Gaya Island Resort, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park Borneo, Borneo (Sabah)

Accessible only by boat, Pulau Gaya is the largest island in the marine conservation area of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine National Park. The Gaya Island Resort is nestled into the rainforest bordering Malohom Bay, boasting both terrestrial and marine nature which can be enjoyed while staying in deluxe accommodation. Nature lovers will enjoy the unique bird-watching and snorkelling.

The 121 villas of Gaya Island Resort are spread throughout the hillside and along the beachfront, with views of the jungle, mangroves, sparkling South China Sea and in some cases even the distant Mt Kinabalu. The design of the accommodation incorporates the surrounding natural beauty while retaining a certain level of luxury.

The two pools (one for children), library and spa, will ensure that you have plenty to do and if you are more adventurous, you can go kayaking or head off with a guide on the islands nature trails. Gaya Island Resort offers two restaurants, with the fine dining Fisherman’s Cove serving seafood with excellent views afforded by its rooftop location (only 16 years old and over). It is also possible to take a picnic on a nearby private beach, ideal if you are celebrating a special occasion.

This is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious beach hotels in Malaysian Borneo, with outstanding accommodation and beaches. However, Pulau Gaya’s location near the state capital of Kota Kinabalu does see it occasionally observing the ships heading into the port. This should be noted but does not detract overly from the beautiful nature of the resort.  Food prices are excellent value for this quality of resort but are more expensive than other properties in Borneo, which can only to be expected.