Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Built in 1977, this massive ocean-facing Hyatt has the old-fashioned aesthetic of hotels from that decade, though a few lounge and dining areas have been updated with more modern furnishings. The classic wood trimmings and boxy ceiling lamps in the lobby look tired and could use refurbishing. However, most of the hotel is spotless and features several spots to enjoy lovely views of the water and Gaya Island. True to the Hyatt brand, the hotel largely attracts business travelers, but given its leisure facilities and size, it’s also a popular choice for vacationing couples and families looking for an upscale experience. 

Perched on the waterfront, the hotel enjoys a convenient downtown location within the business district and walking distance to many shops and restaurants. The Central and Handicraft Markets are five-minute walks away, while Gaya Street is a seven-minute walk. The Jesselton Point Waterfront terminal, serving ferries to the neighboring Gaya Island, Manukan Island, and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, is 12 minutes away on foot. The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is a 10-minute drive away, and Tanjung Aru Beach is a 15-minute drive away. Kota Kinabalu International Airport is 15 minutes away by car.

Rooms here are notably large and feature chaise lounges, desks, big windows, and ample closet space. Lined with wood floors and outfitted in neutral shades of brown, the overall look is contemporary, but some rugs and furniture do show signs of wear and tear. Sea-facing rooms, while pricier, come with gorgeous views of the South China Sea and Gaya Island. All rooms have 42-inch flat-screen TVs, safes, and air-conditioning (though it’s centrally controlled and can function unpredictably). Rooms also have minibars, electric kettles, and packaged snacks. Club and Suite level rooms are even larger, with the latter including separate living and seating areas, walk-in closets, and pool views. Solid Wi-Fi connection is free, as are magazines and newspapers available via PressReaders. Rooms in higher categories also come with ironing equipment. Bathrooms are also large, though their partially open setup with sliding wood panels may not be to everyone’s taste. Separate toilet and bathing areas allow for a bit of privacy. Standard bathrooms have walk-in showers with both handheld and rainfall showerheads, while other rooms have separate tubs as well. Hairdryers and Portico toiletries are provided. 

There’s no shortage of dining options here. The sprawling Tanjung Ria Kitchen offers an enormous buffet breakfast of continental and Asian items, with several made-to-order hot stations, though breakfast isn’t automatically included with room rates. The halal-certified restaurant also serves buffet lunches and dinners, plus an la carte Malaysian menu. Nagisa serves Japanese dishes and includes a sushi counter, a teppan grill, and a tatami room for private events. The Lounge, a traditional lobby bar, is a pleasant space to enjoy drinks and daily live jazz. Live music is also featured at the Irish-style Shenanigans Fun Pub, along with cocktails and dancing. For more informal options, Mosaic (on the ground floor) includes alfresco street-side dining with a menu of pizzas, pastries, and gelato. The breezy Poolside Bar offers casual bites at the counter or in private cabanas alongside stunning sunset views. Regency Club members have special access to the happy hour, small breakfast spread, and stunning top floor views from the executive lounge. While the pool area, framed with palm trees and some lounge chairs, is pretty, it’s small for a hotel this big, as is the Avantang Spa, which does have individual showers and offers several traditional Bornean treatments, but looks slightly run-down. The 24-hour fitness area includes a decently-equipped gym plus a steam room and whirlpool. 13 event rooms—including one that features a giant show kitchen—are available to book for large business conferences and weddings. A two-computer business center, offering office equipment and a convenient courier service, is open to all guests. Property-wide Wi-Fi is free, as is parking in the adjacent lot.