We're planning on visiting in Sabah (Malaysia) in late December, and I'm seeking some lodging recommendations. I imagine will dedicate a few days to Mt. Kinabalu (whether we make the hike or not), and then 2-3 nights by the sea.

My first impressions about the resort-ish options:

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru - looks urban and unbeachy
http://www.shangri-la.com/eng/hotel/24/index.htm

Shangri-La Rasa Ria - looks good, if not a little unexciting
http://www.shangri-la.com/eng/hotel/23/index.htm

Nexus Report - looks promising
http://www.nexusresort.com/new/master.html

As you'll see these options are on the West Coast -- from what it sounds like, the West Coast should have drier weather than the East Coast at that time of year. Furthermore, while I'm intrigued by the East Coast (Sipadan, Sandakan, etc.), I'm a little intimidated by the travel warnings.

That said, any other west coast resort/hotel recommendations...possibly including any possibilities on relatively close islands?

Thanks...