Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World, Gaya Island ∞ Discover spa retreats, reviews & deals for 2026

75 photos

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Exterior photo The photo shows a beautiful resort nestled along a tropical waterfront. The scene is bathed in bright daylight under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

The main focus is a long, narrow swimming pool that curves gracefully through the frame. Th

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Nearby photo The photo captures a serene beach scene at either sunrise or sunset. The warm golden light bathes the water and the sand, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

In the foreground, a hammock is strung between two trees, inviting relaxation. The hammock is

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

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Key details

About Resort

Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Malaysia, 88000

Near Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

Great

8.5

8.4

/10

4.7

4.3

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

Friendly staff
Lovely rooms
Delicious breakfast
Fantastic activities

"The hotel has the most splendid in-house reefs and one can spend hours of not days in raptures with the amount of marine life there."

15shirins from India

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"Spectacular natural beauty with sea, sand and jungle."

Gitanjali

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"Room was stunning."

Min from Australia

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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.

Location: Great

8.8/10Review score

View resort on map

How it felt to stay here

Explorers, Not Tourists

“The hotel excursions are excellent with an added inspiration on marine and forest conservation.”

Siu Chui from United StatesFebruary 2024

Shine on Socials

“Room was stunning.”

Min from AustraliaSeptember 2024

Safe Haven

“I've missed GIR so much, and being back almost brought me to tears.”

Wei from AustraliaJuly 2025

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Select your room type

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Canopy Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Kinabalu Villa Speedboat Transfer & Resort Credit

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Bayu Villa

2 persons

510 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

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Facilities

Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.6/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
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
Sitting area
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Separate tub and shower
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

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.

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

City landmarks

Landmark

Highest Point

3000 ft

Island

Sapi Island

2.0 mi

Landmark

Marine Ecology Research Centre

2100 ft

Beach

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

1.8 mi

Beach

Tavajun Bay

1900 ft

Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

1.9 mi

Landmark

Coral Flyer

1.9 mi

Landmark

Canopy walk and zip lines

1.6 mi

Landmark

zipling between islands

1.9 mi

Landmark

Zip line

1.9 mi

Landmark

Borneo Sea Walking

2.0 mi

Landmark

Seasport

2.0 mi

Landmark

Coral Flyer Zipline

2.0 mi

Island

Pulau Sapi

2.1 mi

Landmark

Hidden beach

2.0 mi

Landmark

Point B

2.1 mi

Island

Pulau Sinjataan

2.2 mi

Landmark

Small beach

2.1 mi

Beach

Pulau Sapi Beach

2.2 mi

Landmark

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

2.2 mi

Landmark

Signal Hill Observatory Platform

3.8 mi

Tower

Atkinson Clock Tower

3.9 mi

Landmark

Kota Kinabalu Harbor

3.6 mi

Market

Gaya Street Sunday Market

3.8 mi

Landmark

Borneo Trading Post

3.4 mi

Landmark

KK Esplanade

3.6 mi

Landmark

I Love KK

3.6 mi

Square

Marlin Statue

3.6 mi

Landmark

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

3.8 mi

Landmark

Pillars of Sabah

3.7 mi

Nearby

Malohom Bay Gaya Island

Marine Ecology Research Centre

2600 ft

Beach

Tavajun Bay

3800 ft

Explore Gaya Island

Local Experience

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

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

15 minutes' drive

A bustling weekend market offering local crafts, foods, and live entertainment. Great for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Gaya Island9 min · 2300 ft

Airports

Kota Kinabalu International (BKI)11 min · 4.5 mi

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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

Wireless 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

Property is also known as

gaya island resort sabah

gaya island resort borneo

gaya island resort kota kinabalu

gaya resort borneo

gaya island resort pulau gaya borneo

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Gaya Island Resort is known for its spacious and clean villas, some boasting stunning views of Kota Kinabalu or the rainforest canopy. Guests often enjoy the free snorkels provided and the chance to explore the beautiful coral reef directly from the beach. While most find the dining experiences excellent, with varied options including a Japanese restaurant and buffet, a few have noted that some public areas could use refurbishment. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Tavajun Bay.

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Review score

Based on 466 verified reviews

8.7/10

Great

87%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.9/10

Staff

9.2/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.4/10

Value for money

7.4/10

Pros

Stunning location

Friendly staff

Spacious rooms

Cons

Overpriced transfers

Polluted sea

John from United Kingdom

Single

kinabalu villa

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 08, 2025

6/10

mixed experience with some drawbacks

extra boat tripmusty smell

the boat trip cost extra, around 40 euros per person for each trip. this seemed steep since other resorts on the island include it. also, i noticed staff members were on their phones quite a bit (maybe they were checking the weather?). i felt this detracted from the supposed 5-star experience i was paying for. the room, while decent, had a slight musty smell, too.

0 Helpful

Harper

Couple

canopy villa

5 nights in October 2025

Reviewed:November 04, 2025

7/10

delicious foodrangebeautiful settingroomsfantastic viewshot restaurantwater outflowbeach cleaning

the canopy villa was superb. i saw hornbills from my balcony and that was a special treat. the main restaurant served a huge range of delicious food (the desserts were amazing!).

fisherman's cove was uncomfortably hot. i was sweating before i even ordered. tuvajun bay felt neglected with a significant outflow of water and trash. the beach needs more regular cleaning (i even picked up some trash myself).

0 Helpful

FAQs

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

What is the distance from the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World to Gaya Island city centre?

Gaya Island city centre is reachable within a 10-minute walk from the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World.

What is the nearest airport to Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?

Kota Kinabalu International airport lies within 5 km of Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World and is reachable with a 15-minute drive.

Should we expect an airport shuttle to bring us to the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?

Bus shuttle which will take you to the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World with a 15-minute drive is among the services offered by the property. Please inform the staff about your estimated arrival time.

Does the Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World have a car parking on site?

Guests of the Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World can take advantage of a car park.

How much does a room at the Gaya Island resort cost?

The prices at the Gaya Island resort start from $223.

What payment methods are available in the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?

At the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World, you can pay using Visa, American Express, and JCB.

Does the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World provide business facilities?

Yes, for business travellers the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World provides a desk and a xerox.

Which facilities does the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World provide?

Top locations of the elegant 5-star Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World include a gift shop and a restaurant, whereas guests' safety will be ensured with 24-hour security service and a luggage locker.

Is swimming pool available at the Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?

Yes, the Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu - A Small Luxury Hotels Of The World features an outdoor swimming pool.

Which children services are offered at the hotel?

For guests staying at the hotel with their children, child care services will be very useful.