There is a place, accessible only by boat, where all that nature has created, from sheltered coral reefs to protected mangroves, over thousands of years has been preserved by those devoted to its care. A place called Gaya Island Resort at Pulau Gaya. Within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Borneo, Gaya Island Resort rests along the coast of Malohom Bay, a natural sanctuary nestled in the hillside of an ancient rainforest with a stunning outline of Mount Kinabalu on the horizon.
The resort's architecture respects Sabahan elements; its 120 villas and two-bedroom suite use local materials and blend harmoniously with the natural environment while villa interiors are designed with a contemporary elegance.Yet this is more than just a beautiful beachfront resort in stunning surroundings; with its PURE activities, this is a place for the curious to actively engage or peacefully absorb all Borneo has to offer. Seamlessly integrated within the mangroves is Spa Village, offering a rich tapestry of spa programmes that reflect the ancient healing practices of the region while restoring balance to alleviate modern stresses.
Dining is a burst of freshness and flavour; exquisite, sensory and sublime. Discoveries, authentic experiences and a sense of intimacy with the natural world all prevail across the land and seascape of this resort, with its youthful vibe and sun-dappled moments, offering travellers and families an escape that is distinctively Borneo.
Gaya Island Resort is committed to ecologically-sustainable practices to minimise the carbon footprint within its environment. Therefore, the resort is a walking resort and only minimal motorised vehicles are used for operational purposes.
Images
Video
Units
Facilities
Activities and Services
Restaurants
Fisherman's Cove Restaurant
Hammock by the beach
Villa Interior
Resort Overview
Sun lounger by the beach
Resort Overview
View from resort
Fisherman's Cove
Lobby
Suria Suite Bedroom
Suria Suite Living Room
Gaya Pool
Feast Village
Beach
Yoga
Perched on the sloping hillside, the luxurious 188 square metre two-bedroom suite elegantly occupies two levels and offers glorious uninterrupted views of the ocean and Mount Kinabalu from a large outdoor verandah with daybeds. The ground floor of the suite features a relaxing lounge area, private dining room, a TV room, a powder room and a pantry that opens out onto an outdoor deck. The suite's first floor is completely dedicated to rest and relaxation. The two spacious bedrooms available both come with separate en-suites, walk-in wardrobes and vanity areas. This haven of absolute luxury is completed by an outdoor bath that leads onto the suite's private balcony that offers breathtaking views.
With views stretching across the South China Sea, and where the silhouette of Mount Kinabalu can be seen on a clear day, these Kinabalu Villas provide the best views in the resort. Connecting rooms are available for families
Situated on a hillside amidst lush rainforest, the villas offer a peaceful setting with leafy views ranging from the rainforest canopy to the tropical mangroves. Connecting rooms are available for families.
Set amongst a tropical mangrove on a gently sloping hillside, these villas offer a beautiful outlook and are walking distance from the resort's pristine sandy beach.
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Gym, Laundry Service (Available), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Available), Safe, Tea / Coffee, Television
Available Services
Room Service
Activities on Site
Beach Drop Off, Kayaking, Massages, Snorkeling, Walks (Self Guided)
Activities Nearby
Beach, Boat Cruises, Boating, Fishing, General Sightseeing, Golf, Massages, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Walks (Self Guided)
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park comprises a group of 5 islands located off Kota Kinabalu, each with fringing coral reefs. The Marine Park is home to pretty coral reefs and diverse marine life offering unforgettable underwater experiences for snorkellers, try dives, those learning to dive and new adventures for experienced divers. We have a PADI 5* Dive Centre (S-36409) located at the Resort offering a full range of PADI Diving and Snorkelling Experiences. Our PADI dive instructors who are all accustomed to the currents, waters and tides around the islands, are on hand for personalised attention on all programmes
Take a chartered trip to Mengalum Island, where history lends itself back in time to the 16th century and is associated with the voyage of Ferdinand Magellan across Asian waters, for a unique fishing excursion. Located about 20 nautical miles away, it is also the pre-designated game fishing area for the annual Sabah International Fishing Tournament whereby participating anglers are restricted to only fishing within 20 miles radius around the island.
Species that can be encountered include wahoo, dorado, tuna, giant trevally, barracuda and even rainbow runner. Billfish like marlin and sailfish are rare but can be spotted occasionally. The boat accommodates up to 6 anglers and includes fishing equipment, packed lunch and mineral water. Excursion departs from Gaya Island Resort at 6.30am and returns to the resort at 3.30pm. Kindly note that shore fishing is strictly prohibited within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Aside from Pulau Gaya, the cluster of four other idyllic islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park boast quiet sandy beaches, clear waters and coral gardens. Bring along your swimwear and beach essentials or indulge in a personalised picnic basket for a spot of island excursion. Motorised water sports are offered on Pulau Sapi, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Manukan by local operators and are on cash terms only. Snorkelling equipment can be rented from the Water Sports Centre. This chartered excursion requires a minimum of 4 persons and can accommodate up to 12 persons comfortably.
Experience the romance and exhilaration of sailing over sparkling emerald seas, on the resort's 64-foot private luxury yacht, manned by our experienced crew.
Moor at quiet bays and explore the surrounding islands of the marine park or beyond. Regardless of whether you opt for a cruise to nowhere or onwards to a specific destination, organise a wedding onboard or a private dinner out in the open seas, this would be an unforgettable experience to treasure.
For people who love adventure and being in the great outdoors, discover a botanic reserve exceptionally rich in endemic plants on the daily nature walks with our resident naturalist. Often botanists, sometimes storytellers or historians, sometimes linguists, our guide will enrich your walk with commentaries you cannot find in the written words.
Enter into the mystery of an unknown world and a secret nature where each tree, each rock will tell you its own story - go on a voyage of discovery in Gaya Island Resort. Our nature walks offer varying difficulties and distance to satisfy your interest.
Borneo is a land blessed with nature, culture and a rich tapestry of history. Allow your eyes to become the window to the soul of Borneo with these personalised tours of the enchanting place, and discover the many delights it has to offer you.
For water lovers, a selection of non-motorised water sports equipment as well as long sleeved rash guards and small dry bags are available for rental. Choose to explore the island in a kayak, snorkel at our house reefs or enjoy an invigorating workout on a stand up paddle surf. Guests must stay within the buoyed area and wear personal buoyancy aids if they are unable to swim. A safety briefing will be given for any equipment rental
The Rungus work ancient fables and human figures into the patterns of their brightly hued beadwork, while the Kadazandusun are notable weavers, who collect local plant fibres to be coiled, plaited, twined and woven producing a range of items from baskets to musical instruments. With over 32 different ethnic entities in Sabah, handicrafts are not only wildly diverse but can indicate ethnic background giving an insight into cultural identity and history. Passed down over generations, each of these crafts is unique to their ethnic group. Try your hand at creating your own traditional handicraft as a memento.
Yoga is a union of mind, body, and spirit through the practice of postures, breathing, and meditation. Guests will be guided through a series of these practices bringing balance to body and psyche.
Savour a vibrant, interactive all day dining experience that offers the diverse cuisine from the Asia-Pacific region. The dynamic open kitchens showcase a bakery, Japanese/Korean, Asian and Western selections. The location by the lap pool offers stunning views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding beach.
Situated on the rooftop with a breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu, Fisherman's Cove features a unique symphony of seafood themed dishes crafted by Chef Wai, the pioneer of this locally and internationally acclaimed restaurant, which focuses on sustainable fishing practices and the freshest ingredients.
The seaside restaurant welcomes children aged 12 years and above for the comfort of all our guests. Proper dress code is required with shirt, full-length trousers and shoes for gentlemen and smart casual wear for ladies.
A two-storey Japanese restaurant perched on a hillside with a stunning view of Malohom Bay and Mount Kinabalu on the horizon, surrounded by an ancient rainforest. Serving up three Japanese omakase-style dining experiences under one roof ranging from teppanyaki, shabu-shabu and nabe, these heart-warming dinners will delight guests of all ages.
Overlooking the resort's infinity pool and floating cabanas, the Pool Bar & Lounge with its al fresco location and natural light is the perfect place to relax with sundowners and light refreshments as the sun sets over Mount Kinabalu
Set in an enclave at Tavajun Bay, a short 5-minute boat ride from the resort, this tranquil private beach is perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun, lulled by the gentle sea breeze.
Reminiscent of the sun-blessed Mediterranean coastline where vibrant flavours and simple presentation predominate, earthenware skillets kept warm over charcoal embers await for lunch where single dish meals that change daily is infused with local and international influences.
Select your beverage from the cooler display and settle down to dine on rustic logs or on a beach mat, wriggling your toes in the sun-warmed, pristine sand.
Guests can also choose to pre-order and personalise a gourmet picnic basket for an indulgent afternoon on this piece of paradise.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Star
Resort
Spoken Languages: Chinese, English
No. Rooms: 121
Special Interests: Beach / Coastal, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing
