10 Best Hostels in Kota Kinabalu

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Homy Seafront Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Kota Kinabalu

Homy Seafront Hostel is our pick for Best Overall Hostel in Kota Kinabalu because it checks all the boxes for an awesome stay – free WiFi, free breakfast, privacy curtains, etc. You can choose between dorm and private rooms, both at good prices.

Homy Seafront is a relaxed place, and the living room is the perfect spot to mingle and watch the beautiful sunsets over the sea. Kota Kinabalu is home to some of Malaysia’s best beaches, and this is the best place to enjoy them.

Faloe Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Kota Kinabalu

The Faloe Hostel is designed for people to meet each other, which is perfect for travelers who want to hit the town. The super-friendly atmosphere is a given, since dorm rooms are the only option.

Although KK is not known as a party-destination, it does have a lively nightlife scene. The hot-spots include Irish pubs and various clubs scattered around downtown.

Jiran Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Kota Kinabalu

Jiran Hostel is the ideal spot for backpackers traveling on a budget. It has all of the basics of a good stay – lockers near each bed, privacy curtain, reading light, free light breakfast, and kitchen. To complete the package, there’s also a small space if you need to get some work done. 

There are mixed and female-only dorms with comfy beds and curtains so you can enjoy some privacy whilst you sleep. If were talking bang for buck, it’s hard to beat Jiran, budget-friendly prices without sacrificing comfort, sounds good to me. Jiran Hostel is in a great location, so you can walk to nearly everything in downtown Kota Kinabalu.

StoryTel – Best Hostel for Couples in Kota Kinabalu

StoryTel provides spacious private rooms, ideal for couples visiting Kota Kinabalu. All the bathrooms are ensuite, so no need to worry about walking down the hall to shower.

The hostel is centrally located in KK, so you can enjoy walks to most major attractions in town. Free wifi, adapters and towels are included, perfect if you forgot to bring your own!

TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Kota Kinabalu

TOOJOU is the hostel that caters to digital nomads. Yes, they have free high-speed WiFi, like most places around KK. But they understand the needs of the citizens of the digital world and add some special touches that others don’t.

For the more serious needs of the tech-focused, TOOJOU has OPIS Co-Working Spaces designed to support a productive atmosphere. There are several places where you can access a business printer, and complimentary refreshments to recharge your batteries.

Seaview Capsule Hostel – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Kota Kinabalu

If that communal hostel-living isn’t your thing, capsule hostels are the way to go. At Seaview Capsule Hostel, the capsule closes and locks for the ultimate privacy – something you’re not going to get from normal, pod-style dorms.

Inside the capsule, it’s like you’ve jumped into a futuristic space pod with modern technologies. Seaview is well located in KK, and provides stunning common spaces where you can get to know other travelers.

More of the Best Hostels in Kota Kinabalu

Vibrant Hostel

Vibrant Hostel is a high-quality place to stay. The beds are super comfy with thick duvets, and there’s more than one place to relax and watch tv. Private rooms come with a double bed, making it another great place for couples.

It’s conveniently located in the Kota Kinabalu Times Square, which puts you right next to major places like the Imago Shopping Mall and the waterfront. 

Dock In – Best Hostel with a Private Room in Kota Kinabalu

If you’re looking for a hostel in KK with a private room, then you’re in luck! Unlike many other places to stay in town, Dock In has options beyond the basic dorm set-up. Privates do cost a bit more, but the price can be easily split between you and your mates.

Private rooms can be shared by up to 8 people of the same group – perfect if you plan on staying in Kota Kinabalu with a bunch of mates.

Skypod Hostel

Pods are the way to go! Rather than open bunk beds, walls on almost all sides separate you from other sleepers. At Skypod, you can choose a single pod – in the Superior Dorm rooms- or a double pod – in the Deluxe Dorm rooms.

The hostel has great open social spaces, including a loft with plenty of chairs and tables. With free breakfast, hot drinks and the ability to wash your clothes, you can’t go wrong for the price.

Dimple Life Hostel

The Dimple Life Hostel is a quaint little place perfect for staying in KK. It’s in a good location and provides breakfast and laundry facilities. Although the rooms are a bit snug, it’s clean and streamlined.

Lockers are centrally located, so you don’t have to worry about having too much of your stuff in the communal dorm. Private rooms are perfect for couples – just note that all the bathrooms are shared.

Travel Safety Tips for Kota Kinabalu

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Visiting Kota Kinabalu is a must when traveling through Malaysia. There’s so much to see and do there, and a ton of budget-friendly accommodation to match. It’s also home to some of the best diving in the country.

We think Homy Seafront Hostel has done an awesome job, which is why we named it the best overall hostel in Kota Kinabalu. But, wherever you stay should depend on what suits your travel style and budget. Happy travels!