Set amidst 400 acres of tropical paradise in Sabah, Malaysia, the award-winning Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu is a luxury sanctuary where the rainforest meets the South China Sea. The resort features a 64-acre private nature reserve, a 3-km stretch of pristine white sand beach, and the prestigious Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club with its world-class 18-hole championship course. Guests can choose from the Garden Wing, ideal for families and friends with tranquil, nature-inspired rooms, or indulge in the Ocean Wing, where spacious suites feature private outdoor bathtubs, large balconies, and exclusive access to an outdoor jacuzzi.
With over 60 recreational activities, from watersports and horse riding along the beach to guided rainforest treks, birdwatching, and wildlife encounters, adventure awaits at every turn. Families are well cared for with dedicated kids’ programs, while couples and adults can savour the romance of spectacular sunset views over the South China Sea, best enjoyed with cocktails at the beachside Sampan Bar.
Culinary journeys span across six dining venues, including Japanese teppanyaki at Kozan, authentic Malaysian cuisine at Tepi Laut, Italian-inspired grills at Oceano, and more—ensuring every meal is memorable. Just 40 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Shangri-La Rasa Ria is the ultimate escape into nature, adventure, and luxury.
"The hotel is located an hour from the airport, costing less than 3000 yen by taxi. Tuaran, where the hotel is situated, is rich in nature, and I woke up to the sound of birds chirping.
The sunset was exceptional.
I requested a twin room with a sea view. Basic amenities were provided. The hotel is very environmentally conscious and mindful of SDGs.
You can also enjoy the sunset from the window. If you have children, a pool view is recommended.
I booked through Trip.com, so I couldn't earn points, which was a bit disappointing. However, there was no deposit required, and payments were made as we went.
Regarding dining, the same menu was available everywhere in the poolside area. For an à la carte dinner or lunch, the prices were the same. A hamburger cost 2700 yen (it was so much food, we could have easily shared it). Pasta was around 2300 yen, and pizza started from 3000 yen, loaded with cheese. After ordering drinks, we were absolutely stuffed.
We tried the seafood buffet on a Saturday. It was surprisingly delicious!
For breakfast, everyone enjoyed the buffet, choosing whatever they liked. There were freshly baked and sliced breads, sweets, pancakes, and the doughnuts were particularly recommended. Malaysian doughnuts are excellent, and the ones at this hotel were truly delicious.
For activities, there were horse rides along the beach, jungle walks, river cruises by boat, and banana boating was also pictured. There were different events each day; we saw the fire dance on Tuesday and Sunday evenings.
During the day, you can book a bus to go to the mall for lunch. We had Chinese food and Burger King there.
If you decide to stay at Rasa Ria, I recommend staying put and fully enjoying Tuaran rather than constantly going out. The portion sizes are generous."