Best Hangout Spots In KK Every Local Loves

The best places to chill and chat with friends!
By: Cherelle Lim
September 9, 2022

Kota Kinabalu is best known as the ‘Land Below the Wind’ and for its gorgeous islands. But, there are also a ton of hangout spots in KK that every local loves chilling at! You’ll catch youngsters, adults and even your grandparents chatting away at these locations. Besides, the nightlife in KK is unlike any other. With a variety of bars to choose from, everyone knows everyone in Kota Kinabalu and it’s likely you’ll meet someone you know at many of these hangout spots. Here are the best hangout spots in KK, brought to you by Glitz

Best Hangout Spots in Kota Kinabalu

1. Mamak at Lintas

One of the most popular hangout spots in KK is mamak. Whenever we’re feeling hungry at night, the best option is to call up some friends and meet at the mamak! At night, these mamaks are packed with kids and adults chatting away. Besides, the most common place you’ll find every Sabahan ever is the mamak at Lintas. The two most popular mamaks here are Anak Mami and Salim. Both of which are the go-to lepak spots for youngsters. With friends catching up and just chilling together, the mamak has the best vibes and gossip!

2. Sunset Bar

The Sunset Bar, located at the tip of the peninsula, offers one of Kota Kinabalu’s most beautiful panoramas. It has a large seating area with palm trees, the ocean, and tropical islands in the background. It is a desirable location for upscale libations, cocktails, and enchanting sunsets and functions more as a bar and lounge than a restaurant. Lepa-Lepa, Pepperita, and the Royal Mojito are some of their greatest appetisers! You may enjoy a calm evening while listening to jazz musicians play upbeat music at one of the best hangout spots in KK. 

3. Waterfront

hangout spots in kk

The nightlife in KK happens all at Waterfront. Sitting literally right in front of the water, this stretch of bars, pubs and clubs is where the party is at. Party from dusk till dawn and even go bar hopping since everything is on one deck! With loud music coming from each bar, it brings out all the vibes. The nightlife never ceases here and it is one of the best hangout spots to visit. 

4. Imago

With only a few malls in Kota Kinabalu, our go-to is always Imago. Filled with good food, entertainment and shopping, you’ll find many kids hanging out here. It is one of the best hangout spots because it has everything! Catch a movie or place at the arcade before heading to lunch at the many cuisines and restaurants available. Or, just do some shopping with your family. 

5. Souled Out

hangout spots in kk

While there are many Soulet Out outlets in KL, there is only one in KK! Thus, making it the go-to hangout spot for many. As soon as you step foot inside, you’ll notice the welcoming, comfortable, and energetic atmosphere. There are both outdoor and indoor options for you to choose from. After a long, frantic day of shopping, it’s the ideal location to unwind and unwind! One of the best hangout spots for any time of the day, Souled Out has a variety of delicious food. 

6. The Breeze 

hangout spots in kk

One of Kota Kinabalu’s most popular nightlife locations, the Breeze Beach Club is housed inside “The Pacific Sutera Hotel.” It is well-known for its traditional Western and Malaysian seafood, as well as for its superb wine, specialty cocktails, and other libations. One of the greatest sunset views in town can be had at this breezy open-air restaurant, which is situated next to the pool, in the tropics, and overlooking the vast blue ocean. Every Friday through Sunday at 8:00 PM, it also has a live fire performance and an in-house DJ. And don’t forget to try their famous Tiger Beer and grilled seafood!

7. Tanjung Aru Beach

hangout spots in kk

One of the best hangout spots in KK is also at Tanjung Aru Beach. This is where everyone goes to see the gorgeous sunset in Kota Kinabalu. No matter how many times you see it, you just can’t get enough! Which is why you’ll spot a lot of locals hanging around here. Not just for the beach and sunset, but for the night market that happens frequently here. Besides, there is a Lucy’s Kitchen outlet right along the stretch of the beach for you to dine and enjoy the sunset comfortably.