Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Street is more than just a historic road—it is a neighbourhood filled with stories, creativity, local flavours, and cultural experiences. With its heritage shophouses, independent cafés, art spaces, and lively markets, Gaya Street offers visitors a chance to experience the authentic character of Sabah’s capital city.

Away from the usual tourist attractions, these hidden gems around Gaya Street reveal a more relaxed and creative side of Kota Kinabalu.

Gaya Street Sunday Market: The Heartbeat of Local Life

Every Sunday morning, Gaya Street comes alive with the famous Gaya Street Sunday Market. The street transforms into a colourful open-air market filled with local vendors, small businesses, and creative sellers.

Visitors can explore a variety of stalls offering traditional snacks, fresh produce, handmade crafts, plants, souvenirs, and unique local products. The market is a wonderful place to experience the everyday lifestyle of Sabah’s community while discovering interesting items that cannot be found in ordinary shops.

Beyond shopping, the Sunday Market offers a glimpse into the multicultural identity of Sabah, where different communities come together to share their products, food, and creativity.

The Art Attic: A Small Space Full of Creativity

Hidden within the Gaya Street heritage area, The Art Attic is a charming creative space that celebrates local artists and makers.

The shop features a collection of handmade crafts, illustrations, postcards, accessories, artwork, and locally inspired gifts. Each piece carries a personal touch and reflects Sabah’s natural beauty, culture, and unique stories.

For travellers looking for meaningful souvenirs, The Art Attic offers something different from typical tourist products. It is a place where creativity and local identity come together.

October Coffee Gaya: A Cosy Coffee Corner

For coffee lovers, October Coffee Gaya provides a relaxing place to enjoy a quality cup of coffee while experiencing the charm of Kota Kinabalu’s old town atmosphere.

The café combines modern coffee culture with the character of the heritage district. Its comfortable setting makes it a favourite spot for casual conversations, quiet breaks, and enjoying a slower moment while exploring Gaya Street.

Whether starting the morning with coffee or taking a break after exploring the area, October Coffee Gaya adds to the neighbourhood’s growing café culture.

Lorong Dewan: Gaya Street’s Creative Neighbour

Just beside Gaya Street, Lorong Dewan has become one of Kota Kinabalu’s most charming heritage lanes. The area is known for its colourful old shophouses, creative businesses, cafés, and artistic atmosphere.

The preserved architecture provides a glimpse into the city’s past, while the modern shops and creative spaces bring new energy to the historic surroundings.

It is a favourite spot for photography, relaxed café visits, and travellers who enjoy discovering unique urban spaces.

Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant: A Local Food Experience

For those looking to enjoy local flavours near Gaya Street, traditional eateries in the area offer a taste of Sabah’s food culture.

Local seafood dishes, noodles, and Chinese-style favourites reflect the diverse communities that have shaped Kota Kinabalu’s culinary identity. These neighbourhood restaurants provide a more authentic dining experience compared to larger tourist establishments.

Gaya Street Coffee Shops: A Taste of Old Kota Kinabalu

One of the charms of Gaya Street is its traditional coffee shop culture. The old kopitiams around the area continue to attract locals who gather for breakfast, coffee, and conversations.

Visitors can enjoy classic Malaysian favourites such as traditional coffee, toast, noodles, and local snacks while observing the daily rhythm of city life.

These humble cafés represent the nostalgic side of Kota Kinabalu and show how heritage continues to live within the modern city.

Discover the Hidden Side of Gaya Street

Gaya Street is not only a place to visit—it is a place to experience. From the lively Sunday Market and creative corners like The Art Attic to cosy cafés and heritage lanes, the area captures the spirit of Kota Kinabalu through its people, flavours, and stories.

For travellers who want to discover the local side of Sabah’s capital, spending time around Gaya Street offers a memorable experience filled with culture, creativity, and authentic charm.