Markets to Visit in Kota Kinabalu

Sabah is not only known for its stunning islands and rainforests but also for its vibrant street markets, and here is a list of the best markets to visit in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. Visitors will find lively night markets filled with sizzling seafood and traditional Sunday bazaars selling handicrafts and local snacks. Sabah’s markets offer an authentic glimpse into daily life and culture. For those looking for souvenirs, street food, or fresh produce, these markets provide some of the most exciting shopping experiences in Malaysian Borneo.

Below are some of the best markets to visit in Kota Kinabalu, including their locations and opening times to help you plan your trip.

1. Gaya Street Sunday Market

Location: Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu
Opening Time: Sunday, 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM

The Gaya Street Sunday Market is one of the most famous markets in Sabah. Every Sunday morning, the entire street transforms into a bustling open-air bazaar filled with hundreds of stalls selling local food, handicrafts, souvenirs, plants, pets, and antiques. This market is also a great place to experience local culture. Vendors sell everything from traditional cakes and herbal remedies to handmade jewellery and batik clothing. Many travellers visit early in the morning to enjoy breakfast snacks while browsing the stalls.

2. Filipino Market (Handicraft Market)

Location: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu
Opening Time: Daily, about 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

The Filipino Market is one of the most iconic markets in Kota Kinabalu and a must-visit for souvenir shopping. Located near the waterfront, the market is famous for handicrafts such as pearls, woven bags, wood carvings, and traditional accessories. In the evening, the surrounding area becomes lively with food stalls selling grilled seafood, satay, and other Sabah specialties. It’s a great place to shop during the day and return later for dinner.

3. Kota Kinabalu Night Market

Location: Kota Kinabalu Waterfront area
Opening Time: Daily, around 4:00 PM onwards

The Kota Kinabalu Night Market is a paradise for street food lovers. Located near the waterfront, the market features rows of stalls selling fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, and ready-to-eat dishes. One of the highlights is the seafood section, where visitors can choose fresh fish, prawns, or crab and have them grilled on the spot. The atmosphere is lively and noisy, giving visitors a real taste of local life.

4. Api-Api Night Food Market

Location: Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu
Opening Time: Friday & Saturday, about 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM

The Api-Api Night Food Market is one of the newer markets in Kota Kinabalu, but has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors. With more than 100 stalls, the market offers a huge selection of street food, including satay, laksa, nasi lemak, grilled seafood, and desserts. The market was created to support small local vendors and entrepreneurs, making it a great place to sample authentic Sabahan flavours.

5. Anjung Kinabalu Night Market

Location: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu
Opening Time: Daily, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Located near the Filipino Market, Anjung Kinabalu Night Market is another popular evening spot. The market features stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, local snacks, handicrafts, and clothing. It’s particularly popular with locals who come here for affordable meals and groceries. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of Sabahan dishes while experiencing the lively night market atmosphere.

Conclusion

This list of markets to visit in Kota Kinabalu is one of the best ways to experience the local culture, food, and lifestyle. From the bustling Gaya Street Sunday Market to the seafood-filled Kota Kinabalu Night Market, each of them offers a unique glimpse into everyday life in Sabah.

If you are exploring Sabah, make sure to include at least one of these markets in your itinerary—they are among the most memorable and authentic experiences in Malaysian Borneo. You can also visit the Sabah Tourism website for more information.