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Kuching is the capital of the state of Sarawak in Malaysia. This city isn’t often visited by tourist and that’s a shame because it’s a gateway to a fascinating, culturally diverse part of Malaysia. There is also a rich, tasty food scene to explore and lots of great Kuching accommodation options to try.
Because there aren’t too many tourists who visit this city, it can be difficult to find the best areas to stay in Kuching. That’s why we’ve created this Kuching neighborhood guide, so that you can find an area that suits your budget and your travel plans.
So, get off the beaten track and explore somewhere that few tourists ever visit. You’ll come home with lots of great pictures and stories that your friends just can’t match!
- Where to Stay in Kuching
- Kuching Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Kuching
- Join our entrepreneurship retreat in Bali!
- 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Kuching
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Kuching
- What To Pack For Kuching
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kuching
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kuching
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Kuching.
Kai Joo Suites #1 | Best Airbnb in Kuching
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If you want a little extra luxury for your trip, then try this beautiful private loft. It has two bedrooms and is suitable for up to 3 guests. The loft is located in the middle of the city and has sleek, warm furnishings as well as all the amenities you’ll need for a short or long stay.
Check in Lodge | Best Hostel in Kuching
If you’re deciding where to stay in Kuching for one night or for longer, this is one of the best budget choices. This hostel in Kuching offers clean and modern facilities as well as easy access to all the best sites. There are a variety of different rooms available from dorms to private rooms, and lots of restaurants and bars nearby to entertain you at night.
Abell Hotel | Best Hotel in Kuching
This hotel in Kuching offers everything you’ll need for a short or long stay. It’s ideally located if you want easy access to all the best sites and has 80 rooms that are fully equipped to make your stay comfortable. There’s a lounge bar on site so you have a quiet drink after a long day exploring the city and lots of restaurants and cafes nearby, so you’ll never go hungry!
Petra Jaya
Petra Jaya is a large area of the city where the city’s Malay population can be found. this makes it the best area in Kuching to stay in if you want to experience Malay culture and eat lots of their food!
Padungan
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Kuching on a budget, then Padungan is the best choice. This is where the city’s Chinese population gathers, so you’ll enjoy great food and cool stores at the same time.
Jalan Song Thian Cheok
If you’re looking for where to stay in Kuching for nightlife, then look no further. Jalan song Thian Cheok is the epicenter for the bar and nightlife scene in the city.
Damai Beach
When you want the coolest places to stay in Kuching, you can’t go past this area. Damai beach is about half an hour north of the city and is based around the beach.
Kuching City Center
Sometimes, you just can’t beat the city center. It’s a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Kuching for families or with a group of friends.
Kuching is a big, busy, and crowded metropolitan area of Malaysia, so it can be difficult to work out where one neighborhood starts and the other ends. Basically, no matter where you stay in Kuching, you’ll be surrounded by great food, interesting sites, and a vibrant and sometimes noisy culture that’s very different to what you’re probably used to.
And with this Kuching neighborhood guide, you’ll be able to find the area that suits your travel style perfectly.
Petra Jaya is one of the coolest places to stay in Kuching. It’s the center of Malay culture in the city and is close enough to the city center for easy access. The food in this area is awesome as well!
If you’re looking for the best neighborhood in Kuching to stay in on a budget, then try Padungan. This is the city’s China town and has some awesome nightlife options as well.
But if you’re really looking for some exciting nightlife then try Jalan Song Thian Cheok. This is located close to the city center and has more bars, clubs, and restaurants than any other part of the city. You’ll never get bored at night in Jalan Song Thian Cheok!
Sometimes, you just want a more relaxed experience, and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you stay at Damai Beach. It offers sun and sand as well as easy access to the city and is the perfect answer if you want a beach holiday in Kuching.
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5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Kuching
Kuching is a crowded, busy city. So if you’re looking to find the best Kuching accommodation options in a hurry, try some of these areas.
1. Petra Jaya – Where to Stay in Kuching First Time
Petra Jaya is a large area of the city where the city’s Malay population can be found. This makes it the best area in Kuching to stay in if you’ve chosen a backpacking trip to Malaysia to experience Malay culture and eat their incredible food!
Petra Jaya is just across the river from the city center and yet the streets are quieter, so you’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep after a day exploring the city.
This is one of Kuching’s best neighborhoods for food and you’ll find everything from large restaurants to family run local eateries. Eating, drinking and staying in this part of the city is also a little cheaper than in the more central areas. And the transport options are great, so you won’t have any trouble getting around.
Sri Kandis Cottage Stay KCH | Best Hostel in Petra Jaya
A cosy, private little cottage that’s perfect for a short stay and just the right distance from the centre. The owner’s a gem—helpful, quick to respond, and always ready to lend a hand. You get the whole place to yourselves, so grab your mates and make it a proper getaway in Kuching.
SS Homestay Borneo Housing SL4 | Best Hotel in Petra Jaya
Ideal for group travellers, this homestay sits right in the heart of Kampung Nombor Dua. It’s a spacious apartment with two bedrooms, a living room, city views from the patio, and all the essentials—flat-screen TV, walk-in shower, kitchen with an oven and microwave. Only catch? It’s three floors up, so get ready to earn those views.
M R homestay | Best Airbnb in Petra Jaya
This spot’s ideal for a big family getaway—loads of space, plenty of parking, and a solid location to boot. The host’s quick to respond and always helpful, and the place is kitted out with everything you need to cook up a storm (yep, there’s even an air fryer). Comfort sorted, no faff required.
Things to See and Do in Petra Jaya
- Relax in nature at the Sarawak Orchid Garden.
- Visit historic Fort Margherita, once controlled by the British Empire.
- Head to the Matang Wildlife Centre to see Asia’s coolest animals!
- If you like books or architecture, spend some time with the international literature at the Pustaka Negeri Sarawak
- Visit Astana, a palace that has beautiful public gardens for you to explore.
- Learn more about the local culture at the Masjid Jamek mosque.
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View on Osprey2. Padungan – Where to Stay in Kuching on a Budget
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Kuching on a budget, then Padungan is the best choice. This is where the city’s Chinese population gathers, so you’ll enjoy great food and cool stores at the same time. Padungan is close to the center as well, so you can enjoy convenient access to all the city’s best sites.
Given this neighborhood’s convenient location in Kuching, it’s a great area to explore from without blowing your Malaysia travel budget. It’s close to the riverfront, so it has great scenery, and there are also some popular nightlife spots close by. So, no matter what you enjoy doing on your trip, you’ll find a wealth of options in Padungan.
Heritage Vacation 8 Pax House | Best Airbnb in Padungan
This homestay is a real gem—stylish, comfortable, and smack bang near all the action. Just a short stroll to the waterfront and surrounded by shops and local eats, it’s the kind of spot that makes exploring the area feel effortless. For the aesthetics and vibes—this place is a 10/10.
Marco Polo | Best Hostel in Padungan
This brand-new guesthouse is located in the heart of Kuching’s Chinatown. It’s a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Kuching for one night or for a longer stay.
It’s close to the waterfront as well as to India Street, Main Bazaar, and lots of restaurants and bars. And the dormitory rooms are air-conditioned and well equipped to make your stay comfortable.
Padungan Hotel | Best Hotel in Padungan
This hotel in Kuching has 36 recently refurbished rooms and is located right in the heart of the city. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff will do everything they can to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Each room is air-conditioned and has a private bathroom, ironing facilities, and an in-room safe.
Things to See and Do in Padungan
- Eat in Chinatown!
- Check out the unusual cat statue and learn why this animal is so important in Kuching.
- Go south of Chinatown to check out Kuching’s Filipino community and the great restaurants in the area.
- People watch on the waterfront and make sure you’re there for at least one sunset.
- Learn about the history of textiles in Kuching at the Tun Jugah Foundation.
3. Jalan Song Thian Cheok – Best Area to Stay in Kuching for Nightlife
If you’re looking for where to stay in Kuching for insane nightlife, then look no further. Jalan Song Thian Cheok is the epicenter for the bar and nightlife scene in the city. This area is a single street that’s located between Padungan and Central Kuching and it’s a popular spot for backpackers and travelers who enjoy a vibrant nightlife.
But there’s more to this area then just clubbing. It’s close to restaurants, cafes, and important landmarks and temples. The public transport options in this part of the city are simply amazing as well, so you’ll be able to explore without much trouble.
And despite its reputation for nightlife, it’s also one of the safest parts of the city, so you can have a loose and lovely time without needing to worry about your safety in Malaysia.
Heart Of City Town@ Pei San Loft | Best Airbnb in Jalan Song Thian Cheok
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Kuching for nightlife, this is a great choice. This studio apartment has 3 beds and is suitable for up to 6 guests. It’s located right in the heart of the city in a safe area for adults and for kids. There are also lots of restaurants nearby, so you’ll be spoiled for choice at meal time!
Swanling Kuching | Best Hostel in Jalan Song Thian Cheok
Swanling’s got the location bit sorted. Right near the river with food spots all around, it’s a solid base for wandering and refuelling. Rooms are simple, comfortable, and a decent place to crash after a sweaty day of sightseeing. The manager’s lovely, always around if you need something. For a budget-friendly stay that doesn’t make you feel like you’ve cheaped out — this one does the job.
360 Xpress City Center | Best Hotel in Jalan Song Thian Cheok
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Kuching, this convenient and comfortable hotel is a great choice for every type of traveler. It’s right in the heart of the city and offers amenities like dry cleaning, a laundry service, baggage storage, and a Jacuzzi. The rooms are air conditioned and contain a mini bar and fridge.
Things to See and Do in Jalan Song Thian Cheok
- Eat until your stomach hurts for cheap at the Song Keng Hai Hawker Centre.
- Visit Sri Srinivasagar Temple and make sure you have a meal at the Indian restaurant there!
- Grab your mates and go out clubbing, the Terminal 1 Club is particularly popular.
- Check out the quirky Upside Down House, which is exactly what it sounds like.
- Make sure you check out the many cafes and restaurants until you find your favorites.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Damai Beach – Coolest Place to Stay in Kuching
When you want the coolest places to stay in Kuching, you can’t go past this area. Damai beach is about half an hour north of the city and is based around the beach.
This makes it a popular resort town for locals and travelers alike. Despite its popularity, it has a laidback vibe that will suit every member of your travel group, from the most active to the smallest.
Located close enough to Kuching for easy day visits, Damai Beach offers the perfect combination of convenience and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s also set up for travelers and has a huge collection of restaurants, bars, cafes, and other facilities.
It’s a popular spot for adventure activities as well as for long, warm days relaxing on the beach. So, whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Kuching with kids or with friends, make sure you consider Damai Beach and all its charms.
Santubong Suites A Just Like Home Damai | Best Airbnb in Damai Beach
Fully furnished, spotless, and tucked away in a quiet spot — this homestay’s solid for a quick escape or low-key staycation. The rooms are big and bright, the pool’s a proper treat in that sticky Borneo heat, and the balcony views aren’t too shabby either. Simple, private, and exactly what you need to switch off for a bit.
Permai Rainforest Resort | Best Hotel in Damai Beach
This is one of the best places to stay in Kuching for a real beach experience. It’s at the foot of Mount Santubong and offers a private beach, an outdoor pool, and rooms that are fully equipped to help you have a comfortable stay. There’s also an onsite restaurant and café so you will never have to go far to find a delicious snack!
The Village House | Best Hostel in Damai Beach
This traditional-style hotel will make you feel like you’re in a forest retreat. Clean and comfortable, the rooms are simply furnished with everything you need to slow down and unwind. The hotel comes with a pool with stunning jungle views and there’s a range of fresh local food at the on-site restaurant. Even better though are the staff, who are sure to make your stay wonderful.
Things to See and Do in Damai Beach
- Just relax and enjoy the beach.
- Head into the center of Kuching when you want some excitement and noise and then leave when you get tired.
- Enjoy some adventure activities on the beach or near it.
- Head to Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about the local traditions.
- Visit the Mausoleum of Sultan Tengah and learn about the only Sultan to rule over the region.
- Grab the family or some friends and hike through the rainforest at the Permai Rainforest Walk.
5. Kuching City Center – Best Neighborhood in Kuching for Families
Sometimes, you just can’t beat the city center. It’s a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Kuching for families or with a group of friends. It offers the best transport options in Kuching as well as the waterfront, busy markets, and lots of other beautiful things to see, .
Most of the Kuching’s top attractions are in this area as well, so you won’t have to go far to see something fantastic.
Just to tempt you more, this is also the best area to stay in if you love to eat. It’s incredibly multicultural, which means you can eat Malay food one night, Chinese the next, and Indonesian the night after that!
Sunset Homestay | Best Hostel in Kuching City Center
One of the best places in Kuching to stay, this hostel offers dormitory accommodation in the middle of the city. There’s a shared and fully equipped kitchen on site as well as free Wi-Fi and shared bathroom. The location is first rate and the facilities are all clean, modern, and welcoming.
The LimeTree Hotel Kuching | Best Hotel in Kuching City Center
Whether you’re deciding where to stay in Kuching for families or on your own, this hotel is a great choice. It’s located right in the center of town and offers comfortable accommodation at a reasonable price. It’s been recently refurbished and offers a coffee bar, laundry service, and spacious rooms with private bathrooms.
Stampin Suite @ Uplands | Best Airbnb in Kuching City Center
This gated and guarded apartment is perfect whether you’re deciding where to stay in Kuching with kids or with friends. You’ll get the entire apartment to yourself along with a private bathroom and fully equipped kitchen. The furnishings are clean and modern and there’s a pool and gym on site that you can use as well.
Things to See and Do in Kuching City Center
- Visit Tua Pek Kong temple, the oldest in Kuching.
- Take a tour out to Bako National Park to see monkeys!
- Go shopping at the market style Main Bazaar.
- Learn more about the local culture and its history at Sarawak State Museum.
- People watching down at the waterfront and stop at cafes and shops along the way!
- Spend some time at the Kuching City Mosque and take part in its religious customs.
- Try as much of the delicious food from as many different cultures as possible.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Kuching
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Kuching and where to stay.
What To Pack For Kuching
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kuching
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kuching
This Kuching neighborhood guide will help you have to the trip of your dreams to this part of Malaysia. You’ll be able to explore all the amazing experiences of visiting Malaysia and still head back to a comfortable base at night when you’re tired.
So, get started booking your trip to Kuching today. Because once you spend some time there, you’ll be intoxicated by the city’s perfect mix of cultures, food, and attractions.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Malaysia.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Buy Us a Coffee!
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