Kota Kinabalu

Known to locals as "KK", Kota Kinabalu is the state capital of Sabah and sits on the coast facing the South China Sea. It’s a modern city that was rebuilt after being largely destroyed in the Second World War. Today, it has a population of approximately 500,000 people.

The waterfront area comes alive in the evenings with seafood restaurants and market stalls, and the sunsets here can be spectacular. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with grilled fish, prawns, and crabs commonly found at the city's night markets.

Kota Kinabalu is also known for its lively markets, such as the Central Market and the Filipino Market. These are good spots to see local produce, dried seafood, and handmade goods. The Central Market focuses more on food and household items, while the Filipino Market is known for souvenirs and local crafts.

The Sabah State Museum offers an overview of local history and culture, with exhibitions on indigenous groups, colonial heritage, and traditional houses. Just outside the centre, the city mosque sits beside a lagoon and is one of KK’s most photographed landmarks.