The flexibility to enjoy lazy days relaxing by the pool or active days following nature trails. The choice is yours at Gaya Island
Gaya Island holidays offer a welcome escape into tropical tranquillity, just ten minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu.
The island is part of the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and spans 15 square kilometres, making it the largest in the region. Known for its lush rainforest, white-sand beaches and coral-rich waters, Gaya strikes a rare balance between nature and comfort. Spend your time trekking forest trails, swimming in secluded bays, or simply soaking up the sun. With no road access, arriving by boat heightens the sense of escape – this is Borneo at its most relaxed.
The island boasts over 20 kilometres of scenic hiking paths that wind past coastal viewpoints, jungle ridges and untouched bays. For those keen on marine life, the snorkelling and diving are superb, with healthy coral gardens and calm, clear waters. Luxury eco-resorts are tucked into the forest, blending discreetly with the landscape and offering easy access to both beach and rainforest. Whether you’re after seclusion, soft adventure, or a mix of both, Gaya Island is an ideal add-on to a broader Borneo trip. ETG has personally explored the island and its surrounding waters, so we’ll tailor your stay to match your travel style – from barefoot beach time to guided forest exploration.
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Slow Paced Borneo
If you want to immerse yourself in the incredible wildlife and beaches of Borneo but don’t fancy too much road travel or rushing around, then a holiday like this one could be ideal.
Highlights
Kinabatangan River
Drift down the Kinabatangan River, keeping watch for pygmy elephants, rare bird species and primates
Wildlife spotting
Wonder at the incredible rainforest teeming with wildlife in the company of your expert nature guide
Gaya Island
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Family Borneo Highlights
Borneo is a fantastic family destination: the wildlife, marine life, and tropical surroundings are the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable holiday together.
This suggested holiday itinerary takes in some of the best highlights of the country and includes an off-the-beaten-track twist. It’s a holiday that will please all ages with a combination of fun and interactive activities, wildlife spotting, beach fun and family-friendly accommodation.
Highlights
Wildlife sightings
Spot elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans and more as you sail along the Kinabatangan River
Gaya Island
Relax at Gaya Island beach resort where there’s brilliant snorkelling and interesting jungle trails to follow too
Murat
Take a 4-wheel drive adventure away from modern life as you travel to the homeland of the indigenous Murat people
Gallery
