The city of Kota Kinabalu, or ‘KK’ as it is fondly called, was once known as ‘Api-Api’, meaning ‘Fire-Fire’ for repeatedly being the target of torching by pirates. Today it is a thriving city with a modern outlook that still retains some of the old cultural charm. Be sure to visit the
Gaya Street Fair-Gaya street fair is where local delicacies, handicrafts and antiques, as well as clothes, furniture and awhole host of other goods can be bought every sunday. But you should be there by 8.00 am. The street fair is merely a walking distance from Kinabalu daya Hotel
Tanjung Aru - Just 15 minutes by a car from Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Aru’s long line of sandy beach dotted with casuarina trees provides a peaceful and inviting sight. The beach is a popular sport to swim, relax and watch the beautiful sunsets of Sabah.
Atkinson Clock Tower - One of the most enduring landmarks in Kota Kinabalu, which has stood prominently on the bluff along Signal Hill Road, is the Kota Kinabalu Clock Tower. It was built as a memorial to Francis George Atkinson, the popular first District Officer of Kota Kinabalu. This memorial has the distinction of being the oldest standing structure in the whole of Sabah that survived the air raids and blitz of World War II.
Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary - is a natural site for wildlife and is located in the heart of the city. The Bird Sanctuary has an important natural function and has a feeling ground for many species of birds and also for several migratory species from Northern Asia.
Sabah Museum - The Sabah Museum is located at Old Palace Hill (Bukit Istana Lama) only 5 minutes from Kota Kinabalu city centre and is situated on 43.3 acres of lush green natural and planted jungle. This location houses not only the Sabah Museum, but also an Ethno Botanic garden, a Zoological garden and a Heritage Village all in one place!
Shopping - There are 5 major shopping complexes in KK: Centrepoint, Wisma Merdeka, Wawasan Plaza, Karamunsing Complex and KK Plaza. Although most of the shops in these complexes carry fixed priced items the goods sold are all reasonably priced especially during the Mega Sales months of March, August, and December.
Signal Hill - Signal Hill is one of the best places to get a good view of KK. The hill is in a natural area where one can peacefully enjoy the beautiful skyline of the city with a view that extends to the islands.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Islands Park - The Tunku Abdul Rahman Islands Park is located just 3 to 8km. off Kota Kinabalu shore. Only 10 to 20 minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu city, you can enjoy the beautiful tropical islands and indulged in lots of R&R. Some of the islands are equipped with chalets and food outlets to accommodate your needs. The Park consists of 5 islands, namely Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug. It is a favourite place to go to for picnickers, divers and nature lovers. The park offers ample space to try water sports and you can also enjoy and adventurous jungle trek to see the flora and fauna at namely, Gaya, Manukan and Sapi islands.
Monsopiad Cultural Village-The Monsopiad Cultural Village is about 10 km south of Kota Kinabalu and is dedicated to the heritage of the Kadazan people. Here, you can experience Kadazan culture through activities such as cultural dances or even a chance to use a blow-pipe!
