The Pacific Sutera Hotel stands on the Sutera Harbour estate, the harbour-side resort development south-west of downtown Kota Kinabalu, and it is the sister property of The Magellan Sutera Resort. It faces the marina, with views across the water to the islands of the marine park, and it offers a resort feel at a more relaxed price than the larger Magellan. Rooms are spacious and air-conditioned, with balconies in many categories and a calm, green setting around the hotel. Guests can usually make use of the estate's wider facilities, such as the marina, the golf course, sports facilities and restaurants, though access and fees vary, so confirm what is included for your dates. It suits families, golfers, groups and travellers who like the space of a resort and are comfortable taking a taxi or shuttle into the city.
Location and getting around
The estate is on the harbour side of the city, a short drive from the airport and a few minutes by car from the Esplanade and the waterfront. The jetty for island trips is nearby, and the marina itself is a feature, with boats coming and going and a pleasant promenade for an evening walk.
For the downtown sights, including the Gaya Street Sunday Market and the night markets, you will take a taxi, an e-hailing car or a hotel shuttle where one runs. Tour operators pick up here, but ask for the pickup time early, because the drive to the meeting point can add a few minutes.
Rooms and facilities
Rooms are generous in size, with a choice of views over the harbour, the gardens or the sea, and most have a balcony. Expect air conditioning, a safe, television, tea and coffee facilities and a desk. The hotel has a pool, a fitness area and a number of places to eat and drink, and the wider estate adds more restaurants, a spa, a marina club and sports. Facilities and shuttle services can change, so check which are available and whether any carry a fee when you reserve.
Good to know
Because the estate is large, distances can be long, so ask for a room close to the lobby if mobility is a concern and ask about the shuttle schedule to the beach and the city. Compare rates with breakfast, and ask about parking and wifi if you need them. The area is quiet in the evening, so factor in taxi fares if you plan to eat downtown.
Choose the Pacific Sutera if you want the harbour setting and the estate's facilities at a more modest price, the Magellan if you want the larger, more full-service resort, and a downtown hotel such as the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu if you would rather walk to the markets. Many visitors on longer trips split their stay, spending a few nights downtown and a few at a resort for a change of pace.
Why stay here
- ✓Marina and harbour views
- ✓Pool
- ✓Fitness area
- ✓Restaurants and bars
- ✓Estate golf and sports nearby
- ✓Balcony rooms
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms with desks
- ✓Short drive to airport and Esplanade
Good questions
Where is The Pacific Sutera Hotel?+
It is on the Sutera Harbour estate, south-west of downtown Kota Kinabalu, a few minutes by car from the Esplanade and a short drive from the airport.
How is it different from The Magellan Sutera Resort?+
Both are on the same estate. The Pacific is generally the more modest and relaxed of the two, while the Magellan is larger and more full-service. Compare current rates and facilities.
Can I walk to the city from the hotel?+
No, the estate is a drive from downtown, so plan to use taxis, e-hailing cars or a shuttle where available.
