Weekend Getaway to Kota Kinabalu: Feel the Waves and Sun in Borneo Paradise

Returning from Kota Kinabalu after a 3-day, 4-night adventure, I must admit that my initial unfamiliarity with the place led to some hasty and less-than-ideal itinerary planning. As a result, I missed out on a few activities that I would have loved to experience. This article is my way of sharing both the pitfalls and the highlights of my journey, serving as a travelogue and a guide for future explorers.

🌈Itinerary and Attractions:
Day 1️⃣: Klias Wetlands Mangrove 🌳 – Priced at 250 RMB per person, this tour departs at 2 PM and lasts for about 3 hours. The afternoon tea was disappointing, and we only spotted a couple of proboscis monkeys 🙉, but the evening firefly spectacle was nothing short of magical!

It’s the kind of breathtaking beauty that could make anyone say yes to a proposal! [🌟Tips: For an enhanced experience, combine this trip with sea fishing and plan to see the fireflies in the evening.]

Day 2️⃣: Mantanani Island 🏝 – At 298 RMB per person, this tour sets off early at 7:30 AM and also takes 3 hours round trip. The island boasts pristine, crystal-clear waters that are simply stunning! However, the weather ☁ plays a crucial role, significantly affecting snorkeling and beach views. Additionally, the long boat ride and floating while snorkeling can be quite nauseating.

It’s advisable to book 1-2 days in advance. We were back in the city by 3:30 PM, just in time to catch a mesmerizing sunset at Kota Kinabalu Beach. [🌟Tips: Consider combining this trip with afternoon sea fishing for a fuller day.]

Day 3️⃣: Resort Hotel 🏨 + City Stroll (For detailed tips on resort hotels and sunset dining, check out my previous Magellan Hotel article.)

Day 4️⃣: Our schedule was quite relaxed, with only one main attraction each day, which made the trip enjoyable without being too exhausting. However, the half-day free time felt a bit awkward. An alternative option is the KAWA Mangrove + Manukan Island one-day tour, which is shorter and less tiring, though the scenery might not be as impressive. Still, it offers a beautiful and serene experience.

Day 5️⃣: For those who enjoy tropical rainforests or hiking, Mount Kinabalu is a must-visit. However, the journey is quite long, making a day trip feel rushed.

🍺 Food:
I highly recommend trying the butter prawns 🍤 (a local delicacy), salt and pepper mantis shrimp 🦐 (flavored with unique local spices, the meat is fresh and sweet), slipper lobster 🦞 (another local specialty), wild oysters 🦪 (highly recommended, very firm and a local favorite), and salted egg yolk crab 🦀 (with a distinctive flavor).

The stir-fried rice noodle (a special dessert) is also a delightful treat! Other dishes and ingredients are similar to what you’d find in China, and some even surpass them in taste. If you’re heading to Kuala Lumpur, it’s best to skip the durian in Kota Kinabalu. According to local Malaysian friends, the best durians come from West Malaysia, and those in East Malaysia are imported and more expensive.