Signal Hill Observatory Platform
78 Jalan Asrama, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400
The highest point in Kota Kinabalu, Signal Hill Observatory Platform, overlooks the sprawling capital of the Malaysian island of Borneo. From the sci-fi-style platform, you can see modern buildings, Likas Bay, and, on a clear day, the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, fringed by turquoise water. It’s also a prime sunset spot.
The basics
As Kota Kinabalu’s premier lookout spot, Signal Hill Observatory Platform is part of many sightseeing tours of the city in Sabah. It’s often combined with highlights such as the Poh Toh Tze Buddhist temple, home to life-sized statues of deities, and the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, whose surrounding water reflects it beautifully. Some evening tours take you up to the platform at night to see the city illuminated below.
Things to know before you go
If you’re climbing to the lookout point rather than driving, be prepared for a steep incline and drink plenty of water. The stairs aren’t well maintained, so be careful of trip hazards and loose steps.
Borneo’s rainforest climate means it is hot and prone to showers year-round; always be prepared with an umbrella.
Signal Hill Observatory Platform is close to the Todak Waterfront, where you’ll find a good selection of restaurants and hotels.
How to get there
Signal Hill Observatory Platform is at 78, Jalan Asrama in Sabah’s capital of Kota Kinabalu. The entrance to the observatory trail is a 10-minute walk from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal. Climbing up takes 20-30 minutes, with time for water breaks.
When to get there
The best time to visit Signal Hill Observatory Platform is indisputably sunset; sunset times are consistent year-round in Borneo and generally happen around 6:30pm. Generally, the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu and Borneo is from March through October, when the island is dry and hot.
The best national parks near Kota Kinabalu
Borneo is a mecca for wildlife lovers, and no matter where you are on the island, you’re never far from a nature-rich national park. The UNESCO-listed Mt. Kinabalu National Park is just a couple of hours away, home to the mighty Kinabalu Peak. You can climb the mountain in two days, with an overnight stay in the mountain cabin.
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