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

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

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From$223 /night
Check-in
02Sept
Check-out
03Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, 88000
-
Nestled in a sanctuary
Great
8.5
8.4
/10
4.7
4.3
/5

5-star eco-conscious beachfront resort in Kota Kinabalu

Amenities

Gaya Island Resort offers a 40-metre lap pool with floating cabanas and a children's wading pool, providing recreational options in a serene environment. The Spa Village Gaya Island provides treatments utilizing local ingredients and traditional practices for rejuvenation. Guests can engage in eco-friendly activities such as guided nature walks, marine expeditions, and the 7 Wonders of Gaya exploration program.

Accommodation

The hotel features a variety of hillside villas, including Bayu Villas with forest views, Canopy Villas near the beach, and Kinabalu Villas with views of Mount Kinabalu. Each villa offers spacious interiors crafted with local materials, alongside an oversized bathtub, outdoor verandah, and modern amenities. The luxurious Suria Suite includes two bedrooms with en-suites and expansive lounge areas overlooking the sea.

Location

Situated in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Gaya Island Resort is surrounded by ancient rainforests and coral reefs, promoting a strong conservation ethos. The resort is accessible via a 10-minute speedboat ride from Jesselton Point, ensuring a quick transition to this natural sanctuary. Opportunities for turtle rehabilitation and coral restoration are integral to the location's ecological mission.

Dining

Guests can enjoy diverse culinary experiences at four dining venues, including Feast Village, which offers Asian and Western dishes with a view of Mount Kinabalu. Fisherman's Cove specializes in sustainable seafood, providing an ocean-inspired dining experience on the rooftop. Customized private dining options allow for meals in scenic locations, enhancing the culinary adventure.

Conservation and Education

The Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre promotes conservation through initiatives like turtle rescue and coral reef restoration, making it the first of its kind in Malaysia. Educational programs led by a Resident Marine Biologist, alongside opportunities for guest participation in conservation activities, enhance awareness of marine life protection. The resort's commitment to sustainability is also reflected in its eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient operations.

Highlights

Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Rooms: Bayu and Kinabalu Villas

Dining: Feast Village and Fisherman's Cove

Wellness: Spa Village Gaya Island treatments

Conservation: turtle rescue and coral restoration

Experience: 7 Wonders of Gaya exploration

Must-do experiences

  • Snorkel at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park for vibrant marine life.
  • Savor fresh seafood at Welcome Seafood Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu.
  • Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village to learn about local traditions.
  • Explore the local markets for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Take a day trip to Mount Kinabalu for breathtaking views and trekking.

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
  • Canopy Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit
    2 persons
    47 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Air conditioning
    Balcony
  • Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit
    2 persons
    47 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Air conditioning
    Balcony
Show all rooms

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
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
  • Terrace
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
Show more

Dining Onsite

Gaya Island Resort offers a delightful array of dining options that immerse guests in the rich flavors of local and Asian cuisines, all set against the picturesque backdrop of nature. Each venue presents a unique culinary experience, from fresh seafood to innovative fusion dishes, ensuring a memorable feast for the senses.
  • Feast Village

    Local, Asian
    Ambiance
    Casual and inviting
    Key Offerings
    Features Asian breakfast soups, eggs cooked to order, and an innovative Satay Pizza that fuses Malay and Italian flavors.
    Reservation
    Not needed
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Fisherman's Cove

    Seafood
    Ambiance
    Romantic and intimate
    Key Offerings
    Dine on the finest seafood while enjoying a serene, candlelit setting, perfect for a cozy dinner experience.
    Reservation
    Recommended
    Dinner
  • Omakase

    Japanese
    Ambiance
    Elegantly minimalist
    Key Offerings
    A bespoke dining experience that showcases traditional Japanese culinary techniques and flavors.
    Reservation
    Recommended
    Dinner
  • Pool Bar & Lounge

    Casual lounge fare
    Ambiance
    Relaxed with stunning Mount Kinabalu views
    Key Offerings
    Enjoy cocktail hour with a variety of refreshing drinks, lounge on comfy hammocks, or sip cocktails by the swim-up bar at the infinity pool.
    Reservation
    Not needed
    Cocktail hour
  • Tavajun Bay

    Thai, Local
    Ambiance
    Lively beachside
    Key Offerings
    Ideal for a satisfying lunch, this venue offers Thai and local dishes amid a vibrant atmosphere.
    Reservation
    Not needed
    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 Malohom Bay
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Marine Ecology Research Centre
Marine Ecology Research Centre
8 minutes walking
Marine research hub showcasing local biodiversity; ideal for families with educational tours and activities.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
10 minutes driving
A national park featuring stunning beaches and rich marine life; perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing.
Tavajun Bay
7 minutes walking
Secluded beach area great for swimming and relaxing, surrounded by nature's beauty; ideal for serene escapes.
Borneo Sea Walking
10 minutes driving
Unique underwater experience walking on the seabed; suitable for thrill-seekers with provided equipment.
Yoga Sessions
10 minutes driving
Relaxing yoga near the beach; available through local studios offering tranquil environments for stress relief.
Kampung Nelayan Seafood Restaurant
10 minutes driving
Authentic Malaysian seafood; spacious and family-friendly with signature grilled fish and cosy ambiance.
Tamarind Restaurant
10 minutes driving
Southeast Asian cuisine with stunning sunset views; ideal for couples with a fusion of flavors and romantic setting.
Shangri-La's live music nights
10 minutes driving
Live music events featuring local artists; casual setting perfect for unwinding after a day of activities.
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront Bars
10 minutes driving
Vibrant nightlife with seaside bars; suitable for all ages, offering cocktails and live performances.
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 540 verified reviews
8.7 /10
Great
87 %
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
Guest reviews
based on 540 reviews
8.7/10
based on 545 reviews
8.5/10
noemi from italy
Family with children
kinabalu villa
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 23, 2026
6/10

good stay, but with issues

varied breakfast tasty breakfast monkey sighting luxury amenities overpriced food damp smell monkey intrusion
the breakfast was very varied and tasty. there was something for everyone. i saw monkeys sometimes on the premises, which i liked. the rooms had everything i needed, including luxurious amenities.
the food was quite overpriced. my room smelled a bit damp. monkeys got into my room at night, even though the window was locked and secured.
0 Helpful
kevin from Ireland
Family with children
Kinabalu Villa
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 20, 2025
6/10
excessive dinner prices booked diving center
i wasnt happy about a few things. the dinner prices felt excessive, even by european standards and quality was not there. also, the diving center was fully booked my entire stay. this was annoying as it's a remote place, they should handle more demand during high season. even the transfer to the mainland cost way more than a local taxi boat would charge, it seemed like i was constantly paying extra for everything.
0 Helpful
Eva from Germany
Couple
kinabalu villa
4 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: November 16, 2025
7/10

decent stay

friendly staff nice breakfast private beach public area pool closure limited entertainment
the staff were friendly and helpful. the breakfast was nice. i liked the nasi lemak. the resort offers a private beach accessible by boat.
the public areas felt in need of refurbishment (especially the pool area). the pool was closed for four days due to heavy rainfall. the in-room entertainment was limited as there was no netflix. the boat transfer to kota kinabalu was expensive.
0 Helpful
Eva from Germany
Couple
Bayu Villa
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 11, 2025
9/10

nice getaway

attentive staff wonderful dining fresh ingredients
the staff was very attentive. i especially thank ms joana and mr terence at guest reception. mr laster (the omakase chef) provided a wonderful dining experience (i really enjoyed the freshness of the ingredients).
0 Helpful
Noemi from Italy
Family with children
Kinabalu Villa
4 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: October 30, 2025
7/10
spacious villa clean room friendly staff pool closure unclean poolside unpleasant odour
The villas were spacious. My villa was clean and nestled within the rainforest. The scenery was like something from a movie (i loved it!). The island is covered in rainforest with wildlife. I saw monkeys and birds. The beaches are excellent, and I recommend Tavajun Beach. The staff was friendly and met my needs.
The main swimming pool was closed for four days, reportedly due to heavy rainfall. This significantly limited relaxation options. The poolside area was unclean and the public toilets had an unpleasant odour. I think this is not a very good experience for the value of the hotel.
0 Helpful
Noelle from France
Family with children
Kinabalu Villa
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: August 25, 2025
7/10

acceptable stay, some issues reported

spacious room big bath rude staff missing snacks
our room was a kinabalu villa. the rooms felt spacious. a large bathroom had two sinks, a shower, and a big bath.
the pool bar staff weren't friendly. some were often rude. the mini bar didn't had a good range, i mean snacks were missing.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from Kota Kinabalu International Airport?
The hotel is 5 km from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
What transportation options are available for guests at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Scheduled boat transfers are available at an additional charge.
What dining options are available at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
The hotel features five dining options, including an Asian buffet restaurant, a seafood specialty restaurant, and a Japanese eatery.
What room amenities are included at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a private balcony with outdoor seating.
Is internet access available at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the resort.
Does Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World provide any child services or activities?
The resort organizes daily activities aimed at children, including nature walks and visits to the marine rescue center.
What is the environment around Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World like?
The resort is situated within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, surrounded by mangroves, coral reefs, and sandy beaches.
What languages do staff speak at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
The staff speaks multiple languages including English and Malay.
How far is Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal?
The hotel is a 10-minute speedboat ride from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.

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