Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is one of the most scenic craft beer drinking destinations in Southeast Asia. The Sabah capital sits on the edge of Borneo's South China Sea coast, with a mountain backdrop, spectacular sunsets over the offshore islands and a compact, walkable waterfront that makes for an atmospheric setting for an evening of craft beer exploration. The scene is small by the standards of West Malaysia — KK is a city of under half a million people and the craft beer market is still developing — but what exists here is genuinely good, and the combination of location, affordability and the relaxed Sabahan character makes it a memorable stop for any craft beer traveller passing through.

The waterfront area and the streets around Gaya Street form the core of KK's bar and restaurant district, with the best craft-focused venues concentrated here within easy walking distance of each other and the main tourist hotels. KK functions as the gateway city for diving in Sipadan, climbing Mount Kinabalu and exploring the Kinabatangan river, meaning there's a steady flow of international visitors who appreciate finding quality craft beer after an active day in the field. Use this directory to find the best craft beer bars in Kota Kinabalu.