Discover Kokol Hill – Most Beautiful Kota Kinabalu Viewpoint (Guide)

Sitting on one of the highest view points (800m/2,625ft) in Kota Kinabalu (Sabah) is Kokol Hill (Bukit Kokol), a favourite local hotspot. Kokol Hill is also located on the Crocker Range and known for its beautiful resorts, picturesque sunset views, cooling mountain breeze and clear blue skies. Those who wants to escape the blistering heat in the city usually make their way here as the temperature ranges from a pleasant 18°C to 24°C.

 

 

 

If it is your first time in the city, you will probably have never heard of Kokol Hill, as it isn’t as popular as the other attractions such as the gorgeous KK Islands (Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park), the majestic Mount Kinabalu or the breath-taking valleys of Kundasang.  Well, this is a good thing for you, as you will be able to avoid the huge crowds in the city and enjoy some peace and quiet here.

 

 

When should you visit Kokol Hill?

 

Can I stay overnight at Kokol Hill?

• Make sure your car tyres and brakes are working well before you come here.
• Take your time when driving and don’t speed as there are plenty of blind corners here
• We suggest you to come here around 3-4pm if you want to catch the beautiful sunset view
• Consider carrying along a windbreaker/jacket as it is chilly here
• Please keep the area clean so others can enjoy its beauty too
• Make sure to carry along your camera to snap memorable photos

So getting that out of the way, let’s find out what you can discover at Kokol Hill?

1. Kokol Haven Resort

• As this resort is the most famous resort in Kokol Hill, we recommend you to check it out if it is your first time here
• Entrance fee of RM10 per person (inclusive of beverage vouchers)
• Boasts a panoramic view of KK city, KK Islands, Mount Kinabalu, and the Herb gardens
• The resort’s restaurant, Horizon is popular for its mouth-watering dishes such as Tuaran Mee, Oxtail Curry and Fried Ice-cream
• Visit the herbs garden here, which consists of a small strawberry farm, a flower garden and a small poultry farm
• If you’re interested for a bit of adventure, try the (30 minutes) hiking trail just behind the resort, nearby the communications tower

 

 

 

 

2. Le’ One Kokol Elf

• If you always dreamt of visiting Bali but still lack the funds to do so, you should consider checking out this attraction as it features various spots resembling Bali
• The main attraction here is the “Mega Swing“, which is inspired by the famous “Bali Swing”
• Entrance fee for locals are RM10 (adult), RM5 (kids) and RM80 for foreigners (inclusive of beverage vouchers)

3. Kokol Farmstay

• Similar to Le’One Kokol Elf, this attraction has a “Mega Swing” and has a few nice spots to take your photos.
• Entrance fee is RM10 (inclusive of beverage vouchers). However, you will be charged an additional RM10 if you want to take photos at certain attractions. 
• Accommodation is also provided here.

4. Kasih Sayang Health Resort

• This resort is also a retreat, enabling its visitors to rejuvenate their body, mind and soul amidst the tropical rainforest
• No entrance fee to the resort
• Visit the sky restaurant, Cloud 9 which showcases the gorgeous mountain views and appetising healthy food

 

5. Kokol Hobbiton Forest

• For those seeking something more adventurous, head over to Kokol Hobbiton Forest as it features plenty of outdoor activities for you to explore.
• Entrance fee is RM5.
• Visit the Hobbiton Park, which is inspired by the New Zealand movie, Hobbiton.
• You can have your picnic here by the sparkling clear rivers and beautiful cascades. 
• Check out the milky blue shade of the Kokol Blue Lagoon here. 
• Choose from a range of hiking trail difficulties here, starting from Level 1 (2-3 hours) to Level 3 (4-5 hours).
• You can camp here and enjoy the sunset view at the observation point.

The Hobbiton movie set which inspired Kokol Hobbiton Park – Kokol Hill

Kokol Hobbiton Park – Kokol Hill, Kota Kinabalu

Perfect picnic spot – Kokol Hobbiton Park, Kokol Hill – Sabah

Kokol Blue Lagoon – Kokol Hobbiton Park

Hiking trail difficulties (Image credit: Kokol Hobbiton)

Enchanting forest (Image credit: Kokol Hobbiton)

 

6. Kokol Hill Adventure Park

• If you are an adrenaline junkie, then you need to visit the Kokol Hill Adventure Park as it has all the extreme sports that you have always wanted to try out.
• Similar to the other resorts, there is also a huge swing and a handful of Bali themed attractions here.
• Hop on the ATV and explore the majestic jungles of Kokol Hill.
• Take a leap of faith on the breath-taking paragliding tandem ride at Kokol Hill.

Kokol Hill Adventure Park (Image credit: Sabahtravel)

Paragliding at Kokol Hill (Image credit: travelleisureborneo)

Kokol Hill Adventure Park (Image credit: Sabahtravel)

7. Hillside Kokol

• Budget-Friendly Entry: There’s no entrance fee at Hillside Kokol—just buy a drink to enjoy the café’s scenic atmosphere.
• Relaxed Ambiance and Stunning Views: The setting here is serene and perfect for unwinding. I enjoyed the panoramic views over Kota Kinabalu, especially around sunset, when the hills and city lights create a breathtaking scene.
• Fewer Attractions Compared to Kokol Heaven: Hillside Kokol has a simpler setup, lacking the Bali-themed swings and photo spots you’ll find at nearby Kokol Heaven, but it’s ideal for those who prefer a quieter vibe.
• Photo-Worthy Spot: Though simpler than some other spots, the café’s natural lighting and scenic backdrop make it a great location for photos and a peaceful afternoon.

 

 

 

 

Have any experience or tips on travelling to Kokol Hill? Or are you planning a trip soon? Let us know and share your thoughts and questions in the comments section. We’d love to hear from you!