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If you’re in Kota Kinabalu, and you feel like ending the night with some friends and have a few drinks at happy hour, we got your back. The ambiance of bars in KK might prioritise cosiness over loud music and a hype atmosphere, but you’ll definitely still have a good time. Another benefit of these drinking spots is that they are mostly within walking distance of one another. Rather than needing to hail a cab to travel to the next place, this allows you a bar hopping adventure that feels more convenient and efficient.
What’s fantastic about going out for a happy hour (or two) in Kota Kinabalu is that the vibes are as diverse as its locations. Whether you want to experience a wild night out with your pals or a relaxed, romantic drink session with your lover, these are some of the best bars to drop by in Kota Kinabalu that offer Happy Hour fest.
Best Happy Hour Places in Kota Kinabalu
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1. Breeze Beach Club
The Breeze Beach Club, located inside The Pacific Sutera Hotel is one of Kota Kinabalu’s most popular nightlife destinations. It’s is well-known for its amazing selection of traditional Malaysian and Western food, as well as its superb liquor, unique cocktails, and other drinks. This airy open-air bar is just beside the hotel pool, overlooking the huge blue sea which offers one of the greatest sunset views in the city. Just imagine: the air is cool, you can hear the waves lapping against the shore, drink in hand – we’re already booking our next trip to KK.
For more information, click here.
| Address: | Level 1, The Pacific Sutera Hotel, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah |
| Operating Hour: | Tuesday – Sunday: 11.30am-11pm Closed on Mondays |
| Contact Details: | 088 313 799 |
2. Sunset Bar
Sunset Bar at Shangri-Tanjung La’s Ara Resort and Spa is a bit more private and personal if you’re searching for a little more isolated and quiet, perfect for a romantic date night by the beach. The bar’s decor is inspired by ancient indigenous dwellings in Borneo, which is also reflected in the drink menu. Sunset Bar stands true to its moniker with its one-of-a-kind panoramic vistas, guaranteeing that you receive the greatest views without having to fight for a good spot. Enjoy Borneo-inspired cocktails like Lepa-Lepa and the Kota Kinabalu Fruit Punch, and the Sabah Sling at this bar.
For more information, click here.
| Address: | Shangri-la’s Tanjung Aru Resort, 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu |
| Operating Hour: | Everyday: 5pm-8pm |
| Contact Details: | 088 327 888 | Reservation here |
3. Shenanigan’s Fun Pub
Shenanigan is a renowned Kota Kinabalu nighttime destination that features live shows, and DJ nights with a panorama of the coastline. Though it is not the largest pub in the city, it is one of the earliest, with a small urban bar, seats, and a tiny stage next to the snooker table area. This Irish-style bar serves reasonably priced beverages and has different nightly themes that will make for a really fun night out. Every Wednesday and Saturday, you may also join their Ladies Night and Sassy Angels Night.
For more information, click here.
| Address: | Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, Jalan Datuk Salleh Sulong, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu |
| Operating Hour: | Thursday – Saturday: 6pm-1am Closed Sunday – Wednesday |
| Contact Details: | 088 295 300 | Reservation here |
4. Shamrock Irish Bar
Shamrock Irish Bar is an authentic Irish bar. It has the greatest hamburgers and brews in Kinabalu. It is located on the Waterfront and offers a picturesque view of the sunset while serving Kilkenny, Tiger, excellent meat dishes, and other liquors. We definitely recommend visiting this renowned neighbourhood hangout with an old-fashioned and cosy atmosphere. Happy hour at Shamrock is 12pm to 8pm from Monday to Sunday, and until closing time on Tuesdays, so you’re in for a treat.
For more information, click here.
| Address: | 1664, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu |
| Operating Hour: | Everyday: 12pm-2am |
| Contact Details: | 088 249 829 |
5. The Loft
Situated in the heart of KK’s main lively area, the Waterfront, ‘The Loft’ is a famous nightlife and tourism attraction. This club has comfortable couches, large televisions for leisure, and a game room for sports fans. It also offers beers with friends, cocktails, and an extensive selection of exquisite wines. The Loft is a super fun pub to chill and hang out with your friends, and you can enjoy the gorgeous sunset, too!
For more information, click here.
| Address: | 1664, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu |
| Operating Hour: | Everyday: 3pm-1am |
| Contact Details: | 019 881 0824 |
6. El Centro
El Centro, housed on a busy street, is a large Mexican-themed bar and restaurant noted for selling Mexican-themed menu items such as nachos, quesadillas, and fajitas, as well as vibrant cocktails and zestful beverages. This bar provides nutritious and multicultural meals to their visitors in a westernised setting. Visit this restaurant in KK for themed events such as salsa nights, jazz nights, and Wednesday quiz nights to enjoy wonderful cuisine and pleasant ambiance.
For more information, click here.
| Address: | 18, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu |
| Operating Hour: | Monday-Sunday: 9am-10.30pm | Friday & Saturday: 9am-12am |
| Contact Details: | 014 862 3877 |
7. Darlin-Darlin
Rustic, cosy, yet timeless, Darlin-Darlin is a bar set in Nexus Resort. They have a huge array of imported beer, wine, and spirits, and their cocktails are a fun infusion of both Western and Asian flavours. This bar is a cosy place with a casual ambiance, and you can even enjoy live music at this bar. Happy hour is from 5pm to 9pm everyday, and all night long on Mondays.
For more information, click here.
| Address: | Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, Jln Karambunai, Karambunai, 89200 Kota Kinabalu |
| Operating Hour: | Everyday 5.30pm – 1am |
| Contact Details: | 088 480 888 |
8. Biru Biru Cafe & Bar
You definitely won’t feel blue once you step into Biru Biru. Cafe by day and bar by night, Biru Biru is a shophouse that’s the perfect place to have a bite and a beer. The interior of this cafe in KK is really quirky, and there’s also al fresco seating if you prefer to enjoy a pint outdoors. Aside from delicious cocktails and draft beers, you definitely need to try their signature Biru Biru burger, too. Happy hour is from 12pm to 9pm, and their kitchen is open all the way until closing time.
For more information, click here.
| Address: | 24, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah |
| Operating Hour: | Everyday 12pm – 12am |
| Contact Details: | 016 850 0082 |
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