Kota Kinabalu Market and Harbour, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia

If you want to escape your resort or are overnighting in Kota Kinabalu you could do worse than visit the harbour, view the return of the colourful fishing fleet and spend a little time in the local markets before heading to the Waterfront for a light refreshment.

The freshest of local produce is unloaded as the afternoon shadows lengthen and empty stalls fill up rapidly with shiny chilies, ripe mangoes, burnished aubergines and more. 

Glistening fish of all types and sizes, in the ocean today, in our dinners tomorrow, are tumbled onto low-slung displays as vendors tout their wares. 

A cry of ‘tuna’ catches my ear and I gasp to see a hunk of dark fish being freshly butchered.

A smiling local merchant invites me to inspect his fresh crabs; colourful crustaceans abound.

As hungry people emerge from the day’s work, or tourism tasty local street fare is  prepared and hawked all around.

Smoky barbecue offers fresh and spicy chicken.

Fresh corn, nuts and chickpea make great side dishes.

Delicious looking local snacks are everywhere.

Deep fried plantain melts my resistance and I give in to this tasty bite.

The Waterfront offers a range of low key eating and drinking options overlooking the harbour.  It’s a great spot to soak up some atmosphere and enjoy a delightful ocean outlook. My recommendation was for Mai Yai ThaiOrchid, and I was not disappointed.  It’s authentic Thai with fresh flavours and yummy cocktails.

I hear good things about the Sunday Market, but alas, I’m not here to try that one… this time…