Kota Kinabalu Hotel Guide. Hotels in Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Top reasons to visit Tanjung Aru

• Stunning Beaches: Tanjung Aru boasts beautiful beaches with soft sands and breathtaking sunsets, ideal for relaxation.
• Outdoor Activities: The area offers a variety of adventures, including island excursions and golfing at nearby courses.
• Cultural Experiences: Visitors can explore local culture and attractions in Kota Kinabalu, enhancing their holiday.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Perfect for family vacations, Tanjung Aru provides a vibrant and welcoming environment.
• Charming Accommodations: A range of hotels and guesthouses cater to all traveller needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels in and around Tanjung Aru

Discover the charming accommodations in Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, where a variety of hotels and guesthouses cater to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a luxurious vacation experience, a family-friendly retreat, or facilities designed for business trips, Tanjung Aru offers an array of options. Enjoy the stunning views and convenient access to local attractions while choosing from popular establishments like the Kinabalu Wing and La Tanjung Aru.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: A luxurious 5-star resort situated in Tanjung Aru, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. Ideal for those seeking a beach, family, or adventure holiday, this property offers direct access to the pristine beach. Guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports such as kayaking, waterskiing, and parasailing, all available onsite or nearby. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s amenities, including mini-golf, ping pong, and babysitting services, ensuring a delightful experience for both kids and adults alike.
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Located just 1.3km from Tanjung Aru, The Pacific Sutera Hotel is another 5-star accommodation with an impressive guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This resort is perfect for families looking to enjoy a beach getaway. With direct beach access, guests can unwind by the sea or partake in various family-friendly activities. The property features a children's pool, an arcade game room, and babysitting services, making it convenient for parents seeking relaxation while keeping their children entertained.
• KK Times Square Hotel: For those on a budget, KK Times Square Hotel offers comfortable lodging just 1.6km away from Tanjung Aru. This budget-friendly hotel provides guests with essential amenities, including multiple television options for entertainment. While it may lack the extensive facilities of a resort, it serves as a practical base for exploring the vibrant local area, ensuring you can enjoy the attractions of Kota Kinabalu without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near Tanjung Aru

Explore the enchanting Tanjung Aru, a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With its stunning beachfront spots and vibrant atmosphere, this neighbourhood is ideal for family vacations or a romantic getaway. Just a short distance away, Kota Kinabalu offers a rich cultural experience and friendly locals. Enjoy the beautiful beach area, unwind in serene surroundings, and indulge in delightful excursions that showcase the best of Sabah's natural beauty.

• Kampung Air: Nestled a mere 3.2km from Tanjung Aru, Kampung Air offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and stunning coastal scenery. This charming neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a beach experience, with opportunities for leisure at nearby private clubs and resorts. The local harbour and marina are great spots for enjoying the breathtaking views, while the surrounding mountains provide a picturesque backdrop. Though visitor numbers to Kampung Air fluctuate throughout the year, the peak seasons from March to April and July promise vibrant atmospheres filled with adventure.
• Kota Kinabalu: As the capital city of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is the heart of local culture and commerce, with Tanjung Aru situated within its vibrant boundaries. This city is known for its family-friendly attractions and bustling business scene. Visitors flock here in droves during peak periods in August and December to January, enjoying the thriving shopping centres and popular malls. The proximity to parks and the marina allows for leisurely strolls and relaxation amidst the urban hustle, making it an excellent base for exploring the region.
• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Located just 3.2km from Tanjung Aru, Downtown Kota Kinabalu is a lively neighbourhood that perfectly captures the essence of city life. With a focus on family-friendly and business-oriented experiences, this area features a variety of shopping centres and markets to explore. Visitors typically arrive in August and during the December to January holiday season, when the streets buzz with activity. The nearby parks and modern college university add to the dynamic atmosphere, ensuring there's always something new to discover.

Things to do near Tanjung Aru

Shopping

A short stroll from the beach, Tanjung Aru offers shopping at the nearby Tanjung Aru Plaza, where you can find local crafts and souvenirs. For a diverse selection, visit the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Centre, featuring traditional Malaysian goods that reflect the region's culture.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at Spa Village Tanjung Aru, where you can indulge in traditional Malay treatments surrounded by lush gardens. Engage in yoga sessions on the beach for a serene start to your day, followed by a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coastline, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Zip Borneo, a zipline ropes course located 29.0km from Tanjung Aru. Soar through the treetops and embrace the outdoor vibes as you navigate through exciting obstacles, offering both adventure and a unique perspective of the lush landscape.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tanjung Aru Beach, where you can enjoy sunset views, local food stalls, and beach bars. For a lively atmosphere, visit the nearby Tanjung Aru Plaza, featuring a mix of karaoke lounges and pubs offering a variety of drinks and entertainment options.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tanjung Aru

For a budget-friendly trip to Tanjung Aru, consider visiting in March, May, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Saturdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia’s search wizard to filter by budget and preferences, and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for additional savings. Explore free local attractions and utilise public transport to minimise costs while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tanjung Aru are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Tanjung Aru is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Tanjung Aru is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Tanjung Aru is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search wizard to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Tanjung Aru with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Tanjung Aru

Tanjung Aru is an ideal destination for outdoor and family vacations, offering beautiful beaches and cultural attractions. Key points of interest include Tanjung Aru Beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy the sunset, as well as the nearby Mount Kinabalu, perfect for adventurers seeking a challenge. The area's harbour and tourist precinct further enhance the experience, making it a delightful spot for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture and outdoor activities.

• Sutera Harbour: Nestled just 1.6km from Tanjung Aru, Sutera Harbour offers stunning beach views and scenic vistas. Visitors can indulge in a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding while enjoying the tropical surroundings.
• Sabah State Mosque: A mere 1.4km from Tanjung Aru, the Sabah State Mosque showcases exquisite Islamic architecture and rich cultural vibes. Its grand structure and serene environment make it a significant landmark for those interested in local heritage.
• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: Located 3.2km away, the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is a vibrant tourist precinct, ideal for families. Enjoy outdoor activities, picturesque strolls along the waterfront, and a lively atmosphere that brings the local community together.

Best time to go to Tanjung Aru

The best time to visit Tanjung Aru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Tanjung Aru falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Tanjung Aru falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	82.6°F (28.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Tanjung Aru

Flying into Tanjung Aru is convenient with Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) located 3.2km away. Notable nearby hotels include the 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, offering airport transfers, and The Pacific Sutera Hotel, situated 4.8km from the airport. The Grandis Hotel, a 4-star establishment, is also nearby at 8.0km, providing various airport shuttle options. For those considering Labuan Airport (LBU), it is 115.9km away, with hotels like the 5-star Dorsett Grand Labuan located 1.6km from the airport. Kudat Airport (KUD), 138.4km from Tanjung Aru, features hotels like the Kudat Golf & Marina Resort, which offers free airport transportation.