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Where mangroves and endemic species meet, is an unspoiled hideaway connected with Borneo’s nature.
Off the coast of Kota Kinabalu on the island of Pulau Gaya sits a contemporary hotel with Sabah-inspired villas. In this ancient forested land there’s plenty on offer – searching for mischievous macaques, floating daybeds over a gleaming pool, Malay massage at the spa and rooftop fresh-from-the-water dining overlooking the South China Sea.
Why we love Gaya Island Resort
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Private hot-coal beach barbecues crackle with castaway feels.
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The boat ride to the Marine Centre to see how the centre cares for endangered sea turtles.
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Snorkel in coral-rich waters with thousands of different species of fish.
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Upgrade to a Kinabalu Villa for verandahs with spellbinding South China Sea views.
Rooms
Nestled within the rainforest and mangroves, the resort is made up of 120 modern villas that have been built using the finest locally-sourced materials. The Canopy Villas sit on a gentle hillside just a short walk from the beach, whilst the Bayu Villas are set higher up in the forest with views of the rainforest canopy or tropical mangroves. A stay in the Kinabalu Villas means a bit of extra climbing, but they have stunning views of the glittering South China Sea. The extremely spacious two-level Suria Suite is perfect for families or groups (available until 31 March 2024).
Set on the hillside within the lush rainforest.
- air-conditioning
- king-size bed
- terrace with daybed
- bathroom with oversize bath and separate shower
- minibar*
- 47m²
Set amongst the mangroves, a short walk from the resort's beach or the resort's centrally-located facilities.
- air-conditioning
- king-size bed
- terrace with daybed
- bathroom with oversize bath and separate shower
- minibar*
- 47m²
These villas have views of the sea toward the city of Kota Kinabalu and, on a clear day Mount Kinabalu.
- air-conditioning
- king-size bed
- terrace with daybed
- bathroom with oversize bath and separate shower
- minibar*
- 47m²
Perched on the hillside, offering uninterrupted ocean views.
- split-level suite
- air-conditioning
- two bedrooms, one with a king-size bed and one with twin beds
- outdoor veranda with daybeds
- outdoor bath
- private dining room, lounge and TV room
- minibar*
- private balcony
- 188m²
Facilities
The interactive buffet venue, Feast Village serves breakfast, lunch and dinner whilst a fine-dining expereince can be taken at Fisherman’s Cove restaurant. For a taste of Japan, head to Omakase. You can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or light lunch at the casual Pool Bar and Lounge, or have lunch at the private Tavajun Bay, which is reached by boat.
Feast Village
Serving diverse cuisine from all over the Asia-Pacific region buffet-style.
Fisherman's Cove
For adults only, Fisherman's Cove offers a dinner menu full of freshly-caught seafood dishes.
Omakase
Enjoy teppanyaki prepared by the talented chef from the rooftop restaurant overlooking Mount Kinabalu.
Tavajun Bay
Relax for lunch on the beach at Tavajun Bay, accessed by a five-minute boat ride.
Pool Bar & Lounge
Unwind with a casual lunch overlooking the swimming pool and watch the sunset over Mount Kinabalu as you sip on a cocktail.
As well as its wonderful views of Mount Kinabalu, we love that Fisherman's Cove focuses on sustainable seafood dishes.
Whats Included
Breakfast at Feast Village.
Upgrade Options
Full Board • Breakfast at Feast Village • Lunch at Feast Village, Pool Bar & Lounge or Tavajun Bay • Dinner at Feast Village, Omakase or Fisherman’s Cove
The secluded Spa Village is set in the mangrove forest and offers complete serenity. There are six treatment rooms, outdoor decks and space for yoga. Treatments are inspired by the cultural healing practices of Sabah’s indigenous people and there are also yoga, guided meditation and stretching sessions.
Explore the nature trails that weave through dense forest or kayak through the mangroves in search of wildlife. Take part in an interactive cooking session or join a sunset cruise around the neighbouring islands. Experience the Borneo culture at a Singgah Singgarung night with Kadazan music as you dine on fish cooked on the open fire and sip on the local rice wine.
Gaya Island is part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and is a PADI 5-star resort. The dive team can organise anything from guided snorkelling tours to open-water dive courses. The marine life here is spectacular with coral gardens just off the shore and 25 different dive spots to explore.
The Gaya Island Marine Centre has a marine biologist and team dedicated to turtle rescue, coral reef restoration and creating educational programmes on conservation. Under the guidance of the resort's resident naturalist, the team have been collecting data and monitoring the proboscis monkey that is on the red list of endangered threatened species.
To minimise their carbon footprint the only motorised vehicles used on the resort are for operational reasons.
Minimum stays apply.
A Sabah Parks conservation fee is payable on departure from the resort.
Guests over 12 are welcome in the Fisherman’s Cove Restaurant.
A conservation fee and tourist tax are payable to the resort.
The resort is not recommended for those with walking difficulties.
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