Discover the Hidden Gems of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia 🇲🇾
Family Trip – Kota Kinabalu

P1 Our adventure in Kota Kinabalu began on March 15th, coinciding with the vibrant night market on Gaya Street. We couldn’t resist the lively atmosphere and decided to explore.

P2 The following day was a weekend, and we were delighted to discover a bustling morning market. The passion fruits were surprisingly affordable, and we savored their sweet and tangy flavor. Later, we strolled to Jesselton Point to book boat tickets for the upcoming days. Although the prices were negotiable, my bargaining skills were a bit rusty, so I did my best to secure a fair deal.

P3-P4 In the afternoon, we embarked on a sea fishing trip. The thrill of casting our lines and reeling in fish was exhilarating, even though the catches were mostly small.

P5-P14 Over the next two days, we visited the enchanting islands of Mamutik, Sapi, and Ria Mantanani, all booked from the dock. These nearby islands offered a plethora of water activities. The underwater helmet diving was an unforgettable experience, but it left my shoulders aching the next day. The jet ski ride turned my feet a shade darker, while parasailing provided a smooth and breathtaking view.

However, the boat’s rocking after the parasailing made me a bit seasick. Ria, being further away, required an early start at 7 AM. The local boat captains were incredibly enthusiastic, playing music and dancing, making the journey feel like a roller coaster ride. At Ria, we went snorkeling, and the friendly instructors ensured that even non-swimmers like me could enjoy the experience.

They guided me to spots teeming with colorful Nemos, creating a magical underwater world.

P15-P17 On another day, a light rain added a touch of adventure as we hopped on ATVs. The muddy terrain and the vehicle stalling twice only added to the excitement. After a satisfying lunch, we headed to Mount Kinabalu to feed some adorable calves. The ice cream there was just average, leaving us to ponder other culinary delights to try.
