Kota Kinabalu Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Kota Kinabalu.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Kota Kinabalu! Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best nightlife experiences that Kota Kinabalu has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your nightlife adventure in Kota Kinabalu. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Kota Kinabalu offers over 65 exceptional nightlife experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Top Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Craft cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and unique drinking establishments with great atmospheres.
Drunken Door
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.9 stars from 311 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 1st Floor, Block, 3A, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
ON23 Sky Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.9 stars from 36 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Hyatt Centric, 18, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Tamu Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.7 stars from 267 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Toojou, 6th Floor, Lot 12, Jalan Masjid Lama, Bandaran Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
MOGINUM Restobar
Highly rated Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu with 4.8 stars from 1119 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 118, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πKnowledgeable staff
The Other Side Bar θ΅΅θε¦Ή
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.8 stars from 166 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Ground Floor, Lot-5, TNK Commercial Centre, Lrg TNK, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Rooftop Bar @ Le MΓ©ridien
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.7 stars from 90 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Jln Dua Puluh, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Volcano Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.9 stars from 204 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Lot 12B, KK Waterfront, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
ZING Sunset Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu with 4.6 stars from 1428 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πKnowledgeable staff
Saiki Sky Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.6 stars from 59 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 500, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Tapai Speakeasy
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.7 stars from 83 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 117, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Sunset Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.4 stars from 513 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π and Spa, Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort, 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πUpscale dining experience
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
The Shamrock Irish Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.3 stars from 1075 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Lot 15, Ground Floor, Anjung Samudera, 1664, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
SOL BY LUMOS KK
Highly rated International in Kota Kinabalu with 4.6 stars from 55 reviews.
π Lumos Kota Kinabalu. 6, Jalan Gaya, Off Lorong Satu, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
Drunken Door
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.9 stars from 311 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 1st Floor, Block, 3A, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Mynt Club
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.4 stars from 66 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Lot 10, Anjung Samudera, Jalan Tuh Fuad, KK Waterfront, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Poseidon Waterfront
Highly rated International in Kota Kinabalu with 4.3 stars from 18 reviews.
π Lot 18A, Anjung Samudra, The Waterfront, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
Cowboy Bar KK
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4 stars from 212 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Jalan Singgah Mata, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
ON23 Sky Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.9 stars from 36 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Hyatt Centric, 18, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Sunset Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.4 stars from 513 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π and Spa, Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort, 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πUpscale dining experience
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Infinity Club
Highly rated International in Kota Kinabalu with 3.9 stars from 29 reviews.
π The waterfront, Jalan tun Fuad Stephen, The Waterfront, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πQuality ingredients and preparation
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
Tamu Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.7 stars from 267 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Toojou, 6th Floor, Lot 12, Jalan Masjid Lama, Bandaran Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
The Other Side Bar θ΅΅θε¦Ή
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.8 stars from 166 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Ground Floor, Lot-5, TNK Commercial Centre, Lrg TNK, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
Tamu Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.7 stars from 267 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Toojou, 6th Floor, Lot 12, Jalan Masjid Lama, Bandaran Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
KK Waterfront
Highly rated Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu with 4.3 stars from 1927 reviews.
π Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πKnowledgeable staff
ON23 Sky Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.9 stars from 36 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Hyatt Centric, 18, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Rooftop Bar @ Le MΓ©ridien
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.7 stars from 90 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Jln Dua Puluh, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
SOL BY LUMOS KK
Highly rated International in Kota Kinabalu with 4.6 stars from 55 reviews.
π Lumos Kota Kinabalu. 6, Jalan Gaya, Off Lorong Satu, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
Cowboy Bar KK
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4 stars from 212 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Jalan Singgah Mata, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Deus Music Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.3 stars from 118 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 16, Lorong Damai Point, Oriental Park Phase 7, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
The Other Side Bar θ΅΅θε¦Ή
Highly rated Bar in Kota Kinabalu with 4.8 stars from 166 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Ground Floor, Lot-5, TNK Commercial Centre, Lrg TNK, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
Ikan Bakar Sabah
Highly rated Seafood in Kota Kinabalu with 4.8 stars from 6128 reviews.
π 10, Lorong Bunga Telur, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Seafood cuisine
KK Garden Seafood Restaurant β’ Sedco
Highly rated Seafood in Kota Kinabalu with 4.9 stars from 5006 reviews.
π 4, Jalan Tan Beng Heng, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Seafood cuisine
Howdy Grillhouse Kota Kinabalu
Highly rated Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu with 4.8 stars from 1778 reviews.
π G-15, Ground Floor, JQ Central, Coastal Highway, Jesselton Quay Central, Off, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πKnowledgeable staff
Jeju Island Korean Restaurant
Highly rated Korean in Kota Kinabalu with 4.8 stars from 618 reviews.
π Malaysia, Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, Jln Tun Razak, Lot G18, Ground Floor
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Korean cuisine
Welcome Seafood Restaurant
Highly rated Seafood in Kota Kinabalu with 4.1 stars from 7019 reviews.
π Lot G 18, Ground Floor, Kompleks, Jalan Asia City, Asia City, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Seafood cuisine
KK Waterfront
Highly rated Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu with 4.3 stars from 1927 reviews.
π Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πKnowledgeable staff
Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant
Highly rated Seafood in Kota Kinabalu with 4.2 stars from 5828 reviews.
π Lorong Hilltop, Taman Far East, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Seafood cuisine
KK GARDEN SEAFOOD GAYA RESTAURANT
Highly rated Seafood in Kota Kinabalu with 4.5 stars from 1990 reviews.
π Jln Tugu, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Seafood cuisine
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Kompleks JKKN Sabah
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Kota Kinabalu venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- β’Book tickets online in advance
- β’Check show duration and intermissions
- β’Arrive early to find parking
- β’Review venue policies before attending
- β’Check for package deals
The Shore
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Kota Kinabalu venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- β’Book tickets online in advance
- β’Check show duration and intermissions
- β’Arrive early to find parking
- β’Review venue policies before attending
- β’Check for package deals
Growball Cinemax
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Kota Kinabalu venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- β’Book tickets online in advance
- β’Check show duration and intermissions
- β’Arrive early to find parking
- β’Review venue policies before attending
- β’Check for package deals
Golden Screen Cinemas
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Kota Kinabalu venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- β’Book tickets online in advance
- β’Check show duration and intermissions
- β’Arrive early to find parking
- β’Review venue policies before attending
- β’Check for package deals
Nightlife Districts
Popular neighborhoods and areas known for vibrant nightlife and bar-hopping.
Drunken Door
Explore Kota Kinabalu's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
SOL BY LUMOS KK
Explore Kota Kinabalu's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
Mynt Club
Explore Kota Kinabalu's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
ON23 Sky Bar
Explore Kota Kinabalu's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
Tamu Rooftop
Explore Kota Kinabalu's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
The Other Side Bar θ΅΅θε¦Ή
Explore Kota Kinabalu's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
Essential Tips
- πCheck dress codes before heading out
- πArrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
- πUse ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- πKeep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
- πPace yourself and stay hydrated
- πResearch cover charges and drink prices
- πMake reservations for popular venues
- πBring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
- πStart early - some venues close earlier than expected
- πAsk locals for current hotspots and hidden gems
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for nightlife experiences in Kota Kinabalu varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for nightlife experiences in Kota Kinabalu range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kota Kinabalu offers many excellent nightlife experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many nightlife experiences in Kota Kinabalu cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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