Hotels in Kampung Air

Serenity Awaits: Dive into the Enchantment of Kampung Air

Discover Kampung Air in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia—a hidden gem that beautifully blends vibrant culture with stunning coastal views. This charming village is renowned for its stilt houses perched over crystal-clear waters, offering a unique glimpse into traditional life in rural Malaysia. Stroll through lively markets, savor fresh seafood, and immerse yourself in the friendly local atmosphere. Just a stone’s throw from the bustling city, Kampung Air serves as a gateway to spectacular destinations like Kinabalu Park and pristine beaches. Experience the warmth of Sabah’s hospitality and the enchanting allure of this off-the-beaten-path paradise. For the best hotel rates in Kampung Air and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Kampung Air

Kampung Air in Kota Kinabalu offers vibrant attractions for travelers. Imago Shopping Mall is perfect for shopping and dining, while 1Borneo Hypermall provides a unique shopping experience with various entertainment options. Likas Stadium is ideal for sports enthusiasts. Accommodation around these areas ranges from star hotels with comfortable rooms and friendly staff to charming chalets in Kampung Air, ensuring a pleasant stay. For first-time visitors, Imago Shopping Mall is the best choice to experience the local culture and amenities. Here are some of the best hotels in Kampung Air that our travelers love:

1. Near Imago Shopping MallOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for families and business travelers alike, offering a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Imago Shopping Mall is a central hub that enhances the appeal of the locality. For accommodations, Manja HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel featuring diverse dining options like a restaurant and coffee shop, alongside entertainment amenities including satellite TV. Olumis Homes at Imago Mall The LoftOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, caters to business guests with tailored services and facilities. For budget travelers, Iris Suite at Imago LoftOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, provides essential business amenities, making it a solid choice for those looking to balance work and leisure.
2. Near Likas StadiumOpens in a new window: This area is ideal for sports enthusiasts and those seeking a more rural experience, with beautiful mountain views and outdoor activities nearby. Kinabalu Private LodgesOpens in a new window is a cozy 2.5-star lodge that offers entertainment options including LCD TV, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Oppa 28Opens in a new window, another 2.5-star hotel, features a restaurant and bar, providing free breakfast daily. For a comfortable stay, Ayana Holiday ResortOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star guesthouse with entertainment amenities like satellite TV and flatscreen TVs.
3. Near 1Borneo HypermallOpens in a new window: A family-friendly destination, this area combines shopping with entertainment, making it a great base for exploring Kota Kinabalu. Mile 36 LodgeOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star lodge with a variety of dining options available throughout the day. Ceaser's PlaceOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star lodge, provides easy access to scenic mountain views. Wayn Zen Rose CabinOpens in a new window, another 3.0-star hotel, offers a range of activities and stunning rural landscapes, ensuring guests can enjoy both relaxation and adventure during their stay.

Things to do in Kampung Air for first time

Kampung Air offers a captivating blend of stunning beaches and lush landscapes, perfect for a three-day adventure. Travelers can enjoy boating, diving, and hiking through scenic trails, while immersing themselves in the local culture. With vibrant shopping options and a taste of traditional village life, it's an unforgettable destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kampung Air:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Kampung Air by exploring the Sutera Harbour, a picturesque marina perfect for a leisurely walk while soaking in stunning sea views. Afterward, make your way to the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps grab a bite at one of the local food stalls. Conclude your day with a visit to All Saint's Cathedral, an architectural gem that offers a serene environment—ideal for reflection after a day of exploration.
• Day 2: Begin your day at the Sabah State Mosque, an iconic landmark known for its beautiful architecture and tranquility. Afterwards, venture to Tabin Wildlife Reserve, where you can immerse yourself in nature and possibly spot some unique wildlife. End your day at the Sabah Art Gallery, where you'll appreciate local art and culture, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and inspiration.
• Day 3: Kick off with a trip to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a stunning marine park where you can indulge in snorkeling or simply relax on the beach. Next, visit the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, known for its stunning blue dome and serene surroundings. Wrap up your day at Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, a favorite spot for locals to unwind and watch the breathtaking sunset while enjoying a picnic or taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

5 tips to find a great Kampung Air hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you’re looking for an affordable getaway, consider visiting Kampung Air in February, March, or November, as hotel prices are generally lower during these months. To truly appreciate the main attractions, it’s best to stay for at least 2-3 days. You can enjoy the beautiful sea and immerse yourself in the local culture, making it a great value for money destination for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Kampung Air, you're in luck! Head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you might uncover some fantastic hotel discounts just before your trip. To maximize your chances of scoring great prices, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could be informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you snag the best deals without incurring extra booking fees. Happy travels!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Kampung Air.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. If you're looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, while still balancing cost with the convenience of reaching the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Kampung Air. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Kampung Air

Here are some must-try dishes in Kampung Air, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia:

• Nasi Lemak: Often considered Malaysia's national dish, nasi lemak features fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with a spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, hard-boiled eggs, and cucumber slices. It's typically enjoyed for breakfast, but can be found at any time of day, often served in local warungs where you can experience the communal atmosphere.
• Laksa: A flavorful noodle soup, laksa combines spicy coconut milk broth with rice noodles, shrimp, chicken, or fish, topped with bean sprouts and herbs. Each region has its own version, and in Kota Kinabalu, you can find unique local twists that showcase fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
• Satay: These skewered and grilled meats, typically served with a rich peanut sauce, are a popular street food in Kampung Air. Whether it's chicken, beef, or lamb, satay is often enjoyed during social gatherings, making it a must-try for anyone looking to experience the local culture and flavors.

Best time to go to Kampung Air

Kampung Air experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 79.9°F (26.6°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). January is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in Kampung Air, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and October tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Kampung Air Travel Information