The capital city of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a bustling metropolis on the north coast of Borneo Island in Malaysia. This city boasts a rich cultural heritage that can be seen from the diverse ethnicities from Chinese, Malay, Kadazan, Dusun, and Bajau communities that live and contribute to the city’s unique cultural identity, which means you will be able to find a wide variety of delicious cuisine, interesting festivals, and celebration held throughout the years.

Kota Kinabalu also offers easy access to some of Borneo’s most stunning natural attractions including Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park which is an archipelago of five islands renowned for their pristine beaches, and coral reefs, giving the perfect opportunities for families who are looking for a fun and memorable way to spend their time by doing various water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping.

Not only that, Kota Kinabalu is known as a city full of surprises with a wide variety of activities and attractions spread across the island that can be enjoyed especially for families who are looking for a fun and unforgettable holiday with their loved ones.

Here are the things that you can do in Kinabalu with your family.

Learn more about the diverse culture of Sabah’s locale at this living museum called the Mari Mari Cultural Village which aims to preserve and share knowledge about the cultural traditions of the five main ethnic groups in Sabah. Visit traditional houses representing the five ethnicities where you get to take a look for yourself at the unique architectural styles and participate in some of the activities such as trying their hand at the blowpipe technique that is being taught from generation to generation at the village or starting fire using bamboo.

Embark on a captivating journey through the rich ecosystem of the Klias River that offers you a wide diversity of flora and fauna that you can see along the way. Keep your eyes on the surrounding lush rainforest and spot these interesting primates and other wildlife before enjoying the breathtaking sight of flying fireflies as the night falls. Once the sun sets, and the dark falls, be ready to be mesmerized by the stunning bioluminescent glow of the fireflies, creating magical and unforgettable memories with your family.

Challenge your family on a journey through the Klulu countryside leisurely with fun cycling surrounded by the lush greenery along the way. Balance yourself by crossing as many as four hanging bridges throughout your journey and take a break at Native Dusun House in Ombung Village where you get to enjoy some light refreshments or even take a dip in the cool water.

Kadamalan River is one of the most popular destinations for white water rafting experience in Tamparuli Town, Sabah which is classified as Class I-II rapids making it a suitable rafting experience for all ages and skill levels.

Upon your arrival at the rafting side, you will be given a short safety briefing by an experienced guide to ensure your safety before embark on your water adventure. After that, it is time for you to fully enjoy your exciting rafting adventure across the Kadamalan River. As for how to get to the rafting site and guide, most tour operators provide transportation from Kota Kinabalu, Take this page for example where you get to have your own guide to take care of your needs and safety throughout your journey.

Discover the beautiful natural scenery and enjoy snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Sabah and enjoy the special and beautiful view of Kota Kinablu at Sapi SIsland as well as Koko Hill Elf. Invite your family to have a day tour from Kota KInabalu City and take numerous memorable moments together as you walk beside the coastal beach, get close and personal with carious marine animals by snorkeling and do other water sports and activity in the area.

It might not necessarily located at Kota Kinabalu, but Jurassic Land Kiulu can be reached only a 50-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu. As the name implies, Jurassic Land Kiulu is a dinosaur-themed park that features nine dinosaurs that can move, which are placed strategically throughout the park. Making it a fun place for families to learn about dinosaurs.

Upside Down House of Borneo which is also known as Rumah Terbalik by locale is a unique tourist attraction that offers a unique opportunity to experience a completely different perspective and capture some fun and interesting photos.

The entire house of Upside Down House Borneo including the furniture and decorations is all completely flipped upside down which offers a disorienting experience that is perfect for creating hilarious photos and memories with your family.

Bring your family along and challenge them on a heart-shaped maze that offers a fun and challenging activity where your teamwork and communication skills will be tested in order to reach the end of this unique maze.

Beyond the unique heart maze, Grab your refreshing beverages and various options of Western cuisine at the cafe that is connected to the maze. The cafe has a relaxing and calming ambiance which is a great place to relax before and after challenging yourself in the great heart maze of Sabah.

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque which is also known as the Floating Mosque is a beautiful and popular landmark in Kota Kinabalu. It got its nickname because of its partial surround by a man-made lagoon which is also what makes this mosque unique.

Different from the name, this mosque is not actually built on top of water, but the optical illusion made by the lagoon gives the impression as is the mosque is floating on top of the water. This iconic mosque is especially stunning during night where the whole outside part of the mosque would illuminated under the starry skies.

A buddhis temple which is also another major landmark in Kota Kinabalu has been built since 1980. The temple is built to pay respect to the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin who is known for her compassion and kindness.

The temple is built in a traditional Chinese architectural style complete with authentic carvings, sculptures, and a brightly colored roof. While at the main entrance, you will be welcomed by a large statue of Guan Yin.

Enjoy your shopping spree at one of the most authentic markets in Kota Kinabalu, The Filipino Market which is divided into three different parts of the market including Pasar Besar which acts as the central market, Pasar Filipino where you get to find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts and Pasar Ikan which mainly sells many kinds of fish in the area.

The Filipino Market is a major tourist attraction and shopping destination in Kota Kinabalu that is a must-visit place for anyone looking to experience the sights, sounds and smells of Kota Kinabalu. If you are not sure where to get around at first, consider booking a tour to help you get around Kota Kinabalu.

Menara Tun Mustapha which is also known as the Sabah Foundation building is a 122-meter tall skyscraper that is said to be the tallest building in Sabah and one of only four hanging structures in the world with a glass facade.

This unique hanging building is another popular destination that offers a number of attractions including the Observation Deck where visitors get to enjoy the panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu, the revolving restaurant that provides a unique dining experience, and the Sabah Foundation Museum which allows visitors to know more about Sabah’s history and culture

Learn more about the history and culture of Sabah in The Sabah Museum features a variety of exhibits on topics from archaeology which explains the earliest inhabitants of Sabah, ethnography telling visitors about the different cultures in Sabah, and the natural history where you get to learn about the plants and animals of Sabah. Not forgetting about the gallery that houses numerous arts and artifacts from around the world, this museum is a perfect place to introduce your little one to the rich heritage of the region.

Grab your purse and get ready to explore a large shopping mall that offers a wide variety of goods from upscale and mid-range stores, and food court restaurants to even other entertainment options such as karaoke bars and cinema. Take along your family and spend your day in this exceptional mall that provides so many things to see and do that surely cater to all your and your little one's preferences.

The Gaya Street Sunday Market is a vibrant and lively market that is held annually every Sunday morning in Kota Kinabalu it is one of the must-visit destinations for anyone looking to experience the local culture, find unique souvenirs to bring back, and enjoy many delicious streets foods.

During these periods, the entire Gaya Street would be closed off to traffic, transforming into a bustling marketplace that features fresh produce, handicrafts, souvenirs, made by the locals, clothing and accessories to even plants and flowers.

Here are all the fun and exciting activities that you might want to add to your list during your visit to Kota Kinabalu. Starting from exploring various iconic landmarks and popular tourist destinations such as the Sabah Museum and the unique Floating mosque, to enjoying fitness activities such as hiking, and kayaking in the famous Tanjung Aru Beach.

If you plan to visit Kota Kinabalu soon, Traveloka is more than happy to help you book the flight tickets, accommodation, and various activities and attractions mentioned above. Besides giving the best price, Traveloka often gives discounts, and combos to enhance your travel experience. What are you waiting for? Grab your Fast while the promo lasts!