminated gardens and bustling night markets, perfect for travelers who want to explore the city after dark.

Night attractions near Kota Kinabalu

If you want to enjoy evening experiences just outside Kota Kinabalu, there are plenty of night attractions that combine scenic surroundings with vibrant activities, ideal for weekend trips or night excursions.

Each of these attractions offers an exciting night experience within 1–3 hours of Kota Kinabalu, ideal for travelers who want to enjoy culture, entertainment, and scenic views after dark.

What makes Kota Kinabalu's night attractions special

• Illuminated landmarks: Stunning sights and cityscapes after sunset.
• Evening entertainment: Cultural performances, light shows, and markets.
• Convenient locations: Easily accessible for nighttime excursions.
• Memorable experiences: Evening activities designed to leave lasting impressions.

Tips for visiting night attractions in Kota Kinabalu

1. Check opening hours and schedules for night events.
2. Book tickets in advance for popular evening shows and tours.
3. Compare prices on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider local safety and transport options when planning night outings.

Experience the best night attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Ready to enjoy Kota Kinabalu after dark? Explore Trip.Best's curated list of night attractions and experience entertainment, culture, and vibrant evenings.

Book your perfect night experience on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery continue after sunset.

What Night Attractions are there in Kota Kinabalu?
These are all Night Attractions in Kota Kinabalu:Tanjung Aru Beach, Mengalum Island, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Street, Sapi Island Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia
What are some highly-rated Night Attractions in Kota Kinabalu?
Some highly-rated Night Attractions in Kota Kinabalu include:Tanjung Aru Beach:4.8, Mengalum Island:4.6, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu:4.5, Gaya Street:4.5, Sapi Island Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia:4.7
At what locations in Kota Kinabalu can Night Attractions in Kota Kinabalu be found?
The Night Attractions in Kota Kinabalu are mainly located in:Tanjung Aru Beach:Kota Kinabalu, Mengalum Island:Kota Kinabalu, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu:Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Street:Kota Kinabalu, Sapi Island Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia:Gaya Island
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