Kota Kinabalu City Mosque Likas
A breathtaking mosque appearing to float on a lagoon, showcasing stunning Islamic architecture and a serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour glow
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque Likas
Best Time
Golden hour glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking mosque appearing to float on a lagoon, showcasing stunning Islamic architecture and a serene atmosphere.
"The mosque is an architectural marvel and a serene oasis amidst the bustling city."
👗 Modest Dress is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Rental outfits available for a small fee.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The mosque is stunning, especially from the water. Be mindful of prayer times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Floating Illusion
Lagoon surrounding the mosque
Marvel at the mosque appearing to float on water, a breathtaking architectural feat.
Stunning Blue & Gold Dome
Exterior and interior
Admire the intricate design and vibrant colors of the mosque's iconic dome.
Architectural Details
Interior and exterior
Explore the blend of modern and traditional Islamic architecture with captivating details.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Modest Dress is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Rental outfits available for a small fee.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The mosque is stunning, especially from the water. Be mindful of prayer times.
Eid salah in KK?
💰 Entrance Fee
Small fee (RM5) for entry, additional for clothing rental (RM5).
🚗 Getting There
Grab or taxi recommended; can be a bit far from the city center.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Modest Dress is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Rental outfits available for a small fee.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The mosque is stunning, especially from the water. Be mindful of prayer times.
💰 Entrance Fee
Small fee (RM5) for entry, additional for clothing rental (RM5).
🚗 Getting There
Grab or taxi recommended; can be a bit far from the city center.
🙏 Respect Sacred Space
Remember it's a place of worship; be quiet and respectful.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque for its stunning 'floating' appearance and beautiful architecture, calling it a memorable and peaceful experience. The friendly guides and the opportunity to learn about Islamic culture are also highlighted as positives. However, some find the heat intense and note that transportation can be a challenge, with certain areas of the mosque being restricted.
"Our visit to the Floating Mosque in Kota Kinabalu was truly memorable. The mosque is beautifully surrounded by water, giving the impression that it is floating gracefully above the sea — an impressive sight even before stepping inside. Its architecture is stunning, and the serene setting makes it a peaceful place to visit.
Inside, the design is just as captivating, with intricate details that reflect both beauty and spirituality. The guides were friendly and very knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about the mosque’s history, construction, and cultural significance.
It was a wonderful family outing, and even the kids appreciated the calm and unique atmosphere. The combination of breathtaking views, interesting information, and warm hospitality made this visit well worth it. A must-see if you’re in KK."
Purple Koala
"The Masjid Bandaraya Floating Mosque in Kota Kinabalu is an architectural marvel and a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. Located on a manmade lake, this stunning mosque seems to float on the water, creating a breathtaking sight, especially during sunset.
The mosque's design combines modern and traditional elements, with sleek lines, expansive glass windows, and a blend of Malay and Islamic architectural influences. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate details and beautiful calligraphy adorning the walls.
Visitors can take a stroll around the mosque's perimeter, admiring its unique architecture and tranquil surroundings. The mosque also offers boat rides, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty from different angles.
While the mosque is a popular tourist destination, it remains a sacred place of worship, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and show respect. Overall, the Masjid Bandaraya Floating Mosque is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture, culture, and spirituality.
Entrance Fee: RM5, Cloth Rental: RM5."
harby nanad
"Such a beautiful mosque in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. You can choose to explore either the inside or just admire it from the outside. I chose to stay outside since I wasn’t sure what to do inside a mosque. The heat was intense, and because the location is a bit far from the city center, it took longer than usual to hail a Grab or taxi. I had to look for shade while waiting. I stayed for about 5 to 10 minutes—just enough time to take a photo—then headed back."
Janu-Rey Sebastian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mosque is located a short drive from the city center. Grab or a taxi is the most convenient way to get there. Some visitors have noted it can take a little longer to hail a ride back, so factor that into your plans.
While there is parking available, it can get busy, especially during peak hours or prayer times. Arriving earlier can help secure a spot.
It's a bit of a distance to walk from the main city center, and the tropical heat can be intense. It's generally recommended to use transportation like Grab or a taxi for comfort and speed.
The drive itself offers glimpses of the coastal scenery. For the best views of the mosque, it's recommended to approach it from the lagoon side, which is how most visitors capture its iconic 'floating' appearance.
While Grab is convenient, consider local buses if you're comfortable navigating them, though they might be less direct. The entrance fee is minimal, so saving on transport is key for budget travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entrance fee of RM5 per person. This fee contributes to the mosque's upkeep and allows visitors to explore the grounds.
While not strictly mandatory for all areas, renting traditional Muslim attire (for RM5) is often recommended and sometimes required for certain parts of the mosque, especially for photos. It ensures you adhere to the modest dress code.
The mosque is generally open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's best to check specific visiting hours as they can vary. Early mornings and late afternoons are popular times.
Visitors are generally asked to wait outside or in designated areas during prayer times to allow worshippers undisturbed devotion. The mosque is a sacred place of worship.
Photography is usually permitted in designated visitor areas, but it's important to be respectful and avoid photographing worshippers without their consent. Some interior sections may be restricted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The 'floating' illusion is best viewed from the perimeter of the man-made lagoon. Taking a stroll around the grounds or even a short boat ride (if available) offers different perspectives of this unique architectural feature.
Yes, friendly and knowledgeable guides are often available to share insights into the mosque's history, construction, and cultural significance. This enhances the visitor experience significantly.
Modest clothing is essential. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Long pants or skirts and shirts with sleeves are recommended. Rental clothing is available if needed.
While the main grounds are relatively flat, some areas might have stairs. It's advisable to inquire about accessibility for specific sections if you have mobility concerns.
Sunset is particularly magical, with the golden light illuminating the mosque and its surroundings. Early mornings also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no food or dining facilities directly within the mosque premises. Visitors usually eat before or after their visit in nearby restaurants or cafes in Kota Kinabalu.
You can find a variety of local Sabahan cuisine in Kota Kinabalu. Look for seafood dishes, traditional rice cakes, and local noodle preparations.
Yes, Kota Kinabalu has numerous halal-certified restaurants and eateries, given the local population's demographics. You'll have plenty of choices.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks away from the main prayer areas to maintain the sanctity of the mosque.
Head back towards the city center for a wide array of dining options, from local hawker stalls to more upscale restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are from the lagoon, capturing the 'floating' effect. The main entrance and the dome area also offer great photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites to ensure privacy and safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
Sunset provides a beautiful golden hour glow, making the mosque look spectacular. Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the mosque's grandeur and its surroundings. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies.
Photography is generally allowed in visitor areas, but always be mindful and respectful. Avoid taking photos of worshippers. Some restricted areas may prohibit cameras.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Ensure children are dressed modestly (long pants/skirts and shirts with sleeves). The rental clothing is available if needed. The entrance fee is minimal, making it an affordable activity. While the mosque itself is a place of quiet reflection, the surrounding grounds offer space for children to walk around.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the mosque's grandeur and its reflection. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and water. Be mindful of prayer times and avoid photographing worshippers. The exterior details and the dome are also excellent subjects.
🕌 Culture & History Buffs
Learn about the blend of modern and traditional design elements. Understand its role as a spiritual center for the community. The mosque provides a tangible connection to the region's heritage and religious practices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels and Cultural Significance
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mosque holds significant cultural and religious importance for the local Muslim community. It serves as a central place of worship and a symbol of faith in Kota Kinabalu. Visitors often remark on the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about Islamic culture and history from knowledgeable guides.
When visiting, remember that it is an active place of worship. Respectful attire and behavior are paramount. The mosque also houses a school, and certain areas are restricted to worshippers, so be mindful of signage and guidance from staff.
Experiencing the 'Floating' Mosque
Some reviews mention the possibility of boat rides, which would offer an even more immersive perspective of the mosque from the water. While not always advertised, inquiring locally might reveal such options. The surrounding landscape is also beautifully maintained, adding to the overall tranquil ambiance.
It's important to note that while the visual spectacle is captivating, the mosque is a sacred space. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Rental clothing is available for a small fee, ensuring everyone can participate respectfully in this unique cultural experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit