Gaya Island Resort, Sabah, Borneo

Luxurious and tranquil beach retreat with amazing views of Mount Kinabalu

7 nights from around £750 per person sharing. Flights, transfers and wider itineraries available at an additional cost.

Gaya Island Resort is a luxurious retreat just off the coast of Kota Kinabulu in Borneo. Backed by lush green forest, overlooking the glistening coastline of Maloham Bay, and with incredible views of towering Mt Kinabalu. This tranquil island resort is set within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and only accessible by a 15 minute boat ride from the mainland. With a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of activities available, Gaya Island Resort is an is an idyllic place to unwind and a great location to start or finish any Borneo itinerary.

Accommodation

Accommodation comes in a variety of luxury villas, from exotic Canopy Villas buried among the leafy green rainforest, to Bayu Villas looking out to sea, and the Kinabalu Villas with the resort's best view of majestic Mount Kinabalu. The Suria Suites are large and luxurious, with two elegantly designed bedrooms, looking out towards an outdoor private veranda.

Activities & Experiences

Explore the island and culture with one of the resort's tailored experiences, such as nature trails in the forest with the resident naturalist or private dives to observe the colourful marine life. Or simply relax by the 40m lap pool or treat yourself at the fabulous spa. There are two reefs just off-shore that are perfect for snorkelling or you can explore the mangroves by kayak.

Facilities & Services

There are several dining options: Feast Village serves a diverse range of dishes, whilst Fisherman's Cove is the romantic fine dining option serving fresh seafood. Omakase offers a fun and authentic Japanese dining experience and the Pool Bar & Lounge is a good place for a light lunch or watching the sunset behind Mt Kinabalu, cocktail in hand. If you take the boat shuttle to nearby Tavujun Bay, the resort has its own restaurant here too, or can provide gourmet picnics. There are also some lovely destination dining options available around the island.

Weather & Seasons

The best and most popular months to visit are March to July.

Getting Here

12 hour flight from London to Kuala Lumpur followed by a 2 hour domestic flight to Kota Kinabulu, then a short road and boat transfer.

Malaysia & Borneo

Our experts in the UK and Malaysia can tailor-make the perfect holiday or wider itinerary for you in the region, and can advise on the best destinations according to your dates. Some of our other featured places to stay nearby include:

The Datai Langkawi

The Andaman Langkawi

The Majestic Hotel, Kuala Lumpur

The Lakehouse, Cameron Highlands

Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang

Taman Negara Resort

Tanjong Jara, Kuala Terengganu

See our suggested Highlights of Malaysia Tour (14 nights)