If you are planning a travel to Kota Kinabalu then you’re on the right page! My itinerary is for 7-days but if you are just staying for 3 or 4 days, this will also work for you because the remainder is mostly just leisure in an area which you can skip. However, I highly recommend you take at least 7 days because it’s worth it. We never expect Kota Kinabalu to be this pretty and by far my favorite place ever.
I will have my itinerary listed below but before everything, let me list down everything you need to know before you go.
- If you are a foreign, you are required to fill out the MDAC or the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card upon arrival.
- Grab is available and easy to book, very cheap too! No need to pre-book any expensive transfers.
- Internet is not that reliable in Sabah, make sure to get a sim card for data backup.
- You need adapter specially for Malaysia.
- Bring an umbrella because the weather is so unpredictable here.
- Don’t forget your sunblock! Sun is so strong.
- Majority of the food is Halal. (yay!)
Anyway, before I chit-chat about our own travel experience, let me share with you our itinerary in a table for easy viewing. Here you go, I will leave the date there for your reference. We traveled there from Apr 19-27, 2025.
| KOTA KINABALU | |||
| Day | Date | Accommodation | Activity |
| 1 – Sat | 4/19/25 | Flight Z2 501 23:10 – 01:20 Owl’s Nest Suite at Aeropod SovoAddress: Aeropod Sovo K1 Lobby, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia | Flight at night so arrival would be on the next day. |
| 2 – Sun | 4/20/25 | Island Getaway @ Mengalum Island Day Tour [7am-3:15pm] | |
| 3 – Mon | 4/21/25 | Private White Sand Paradise Island Tour[7:15am – 5:15pm] | |
| 4 – Tue | 4/22/25 | Nexus Resort and Spa KarambunaiAddress: Off Jalan Sepangar Bay, PO Box, 88993, Sabah, Malaysia | Check out from Owl’s Nest Suite by noon and transfer to Nexus Resort & Spa Relax by the Sea @ 3pm |
| 5 – Wed | 4/23/25 | Hi-Tea & Blast Ride @ 5pm Ocean Oasis Package includes:Complimentary breakfast for 2 Adults One Time Hi-Tea Set for 2 AdultsOne Time 15 minutes Blast Ride for 2 AdultsComplimentary 1 hour usage of non motorised watersports – Once per stay20% discount on Spa TreatmentsFree Wifi | |
| 6 – Thurs | 4/24/25 | The Magellan Sutera ResortAddress: No 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, 88100Kota Kinabalu, MalaysiaPhone: +60 88 303 900 | Check out from Nexus and travel to The Magellan Sutera Resort. |
| 7 – Fri | 4/25/25 | Desa Cow Farm @ 11am | |
| 8 – Sat | 4/26/25 | Checkout from the Resort @ 2pm and probably roam around and go to the airport at night. Flight is 1:45 am next day | |
| 9 – Sun | 4/27/25 | Flight Z2 502 01:45 – 03:55 | Kota Kinabalu International Airport ,Terminal 1 – NAIA Terminal 3 |
Tours Itinerary
For our tours, we booked specifically through Klook. Here is the link for the tour mentioned that you can book. [This is not sponsored]
Mengalum Island and Snorkeling Day Tour, Sabah, Malaysia – Klook
| Day 1 – Island Getaway @ Mengalum Island Day Tour | |
| Plunge into the crystal clear waters to see the rich marine life & walk along the white sandy beach on Mengalum Island! Get on the catamaran for 2 snorkeling sessions near the island to explore the amazing natural coral, fishing & turtles! Enjoy a BBQ mix Western-style lunch & rest on the island at the well-built restaurant! Snorkeling around the island or experiencing SUP, glass kayak, volleyball, or UTV (optional at own expense) along the journey! Look for your experienced guide during the entire tour for any Instagrammable photos! | |
| 7:00am | Departure |
| 8:00am | Sutera Harbour Jetty |
| Boat ride for 1hr 10mins | |
| 9:20am | Mengalum Island – Instagrammable Photo Session |
| 10:00am | Boat Snorkeling- Point A (45 minutes) & Point B (45 minutes)- Amazing Natural Carol, Fishing, Turtles- Photographer Service |
| 12:30pm | Lunch – BBQ mix Western-style lunch |
| 1:30pm | Mengalum Island- Snorkeling, SUP, Volleyball & Glass Kayak |
| 2:00pm | Return to Sutera Harbour Jetty |
| Boat ride for 1hr 10mins | |
| 3:15pm | Return |
Exclusive Escape: Private White Sand Paradise Island Tour with Unique Volcano Mud Experience – Klook
| Day 2 – Island Getaway @ Paradise Island | |
| Discover the enigmatic world of snakes in their natural habitat on Snake Island for an unforgettable adventure! Be captivated by the stunning big stones scattered across the sea, providing a breathtaking setting for your photos Engage in thrilling kayaking adventures or enjoy a serene experience on our glass-bottom boat, capturing the underwater world through your lens! Enjoy the therapeutic properties of volcanic mud, rejuvenating your skin amidst nature’s embrace! Be part of our initiative to raise awareness for the conservation of baby sea turtles on the island subject to the seasonality | |
| 7:15am | Departure |
| 7:30am | Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal Labuan Ferry & Boat Transfer To Tunku Abdul Rahman Parks (TARPs)Assembly at the jetty and registration before the departure |
| Boat ride for 1hr | |
| 9:15am | Snake Island – Explore Snake Island located at Tunku Adul Rahman National Park |
| 9:45am | Paradise Island – known as “White Sand Island” or “Virgin Island,” renowned for its undeveloped underwater world. |
| Meals – Enjoy a welcome drink and refreshing cold towel, and listen to the guide’s safety briefing and snorkeling instructions | |
| 10:30am | Snorkeling – Boat ride to two beautiful dive spots for snorkeling |
| 12:00pm | Lunch – Savor a sumptuous seafood specialty lunch |
| Paradise IslandEnjoy free activities on the island such as: glass-bottom boatgiant swancanoeingstand-up paddlingvolcano mud | |
| 3:00pm | Return to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal |
| Boat ride for 1hr 10mins | |
| 5:00pm | Return |
The Itinerary: A Week of Golden Memories
Day 1 – Saturday, 4/19/25
Arrival in Kota Kinabalu
We kicked off our journey with Flight Z2 501 that landed us just past midnight. Our base for the night was the Owl’s Nest Suite at Aeropod Sovo—conveniently located near shops and eateries. The vibe was casual, but I must note that the internet was a letdown. A minor hiccup when you’re trying to catch up on work—but a small price to pay for a comfortable location that puts you right in the thick of the city.
Day 2 – Sunday, 4/20/25
Island Getaway @ Mengalum Island Day Tour
This day was all about the sea and sand. Our adventure began at 7:00 am with a catamaran ride from the Sutera Harbour Jetty. The journey to Mengalum Island was scenic and filled with anticipation. On this tour, we took two snorkeling sessions among vibrant coral reefs, witnessed local marine life—including some curious turtles—and even had the chance to relax on a white sandy beach that looked like a slice of paradise. A Western-style BBQ lunch kept our energy high, and impromptu photo sessions captured the Instagram-worthy moments. Every step was enhanced by our friendly guide who kept the day fun and engaging.
Day 3 – Monday, 4/21/25
Private White Sand Paradise Island Tour
Midweek, we took a private tour to Paradise Island. Starting at 7:15 am, the day was packed with surprises: from a boat ride to Snake Island where we observed these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, to the beauty of big stones that provided an epic backdrop for photos. Our adventure wasn’t just limited to the land either! Kayaking, a glass-bottom boat ride, and even a unique volcano mud treatment for the skin enriched the experience. It was a perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and a dash of adventure.
Day 4 – Tuesday, 4/22/25
Transition and Relaxation at Nexus Resort and Spa, Karambunai
After two high-energy days, we decided to ease up a bit. We checked out of Owl’s Nest Suite by noon and transferred to Nexus Resort & Spa. Nestled off Jalan Sepangar Bay, this resort gave us a refreshing change of pace. By 3:00 pm, we were “chilling by the sea,” soaking in the serene views and letting our travel-worn bodies rest. It was a reminder that sometimes, all you need is a quiet moment by the ocean to recharge.
Day 5 – Wednesday, 4/23/25
Hi-Tea & Blast Ride Experience
This day combined a mix of luxury and thrill. Starting with a complimentary breakfast and followed by a delightful Hi-Tea set at 5:00 pm, the Ocean Oasis Package promised a royal touch. But the excitement didn’t stop there—our afternoon included a 15-minute Blast Ride and one hour of non-motorised watersports. This package even bombarded our senses with an option for discounted spa treatments—a perfect remedy after days of travel. It was a gentle reminder that travel can be both exhilarating and wonderfully indulgent.
Day 6 – Thursday, 4/24/25
A New Chapter at The Magellan Sutera Resort
Following our time at Nexus, we transferred to The Magellan Sutera Resort—a place that brings a sophisticated flare to Kota Kinabalu. Located on Sutera Harbour Boulevard, this resort was a seamless blend of comfort and style, ideal for unwinding after a series of dynamic tours. The amenities and ambience here completely redefined our sense of luxury, setting the perfect tone for the upcoming days.
Day 7 – Friday, 4/25/25
Rustic Charm at Desa Cow Farm
A change of pace on Day 7 took us to the Desa Cow Farm at 11:00 am—a curious yet delightful spot that showcased another side of Sabah. It was a day of simplicity and organic beauty, where time slowed down just enough for us to appreciate local farming and life away from rapid tourism. This break in the itinerary gave us space to reflect on the incredible diversity of experiences Sabah offers.
Day 8 – Saturday, 4/26/25
Final Leisure and Farewell
Our last day was designed to be free-flowing. After checking out of the resort by 2:00 pm, we spent the day exploring the local scene—shopping for souvenirs, sampling street food, or simply taking in the lively atmosphere around Kota Kinabalu. We wrapped up the day at the airport, as our flight at 1:45 am signalled the final stretch of our journey.
Day 9 – Sunday, 4/27/25
Journey Home
Our return flight, Z2 502, took off from Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 01:45 am and landed at NAIA Terminal 3 at 03:55. Although sleepy at the end of our excursion, we were filled with memories of golden sunsets, marine adventures, and moments of pure travel joy.
Our Experience & Tips for a Successful Trip
Traveling to Kota Kinabalu turned into a delightful mix of surprises and planned adventures. Funny enough, my husband, who wasn’t fully aware that we were leaving the country, was taken aback at immigration—even though the pilot later clarified that we were indeed in Malaysia!
A few travel insights that might be helpful:
- Booking Smart: Since both my husband and I work from home on a US schedule, we booked tours on our off days (mostly weekends) and chose cost-effective accommodations where we wouldn’t be spending much time. This helped minimize costs and made our schedule flexible enough to keep work obligations intact.
- Stay Connected: Despite some accommodation hiccups (like the unreliable router at Owl’s Nest Suite), we managed by planning where to work while on the move. It’s a good idea to scout out local cafes or co-working spaces in case the hotel’s Wi-Fi isn’t up to the task.
- Local Insights: Always ask around for local favorites. The proximity of Owl’s Nest Suite to shops and Sutera Harbour made spontaneous food trips and quick pick-ups for your tours super convenient.
- Pack Smart: Make sure you have a universal adapter, extra sim cards, and an umbrella. Being over-prepared is much better than scrambling mid-trip.
Nexus Resort and Spa – Discover the Borneo Spa Experience
At Nexus Resort and Spa, the highlight for us was undoubtedly the unique Borneo Spa. This isn’t your everyday spa experience—it’s a journey deeply rooted in local traditions and natural wellness. The Borneo Spa embraces indigenous ingredients and holistic treatments that soothe the body and spirit in the most authentic way imaginable. Imagine indulging in a rejuvenating massage while the tropical breeze carries whispers of the sea and the invigorating scent of rainforest herbs. Added to this is the sprawling beach right at your doorstep, perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon splash in the soothing waters. From water activities like paddleboarding and beach volleyball to simply lounging by the sea, this resort harmoniously blends relaxation with a hint of adventure.
Magellan Sutera Resort – Our Slice of Paradise
If Nexus offers soul-soothing tranquility, then Magellan Sutera Resort takes it to a whole new level of beauty and culinary delight. This place quickly became our favorite part of the trip. The resort is perched at a prime location where every sunset transforms the sky into a breathtaking canvas painted in vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple—truly insane! Dining here is another highlight, as every meal is a sumptuous celebration of flavors. Whether it’s a casual lunch by the water or a gourmet dinner, the outstanding food never ceases to amaze us. The ambiance, combined with unparalleled service and stunning natural views, creates an experience that is both memorable and magical.
Together, these resorts encapsulate the best of Kota Kinabalu—from immersive spa treatments and expansive beaches to surreal sunsets and incredible cuisine. They aren’t just places to stay; they are destinations in themselves, crafted to create moments you’ll cherish long after your journey ends.
Final Thoughts
Kota Kinabalu is a treasure trove for travelers—its landscape, the vibrant life, and the hospitable locals all add up to an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re in it for the thrill of island hopping, the relaxation at luxury resorts, or the charming detours like Desa Cow Farm, there’s something here for everyone.
Remember, travel is not just about ticking off days on an itinerary—it’s about soaking in every moment, learning a bit about new cultures, and, most importantly, enjoying the journey. I hope my 7-day itinerary (or a shorter version, if needed) helps you plan your perfect getaway to this stunning part of Malaysia.
Feel free to reach out with your questions or share your own travel tips. Happy travels, and here’s to many more golden adventures!