Gaya Island Resort

5 stars out of 5
tooltip

Gold star ratings are provided by the property to reflect the comfort, facilities, and amenities you can expect.

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

Highlights

Excellent room comfort & quality

- Guests have rated this property 9.2/10 on room comfort and quality

Airport transfer

- Airport transfer available at additional charge. To request, check the...

Sparkling clean

Sparkling clean - Guests have rated this property 9.0/10 on cleanliness

Front desk [24-hour]

Front desk [24-hour]

Private beach

Facilities

Private beach

Free Wi-Fi

Swimming pool

Spa

Front desk [24-hour]

Fitness center

Restaurants

Bar

About us

Conveniently situated in the Gaya Island part of Kota Kinabalu, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. This 5-star property is packed with in-house facilities to improve the quality and joy of your stay.
Your dates are popular among travelersPopular destination! Properties in Kota Kinabalu are being booked every minute!
Room comfort and quality 9.2
Service 9.1
Cleanliness 9.0
Facilities 8.6

Based on 952 verified reviews

Room comfort and qua...

9.2

Service

9.1

Cleanliness

9.0

Facilities

8.6

Location

8.5

Value for money

7.8

See map

8.5Excellent

Location rating score

Excellent location
Popular landmarks
Sapi Island
4.4 km
Night Market
5.0 km
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
5.0 km
Signal Hill Observatory Platform
5.1 km
Gaya Street Sunday Market
5.2 km
Closest landmarks
Bukit Gaya
2.1 km
Gaya Island
2.2 km
Pulau Plompong
2.5 km
The Zip Line
2.6 km
Sapi Island
4.4 km

Good to know

Value for money7.8
Distance to city center9 km
Location rating8.5
Nearest airportKota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
Distance to airport10.7 km

Rooms available at Gaya Island Resort

Exceptional
Room comfort & quality

9.2

tooltip

Based on 732 reviews from verified travelers

Bayu Villa
...
  • Room size: 47 m²/506 ft²
  • Mountain view
  • 1 king bed
Enter dates to see prices
Kinabalu Villa
...
  • Room size: 47 m²/506 ft²
  • Mountain view
  • 1 king bed
Enter dates to see prices
Canopy Villa
...
  • Room size: 47 m²/506 ft²
  • Nature view
  • 1 king bed
Enter dates to see prices

Frequently asked questions

Gaya Island Resort provides airport transfer service upon request with an additional charge of 180 MYR in local currency. To request, check the box on the booking form just before the payment page.

While staying at Gaya Island Resort, you can delight in the swimming pool facility to get your day started the right way with a splash for a rejuvenating morning or evening.

You can enjoy your stay at Gaya Island Resort even more by enjoying the benefits of the property's accessible spa services that are offered for all its guests to make your evening far better.

The average travel time to get from Gaya Island Resort to the airport is 20 minutes, but please take into account that the travel time may fluctuate based on traffic, weather conditions, and time of day.

Gaya Island Resort supports up to 4, with payment card options including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.

Past guests that stayed at Gaya Island Resort have given this property a rating of 9.141 for its excellent service as the primary highlight for their stay.

Past couple travelers that have stayed at this property have given Gaya Island Resort an average rating of 8.5. You can look up on more in depth customer critiques, and feedback by filtering for a specific type of verified guest travelers down in the review section.

Verified group travelers that have stayed at this property have given Gaya Island Resort an average rating of 8.6. You can look up more comprehensive customer ratings and feedback by filtering for a specific type of verified travelers down in the review section.

Check-in is from 03:00 PM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM. You may inquire about early check-in or late check-out during booking, subject to availability. Guest visitors checking in or out before or after the designated periods may be charged an additional fee.

Start your mornings right, with the continental and buffet breakfast options available at Gaya Island Resort.

More about Gaya Island Resort

More about Gaya Island Resort

Experience Tranquility at Gaya Island Resort in Kota Kinabalu

Nestled just 9 kilometers from the vibrant city center of Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Island Resort offers a perfect retreat amidst pristine natural beauty. Established in 2012, this luxurious haven combines modern comfort with the breathtaking scenery of Malaysia’s lush island landscape. Whether you're arriving from the airport, just a 20-minute journey away, or exploring the nearby attractions, the resort provides a seamless blend of convenience and serenity. With 121 elegantly appointed rooms, Gaya Island Resort caters to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, allowing guests ample time to settle in and unwind, while check-out is available until 11:00 AM. The resort warmly welcomes families, offering complimentary stays for children aged 0 to 0, making it an ideal destination for memorable family getaways. Experience the tranquility and natural splendor that make Gaya Island Resort a unique escape in Malaysia.

Unwind and Indulge in a World of Entertainment at Gaya Island Resort

At Gaya Island Resort, entertainment is taken to a whole new level. Whether you're looking to relax, rejuvenate, or explore, this resort has it all. Start your evening by unwinding at the bar, where skilled bartenders craft delicious cocktails and offer a wide selection of beverages. Sip on your favorite drink as you soak in the stunning views of the surrounding nature and enjoy the soothing ambiance. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, the resort's massage and spa facilities are the perfect choice. Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating massage or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. The serene garden provides a tranquil setting to unwind and connect with nature, while the library offers a quiet retreat for book lovers. Additionally, the gift/souvenir shop is a great place to find unique mementos to take back home as a reminder of your unforgettable stay at Gaya Island Resort.

Unparalleled Sports and Wellness Facilities at Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort offers a comprehensive range of sports facilities designed to cater to active travelers and relaxation seekers alike. Guests can maintain their fitness routines at the free fitness center, equipped with modern equipment for a full-body workout, or unwind with invigorating yoga sessions in the dedicated yoga room amidst tranquil surroundings. For those who prefer outdoor activities, the resort boasts a stunning outdoor pool and a pristine private beach, perfect for swimming, lounging, or enjoying a refreshing dip under the sun. For adventure enthusiasts, snorkeling adventures await just off the beach, allowing guests to explore vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters. Fishing experiences are also available, offering a peaceful way to connect with nature. After a day of activity, guests can unwind at the poolside bar, sipping on refreshing beverages while soaking in the picturesque views. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Gaya Island Resort’s diverse sports facilities promise an unforgettable stay immersed in nature’s beauty.

Convenience Facilities at Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort offers a range of thoughtful facilities designed to ensure a seamless and comfortable stay for every guest. Guests can enjoy the convenience of free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, keeping you connected throughout your visit. For added peace of mind, safety deposit boxes are available to safeguard your valuables, while luggage storage and daily housekeeping services help maintain a clutter-free and relaxing environment. Additional amenities include a reliable laundry and dry cleaning service, allowing guests to refresh their wardrobe effortlessly. The resort also features a designated smoking area for those who wish to indulge responsibly. For personalized assistance and local insights, the attentive concierge service is on hand to cater to your needs, making your stay at Gaya Island Resort both convenient and memorable.

Seamless Transport and Exciting Tours at Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort offers guests the convenience of comfortable airport transfers, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey from the moment you arrive. Whether you're arriving in Kota Kinabalu or departing for your next adventure, the resort's reliable transfer service gets you to and from the airport with ease, allowing you to start and end your stay in ultimate comfort. Additionally, the resort provides a variety of curated tours, giving guests the opportunity to explore the stunning surroundings and vibrant marine life of Gaya Island and beyond. These expertly organized excursions are perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, providing memorable experiences amid the island's breathtaking scenery.

Luxurious Room Facilities at Gaya Island Resort

Indulge in ultimate comfort and convenience at Gaya Island Resort, where every room is designed to provide a luxurious and memorable stay. The resort offers a range of top-notch room facilities to ensure a delightful experience for all guests. Step into your room and be greeted by the cool breeze of the air conditioning, creating a soothing atmosphere to relax in after a long day of exploration. The rooms at Gaya Island Resort are equipped with a hair dryer, allowing you to effortlessly style your hair before heading out to explore the beautiful surroundings. Quench your thirst with the well-stocked mini bar, offering a variety of refreshing beverages and snacks. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding nature from your private balcony or terrace, where you can unwind and soak in the tranquility of the island. For your entertainment needs, each room is equipped with satellite/cable TV, providing a wide range of channels to keep you entertained during your stay. Whether you prefer catching up on the latest news or enjoying your favorite shows, you'll find everything you need right at your fingertips. Experience the epitome of luxury and comfort with the exceptional room facilities at Gaya Island Resort. From air conditioning to satellite/cable TV, every detail has been carefully thought out to ensure a memorable and enjoyable stay for every guest.

Exquisite Dining Experiences at Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort offers a delightful culinary journey with its inviting restaurant, where guests can indulge in a variety of flavorful dishes amidst a stunning natural setting. Start your day with a hearty breakfast buffet that features a diverse selection of local and international favorites, including fresh fruits, pastries, and hot breakfast staples, perfect for fueling your adventures. For those seeking a more casual or continental option, the resort also provides a satisfying continental breakfast, ensuring a convenient and delicious start to your morning. Beyond dining, the resort maintains a high standard of comfort and cleanliness with daily housekeeping services, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their stay without worry. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely breakfast or unwinding after a day of exploration, Gaya Island Resort’s thoughtfully curated dining facilities promise a memorable and satisfying experience in a serene tropical paradise.

Discover the Tropical Paradise of Gaya Island Resort in Kota Kinabalu

Nestled amidst the crystal-clear waters of the South China Sea, Gaya Island Resort is a hidden gem in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. This luxurious eco-friendly resort offers a secluded and tranquil escape, surrounded by lush rainforests and pristine beaches. As you step foot on Gaya Island, you'll be greeted by the enchanting sights and sounds of nature. The resort is located within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a protected sanctuary renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this tropical paradise as you explore the surrounding waters through snorkeling or diving excursions. For those seeking adventure, Gaya Island Resort offers a range of activities to satisfy your adrenaline cravings. Embark on a thrilling jungle trek to discover hidden waterfalls and exotic wildlife, or try your hand at kayaking and paddleboarding along the tranquil coastline. After a day of exploration, indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at the resort's award-winning spa, where skilled therapists will rejuvenate your body and mind. With its breathtaking natural beauty and luxurious amenities, Gaya Island Resort is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a memorable family vacation. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, this idyllic retreat promises an unforgettable experience in Kota Kinabalu.

Traveling to Gaya Island Resort from Kota Kinabalu Airport

Welcome to Gaya Island Resort, a tropical paradise nestled on the stunning Gaya Island in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. To reach this idyllic destination, you will first need to make your way to Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the nearest airport to Gaya Island Resort. From here, there are a few options to consider for your onward journey. Option 1: Speedboat Transfer - The most convenient and scenic way to reach Gaya Island Resort is by taking a speedboat transfer from Sutera Harbour Marina, located just a short drive from the airport. The resort provides a complimentary shuttle service from the airport to the marina, making it easy to catch your boat. The speedboat ride takes approximately 15 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and lush greenery surrounding the island. Option 2: Ferry Transfer - Another option is to take a ferry from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu to Gaya Island. This option is ideal for those looking for a more budget-friendly transfer. The ferry ride takes around 20 minutes and offers a chance to soak in the beauty of the sea as you approach Gaya Island Resort. Whichever option you choose, once you arrive at Gaya Island Resort, you will be greeted with warm hospitality and a luxurious stay amidst the natural beauty of the island. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Gaya Island Resort is the perfect tropical escape.

Discover the Natural Wonders Surrounding Gaya Island Resort

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Island Resort offers an idyllic escape surrounded by a plethora of natural landmarks and attractions. Just a short boat ride away, you'll find the pristine shores of Sapi Island, a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Spend your days snorkeling or diving in the colorful coral reefs, or simply relax on the powdery white sand beaches, soaking up the sun. For nature enthusiasts, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a must-visit destination. Comprising a group of five islands, this marine park is home to an array of exotic flora and fauna. Embark on a guided nature walk through the lush rainforest trails, where you can spot unique wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Thrill-seekers will be delighted by the adrenaline-pumping experience offered by The Zip Line. Soar through the treetops and enjoy a bird's eye view of the stunning landscapes below. Meanwhile, adventure awaits at Bukit Gaya, a majestic mountain offering challenging hiking trails and rewarding panoramic views of the entire island. Lastly, don't miss the chance to explore Pulau Plompong, a hidden gem known for its secluded beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Gaya Island Resort's surrounding landmarks and attractions offer something for everyone.

Delightful Dining Experiences Await

At Gaya Island Resort, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining options. Indulge in the freshest seafood at Alu-Alu Seafood, a renowned restaurant known for its mouthwatering dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. From succulent prawns to flavorful crabs, every bite is a burst of oceanic flavors. For a more laid-back dining experience, head to Pantai Restaurant, where you can savor delicious local and international cuisines while enjoying breathtaking views of the beach. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic candlelit dinner or a casual lunch by the sea, these restaurants offer the perfect ambiance and culinary delights to satisfy every palate.

Wonderful Journey with Friendly Staff and Perfect Service

Gaya Island Resort in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, offers an unforgettable experience with its nice chef and friendly and professional staff. Guests are treated like family rather than mere guests, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The resort is known for its stunning beauty and impeccable cleanliness, ensuring a pleasant stay for all. The rooms are cleaned twice a day and are extremely comfortable, providing the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. With excellent location, delicious food, and perfect service, Gaya Island Resort is a top choice for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. Don't miss the chance to experience this exceptional hotel.

A Tropical Paradise with Exceptional Staff Performance

Welcome to Gaya Island Resort, a hidden gem nestled in the lush rainforest of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. With an overall rating of 8.6, this resort has received rave reviews from satisfied guests who have experienced its unparalleled beauty and exceptional service. From the moment you step foot on the island, you'll be captivated by the stunning surroundings and warm hospitality of the staff. One of the standout features of Gaya Island Resort is its dedicated and attentive staff. With a remarkable rating of 9.1 for staff performance, the team goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest's needs are met. From arranging personalized excursions to providing insightful recommendations, the staff's commitment to creating unforgettable experiences is truly commendable. Not only does Gaya Island Resort excel in service, but it also offers an array of top-notch facilities. With a rating of 8.6 for facilities, guests can indulge in a variety of amenities, including a luxurious spa, a fitness center, and a beautiful outdoor pool. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this resort has something to cater to every preference. Soak in the tranquility of the rainforest, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment, or embark on an exciting snorkeling expedition - the possibilities are endless at Gaya Island Resort.

Show less

Amenities and facilities

Excellent8.6

Facilities

Most talked about facilities

Languages spoken
  • English
  • Malay
Internet access
  • Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
  • Internet
  • Wi-Fi in public areas
Things to do, ways to relax
  • Fishing
  • Fitness center
  • Garden
  • Gym/fitness
  • Massage
  • Private beach
  • Snorkeling
  • Spa
  • Spa/sauna
  • Swimming pool
  • Swimming pool [outdoor]
  • Tours
  • Yoga room
Cleanliness and safety
  • Body thermometer
  • First aid kit
Dining, drinking, and snacking
  • Bar
  • Breakfast [buffet]
  • Breakfast [continental]
  • Poolside bar
  • Restaurants
Services and conveniences
  • Business facilities
  • Concierge
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Dry cleaning
  • Elevator unavailable
  • Gift/souvenir shop
  • Ironing service
  • Laundry service
  • Library
  • Luggage storage
  • Meeting/banquet facilities
  • Safety deposit boxes
  • Smoke-free property
  • Smoking area
For the kids
  • Babysitting service
  • Family/child friendly
  • Kids club
  • Swimming pool [kids]
Access
  • Front desk [24-hour]
  • Pets allowed unavailable
  • Security [24-hour]
Getting around
  • Airport transfer
Available in all rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Balcony/terrace
  • Bathrobes
  • Bathtub
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Desk
  • Fan
  • Free bottled water
  • Hair dryer
  • In-room safe box
  • Mini bar
  • Non-smoking
  • Separate shower/bathtub
  • Telephone
  • TV [flat screen]

Location

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

Excellent8.5

Location

Airports
  • Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
    10.7 km
  • Labuan Airport (LBU)
    119.6 km
Public transportation
  • South Bus Terminal
    5.6 km
  • Sembulan Sekretariat Train Station Sembulan Sabah Station
    7.1 km
Hospital or clinic
  • Watson
    4.8 km
Shopping
  • Gaya Street Sunday Market
    5.2 km

What's nearby

Popular landmarks
  • Sapi Island
    4.4 km
  • Night Market
    5.0 km
  • Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
    5.0 km
  • Signal Hill Observatory Platform
    5.1 km
  • Gaya Street Sunday Market
    5.2 km
  • Mamutik Island
    6.9 km
  • Manukan Island
    7.0 km
  • Sabah State Museum
    7.0 km
  • Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
    7.2 km
  • Poring Hot Springs
    16.8 km
Nearby landmarks
  • Bukit Gaya
    2.1 km
  • Gaya Island
    2.2 km
  • Pulau Plompong
    2.5 km
  • The Zip Line
    2.6 km
  • Sapi Island
    4.4 km
  • Kota Kinabalu Harbour
    4.5 km
  • sunset
    4.7 km
  • Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal
    4.8 km
  • Watson
    4.8 km
  • I Love KK
    4.8 km
Distances shown are straight-line distances on the map. Actual travel distances may vary.

Property policies

Children and extra beds

Minimum age of guests is: 18 year(s).

Others
  • All guests are required to pay for the conservation fee upon check-out. Each guest will be charged MYR 32 for the first night of stay and MYR 22 for each of the following night(s).
  • Round-trip speedboat transfer is available at an additional charge and scheduled as follows:
    -From Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal to Gaya Island Resort: 08:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 02:00 PM, 04:00 PM, 06:00 PM, 09:00 PM
    -From Gaya Island Resort to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal: 09:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 01:00 PM, 03:00 PM, 05:00 PM, 06:30 PM, 09:30 PM
    -Speedboat transfer costs MYR 160 per adult over 11 years old and MYR 80 per child from 2 to 11 years old per round-trip.
  • Smoking is not allowed in all guestrooms at this property
  • When booking more than 5 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

Extra beds, if available, are dependent on the room you choose. Please ask the property for more details.

Some helpful facts

Check-in/Check-out
  • Check-in from15:00
  • Check-out until11:00
Getting around
  • Distance from city center9 km
  • Travel time to airport (minutes)20
  • Airport transfer fee180 MYR
The property
  • Year property opened2012
  • Number of floors2
  • Number of rooms 121
  • Number of restaurants5
  • Number of bars/lounges1

Reviews of Gaya Island Resort from real guests

tooltip

All ratings and comments on Agoda are from verified guests who must complete a stay before submitting a review.

Provided by verified guests of

Agoda logo
8.6
  • Room comfort and quality score 9.2 out of 10 and is a high score in Kota Kinabalu
    Room comfort and quality9.2
  • Service score 9.1 out of 10 and is a high score in Kota Kinabalu
    Service9.1
  • Cleanliness score 9 out of 10 and is a high score in Kota Kinabalu
    Cleanliness9.0
  • Facilities score 8.6 out of 10 and is a high score in Kota Kinabalu
    Facilities8.6
  • Location score 8.5 out of 10 and is a high score in Kota Kinabalu
    Location8.5
  • Value for money score 7.8 out of 10 and is a high score in Kota Kinabalu
    Value for money7.8
High score for Kota Kinabalu

Rating

9+ Exceptional (222)
8-9 Excellent (171)
7-8 Very Good (109)
6-7 Good (36)
<6 Below Expectation (34)
Guest Type
Room Type
Language
Showing 572 verified guest comments
Changed to review page 1
  1. 9.6
    Exceptional
    Samuel from Singapore
    Couple
    Canopy Villa
    Stayed 4 nights in August 2022

    “Exceptional”

    AWESOME

    Reviewed June 28, 2023
  2. 10.0
    Exceptional
    Saelin from South Korea
    Solo traveler
    Bayu Villa
    Stayed 2 nights in December 2022

    “The best stay ever”

    We booked the villa for 2nights including the night of Christmas eve, and the experiences we had were just UNBELIEVABLE. Every single staff we met was friendly and warm, always taking care of guests with smile and professional. Activities were full of excitements and adventures with professional guides of Gaya Island nature. Breakfasts & Dinner in Feast Village were as buffet type and it was great to enjoy different types of dishes in one place. We also went to Fisherman's Cove Restaurant for dinner of one night, which was pretty awesome as well. Food, activities, room conditions, beach, pools... everything was perfect but a top of them was amazing staff. Even the period that we were staying in GIR was not good enough to enjoy sunlights, our stay in GIR would remain as one of the best in life for long. Kudos to all the members in the resort. I wish I can come back again. Thanks.

    Reviewed December 25, 2022
  3. 8.8
    Excellent
    KOH from Malaysia
    Couple
    Bayu Villa
    Stayed 1 night in December 2022

    “Excellent”

    5 star service and 5 star charges!

    Reviewed December 13, 2022
  4. 10.0
    Exceptional
    Muhammad from Brunei Darussalam
    Couple
    Bayu Villa
    Stayed 2 nights in November 2022

    “Friendliness ”

    The staffs were friendly! They really concerned about our stay that it would be the best stay we can ever get. Gracias!

    Reviewed December 11, 2022
  5. 10.0
    Exceptional
    Joyce from Hong Kong SAR, China
    Couple
    Kinabalu Villa
    Stayed 2 nights in November 2022

    “Good place to chill”

    Very nice staff and very expensive stuff The round way boat transportation is not included in this price, please be alerted.

    Reviewed November 30, 2022
Changed to review page 1

This is a popular property. Don't miss out!