Top 10 Most Romantic Kota Kinabalu Hotels for your Honeymoon
In this issue, we bring you the most romantic hotels on the island of Kota Kinabalu.
Famously known to be home to Mount Kinabalu, the island of Kota Kinabalu has more to uncover. Its charming waterfront, beautiful sunset, idyllic islands and friendly locals make it a popular honeymoon destination for many in the region. Let us take you to explore the most romantic hotels in Kota Kinabalu to complete the perfect honeymoon experience.
Related reads:
Top 10 Most Romantic Kota Kinabalu Hotels for your Honeymoon
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1. Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, for a luxurious beach honeymoon (TWV’s choice!)
As featured in our Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is one of the most romantic luxury beachfront resorts on the island. Each evening, you get to soak in a picturesque view of the Borneo sunset as you sip on well-crafted cocktails at Sunset Bar. The romantic ambience paired with the stunning views of the South China Sea is bound to take your breath away. Dine at Coco-Joe’s Bar & Grill where you can enjoy freshly grilled steak and seafood while lounging under the beachside cabanas and feel sand between your toes.
The resort is a beautiful blend of contemporary architecture and traditional elements. Set amid lush greenery and surrounded by the sand and sea, the resort’s relaxing atmosphere will have you feeling refreshed in no time. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is directly accessible from the resort’s private jetty, and the city is only a 10-minute drive, making it very easy for you to explore Kota Kinabalu’s attractions. Be sure to book a spa session at the CHI, The Spa to pamper and rejuvenate yourselves with traditional Borneo treatments in a tranquil setting.
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa
No. 20 Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website
Contact Page | +60-88-327-888
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
2. Hilton Kota Kinabalu, for modern comforts in the city (TWV’s choice!)
Also featured in our Kota Kinabalu travel guide, the reasons why we love staying at Hilton Kota Kinabalu is no doubt due to its convenient location, upscale comforts, and warm hospitality. Located in the heart of the city, Hilton Kota Kinabalu makes a perfect base for couples to explore and experience the city. The hotel is in close proximity to Kota Kinabalu’s main attractions – KK Waterfront, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, and Gaya Street Sunday Market. Welcome Seafood Restaurant, a popular restaurant serving fresh seafood is just opposite the hotel.
Every room and suite features spacious interiors, contemporary design, and deluxe comforts. Natural light streams in from their large windows and natural wood accents are used to create a relaxing ambience. For a romantic dinner, head to the Rooftop Poolside Bar & Grill. It overlooks the city and allows you to admire the sunset in the distance. Their open-concept kitchen and modern Mediterranean-inspired design create the perfect setting for a romantic celebration.
Hilton Kota Kinabalu
Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Asia City, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website
kotakinabalu.info@hilton.com | +60-88-356000
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
3. Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort, for an exclusive ambience
Situated on the powdery white sand beach of Pantai Dalit Beach and surrounded by a 400-acres of a forested nature reserve, Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort is an ideal place for honeymooners who love nature. With its more secluded location, the hotel enjoys a serene and exclusive atmosphere perfect for a private and romantic honeymoon.
The resort’s accommodation is divided into two sections, the Ocean Wing with 173 lavish rooms that face the sun-swept shores. Each 90 sqm room boasts a private bathtub on a private terrace and a large daybed for the ultimate in relaxation. Their Garden Wing has 326 guest rooms overlooking the forest, garden or sea, and is ideal for nature-lovers seeking an idyllic ambience.
| Read our full review for Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu here > |
Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Pantai Dalit, PO Box 600, Tuaran, Sabah, 89208, Malaysia, 89208, Malaysia
Website
Contact Page | (60 88) 797 888
Facebook
Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
4. Gaya Island Resort, for a serene hillside sanctuary
Gaya Island Resort is set on an island within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Tucked amidst protected mangroves and sheltered coral reefs, you will discover a romantic sanctuary nestled on the hillside of an ancient rainforest. The resort also shares an outline of the majestic Mount Kinabalu in the horizon. its youthful vibe, sun-dappled moments and sense of intimacy will leave you with a distinctive and memorable  Borneo experience.
Their 120 villas are built facing the sea, with chic and eco-conscious interiors. They come complete with private verandas that allow you to enjoy the stunning view without ever leaving the comforts of your room. The resort is dedicated to leading the community in conservation efforts such as turtle rescue, coral reef restoration, nature and wildlife conservation, proboscis monkey preservation and education. Their in-house spa, Spa Village draws inspiration from the stunning scenery that surrounds the resort. Treatments incorporate fresh ingredients, age-old practices and modern approaches to uplift and rejuvenate you.
Gaya Island Resort
Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Website
travelcentre@ytlhotels.com.my | Â +60 3 2783 1000
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
5. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, for an urban sanctuary on the waterfront
With its strategic waterfront location, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is surrounded by a bustling vibe of restaurants and bars. For couples craving an exciting honeymoon, Le Meridien is an ideal pick. The hotel’s newly refurbished room features elegant interiors and deluxe comforts. This chic urban hotel allows you the best of both cityscape and sea views in beautiful Borneo. The hotel is also home to innovative dining experiences and a romantic sunset pool bar and restaurant.
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Sinsuran, Kota Kinabalu, 88000, Malaysia
Website
lemeridien.kotakinabalu@lemeridien.com | (60) 8832 2222
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
6. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, for an upscale atmosphere
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu brings you a luxury stay paired with dazzling choices of local and international cuisines. Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu’s business, shopping and entertainment district, Hyatt Regency at the same time also brings you views of the scenic marine park. Experience the warm of Sabah hospitality here as you indulge in the modern comforts of this hotel. Be sure to book an appointment at the serene Avantang Spa before you depart.
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Jalan Datuk Salleh Sulong, 88991, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Website
kinabalu.regency@hyatt.com | +60 88 22 1234
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
7. The Magellan Sutera, for a touch of ethnic charm in the tropics
Step into a majestic longhouse style lobby at The Magellan Sutera and be greeted with fine timber furnishings and traditional handicrafts. The resort’s architecture and decor pays homage to Borneo’s fine traditions, yet has a chic ambience. This resort is a favourite with couples seeking a relaxing, tropical honeymoon. The resort is home to 456 rooms, each boasting their own balcony where you can enjoy views of the jungle, gardens or the nearby islands.
The Magellan Sutera Resort
1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard 88100 Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia
Website
reservations@suteraharbour.com.my | (6088) 318 888
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
8. The Pacific Sutera Resort, for a lifestyle haven
The Pacific Sutera Hotel is one of the biggest hotels in Kota Kinabalu. As you enter the lobby lounge, Â the high ceilings and luxury of space is instantly refreshing. The resort spans over 384 hectares and has 500 guestrooms and suites. It is home to a sprawling golf course and has activities such as bowling and tennis for you to enjoy. Stunning and uninterrupted views of the South China Sea and islands can be best enjoyed from the exclusive Pacific Club Lounge where cocktails are served every evening. Enjoy a great meal at their restaurants. The resort is a mere 5-minutes from the city and 10-minutes from the airport, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the facilities and activities. For relaxation, head to the Chavana Spa to soothe your muscles, for their signature treatments feature fresh ingredients from their own Balinese garden.
The Pacific Sutera Resort
1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard 88100 Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia
Website
reservations@suteraharbour.com.my | (6088) 318 888
Facebook | Instagram
Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
9. Gayana Eco Resort, for a beautiful balance between nature and luxury
Off the coast of Borneo, skirted by coral reefs and calm turquoise waters is Gayana Eco Resort. Nestled on Gaya Island’s crescent Malohom Bay, this resort has overwater villas alike that of Maldives, with vistas of the aquamarine sea, mangrove forest or tropical jungle. The resort strikes a beautiful balance between ecology and luxury. At the heart of the resort is the protection and regeneration of the island’s precious marine environment – the on-site Marine Ecology Research Centre, the only of its kind on an island resort, propagates endangered giant glams and coral reefs. The spa beckons you with an array of pampering treatments, and their dining venues feature palate-pleasing cuisine, both local and international. Check out their honeymoon packages here.
Gayana Eco Resort
Malohom Bay, Gaya Island, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
Website
rsvn.gayana@echoresorts.com | +6 088 380390
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
10. Bungaraya Island Resort and Spa, for a secluded island getaway
Tucked away in a hidden bay and perched on the hillsides, Bunga Island Resort and Spa is perfect for couples who wish to enjoy their honeymoon in seclusion. The resort is cocooned in a pristine rainforest and exudes a rustic and tropical charm. Each of the 48 villas named after hibiscus flowers that can be found at the resort. Its interiors are designed to reflect the traditional architecture of Borneo and aims to give you a local feel without compromising on comforts – some even boast a private plunge pool! All villas enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and lush forest.
Bunga Island Resort and Spa
Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
Website
rsvn.bungaraya@echoresorts.com | +6 088 380390
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Click here for rates via Booking.com or Agoda >
We hope that you enjoyed our Top 10 Most Romantic Kota Kinabalu Hotels for your Honeymoon! Please share it on Facebook if it has inspired or helped you in any way. If you are planning your wedding, do read our guide here. Our honeymoon planning guide is also available for free here.
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Featured image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort.
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