Kota Kinabalu, Sabah🇲🇾 The MOST Beautiful Coastal City in Malaysia? (4K HDR)

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah🇲🇾 The MOST Beautiful Coastal City in Malaysia? (4K HDR)

Welcome to this video. We recommend turning on CC subtitles or auto-translation. We are now in Kota Kinabalu (哥打基纳巴卢), Sabah (沙巴), Malaysia. We are now at Manukan Island (马奴干岛), the second-largest island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (东姑阿都拉曼海洋公园), only a 15-minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. The island is famous for its 1.5 km stretch of white sand beach and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Beneath the surface is a colorful world—you can spot schools of tropical fish and coral in shallow waters, and if you’re lucky, starfish and sea turtles (海龟). This was not only a tourist spot—it was once a training base for the Royal Malaysian Navy, leaving traces of its military history. The island has huts, cafés, and changing facilities for visitors to relax after water activities. Aside from snorkeling, you can try jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving for a full island adventure. If you wish to escape the crowds, follow the forest trail to the other side of the island for tropical jungle tranquility and birdsong. Manukan Island (马奴干岛) perfectly combines beaches, the ocean, and tropical forests, earning it the name “the backyard of Kota Kinabalu.” Kota Kinabalu (哥打基纳巴卢) is the capital of Sabah (沙巴州), located on the northwest coast of Borneo (婆罗洲). The city faces the South China Sea (南中国海) and is backed by lush hills, offering beautiful scenery. It was once a fishing village called Api-Api (亚庇) before becoming an important port for the British North Borneo Company (英属北婆罗洲公司). During World War II, the city was almost completely destroyed and rebuilt into today’s administrative and commercial hub. Today, Kota Kinabalu blends modern malls and skyscrapers with traditional markets and fishing port charm. It is also the main gateway to Mount Kinabalu (京那巴鲁山) and nearby islands. In Kota Kinabalu, one of the most popular activities is island hopping (跳岛游). From the city pier, a short 10–15 minute boat ride takes you to Sabah’s famous surrounding islands. This area is part of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (东姑阿都拉曼国家公园). The park includes islands like Manukan (马奴干岛), Sapi (沙比岛), and Mamutik (马穆迪岛). Each island has its own charm—some ideal for snorkeling among corals, others for relaxing on soft white sand. Many visitors explore two or three islands in a day to enjoy the sun, sea, and tropical vibes. The water here is crystal clear, and even without swimming you can see schools of tropical fish. Fish dart between corals—some bright yellow, some deep blue—displaying great diversity. We are now at Mamutik Island (马穆迪岛), one of the smallest yet most charming islands near Kota Kinabalu. Covering less than 15 hectares, it offers fine white sand and clear blue waters. It is part of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (东姑阿都拉曼海洋公园), only 10 minutes by boat from the city. Mamutik is a paradise for snorkelers and divers with its coral reefs and abundant tropical fish. You can see colorful fish right by the shore—no need to even get in the water. With fewer visitors than other islands, it’s quieter and perfect for a private island escape. The island also has small cafés and rest areas where you can enjoy coconut water while watching the waves. Island hopping in Kota Kinabalu is actually quite affordable. Boat tickets vary by the number of islands, usually between RM30 and RM60 per person. Visiting two or three islands also requires a small pier management fee. Some packages include snorkeling gear rental, but bringing your own mask and snorkel saves money. An additional marine park conservation fee is charged to protect the environment. Overall, it’s a budget-friendly trip with plenty of tropical beauty. We are now at Sapi Island (沙比岛), one of the most popular islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Surrounded by turquoise waters, its white sandy beach glistens under the sun like a tropical postcard. The underwater world is equally stunning, with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Stroll along the shore, rest under palm trees, or dive into the clear sea for a refreshing swim. “Sapi” means “cow” in the local language, as the island’s shape from above resembles a resting cow. On weekends and holidays, the beach comes alive with laughter and the sound of waves. We are now at Gaya Street Market (加雅街周日市集), one of Kota Kinabalu’s busiest traditional markets. Every Sunday morning, the street is closed to vehicles, and vendors set up stalls selling various goods. You’ll find fresh produce, spices, and tropical fruits brought by local farmers. There are also handicrafts, traditional clothing, wood carvings, and souvenirs—perfect for gifts. It’s a great place to try local snacks like nasi lemak (椰浆饭), satay (沙爹), and fried bananas. The lively crowd and vendor calls give you the authentic Borneo market vibe. Malaysia is a multi-ethnic country, and Kota Kinabalu reflects this cultural blend. Main groups here include Malays (马来人), Chinese (华人), and indigenous Kadazan-Dusun (卡达山杜顺族). Each has its own language, cuisine, and religion, yet coexist in harmony. Kota Kinabalu’s cuisine blends Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous flavors. Street food ranges from nasi lemak, satay, to Hokkien noodles. Its coastal location ensures fresh seafood at better prices than many cities. This cultural mix makes it a paradise for food lovers. We are now at the Fruit and Vegetable Market (蔬果市场) in downtown Kota Kinabalu. Stalls are piled with tropical fruits like rambutans (红毛丹), mangosteens (山竹), durians (榴莲), and golden mangoes (芒果). The vegetable section is filled with long beans, eggplants, chilies, and unique local greens. The air is a mix of sweet fruit fragrance and fresh vegetable scents. Most vendors are family-run, greeting customers warmly in a lively setting. For tourists, it’s a great place for cheap, fresh produce and an authentic local experience. We are now at Kota Kinabalu City Mosque (亚庇市清真寺), one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It sits by an artificial lake that mirrors its white domes and minarets. Called the “Floating Mosque,” it appears to float during high tide. It can hold thousands of worshippers and is a key prayer site for local Muslims. Visitors can take photos and enter during designated times to experience its peaceful atmosphere. At sunset, the golden light on the water is a photographer’s dream. Inside the mosque, the atmosphere is serene and solemn. The large prayer hall features white and gold with Islamic geometric designs. Thick carpets cover the floor, where worshippers pray or read the Qur’an (古兰经). A gentle breeze brings a light fragrance, enhancing the spiritual calm. It is not only a place of worship but also a community and cultural center. We are now at Tanjung Aru Beach (丹绒亚路海滩), the most popular sunset spot in Kota Kinabalu. It is named after the rows of aru trees (亚路树) along the coast. The fine sand and warm tropical breeze make for perfect seaside strolls. At dusk, the sky turns gold and pink, reflecting on the sea. Vendors sell coconut water, satay, and snacks for sunset watchers. Locals often come after work to relax and watch the sun set into the South China Sea (南中国海). We are now at Pasar Kraftangan (菲律宾夜市), known for handicrafts and its night market. By day, it sells woven baskets, shell ornaments, and handwoven textiles. At night, it transforms into a bustling food market with grilled seafood aromas. You’ll find fresh lobsters, crabs, squid, and local favorites like satay and nasi lemak. Vendors call out in multiple languages, reflecting the city’s multicultural port history. For visitors, it’s the perfect place to experience Kota Kinabalu’s nightlife. We are now at Kota Kinabalu’s seafood market, rich with the smell of the ocean. Stalls are piled with fresh fish, prawns, crabs, and shellfish. Vendors skillfully clean and sort the seafood with practiced hands. Bargaining between buyers and sellers creates a lively market symphony. Many stalls also offer cooking services so you can taste the catch immediately. It’s not just a place to buy food—it’s a window into Kota Kinabalu’s fishing culture.

Kota Kinabalu (哥打基纳巴卢), the breezy capital of Sabah (沙巴) in Malaysian Borneo, blends tropical ease with easy access to adventure. Hugging the South China Sea and backed by forested hills, “KK” — as locals call it — is known more for sunsets, seafood, and nearby nature than skyscrapers.

Once a fishing village called Api-Api (亚庇), it grew under British rule in the late 19th century, was almost destroyed in World War II, and rebuilt as Sabah’s main hub for mountain treks and island getaways.

To the northeast, Mount Kinabalu (京那巴鲁山) rises 4,095 meters, the tallest peak in Southeast Asia. Within Kinabalu Park (京那巴鲁公园), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws hikers, botanists, and nature lovers. Even non-climbers can enjoy the cool highlands, tea farms, and village markets.

Just 15 minutes from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal (杰塞尔顿码头) lies Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (东姑阿都拉曼海洋公园) — five islands with beaches, coral reefs, and jungle trails. Gaya (加雅岛), Manukan (马努干岛), Sapi (沙比岛), Mamutik (马姆迪克岛), and Sulug (苏禄岛) each offer a unique pace, from quiet coves to ziplines over the sea.

In town, the Filipino Market (菲律宾市场) serves fresh seafood and local crafts, while the Gaya Street Sunday Market (加雅街周日市集) fills the old quarter with color and music. At sunset, the waterfront promenade glows as fishing boats return and grills fire up — a perfect end to a KK day.

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📅Photography date
2025/8/5

🗺️Interactive map
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1kXyZDZSmTa-rTjVSaCgzmeciX-JZM3M

🎬Itinerary
00:00 Manukan Island（马奴干岛）
15:31 Mamutik Island（马穆迪岛）
23:52 Sapi Island（沙比岛）
33:15 Gaya Street Market（加雅街周日市集）
55:51 Fruit and Vegetable Market (蔬果市场)
59:16 Kota Kinabalu City Mosque（沙巴清真寺）
1:03:36 Inside The Mosque (清真寺內部)
1:08:34 Tanjung Aru Beach（丹绒亚路海滩）
1:32:24 Pasar Kraftangan (菲律宾夜市)
1:36:04 Seafood Market (海鲜市场)

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