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From223US$ /night
Check-in
20Dec2025Select date
Check-out
21Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About Resort

Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Malaysia, 88000
-
Near Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Great
8.6
8.4
/10
4.8
4.4
/5

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offers beachfront luxury with hillside villas among protected mangroves and coral reefs. This 5-star resort features a large infinity pool, a spa, and multiple dining options, all with complimentary WiFi. Rated 8.7/10 on Booking.com, it's a unique getaway for both relaxation and adventure.

Rooms & Amenities

Each villa at Gaya Island hotel is air-conditioned and features a private balcony with outdoor seating, comfortable bedding, and an oversized bathroom. Villas are designed with contemporary elegance, showcasing views of either the rainforest or the turquoise South China Sea. Amenities include a flat-screen TV, minibar, and complimentary WiFi.

Dining & Leisure

Dining options at the resort include five restaurants ranging from the buffet-style Feast Village to the Japanese Omakase. Guests can enjoy beverages at the Pool Bar & Lounge, which overlooks the infinity pool. Private dining experiences can also be arranged at various venues around the resort.

Recreation & Wellness

The resort features a large infinity pool and a multilevel spa offering traditional and local-inspired treatments. Guests can engage in daily activities like nature walks or deep-sea fishing excursions, organized through the PURE activity center. There's also a gym with views of the beach.

Services & Accessibility

Gaya Island Resort is a walking resort with minimal motorized vehicles, enhancing its eco-friendly practices. The Gaya Lounge facilitates check-in and speedboat transfers to and from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, which is 10 km away. Nearby attractions include the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and the Marine Ecology Research Centre.

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Tunku Abdul Rahman Park for stunning snorkeling and beaches.
  • Try the fresh seafood at the Floating Seafood Market in Kota Kinabalu.
  • Experience the vibrant night market on Gaya Street for local delicacies.
  • Take a guided tour of the Mari Mari Cultural Village for cultural insights.
  • Enjoy sunset at Signal Hill Observatory Platform for breathtaking views.
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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit
2 persons
47 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Bathtub
Canopy Villa Speedboat Transfer
2 persons
47 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Bathtub
Kinabalu Villa
2 persons
47 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Bathtub
Bayu Villa Speedboat Transfer
2 persons
47 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Bathtub
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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Private beach

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Yoga class
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Full body massage

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Terrace
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite

Gaya Island Resort offers a delightful array of dining experiences that intertwine local flavors with Asian influences. Guests can savor seafood delicacies, Japanese specialties, and innovative dishes amid stunning natural settings, providing a culinary adventure that reflects the essence of the region.
Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Restaurant photo The photo shows an outdoor restaurant at dusk or night, with a beautiful view of a calm body of water, likely a bay or ocean, and distant mountains under a twilight sky. 

The restaurant features several dining tables arranged on a patio, each set wi
Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Restaurant photo The photo shows an elegant outdoor dining area, likely part of a resort or high-end restaurant, at dusk or twilight. The scene is bathed in a soft, warm light emanating from candles on the tables and some subtle overhead lighting. 

The dining area i
Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Restaurant photo The photo shows an indoor lounge area with a stunning view of a tropical beach and ocean. The space is characterized by high, vaulted ceilings made of warm-toned wood, supported by large, cylindrical columns that are also made of wood. The ceiling is

Feast Village

Local, Asian
Ambiance
Casual and inviting
Key Offerings
Guests can enjoy Asian breakfast soups, eggs cooked to order, and fresh pastries, alongside signature dishes like the unique Satay Pizza that marries Malay and Italian culinary traditions.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for breakfast and dinner.

Fisherman's Cove

Seafood
Ambiance
Romantic
Key Offerings
An enchanting spot for seafood enthusiasts, Fisherman's Cove presents fresh catches in a serene atmosphere, ideal for intimate evenings with a stunning sea view.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for dinner.

Omakase

Japanese
Ambiance
Sophisticated and serene
Key Offerings
Offering a selection of authentic Japanese dishes, Omakase provides a culinary experience focused on seasonal ingredients and traditional presentations, perfect for those seeking a taste of Japan.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for dinner.

Pool Bar & Lounge

Cocktail hour
Ambiance
Relaxed and scenic
Key Offerings
Guests can unwind at the Pool Bar & Lounge, enjoying refreshing cocktails and light bites while taking in the breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu from the sundeck. The vibrant infinity pool offers a swim-up bar for added indulgence.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for cocktail hour.

Tavajun Bay

Thai, Local
Ambiance
Casual and breezy
Key Offerings
Tavajun Bay offers a delightful lunch experience featuring the best of Thai and local dishes, ideal for a relaxed midday escape under the sun.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for lunch.

Location

Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Malaysia, 88000
Map view
Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Malaysia, 88000
Nearby
Malohom Bay Gaya Island
Marine Ecology Research Centre
780 m
Beach
Tavajun Bay
1.1 km
Explore Gaya Island
Local Experience
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Marine Ecology Research Centre
Marine Ecology Research Centre
8 minutes' walk
A hub for marine conservation, offering educational tours on local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Highest Point
10 minutes' walk
A breathtaking view point showcasing the beauty of Gaya Island. Great for photography and a quick nature escape.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
10 minutes' drive
A national park comprising several islands, perfect for snorkeling and beach outings with diverse marine life.
Tavajun Bay
7 minutes' walk
Secluded bay known for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxing and swimming, with stunning sunset views.
Borneo Sea Walking
10 minutes' drive
Unique underwater walking experience among marine life. Book ahead as it's popular among thrill-seekers.
Yoga on the Beach
10 minutes' walk
Morning beach yoga sessions for relaxation and rejuvenation. Locations may vary; inquire at the resort.
Coral Flyer Zipline
10 minutes' drive
Experience the thrills of ziplining between islands. Reservations recommended for an unforgettable experience.
Guided Nature Hikes
10 minutes' drive
Explore lush trails and wildlife on a guided hike. Perfect for family adventures or bonding moments.
Fisherman's Wharf
10 minutes' drive
Casual dining with fresh seafood specialties. Outdoor seating with beautiful sunset views recommended.
The Bourbon Bar
10 minutes' drive
A unique spot for cocktails and local dishes. Cozy atmosphere, must-try craft beers and desserts.
Krafty Kitchen
10 minutes' drive
Artisan café serving Western and Malaysian fare. Great ambiance with a focus on local ingredients.
D'Place Kinabalu
10 minutes' drive
Traditional Kadazan food in a rustic setting. Offers a taste of local culture, vegetarian options available.
Live Music at The Crow's Nest
10 minutes' drive
Enjoy live music performances in a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a night out with friends or couples.
Kota Kinabalu Esplanade
10 minutes' drive
A waterfront area featuring outdoor performances and local markets. Family-friendly with a vibrant atmosphere.
Sunset Lounge
10 minutes' drive
Relax with cocktails as you watch the sunset, a peaceful retreat with lovely views of the ocean.
Gaya Street Sunday Market
Gaya Street Sunday Market
15 minutes' drive
A bustling weekend market offering local crafts, foods, and live entertainment. Great for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Gaya Island24 min  ·  2.0 km
Airports
Kota Kinabalu (BKI)15 min  ·  10.0 km

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
8.6
8.6/10 based on 573 reviews
Richard
United Kingdom, January  2025
9.6/10

My stay at Gaya Island Resort was absolutely fantastic, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The personal attention from the staff was the highlight, and the resort itself is beautifully set amidst stunning natural surroundings. While the dining options were excellent, the beach experience was slightly hindered by marine life conditions. Overall, it was a memorable escape, although I wish I could have enjoyed the private beach more.

Rooms
10.0
The villas were stunning, nestled among lush greenery with all amenities a guest could need. We particularly appreciated the thoughtful touches like mosquito repellent and soothing products.
Service
10.0
The service was out of this world! From the moment I arrived, Amanda and the entire team made me feel at home with their genuine attention and care.
Location
9.0
Located on a gorgeous island surrounded by tropical forest, the resort's location adds an exclusive feel to the experience. However, the access to a private beach can be limited due to natural conditions.
Dining
9.0
Dining at Feast Village was a delight, with an incredible variety of vegan and gluten-free options. The quality and selection kept my taste buds entertained throughout my stay.
Facilities
10.0
Overall, the facilities offered a mix of relaxation and adventure, with complimentary yoga, movie nights, and more. The eco-focused design is commendable.
Alex
United Kingdom, January  2025
9.8/10

The resort is a perfect getaway, offering beautiful surroundings and exceptional service. The villas are spacious and well-equipped, providing a serene retreat. While the resort attracts families and couples alike, which can sometimes disrupt total relaxation, the activities offered and stunning private beach make it a worthwhile destination for peace and enjoyment.

Rooms
10.0
The Kinabalu Villas are incredibly spacious, featuring modern touches like double sinks and a huge bathtub. The balcony view is stunning, perfect for enjoying sunrises.
Service
10.0
The service exceeded my expectations. Staff members were genuinely welcoming and accommodating, particularly during my stay. Rameez and the restaurant crew went above and beyond to make us feel special.
Location
10.0
The resort is situated on a stunning island, just a quick boat ride from the mainland. Its private beach and breathtaking views of the surrounding nature create an unparalleled atmosphere.
Dining
10.0
Dining was a highlight with a diverse menu and delightful presentation. Every meal was a treat, making it hard not to indulge. The staff's enthusiasm added to the pleasant experience.
Facilities
9.0
The facilities were well-maintained, from the gorgeous pool to the beautiful private beach. Daily activities offered something for everyone, enhancing our stay.
Hudson
United Kingdom, December  2024
9.6/10

Gaya Island Resort is a stunning retreat nestled in nature, offering breathtaking views and top-notch facilities. The rooms are large and comfortable, with a luxurious vibe. The dedicated staff made every moment special, though the Wi-Fi could use some improvement. Overall, it's a fantastic place for relaxation and adventure, well worth recommending.

Rooms
9.0
The rooms are beautifully designed, spacious, and come with stunning views of the sea. I particularly loved the huge bathtub and the comfortable balcony.
Service
10.0
The service was exceptional. Staff members went out of their way to ensure a memorable experience, addressing every need with warmth and care.
Location
10.0
The location is simply breathtaking, surrounded by rainforest with views of Mount Kinabalu. It's close to the beach, making it ideal for relaxation.
Dining
9.0
Dining at the resort exceeded my expectations. The chefs were incredible and willing to accommodate custom requests, resulting in some of the best meals I've ever had.
Facilities
10.0
The facilities are top-notch, featuring beautiful pools and a relaxing spa. Everything is well-maintained and adds to the luxurious experience.
Avery
United Kingdom, December  2024
9.2/10

Overall, my stay at Gaya Island Resort was nothing short of spectacular. The stunning scenery, combined with the exceptional service from the staff, truly made the trip memorable. While the dining experience was generally great, there were occasions of limited seating at some locations, which could be improved. The resort offers a unique experience with a perfect blend of relaxation and activities, making it excellent value for money.

Rooms
9.0
The Kinabalu villa we stayed in was spacious and well-appointed, featuring breathtaking views of the bay. The cleanliness was impeccable, and the beds were comfortable, although the lack of doors in the bathroom area might be a consideration for some.
Service
10.0
The service was top-notch, with staff like Ramesh and Agus truly going above and beyond to cater to our every need, ensuring that we felt valued throughout our stay.
Location
10.0
Gaya Island Resort is set in a stunning location, surrounded by lush greenery and just a speedboat ride away from a serene private beach, ideal for unwinding.
Dining
8.0
Dining at the resort offered a lovely buffet with a great variety of international dishes. However, the seating could become busy, especially during peak times, making reservations advisable.
Facilities
9.0
The amenities available at the resort were fantastic, featuring not only beautiful pools and a lovely beach but also a range of activities to keep us engaged and entertained.
Andrew
United Kingdom, November  2024
9.6/10

Our stay at Gaya Island Resort was unforgettable, nestled in beautiful surroundings with panoramic views of the sea. The staff went above and beyond at every turn, making our experience truly special. Although sometimes the rooms are quite the hike from the main area, it was well worth the effort for the stunning vistas. Dining was a delight, filled with diverse and delicious options, though a few very minor issues kept it from perfection.

Rooms
9.0
The rooms were well equipped, offering stunning views over the rainforest and sea. However, they are laid out on a hill which requires quite a walk up numerous steps, not ideal for anyone with mobility issues.
Service
10.0
Service was exceptional; from the moment we arrived, staff like Ramesh and Dolis made us feel special. Their attentiveness and genuine care for our comfort was evident throughout our stay.
Location
9.0
The location is perfect, surrounded by lush jungle and breathtaking views. Watching the sunrise from our balcony was a highlight, though we did encounter some ants in the room.
Dining
10.0
Dining was a fantastic experience with a huge selection that could sometimes be overwhelming. The quality of the meals was top-notch, including bespoke dishes prepared by talented chefs.
Facilities
10.0
The facilities were top-tier, from the well-maintained pool to the beautiful restaurants. It felt luxurious and provided everything we needed for a relaxing vacation.
Exceptional staff service
Room accessibility issues
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs MYR 80 per person per day. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Malay
Year renovated:
2012
Number of rooms:
125
Former name
gaya island resort, kota kinabalu - an slh hotel
FAQs
About Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What dining options are available at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
There are five dining options, including Feast Village, Fisherman's Cove, and Omakase.
How far is Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from Kota Kinabalu International Airport?
The resort is located 5 km from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
Is there a beach access at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Yes, there is a private beach at Tavajun Bay accessible from the resort.
What type of guest accommodation does Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offer?
The resort offers elegant villas with private balconies and views of the South China Sea and rainforest.
What type of activities can be organized at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Activities include snorkeling, diving, daily guided nature walks, and visits to the wildlife rescue center.
Is free Wi-Fi available at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the resort.
What amenities are provided in the villas at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Each villa features air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and luxury toiletries in the bathroom.
How can guests reach Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from Kota Kinabalu?
Guests can reach the resort via a scheduled speedboat transfer from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
Are there any additional charges for breakfast at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Yes, breakfast is available for an additional charge of 80 MYR.
What languages do the staff at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World speak?
The staff primarily speaks English.
What wellness services are available at Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
The resort offers a multi-level spa with wellness treatments and daily yoga classes.

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Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Amenities photo The photo captures a stunning infinity pool at a luxurious resort, blending seamlessly with the ocean in the background. The foreground is dominated by the clear, turquoise water of the pool, with distinct shadow lines cast by the pool's framework ac

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World

8.6
Great573 reviews
2.0 km from center
201 US$
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