Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World, Gaya Island - Reviews, Rooms Options & Prices 2026

75 photos

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Exterior photo The photo shows a beautiful resort nestled along a tropical waterfront. The scene is bathed in bright daylight under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

The main focus is a long, narrow swimming pool that curves gracefully through the frame. Th

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Nearby photo The photo captures a serene beach scene at either sunrise or sunset. The warm golden light bathes the water and the sand, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

In the foreground, a hammock is strung between two trees, inviting relaxation. The hammock is

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Amenities photo The photo captures a stunning infinity pool at a luxurious resort, blending seamlessly with the ocean in the background. The foreground is dominated by the clear, turquoise water of the pool, with distinct shadow lines cast by the pool's framework ac

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Key details

About the Resort

Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Malaysia, 88000

Near the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Great

8.5

8.4

/10

4.7

4.3

Loved by Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World guests

Spacious rooms
Clean beach area
Delicious food choices
Friendly staff

"We saw hornbills and flying squirrels from our balcony."

Tabitha from United Kingdom

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"The pool was nice and long, good for swimming proper lengths, and not too busy."

Carmen M from United Kingdom

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"The property has a beautiful setting with the sea and a primary forest as its backdrop."

Siu Chui from Hong Kong

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Location

Gaya Island Resort is situated within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, maximizing guest access to pristine natural environments. The resort is surrounded by lush rainforest and offers stunning views of Mount Kinabalu, reinforcing its position as a sanctuary of tranquility. Guests can reach the marine center via a 5-minute boat ride or a 45-minute trek from the resort.

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 Kinabalu Villas stand out, offering expansive views of Mount Kinabalu on clear days.

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 Feast Village, offering selections from the Asia-Pacific region, or opt for fresh seafood at Fisherman's Cove with views of Mount Kinabalu. The hotel also features a Japanese restaurant, Omakase, presenting omakase-style dining experiences surrounded by rainforest. Unique dining experiences include beachfront barbecues and gourmet picnics at Tavajun Bay.

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.”

Emma JohnsonEditor-in-Chief at Toresort

Location: Great

8.8/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Sports & FitnessSnorkeler's Paradise

The house reef is easily accessible and teeming with beautiful fish and coral. The snorkeling trip to Coral Garden was amazing!

Kevin from Canada

Review on

DiningFoodie Heaven

The buffet dinner had many choices and different themes every night. BBQ satay chicken sticks at the pool bar are a must!

Mei from Singapore

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Room FeaturesSpacious Retreat

The Kinabalu villa was large and very clean. The balcony had nice sea views of the bay and the Mount Kinabalu.

John from Australia

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Spa & LeisureBeach bliss

The private beach area is a perfect spot for relaxing. There are plenty of beech towels and free purified water available.

Maria from Spain

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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 Transfer

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Canopy Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Bayu Villa

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.6/10Review score

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

Electric kettle

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
Sitting area
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Separate tub and shower
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

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.

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Restaurant photo The photo shows an outdoor restaurant at dusk or night, with a beautiful view of a calm body of water, likely a bay or ocean, and distant mountains under a twilight sky.

The restaurant features several dining tables arranged on a patio, each set wi

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Restaurant photo The photo shows an elegant outdoor dining area, likely part of a resort or high-end restaurant, at dusk or twilight. The scene is bathed in a soft, warm light emanating from candles on the tables and some subtle overhead lighting.

The dining area i

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Restaurant photo The photo shows an indoor lounge area with a stunning view of a tropical beach and ocean. The space is characterized by high, vaulted ceilings made of warm-toned wood, supported by large, cylindrical columns that are also made of wood. The ceiling is

Feast Village

Local, Asian

Ambiance

Casual and welcoming

Key Offerings

Enjoy Asian breakfast soups, cooked-to-order eggs, and fresh pastries, alongside the inventive Satay Pizza, a delightful blend of Malay and Italian cuisines.

Reservation

Breakfast and Dinner

Fisherman's Cove

Seafood

Ambiance

Romantic and intimate

Key Offerings

An enchanting dinner experience featuring freshly caught seafood dishes, perfect for a candlelit evening as the waves serenade the guests.

Reservation

yes

Dinner

Omakase

Japanese

Ambiance

Tranquil and refined

Key Offerings

Experience a carefully curated Japanese menu that highlights seasonal ingredients, offering a sophisticated touch to the dining experience.

Reservation

yes

Dinner

Pool Bar & Lounge

Light bites and cocktails

Ambiance

Lively and relaxed with infinity pool views

Key Offerings

Enjoy a refreshing cocktail hour with stunning views of Mount Kinabalu from the sundeck, surrounded by loungers and hammocks ideal for unwinding after a day in the sun.

Reservation

Cocktail hour

Tavajun Bay

Thai, Local

Ambiance

Casual and beachfront

Key Offerings

Savor delicious Thai and local dishes for lunch, served in a unique beachside setting that invites relaxation and enjoyment.

Reservation

Lunch

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Location

Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Malaysia, 88000

Map view

Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Malaysia, 88000

City landmarks

Landmark

Highest Point

3000 ft

Island

Sapi Island

2.0 mi

Landmark

Marine Ecology Research Centre

2100 ft

Beach

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

1.8 mi

Beach

Tavajun Bay

1900 ft

Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

1.9 mi

Landmark

Coral Flyer

1.9 mi

Landmark

Canopy walk and zip lines

1.6 mi

Landmark

zipling between islands

1.9 mi

Landmark

Zip line

1.9 mi

Landmark

Borneo Sea Walking

2.0 mi

Landmark

Seasport

2.0 mi

Landmark

Coral Flyer Zipline

2.0 mi

Island

Pulau Sapi

2.1 mi

Landmark

Hidden beach

2.0 mi

Landmark

Point B

2.1 mi

Island

Pulau Sinjataan

2.2 mi

Landmark

Small beach

2.1 mi

Beach

Pulau Sapi Beach

2.2 mi

Landmark

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

2.2 mi

Landmark

Signal Hill Observatory Platform

3.8 mi

Tower

Atkinson Clock Tower

3.9 mi

Landmark

Kota Kinabalu Harbor

3.6 mi

Market

Gaya Street Sunday Market

3.8 mi

Landmark

Borneo Trading Post

3.4 mi

Landmark

KK Esplanade

3.6 mi

Landmark

I Love KK

3.6 mi

Square

Marlin Statue

3.6 mi

Landmark

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

3.8 mi

Landmark

Pillars of Sabah

3.7 mi

Nearby

Malohom Bay Gaya Island

Marine Ecology Research Centre

2600 ft

Beach

Tavajun Bay

3800 ft

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

City Centre

Gaya Island9 min · 2300 ft

Airports

Kota Kinabalu International (BKI)11 min · 4.5 mi

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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 for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs MYR 80 per person per day.

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

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Gaya Island Resort is frequently praised for its luxurious chalet rooms boasting separate bathroom areas, a double-size bath, walk-in showers, and private patios showcasing rainforest or sea views. Many guests savored the food, especially the varied and good quality buffet at Feast Village, where the chef is known for offering to cook special requests; others enjoyed snorkeling directly off the beach, spotting marine life such as blacktip reef sharks. While some have noted that Tuvajun Bay (private beach) felt neglected, the resort also offers a turtle rehabilitation center and wildlife center to explore the island's flora and fauna.

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Review score

Based on 466 verified reviews

8.7/10

Great

87%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.9/10

Staff

9.2/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.4/10

Value for money

7.4/10

Pros

Kind staff

Clean rooms

Swimming pool

Sea view

Cons

Additional charges

Poor food quality

Noemi from Portugal

Family with children

Kinabalu Villa

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 15, 2025

9.3/10

Rainforest Villa Experience

fine viewsafe islandreally good servicediverse 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.

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Maria from Brazil

Family with children

Kinabalu Villa

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 27, 2025

6/10

mediocre stay, some issues

helpful guideunclean poolside areabad 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