Although Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah, it is really small and the city center is only half a day's walk.

Urban photos:

I suggest you arrange a one-day tour of Tengku Adulaman National Park, which consists of five islands, namely Pulaugaya Island, Pulausapi Island, Pulaumanukan Island, PulauSuluge Island and Pulaumamutik Island. It's only a ten-minute walk from the city center to the pier. Photo of the dock:

Many companies, if you choose one or two islands to play, the boat will pick you up when you make an appointment to return. Of the five islands, only Kaya and Manukan have overnight hostels. I chose Manukan at that time, and the sea was beautiful. Let me show you my photos at that time:

If you arrange a day in the city, you can arrange to visit museums and water mosques in Sabah. Not bad!

Arrange a day to go to Kota Kinabalu, which is 4000 meters above sea level. You can't climb the mountain during the trip, but it's not bad to go to Shenshan Park at the foot of the mountain.

Regarding food, Kota Kinabalu's bak Kut teh is very famous and can be seen everywhere in the street. Some people say that Ji You bak Kut teh is the best, but I don't know if it is good after eating it.

Kota Kinabalu seafood is also famous. Many food stalls will do. You can also go to Kota Kinabalu Central Market to buy seafood, and then take it to the economic food stall on the second floor of the market for processing.