Loading...
Seeking a Kota Kinabalu family resort? Shangri-La Tanjung Aru offers expansive pools, breathtaking sunsets, and top-tier amenities, plus a free Star Lounge for late flights. Ideal for your 2026 escape!
Kota Kinabalu
Words and photos © Ri-won
As I was gearing up for my Kota Kinabalu adventure, the one thing I was most excited about was none other than the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru resort.
When you think of Kota Kinabalu, it's famous for having what's often called one of the world's top three sunsets, right?
And among those, I heard the sunset viewed from Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is absolutely breathtaking, so my expectations were sky-high!
If you're planning a family trip with kids, looking for a relaxing 'Hocance' (hotel vacation) at a resort, or chasing those stunning sunsets,
then this is definitely the place for you!
So, let's dive into the full review.
1. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru at a Glance
📍 Shangri-La Tanjung Aru
No. 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Location: Tanjung Aru area, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia Recommended for: Family trips, couples' getaways, sunset viewing Family-friendly suitability: High Key Highlight: Resort Stay |
⭕ Recommended for:
❌ Not Recommended for:
2. Why I Chose Shangri-La Tanjung Aru
When I was picking accommodations for my Kota Kinabalu trip, the resort itself was the absolute top priority.
That's because my plan for this trip wasn't about packed city sightseeing; it was all about relaxing at the hotel and swimming. So, I really wanted a place where I could enjoy the pool, breakfast, strolls, and even the sunset all within the resort.
And for those specific points, this place truly couldn't be beaten.
3. Room Atmosphere
Overall, it definitely exudes that classic resort vibe you'd expect from a tropical getaway.
Rather than feeling ultra-modern and brand-new, it has a seasoned elegance, like a well-maintained, luxurious resort that has gracefully aged.
The view can vary depending on the room type.
It's worth exploring options like garden view, sea view, or club rooms.
When I visit places like this, I think considering a sea or sunset view is definitely worthwhile.
That's because if you're spending a lot of time at the resort, the room's view can significantly impact your overall travel satisfaction.
As expected from a 5-star establishment, the bedding was incredibly plush and comfortable – just wonderful!
I was assigned a room on the first floor, and surprisingly, I actually loved it – this lawn right outside felt like our own backyard!
The first-floor view was better than I imagined, and not having to go up and down stairs was actually quite convenient too!
The bathroom was also spotlessly clean and very well maintained.
4. Swimming Pool
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu is set on quite an expansive property, so I didn't even manage to explore all of it.
Still, it was wonderful to enjoy the pools near our accommodation.
I don't usually do night swimming, but the best part here was lying in the pool and gazing up at the stars – it felt like the stars were pouring down on me, making me think, 'This is pure happiness!'
Beyond this area, there's also a kids' zone, making it a fantastic spot for children to play.
5. Kota Kinabalu Sunset Point
Honestly, about 80% of the reason to stay here is to experience the incredible sunset point.
The main spot is the Sunset Bar!!! But honestly, it's hard to get a reservation, and a bit of a hassle, haha.
You can just enjoy it around the Sunset Bar area – even I watched it from a sunbed nearby.
However, if you visit during the summer holiday season, it's the rainy season here, so it gets cloudy, and honestly, it's hard to expect a truly beautiful sunset ㅠㅠ
Even I didn't get to see a perfect sunset, which was a bit disappointing, but I still found satisfaction in what I got.
Nonetheless, the atmosphere was still wonderful!
6. Breakfast and Resort Atmosphere
Whenever I visit a place like this, I absolutely have to sign up for breakfast!
Honestly, the breakfast wasn't mind-blowing, but it was perfectly decent.
There was a good variety of options, and it was bustling with people!
Even just eating breakfast, taking a stroll, and swimming here made time fly by.
I stayed here for one night, and I spent the entire time enjoying the resort's amenities!
The landscaping is also beautifully done, making it perfect for walks.
If you come here, make sure to fully immerse yourself in this wonderful space, rather than rushing off for outside activities!
7. The Star Lounge
The pool is fantastic, the views are stunning, everything is great, but what I truly loved was the Star Lounge.
What's amazing is that you can use the Star Lounge even after check-out. Just mention it when you check out.
And the best part? It's absolutely FREE!!
In Southeast Asia, with so many early morning flights, people often book 'half-night' accommodations. But here, you can use this lounge after check-out, and it even has shower facilities...
...allowing you to relax comfortably, enjoy the pool, get a refreshing shower, and head to the airport feeling completely refreshed!
It's no wonder so many people take advantage of it.
Personally, I highly recommend booking your stay for the night before your flight!
8. Price & Booking Tips
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is an incredibly popular resort, one that everyone visiting Kota Kinabalu dreams of staying at.
So, once your travel dates are set, I recommend comparing prices in advance and booking quickly!
As I mentioned earlier, booking it for the night before your flight will help you make the most of your stay.
With upcoming school breaks, holidays, and peak seasons, your preferred room might get booked up fast.
If you're looking for a luxurious 'ho-cance' (hotel vacation) like me, you'll definitely be satisfied with a reservation here!
Based on 2 people, off-peak season, breakfast included
Trip.com | Agoda | |
Price | ~$247 | ~$276 |
Prices may vary slightly depending on the day you check.
For Yeogi Eottae, you can even get a better price by downloading their exclusive coupon.
Based on my search, Trip.com was the cheapest, but I recommend comparing all three and checking for available rooms at the most affordable option!
When you travel to Kota Kinabalu, it's almost synonymous with going to see the sunset.
It's truly that significant, no exaggeration.
And I highly recommend experiencing it properly at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru,
one of the best spots to witness this spectacle!
Moreover, with its excellent pools and facilities,
it's a place where families with children can have an absolutely wonderful time!
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru's Star Lounge can be used for free after check-out. It is equipped with shower facilities, allowing you to rest comfortably as if staying for 0.5 nights before an early morning flight and then head to the airport. Therefore, it is recommended to book your accommodation for the night before you leave for the airport.
The main sunset point at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is the Sunset Bar, but reservations can be difficult, so it's fine to use nearby sunbeds. However, you should consider that the summer holiday season is the rainy season, making it difficult to expect a beautiful sunset due to clouds.
The off-peak price for two people including breakfast was found to be ~$247 on Trip.com and ~$276 on Agoda. Using a Yeogieottae exclusive coupon might make it even cheaper, so it's a good idea to compare prices across various platforms and book quickly once your travel dates are set.
The rooms at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru have a well-maintained, luxurious resort atmosphere, though they feel more traditional than ultra-modern. If you're planning a "hocance" (hotel vacation) where you spend a lot of time in your accommodation, a view of the sea or the sunset can significantly impact your travel satisfaction.
Discover more travel stories curated around the same theme.
Planning your Kota Kinabalu trip in 2026? Discover how to get an affordable TuneTalk SIM card via KKday for seamless data, airport pickup, and great deals!
Discover our experience with AirAsia's mobile check-in and boarding for a Kota Kinabalu trip in 2026. Get insider tips on navigating their process, from booking to getting your seat!
Traveling to Malaysia in 2026? Learn how to easily register your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days of arrival for a smooth entry process.
Planning a trip to Kota Kinabalu in 2026? Find out why Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre is a top pick for value, location, and a great rooftop pool near Jesselton Point.
Seeking the perfect base for your Kota Kinabalu adventure? Le Méridien offers a prime city center location with easy access to the Waterfront, Filipino Market, and night bazaars. Enjoy ocean views, a refreshing pool, and excellent breakfast at this 5-star hotel.
Planning a Sapi Island hopping tour in Kota Kinabalu? Discover the pros and cons of on-site versus online booking, compare prices for 2026, and find out which option is best for your adventure.
