Looking for the best places to visit in Kota Kinabalu? Whether you're a first-time traveller or returning for another round of Sabah’s natural charm, Kota Kinabalu offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and seaside beauty. From crystal-clear waters to bustling local markets, there’s plenty to explore – and the best way to do it is with a rental car from Hertz Malaysia, conveniently located at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI).
Start Your Journey from the Airport with Hertz
When you land at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, you can head straight to the Hertz counter and pick up your pre-booked rental car. This means no waiting for taxis, Grab, or shuttle buses. With daily rates starting from as low as RM150 per day for compact cars and around RM250-RM350 per day for SUVs or MPVs, renting from Hertz gives you flexibility, comfort, and great value.
Self-driving also makes it easy to reach multiple locations in a single day – which is perfect considering the many beautiful places to visit in Kota Kinabalu and surrounding areas.
Top Places to Visit in Kota Kinabalu
- Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Just 20 minutes by boat from the city, this marine park includes five islands – Manukan, Sapi, Mamutik, Gaya, and Sulug. You can snorkel, dive, or simply relax on the beach. Park at Jesselton Point Jetty and hop on a ferry. - Mount Kinabalu National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the most iconic places to visit in Kota Kinabalu. Located about two hours' drive from the city, it’s perfect for a day trip. Hertz vehicles are ideal for this scenic journey through winding highland roads. - Signal Hill Observatory Platform
Drive up here for a panoramic view of the city and South China Sea. It’s a quiet, breezy spot to enjoy sunrise or sunset. - Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
Perfect for evening strolls or dinner by the sea. The area comes alive with music, lights and food stalls. Public parking is available, but having your own car makes it more convenient to arrive early and secure a spot. - Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Just a 30-minute drive from the city, this family-friendly attraction houses Bornean animals like orangutans, sun bears, and pygmy elephants.
Must-Try Local Foods in Kota Kinabalu
Exploring wouldn’t be complete without tasting Sabah’s signature dishes:
- Tuaran Mee – Stir-fried handmade noodles best eaten at local kopitiams.
- Ngau Chap – A rich beef broth dish served with noodles.
- Seafood – Head to Welcome Seafood Restaurant or Todak Waterfront Seafood for fresh, affordable seafood cooked to your liking.
- Hinava – A traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, chilli, and ginger.
With your Hertz rental, you can easily drive to local food spots off the tourist path – especially those known only to locals!
Travel Tips When Adventuring Places to Visit in Kota Kinabalu
- Parking: Public parking is widely available but bring small change for parking coupons or apps.
- Driving: Roads are generally well-maintained. Having a GPS or using Google Maps is helpful in rural areas.
- Weather: It’s usually hot and humid, so carry water and wear breathable clothing. Sudden rain is common – pack an umbrella.
- Fuel Cost: Petrol prices are subsidised in Malaysia – around RM2.05 per litre, making road trips affordable.
Explore Kota Kinabalu with Comfort and Flexibility
With so many places to visit in Kota Kinabalu, self-driving is by far the most flexible way to explore. Skip the waiting, set your own schedule, and travel comfortably with Hertz. From airport pickup to city exploration, Hertz helps make your Sabah journey smooth and memorable.
Book your car online with Hertz at https://www.hertzmalaysia.com/en/, pick it up at the airport, and start exploring the beauty of Kota Kinabalu today.
