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Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World, Gaya Island
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Key details
About the Resort
Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, 88000,
- Near the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Great
8.5
8.4
4.7
4.3
5-star eco-resort nestled in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Location
Gaya Island Resort is situated within the protected
Accommodation
The resort provides hillside villas designed with local materials, offering unique views of mangroves, tropical rainforest, or the South China Sea. Each villa features a large open en-suite bathroom with dual vanity units and oversized bathtub. The
Marine Conservation
Gaya Island Resort is committed to marine conservation with the Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre, which implements turtle rescue and coral reef restoration programs. The resident marine biologist oversees various conservation initiatives and engages guests with educational opportunities. The initiatives include the rehabilitation of sea turtles and ongoing coral nursery projects that involve guest participation.
Dining Options
Guests can enjoy diverse dining at
Activities and Experiences
The resort invites guests to explore nature through guided walks led by the resident naturalist, showcasing the unique biodiversity of the island. Adventure seekers can participate in snorkeling trips guided by the resident marine biologist in the Coral Triangle. Families can engage in conservation through hands-on activities at the marine center, enhancing their connection to local wildlife.
Highlights
Location: Situated within protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Accommodation: Hillside villas designed from local materials
Marine Conservation: Turtle rescue and coral reef restoration initiatives
Dining: Feast Village and Fisherman's Cove offer diverse cuisine options
Activities: Guided nature walks and family-friendly conservation programs
“Nestled in an ancient rainforest with a commitment to eco-luxury, this resort presents a unique opportunity to explore marine conservation alongside exceptional service. Its access to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and focus on local seafood create a distinct sense of place. I believe it's particularly well-suited for couples or families seeking both relaxation and enriching nature-based experiences.”
Select your room type
Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
- Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer2 persons47 sq. feet1 Double bedAir conditioningBalconyroom details
- Canopy Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit2 persons47 sq. feet1 Double bedAir conditioningBalconyroom details
- Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit2 persons47 sq. feet1 Double bedAir conditioningBalconyroom details
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Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- No pets allowed
- Private beach
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
- Diving
- Snorkelling
- Yoga class
- Fishing
Guest Parking
- No parking available.
Services
- Paid airport shuttle
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Dry cleaning
- Tours/Ticket assistance
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Babysitting/Child services
Spa & Leisure
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Beach access
- Sun loungers
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
- Spa & wellness centre
- Full body massage
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Mini-bar
- Terrace
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite
Gaya Island Resort presents a delightful array of dining choices that beautifully marry local flavors with contemporary culinary influences. Each venue captures the spirit of its surroundings, offering guests unique settings, from romantic seaside dinners to breezy poolside refreshments, all while showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Location
Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, 88000,
Explore Gaya Island
Explore Gaya Island's Wonders
Marine Ecology Research Centre
8 minutes walking
A hub for marine conservation, showcasing the region's rich aquatic life through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Tavajun Bay
7 minutes walking
A breathtaking bay known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
10 minutes drive
A striking marine park featuring stunning islands, sandy beaches, and numerous coral reefs, ideal for a day of outdoor activities.
Sapi Island
35 minutes walking
Famous for its beautiful beaches and water sports, Sapi Island is perfect for a fun and relaxing day by the sea.
Snorkeling Adventures
10 minutes drive
Guided snorkeling excursions to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Equipment rental available.
Yoga on the Beach
8 minutes walking
Relaxing morning yoga classes on the beach, offering tranquility and stunning ocean views for participants of all levels.
Ziplining Experience
10 minutes drive
Thrill-seekers will enjoy ziplining between islands for an adrenaline-packed adventure boasting breathtaking views.
Fisherman's Wharf
10 minutes drive
Seafood restaurant with a casual vibe specializing in fresh catches. Signature dishes include grilled fish and prawn cocktails.
The Koi
10 minutes drive
Japanese dining spot with a cozy atmosphere renowned for sushi and ramen. Reservations recommended for peak times.
Kampung Style Restaurant
10 minutes drive
Authentic local cuisine in a rustic setting, offering dishes like laksa and rendang, catering to various dietary needs.
Star Marina Lounge
10 minutes drive
Chic lounge offering live music and cocktails, perfect for a relaxing evening with a vibrant atmosphere.
Gaya Street Sunday Market
15 minutes drive
Vibrant market featuring local crafts and street food, ideal for family-friendly outings and cultural immersion on Sundays.
Cultural Theatre Show
10 minutes drive
Engaging performances showcasing local traditions and arts, perfect for all ages seeking a delightful cultural experience.
Getting around
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs MYR 100.0 per person.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Malay
Year renovated:
2012
Number of rooms:
125
Former name
gaya island resort, kota kinabalu - an slh hotel
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from previous guests about their experience
Show moreShow less
Pros
Kind staff
Clean rooms
Swimming pool
Sea view
Cons
Additional charges
Poor food quality
Guest reviewsbased on 577 reviews
antonio from italy
Family with children
kinabalu villa
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 09, 2026
9.0/10
lovely villa stay
beautiful settings good service varied buffet
the settings are beautiful. the staff is honestly really nice and offering very good service. the chef at the feast village is always asking you if you would like something special cooked. the buffet is always varied and good quality.
the boat to and from resort only takes 10 mins but only rums ever 2 hours. this means a wait of 90mins going out and arriving at airport 4 hours before flight on way home.
Service
9/10
the staff went out of their way to assist. i see terrance and chelsea went beyond normal, that is really cheerful.
Facilities
8/10
the pool was a really good size and include a bar and seating area behind. sun loungers in front face the bay and across to the main island, it is great.
Rooms
9/10
the rooms were spacious and luxurious with a large bathroom at one end. it includes two sinks, a shower, a toilet and a very large bath, so everything fine.
Dining
10/10
the main restaurant offered a great range of food options. it has plenty to cover our differing appetites, so that's fine. i think everyone can find something.
0 Helpful
|
Nagi from Japan
Single
Canopy Villa
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 14, 2026
6/10
Acceptable, but pricey
musty smell high food prices
The location was quite good. Snorkeling right off the beach was a plus.
The food prices were ABSURD. The room smelled musty. Monkeys got into my room one night, despite the chain on the window.
0 Helpful
kevin from United Kingdom
Family with children
Kinabalu Villa
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 09, 2026
6/10
pricey boat transfer tired paint
i found the boat transfer pricey. dinner options felt limited too. i wanted a quick bite at the beach bar, but it closes early. so i am stuck with the expensive big meal. it's just irritating for the price you pay. some paint looked tired.
0 Helpful
Maggi from Germany
Couple
Canopy Villa
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 16, 2025
8.7/10
island bliss is a charm!
lovely staff breakfast buffet spacious room traditional entertainment
the staff was really lovely and attentive. the breakfast buffet had many choices. the room felt so spacious. i tried indigenous massage at the spa, it was a highlight, one of the best i have had. the bbq on the beach with the traditional entertainment was so nice.
Facilities
9/10
The resort had a lovely pool. i saw several staff tending to the gardens daily. i appreciated the free shuttle service to the private beach. It made access easy.
Location
8/10
The hotel location was in a beautiful area. I enjoyed that a lot. the views of mount kinabalu were wonderful. it was a quick 15-minute boat ride from jesselton point ferry terminal in kota kinabalu.
Rooms
9/10
our room had a spacious layout. the hotel brought our luggage directly to the room from the pier. i noticed hot water was available only when the air conditioning was working. it was so convenient.
0 Helpful
|
Noemi from Portugal
Family with children
Kinabalu Villa
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 15, 2025
9.3/10
Rainforest Villa Experience
fine view safe island really good service diverse wildlife
My villa offered a fine view. The island felt safe. Staff members provided really good service at every interaction. Snorkeling revealed diverse marine life near the smaller island. I saw blacktip reef sharks. Mangrove kayaking was awesome. Do bring mosquito spray though. The jungle night walk was a thrilling adventure (I even spotted a python!).
The telephone in my room wasn't working. It made requesting baggage assistance a bit INCONVENIENT.
Location
9/10
The hotel sits within a dense rainforest. Monkeys, birds, and monitor lizards are frequent visitors. Beaches are accessible and Tavajun Beach is particularly RECOMMENDED for relaxation and water activities. Boat transfers are required to reach the hotel.
Facilities
9/10
The pool area includes a bar and seating. Sun loungers face the bay toward Kota Kinabalu. Several restaurants are available. A turtle rehabilitation program and marine conservation talks were available to attend.
Service
10/10
The staff was friendly and accommodating. They worked to meet guest needs. The resort manager, Terrence, offered exemplary service. Every request was handled promptly and efficiently, which contributed to a smooth experience.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast buffet includes local and international dishes. The pool bar offers happy hour and lunch. Fisherman's Cove provides a seven-course meal in a private gazebo (it's a MUST). The chef can accommodate special requests, like chilli crab.
0 Helpful
|
Maria from Brazil
Family with children
Kinabalu Villa
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 27, 2025
6/10
mediocre stay, some issues
unclean poolside area bad odor
the snorkling experience was AMAZING. the guide was helpful and took great photos.
the main disappointment was THE POOL. it was closed for four days, supposedly because of heavy rainfall. the poolside area needed cleaning. the public toilets had a bad odor.
0 Helpful
Show more reviews
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