3 reviewed party hostels · from €7.37/night · Hostelworld rated
Kota Kinabalu’s nightlife doesn’t shout: it hums. The action centres on the waterfront, where backpackers gather at places like **The Faloe Hostel** to plan their evenings. By 9 PM, the stretch of bars along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens comes alive, with happy-hour deals on Tiger beer and cheap cocktails. Hostels here are social by design, not accident. Dorms dominate, and common areas double as pre-drinks spots. **H2 Backpackers Segama**, a 10-minute walk from the waterfront, packs in groups heading to the bar crawl that starts just down the road at Asia City. If you’re after a climb, Mount Kinabalu looms in the background, but most travellers save the summit for sunrise and save their energy for the night ahead.
Rated by Hostelworld score · Prices per dorm bed per night
Toojou is KK's ultimate party destination, featuring a buzzing rooftop bar hosting regular themed parties and pub crawls. The fusion café creates perfect pre-drink vibes, while the central location near Gaya Street puts you in the heart of the nightlife action. With regular social events and modern spaces showcasing local art, it's ideal for party-loving travellers seeking vibrant nights out.
Homy Seafront Hostel offers prime party positioning just one minute from KK's Waterfront nightlife. The stunning terrace with sea views is perfect for sunset drinks and social gatherings. Regular group dinners often evolve into pre-drinking sessions, while the proximity to Filipino Market and entertainment venues ensures endless party options. The cosy lounge is ideal for meeting fellow night owls.
Faloe Hostel 2.0 pumps up KK's party scene with its social spaces and entertainment facilities. The lively communal lounge hosts regular gatherings and social events, while the location near Imago Mall's bars and clubs ensures non-stop action. With modern facilities and a buzzing atmosphere, it's perfect for travellers ready to experience KK's electric nightlife.
Organised nights out with a local guide
Starts at Asia City and visits 4–5 bars, including **Club Love** and **Shenanigan’s**. Includes a free shot at each stop, discounted drinks (RM12 for a beer), and drinking games. Teams compete for a free T-shirt, and the crawl ends around 1 AM.
How Kota Kinabalu's nightlife zones break down
The main strip for nightlife, lined with bars, clubs, and hostels. Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens is the backbone, with **Club Love** and **Shenanigan’s** drawing the biggest crowds. The area is compact: everything is within a 10-minute walk. Hostels like **The Faloe** sit just off the main drag, so you’re never far from the action.
A quieter area 1 km east of the waterfront, home to **H2 Backpackers Segama**. It’s a 15-minute walk to the bars, but the hostel’s common area fills up with groups heading to the crawl. The neighbourhood itself is residential, so it’s a good place to crash after a late night.
A local favourite, 5 km north of the city centre. **Hookah Bar KK** is here, along with seafood restaurants that stay open late. The crowd is a mix of expats and backpackers, and the vibe is more relaxed. Grab is the easiest way to get here, but the ride back can be pricey if you split with a small group.
Where the hostel pub crawls end up, and where to go on your own
This hostel’s common area turns into a bar by 7 PM. Dorms are the only option, so everyone ends up in the same space. Expect cheap beer (RM10), shots (RM5), and a mix of backpackers planning their waterfront crawl. It’s loud, but the staff keep the drinks flowing until midnight.
Tucked in Likas, this spot is a 15-minute Grab ride from the city centre. The shisha is smooth, and the owner lets you bring your own alcohol if you buy a hookah. RM30 gets you a session with apple or mint tobacco. The crowd is a mix of locals and backpackers, and the music stays low.
The closest thing Kota Kinabalu has to a proper club. EDM and hip-hop dominate, and the dance floor fills after 11 PM. Entry is free before midnight, RM20 after. Drinks start at RM20, but the bar crawl groups often get a round of free shots. Dress sharp: bouncers turn away flip-flops.
The crawl starts at Asia City and hits 4–5 bars, ending at Club Love. A free shot at each stop, plus discounted drinks (RM12 for a beer). Teams compete in drinking games, and the winners get a free T-shirt. Meet at 8 PM, crawl starts at 8.30 PM.
One of the few places that stays open until 2 AM. Live bands play covers from 9 PM, and the crowd sings along. Pints of Guinness cost RM28, but happy hour (5–7 PM) drops them to RM18. The pub grub: nachos, burgers: is decent if you need a break from rice and noodles.
A rooftop bar with views over the waterfront. Cocktails start at RM25, but the happy hour (6–8 PM) knocks them down to RM15. The crowd is older: mostly expats and travellers in their 30s. If you want a break from backpacker chaos, this is the spot.