Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 2-day itinerary that keeps you away from island hopping but still lets you soak in the best of what the city has to offer. Plus, I’ll make sure to include some delicious halal dining options!

Day 1: Explore the City and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at D’Place Kinabalu: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this popular spot known for its traditional Sabah dishes. Try the Nasi Lemak or Roti Canai with a side of curry!

• Visit the Sabah State Museum: After breakfast, head to the Sabah State Museum. It’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of Sabah. The museum has various exhibits, including artifacts from the indigenous tribes and a beautiful botanical garden.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at SEDCO Square: For lunch, check out the food stalls at SEDCO Square. You’ll find a variety of halal options, including local favorites like Satay and Nasi Kandar.

• Explore the Handicraft Market: After lunch, stroll over to the Handicraft Market (Pasar Kraftangan). It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, local handicrafts, and maybe some traditional attire. Don’t forget to haggle a little!

Evening:

• Dinner at Alu-Alu Kitchen: For dinner, head to Alu-Alu Kitchen, which offers a mix of local and international dishes, all halal. Their grilled seafood is a must-try!

• Sunset at Signal Hill Observatory: After dinner, make your way to Signal Hill for a stunning view of the sunset over the city and the South China Sea. It’s a perfect spot for some beautiful photos!

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at this popular café. They have a variety of halal options, including pastries and sandwiches.

• Visit Tunku Abdul Rahman Park (on land): While you’re avoiding island hopping, you can still enjoy the beauty of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park from the mainland. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the views of the islands from afar.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Nasi Kandar Zainul: For lunch, indulge in some delicious Nasi Kandar at Nasi Kandar Zainul. Their dishes are flavorful and definitely halal!

• Explore the Mari Mari Cultural Village: After lunch, head to the Mari Mari Cultural Village. It’s a fantastic place to learn about the different indigenous cultures of Sabah. You’ll get to see traditional houses, enjoy cultural performances, and even try your hand at some traditional crafts!

Evening:

• Dinner at Kampung Nelayan Seafood Restaurant: For your final dinner in Kota Kinabalu, treat yourself to a seafood feast at Kampung Nelayan. The restaurant is halal and offers a beautiful view of the sunset over the water.

• Night Market Stroll: If you still have some energy left, take a stroll through the night market (Pasar Malam) at the waterfront. It’s a lively place with lots of street food options, and you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Tips:

• Make sure to stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking!
• Always check the opening hours of the places you plan to visit, as they can vary.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 2 days in Kota Kinabalu! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌏✨