Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Gaya Island Resort is situated on Pulau Gaya, one of five islands which make up a marine conservation park just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah on Malaysian Borneo.
Nestled within the hillside and surrounded by a tropical rainforest, this tranquil retreat looks out over the South China Sea with a distant view of Mount Kinabalu. Located right in front of the resort is a strip of sandy beach and the house coral reef, where a guided snorkel excursion is a must.
The resort has 120 hillside villas and a two-bedroom suite which are designed to blend seamlessly with the local architecture and natural environment. Enjoy culinary treats from the Asia-Pacific region at the Feast Village, Japanese delicacies at Omakase restaurant or fresh seafood dishes at Fisherman’s Cove.
Beautifully situated, Gaya Island Resort is set amidst lush rainforest with breathtaking views of the wonders created by nature over thousands of years. Ancient rainforest and protected mangroves surround the idyllic villas set in the hills. Spacious, tactile and modern yet respectful of local Sabahan elements, each villa uses local materials that blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Villa interiors are designed with a contemporary elegance and offer a variety of views including mangrove, canopy, tropical rainforest and the South China Sea.
Our villas' amenities include comfortable bedding, a writing desk, a powered safe, a flat screen television with satellite channels, a large open en-suite bathroom with an oversized bathtub and two vanity units, and an outdoor verandah with day beds.
Take a 5 minute speedboat ride to the resort’s private beach at Tavajun Bay and visit the fascinating Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre. Here, one can meet the resort’s resident Marine Biologist and learn about the vital work being done in the preservation of the reefs and the turtle rescue, rehabilitation and breeding programmes.
Along the boardwalk up in the forest is the Gaya Island Resort Wildlife Centre, where a guided jungle trail with the resident Naturalist will reveal many unique Bornean jungle inhabitants, including perhaps - the shy and intriguing proboscis monkeys.
Above the mangroves within the forest lies the world class Spa Village, where once can be pampered with unique treatments inspired by the cultural healing traditions of Sabah's many indigenous people.
Discoveries, authentic experiences and a sense of intimacy with the natural world all prevail across the land and seascape of this resort offering travellers and couples an escape that is distinctively Borneo.
Beautifully situated, Gaya Island Resort is set amidst lush rainforest with breathtaking views of the wonders created by nature over thousands of years. Ancient rainforest and protected mangroves surround the idyllic villas set in the hills. Spacious, tactile and modern yet respectful of local Sabahan elements, each villa uses local materials that blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Villa interiors are designed with a contemporary elegance and offer a variety of views including mangrove, canopy, tropical rainforest and the South China Sea.
Our villas' amenities include comfortable bedding, a writing desk, a powered safe, a flat screen television with satellite channels, a large open en-suite bathroom with an oversized bathtub and two vanity units, and an outdoor verandah with day beds.
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, with a selection of rooms that are located closer to the resort's main facilities.
Situated on a hillside amidst lush rainforest, these inviting villas offer a peaceful setting with leafy views ranging from the rainforest canopy to the tropical mangroves. Connecting rooms are available for families.
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.
This luxurious two-bedroom suite lies on the hillside with stunning ocean views. The ground floor features relaxing lounge and dining areas, and a pantry which leads onto an outdoor deck. The spacious bedrooms on the first floor both come with en-suites and a decadent outdoor bath on the balcony provides breathtaking views.
The regional cuisine and exquisite fresh seafood prepared by our skilled chefs is a play on the senses, setting the stage for guests to recount the day's adventures with family and friends, new and old.
Be it dining at leisure on your personal verandah space in-villa or a picnic at your chosen nook or the simple pleasure of gathering around a crackling barbecue pit on the beach at dusk, these experiences form another facet of treasured memories to take home.
| Room type | Description |
|---|---|
Feast Village
|
Savour a vibrant, interactive dining experience that offers diverse cuisine from the Asia-Pacific region. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 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. |
Fisherman's Cove
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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. |
Omakase
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Surrounded by an ancient rainforest, this two-storey Japanese restaurant is perched on a hillside with a stunning view of Malohom Bay and Mount Kinabalu. Three Japanese omakase-style dining experiences are available under one roof ranging from teppanyaki, shabu-shabu and nabe. These heart-warming dinners will delight guests of all ages. |
Pool Bar & Lounge
|
Overlooking the resort's tranquil infinity pool and floating cabanas, the Pool Bar & Lounge with its al fresco location and natural light is the perfect place to relax after a swim or relish a casual lunch. In the evenings, enjoy sundowners and light refreshments as the sun sets over Mount Kinabalu. |
Tavajun Bay
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A short 5-minute boat ride from the resort, this tranquil private beach is perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun, lulled by a gentle sea breeze. Infused by local and international influences, lunch is a single dish meal made over charcoal embers which changes daily. Alternatively, simply pre-order a personalised gourmet picnic basket. |
Reconnect to a PURE world, YTL Hotels' activities programme that vivifies the senses; immersing you in the vibrancy, scents, textures, sounds and tastes of the natural environment and cultural heritage of the region. Here, where time is measured by the rise and fall of tides, the island, and the pace at which you choose to experience its endless wonders, is yours.
| Room type | Description |
|---|---|
Padi Snorkelling & Dive
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Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park lies within The Coral Triangle, known as the world’s marine epicentre. Home to diverse marine life exceeding 75% of species known to science with coral gardens found 20 metres from the shore; this underwater realm has over 25 dive spots for all year exploration. Programmes are conducted around 5 islands within the marine park. |
Marine Centre
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The marine centre advocates 3 key conservation themes - Turtle Rescue, Coral Reef Restoration and Conservation Through Education. Our resident marine biologist and dedicated team work together with equally passionate partners, championing initiatives to protect marine life, raise awareness for sustainable seafood choices and aim for pollution-free waters. |
Spa Village
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Here, the first breath of inspiration is drawn from the stunning scenery. Paradise itself provides the essential ingredients for all our treatments, and healing lore as old as the land is imparted into every encounter. Promising an experience that honours the healing traditions of the region, each Spa Village delivers an individual and authentic encounter combining the therapeutic properties of natural local ingredients and the healing practices of the area. Coupling these age-old practices together with modern approaches to health and well-being results in a tailored one-of-a-kind experience, delivering award-winning results to our guests. Each Spa Village offers a consistently unique and uplifting opportunity for rejuvenation. Set amidst lush mangroves, Spa Village Gaya Island is a tranquil hideaway surrounded by distinctive island flora and fauna. From the warm clear waters of Gaya and its rich lowland forests to the high altitude blossoms of Mount Kinabalu, our treatments utilise only the finest fresh local ingredients. A rich tapestry of spa programmes reflects the cultural healing traditions of Sabah's many indigenous people. From the specialised rice scrubs and masques of the Kadazandusun to the age-old practices of the Bajau sea nomads, Spa Village Gaya Island is uniquely rooted in ancient tradition while seeking to restore balance to the body and soul. |
Yoga
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While facing the sea amidst the sound of lapping waves, balance your mind, body and spirit with our gentle complimentary workout. This series of stretching exercises combines qi gong, deep breathing techniques and movements inspired by local fauna. Tailored to rid the mind of negativity and rejuvenate the spirit, it is an ideal way to both relax and re-centre. |
Nature Walks
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Discover an exceptional botanic reserve, diverse wildlife and a rare, undisturbed mixed dipterocarp forest, found only on this island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Our nature walks offer an environmental education voyage with our Resident Naturalist with limited guests allowed daily to minimise human impact to the wildlife and their habitat. |
A Distinctively Borneo experience awaits couples travelling to Gaya Island Resort to celebrate their union. This dreamy tropical setting offers the ideal mix of tranquillity and adventure – the perfect place to celebrate your wedding and thereafter extend into a honeymoon.
While here, enjoy morning beach strolls watching the sun rise over Mount Kinabalu, kayak through mangroves, enjoy a personalised gourmet picnic on the private Tavajun Bay and slip into an afternoon bliss with the indulgent couple's spa treatment. End the day with a sunset cruise aboard our luxury yacht, with a toast to the stunning golden hued sunset and your beautiful union.
| Room type | Description |
|---|---|
Wedding on the Beach
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Stroll down the aisle at the serene Tavajun Bay, a private beach on Gaya Island which is a perfect setting for a memorable wedding ceremony serenaded by the whispers of the sea breeze in the palm trees. As the sun sinks beneath the horizon, celebrate the affair with a champagne toast to the newlyweds and a delectable five-course Asian dinner. |
Kadazan Ceremony
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Experience a wedding blessing ceremony inspired by the rituals of the indigenous Kadazans of Sabah. Adorned in the elaborate black and gold garments of this vibrant Borneo tribe, exchange your vows before an esteemed Kadazan priest as you and your beloved are framed by the pristine sands and skies of the South China Sea. Later in the evening, feast on a sumptuous five-course Asian dinner beneath the starlit sky. |
Golden Sunset Ceremony
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Take part in an intimate wedding within Gaya Island Resort before departing for a magnificent sunset cruise aboard the luxurious Lumba-Lumba. This 64-foot motor yacht takes you on a sojourn on the South China Sea where you will toast with champagne to the start of your lives together then return from your voyage to dine on your first feast as husband and wife. |
Marine Marriage
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Exchange your vows beneath the crystal blue waters of the South China Sea, surrounded by an array of colourful tropical fish in a unique subaquatic experience off the coast of Gaya Island. A contemporary five-course Asian feast awaits the newly-wedded couple and honoured guests back on land. |
Based on 2289 reviews
4
Sleep Quality
4.7
Location
4.5
Rooms
4.6
Service
4.6
Value
3.9
Cleanliness
4.6
Published Thu, Feb 28, 2026
Took a 4night break at Gaya Island resort and found it totally relaxing and rejuvenating. Top notch hospitality from all serving here. Shawn and his team surpassed expectations. Loved the beach...
Published Sat, Jan 31, 2026
The staff go above and beyond to help your stay be stress free It is the most beautiful peaceful place we have ever stayed The quality of food was next level so much to choose from
Published Thu, Jan 31, 2026
Beautiful resort with amazing food and the most wonderful staff!!! The service was incredible, best I‘ve had so far. They offer a bunch of activities, some are complementary and others come with...
