Island Hopping and Sightseeing in Kota Kinabalu

We stayed at a hostel called Nusantara Mattwaddien Hostel. While the location was excellent, overall it was probably the least comfortable place we’ve stayed. We went for a very budget-friendly option, which meant a room with no window and a shared bathroom. The bathrooms were always clean, but there was no hand soap or toilet paper provided. The air conditioning only runs from 7 PM to 7 AM, though you are given a fan to use during the day. The beds were okay, and the staff were friendly and helpful.

Day 1- Arrival in Kota Kinabalu

We landed in Kota Kinabalu after a short flight and took a Grab to our hotel.

After checking in, Adam wanted to go to the gym, so we found one located in the shopping centre next door. We went to Republic Fitness, which cost RM12 each. The gym was well-equipped and had great views of the city-  a nice bonus.

After our workout, we headed back to the hotel, got changed, and went for a wander around the shopping centre. It was massive, with tons of shops selling affordable clothes. We grabbed some dinner, and while Adam got his ears cleaned, I treated myself to a pedicure with gel and removal for RM70. We finished off with a slice of cake and tea from Secret Recipe.

Day 2- Island hopping and chicken back?

The next morning, we were up early and at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal by 8:00 AM. After checking the weather and chatting with the staff, we decided on the two-island cruise, which cost RM50 per person. We also hired a snorkel set for RM10.

The first boat departs at 8:30 AM, so we stocked up on snacks and drinks from 7-Eleven before heading to our first island: Manukan. The ride over was wild- huge waves meant we got completely soaked but still a funny experience. Once on the island, you have to pay a national park fee (card is fine) which can be used on all the other islands. The rain did continue, but we made the most of it with a walk and a dip in the sea.

The water was the warmest I’ve ever been in, and although visibility wasn’t great, we still spotted a few fish. It did get busy later in the morning, so we were glad to have arrived early. We also treated ourselves to a fresh coconut on the island for RM15.

At 12:00 PM, our next boat took us to Sapi Island — which was absolutely beautiful. It was still quite busy with tourists, but the water was clearer, and we saw some coral and more colourful fish. Note: you're required to wear a life jacket while swimming here, but lifeguards provide them for free, so it’s easy to just float and relax.

Our return boat left for the mainland at 3:00 PM, and after arriving back, we headed to the hostel for a much-needed shower.

After a quick rest (and dousing Adam in aftersun), we ventured out for dinner. We first

explored the night food market, which turned out to mostly sell produce. But eventually, we found a proper street food area where Adam decided to try something new. It smelled amazing — but turned out to be chicken back, full of bones and unfortunately undercooked. Feeling a bit off and a little put off by the experience, we ended up at McDonald's (Lol).

Overall, I wasn’t completely sold on Kota Kinabalu, to be honest. Our hostel wasn't the best, and the lack of vegetarian options made meals a bit tricky. That said, for island hopping, it's a fantastic base — the ferry system is easy, the beaches are beautiful, and the snorkelling is fun. With a bit more planning, especially around accommodation and food, I think it could be a great little spot in Borneo!