Name: Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World, Gaya Island
Address: Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Sabah, 88000
Price range: US$223+
Rating: 8.5

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

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

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Key details

About the Hotel

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

Nestled in a rainforest sanctuary

Great

8.5

8.4

/10

4.7

4.3

5-star eco-luxury resort in Borneo's marine paradise

Location

Gaya Island Resort is strategically situated within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and Tavajun Bay, featuring protected mangroves and coral reefs. The resort's conservation initiatives enhance its idyllic surroundings, with minimal human impact on the environment. Guests can reach the resort via a convenient 10-minute speedboat ride from the Jesselton Point jetty.

Accommodation

The resort offers hillside villas that provide views of mangrove forests, canopies, or the silhouette of Mount Kinabalu. Each villa features contemporary interiors using locally sourced materials, oversized bathtubs, and outdoor verandahs. The Suria Suite includes a private dining area, a pantry, and a luxurious outdoor bath on the balcony.

Marine Centre

The Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre serves as a hub for turtle rescue and coral reef restoration efforts. Guests can engage with these conservation activities, such as visiting the coral nursery or learning from the resident marine biologist about local marine ecosystems. This unique experience allows visitors to participate in hands-on conservation programs that contribute to the health of surrounding waters.

Dining

Dining options include Feast Village and Fisherman's Cove, showcasing diverse Asia-Pacific cuisine with an emphasis on sustainable practices. Guests can enjoy casual meals at the Pool Bar & Lounge or select private dining experiences tailored to showcase local flavors. The resort offers culinary adventures such as the North Borneo Straits tiffin and Bajau Laut beach barbecue.

Wellness and Recreation

Spa Village Gaya Island blends local healing traditions with natural ingredients to provide rejuvenating treatments. Activities such as guided nature walks and kayaking through the mangroves cater to those seeking adventure in pristine circumstances. Guests also can explore the underwater highlights through snorkeling or diving expeditions organized by the resort.

Highlights

Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Accommodation: hillside villas with ocean views

Marine Centre: turtle rescue and coral restoration

Dining: Fisherman's Cove seafood dishes

Wellness: Spa Village Gaya Island

Activities: guided nature walks and kayaking

Must-do experiences

Snorkel at the coral reefs of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park for beauty.
Savor fresh seafood at the Night Market in Kota Kinabalu.
Take a guided trek to the summit of Mount Kinabalu at dawn.
Explore the Mari Mari Cultural Village for an immersive local experience.
Visit the Sabah State Museum for insights into local heritage.

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
47 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Canopy Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit
2 persons
47 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit
2 persons
47 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details

Show all rooms

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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

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

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

Dining Onsite

Gaya Island Resort offers a delightful selection of dining experiences that reflect the rich culinary tapestry of the region. From local Asian favorites to romantic seaside seafood dinners, each venue invites guests to savor authentic flavors while enjoying stunning views.

Feast Village
Local, Asian
Ambiance
Key Offerings
Begin the day with Asian breakfast soups, eggs cooked to order, and a selection of fresh pastries. In the evening, indulge in a variety of local and Asian dishes prepared with creativity.
Reservation
no
Breakfast and Dinner
Fisherman's Cove
Seafood
Ambiance
Romantic
Key Offerings
Dine on exquisite seafood dishes in a setting perfect for intimate evenings. With the backdrop of the ocean, it's an ideal place for sunset dinners that create a memorable atmosphere.
Reservation
yes
Dinner
Omakase
Japanese
Ambiance
Key Offerings
Experience a curated dining experience that showcases the freshness and artistry of Japanese cuisine. Each evening features carefully crafted dishes highlighting seasonal ingredients.
Reservation
yes
Dinner
Pool Bar & Lounge
Ambiance
Key Offerings
Relax with handcrafted cocktails during the evening cocktail hour, as you enjoy picturesque views of Mount Kinabalu from the sundeck. The infinity pool and comfortable loungers add to the laid-back appeal.
Reservation
no
Cocktail hour
Tavajun Bay
Thai, Local
Ambiance
Key Offerings
Savor a blend of Thai and local dishes during lunch, offering a vibrant taste of the region. The dining space, near the beach, enhances the experience with fresh sea breezes.
Reservation
no
Lunch

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

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

Explore Gaya Island

Explore the Surroundings

Marine Ecology Research Centre

8 minutes' walk

Marine conservation hub showcasing local sea life and efforts to maintain marine ecosystems. Guided tours available.

Highest Point

10 minutes' walk

Stunning panoramic views of Gaya Island and the surrounding area. Perfect for nature photography.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

10 minutes' drive

Popular marine park featuring beautiful islands, snorkeling spots, and lush landscapes. Entry fees apply.

Sapi Island

10 minutes' drive

Vibrant beach destination with clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Boat transfers available.

Snorkeling at Sapi Island

10 minutes' drive

Vibrant marine life and coral reefs await at this island. Rental services available for snorkeling gear.

Ziplining Adventures

10 minutes' drive

Adrenaline-pumping ziplining across islands. Book in advance for this thrilling experience.

Relaxing Spa Treatments

On-site

Indulge in rejuvenating spa experiences available at the resort. Perfect for unwinding after adventurous outings.

Fisherman's Wharf

10 minutes' drive

Casual dining with fresh seafood and local specialties. Ocean views enhance the dining experience.

Treetop Restaurant

10 minutes' drive

Offers an extensive menu featuring Asian and Western cuisine among lush greenery. Reservations recommended.

Coffee Cabin

10 minutes' drive

Cozy café specializing in artisanal coffee and light bites. Vegan options available.

KK Waterfront

10 minutes' drive

Vibrant nightlife destination with bars, live music, and waterfront dining. Family-friendly during early hours.

Borneo Comedy Club

10 minutes' drive

Weekly comedy nights featuring local and international acts. A fun outing for all ages.

Gaya Street Sunday Market

15 minutes' drive

Lively market offering local crafts, food, and cultural performances every Sunday. Family-friendly and vibrant atmosphere.

Getting around

City Centre
Gaya Island 9 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 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.

Review score

Based on 577 verified reviews

8.7 /10

Great

86 %

Recommend

Breakfast

9.9/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Comfort

9.0/10

Facilities

8.6/10

Free WiFi

8.4/10

Location

8.8/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.4/10

Staff

9.1/10

Value for money

7.2/10

Peter from United Kingdom

Couple

Kinabalu Villa

6 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 04, 2026

9.5/10

Excellent Stay with Nice Experiences

helpful staff efficient transport extensive breakfast

The staff was very helpful and accommodating. Transport to the resort was effective and efficient. I enjoyed the many lovely activities including a fabulous beach BBQ with skilled local dancers. The rooms were lovely and the extensive breakfast had an very nice array of choices.

This affected my experience with wellness options at the hotel .

Rooms

9/10

The Kinabalu Villa included a comfortable king size bed and air conditioning for temperature control. A beautiful view over the resort was seen from the balcony. There were no hotel guides usually provided in the room but maintenance was quick.

Dining

10/10

The Feast restaurant has diverse food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Fisherman's Cove offered a seven course dinner in a magical evening setting. The resort was able to accommodate special requests such as chili crab.

Service

10/10

The staff was cute and nothing was too much trouble for them. Joana was a wonderful host and went out of her way to ensure a great experience. The level of service made our holiday nice, relaxing and special.

Facilities

9/10

The pool area was always very clean and tidy, with views of the sea and Mount Kinabalu. Snorkeling trips, mangrove kayaking and diving were reasonably priced. The hotel also offered free activities like yoga.

0 Helpful

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Nagi from Japan

Single

Canopy Villa

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 01, 2026

6/10

Acceptable stay with drawbacks

unfriendly staff limited minibar

The villa offered a king size bed and air conditioning.

The pool bar staff was NOT friendly. The minibar lacked variety including basic snacks. I expect better service for the price paid.

0 Helpful

Nagi from Japan

Single

Bayu Villa

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 24, 2025

9.0/10

Very nice Snorkeling Experience!

professional team stingray spotting turtle care conservation efforts

The snorkeling trips were AMAZING!!! I went with a professional team. Safwan showed me stingrays. The turtles received great care. The conservation efforts were great.

The minibar could have offered a better selection of snacks and drinks.

Service

9/10

All staff were cute and friendly. They represent Malaysia. Staff ensured every guest felt special. They were accommodating and were great.

Rooms

9/10

My villa included a king size bed and effective air conditioning. A balcony offered a beautiful view of the resort. The rooms were pure luxury with fantastic views.

Facilities

9/10

The main restaurant has a huge range of delicious food. The resort features a great pool with space for kids. Many beach recliners were available near the water.

0 Helpful

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