Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for a romantic destination to surprise your significant other, look no further than Kota Kinabalu. This city in Sabah, Malaysia, is a hidden gem that offers the perfect setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway.
With its beautiful beaches, stunning views, delicious food, and romantic activities, Kota Kinabalu is the ideal destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Is Kota Kinabalu safe for tourists?
Absolutely. Kota Kinabalu is a popular tourist destination and known for its friendly locals and safe environment. The city has a low crime rate and visitors can feel secure while exploring the area.
However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to keep valuables safe and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
The local government and tourist board have also taken measures to ensure the safety of visitors by providing a visible police presence in popular tourist areas and implementing safety protocols in hotels and other tourist venues.
Overall, Kota Kinabalu is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers.
Affordable Valentine's Day destination
When it comes to planning a Valentine’s Day getaway, Kota Kinabalu offers a unique blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and affordable prices. Compared to other international destinations, Kota Kinabalu offers similar experiences at a fraction of the cost.
For example, a romantic dinner for two at a luxury restaurant in Kota Kinabalu can cost as little as a third of what it would in a major city like Paris or Tokyo. Similarly, a couples spa treatment or island hopping excursion can be found at a much more reasonable price in Kota Kinabalu.
So why spend a fortune on a Valentine’s Day vacation when you can have an equally memorable and romantic experience in Kota Kinabalu at a fraction of the cost?
Take advantage of the affordability and plan your perfect Valentine’s Day in Kota Kinabalu.
Scenic views for a romantic getaway
When it comes to finding the perfect spot for a romantic getaway, Kota Kinabalu offers a wide range of options, but none quite compare to the scenic views of Tanjung Aru and Kokol Hill.
Tanjung Aru
First, let’s talk about Tanjung Aru. The beach offers a stunning panoramic view of the South China Sea and the nearby islands, creating a romantic and peaceful setting for couples to enjoy. The sunset view at Tanjung Aru is particularly breathtaking as the sky turns from blue to orange, making it the perfect spot to end a day of exploring the city. The beach itself is clean and well-maintained, with many facilities for visitors to enjoy such as picnic areas and playgrounds.
Kokol Hill
Next, let’s head to Kokol Hill. The hill offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area, including the South China Sea, the nearby islands and the beautiful Mount Kinabalu. The viewpoint is located at an elevation of 1,200 meters and can be reached by car or by a short hike. The hill also offers a peaceful and secluded environment, making it the perfect spot for couples to enjoy a romantic sunset together. Visitors can also take a walk along the nature trail and admire the local flora and fauna.
In short, Tanjung Aru and Kokol Hill are must-visit spots for couples looking for a romantic getaway with scenic views. With its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, these locations are sure to provide an unforgettable and romantic experience in Kota Kinabalu.
Couples activities to make your Valentine's Day special
When it comes to making your Valentine’s Day special, Kota Kinabalu offers a wide range of activities for couples to enjoy. From island hopping to sunset cruises and even trips to a hot spring, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
Island Hopping
First, island hopping is a must-do activity for couples in Kota Kinabalu. You can take a boat ride to the nearby islands such as Sapi Island, Mamutik Island, and Manukan Island, where you can enjoy the crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. You can also go snorkeling or diving to explore the colorful marine life. It is a great way to spend a romantic day together in a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Sunset Cruise
Next, couples can also enjoy a romantic sunset cruise on the South China Sea. You can take a cruise from Jesselton Point or Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty and watch the sun go down while enjoying the beautiful sea views and the gentle breeze. Some cruises also offer dinner and live music, making it a truly unforgettable and romantic experience.
Poring Hot Spring
Finally, couples can also take a trip to Poring Hot Spring, located about an hour drive from Kota Kinabalu. The hot spring offers a variety of pools with different temperatures, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind together. You can also take a dip in the natural hot water pools and enjoy the lush green surroundings.
Romantic Dinner Spots in Kota Kinabalu
When it comes to a romantic dinner, Kota Kinabalu is the perfect place for couples to wine and dine on Valentine’s Day. This city offers a wide range of options for a romantic night out, from fine-dining to casual bistros. We’re here to help you find the perfect romantic dinner spot in Kota Kinabalu.
For a luxurious and elegant dining experience, “Alfresco Restaurant at The Magellan Sutera Resort” is the perfect spot. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the South China Sea and the sunset, making it an ideal location for a romantic dinner. The menu features a wide range of seafood dishes and international cuisine, making it a great choice for couples who want to try something new.
“Dining @ RC at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu” is another great option for a romantic dinner. The restaurant offers a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples looking to enjoy a quiet and romantic evening. The menu features a mix of international and local dishes, and the restaurant also has an extensive wine list for couples who want to pair their meal with a nice bottle of wine.
For a more casual and laid-back dining experience, “Big Fish at Kota Kinabalu Marriot Hotel” is a great choice. This restaurant offers a stunning view of the city and the sea, and the menu features a wide range of seafood dishes that are perfect for sharing. The restaurant also has a lively atmosphere, making it a great option for couples who want to have a fun and relaxed evening.
“Awan Restobar” is another great option for a romantic dinner. The restaurant offers a relaxed and cozy atmosphere, perfect for couples looking to enjoy a quiet and intimate evening. The menu features a mix of international and local dishes, and the restaurant also has an extensive wine list for couples who want to pair their meal with a nice bottle of wine.
You can find a variety of romantic dining options to suit your preferences. From extravagant and sophisticated settings to more relaxed and casual ones, the city has something for everyone.
Relax and rejuvenate at luxury spas
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to relax and rejuvenate with your loved one. Kota Kinabalu is home to some of the most luxurious spas in the region. From the Spa Village at the Rasa Ria Resort to the Haven Spa at the Kota Kinabalu Marriot Hotel, couples can indulge in a wide range of spa treatments.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic couples massage or a relaxing soak in the hot tub, these top spas have something for everyone.
Here is a list of 5 luxury spas that are perfect for couples looking to escape the stress of everyday life and celebrate Valentine’s Day in style.
- The Spa at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa
- Sanctuary Spa at The Pacific Sutera Hotel
- The Spa at The Magellan Sutera Resort
- Mandara Spa at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
- Borneo Spa at Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
No matter which spa you choose, you and your partner will leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Shopping and nightlife for a memorable Valentine's Day
Shopping and nightlife are a great way to make your Valentine’s Day even more special. Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of options for both, making it a perfect destination for couples looking to add some excitement to their holiday.
One of the must-visit places for souvenirs is the Handicraft Market, where you can find traditional Sabahan handicrafts such as beaded jewelry, woven bags, and wooden carvings.
For a more modern shopping experience, check out Imago Shopping Mall, which offers a wide range of international and local brands. Here, you’ll find a wide range of shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to electronics and home goods. The mall also has a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch.
For a more unique shopping experience, head to Gaya Street. This street is famous for its night food market, where you can find a wide variety of street food and souvenirs. The market is open from evening until late at night, making it a great spot for a night out.
But Kota Kinabalu isn’t just about shopping. This city also has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of options for couples looking to have a fun night out. For a romantic dinner with a view, head to one of the many seafood restaurants along the waterfront. After dinner, take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the cool sea breeze.
For those looking to enjoy a drink while taking in the views, head to the bar at the waterfront. Relax with a drink in hand and watch the boats go by, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. And for those who want to keep the night going, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from in the city.
Experience the Culture and Traditions of Kota Kinabalu
When it comes to experiencing the culture and traditions of Kota Kinabalu, there are a few must-see spots that should be on your list. One of the most popular is the Mari-Mari Cultural Village, where you can learn about the indigenous communities of Sabah and their traditional way of life. You’ll be able to witness firsthand the unique customs and practices of the different ethnic groups, such as the Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, Rungus and Murut.
Another spot not to be missed is the Masjid Bandaraya, also known as the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque. This beautiful mosque is an architectural masterpiece, with its unique blend of traditional Islamic and modern design. The mosque is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and is a great place to learn about the Islamic culture and traditions of the area.
By visiting these places, you will get a deeper understanding of the culture and traditions of Kota Kinabalu, and will have a more enriching experience in this wonderful city.
Valentine’s Day is a special occasion, but it’s important to remember that it’s not just about grand gestures and expensive gifts. It’s about making memories and cherishing the moments with the person you love. And there’s no better place to do that than in Kota Kinabalu, where love and adventure awaits.
Make your Valentine’s Day special this year with a trip to Kota Kinabalu.
Check out our Kota Kinabalu and Kundasang tour package for an unforgettable experience.
