5 nights from
 US$1,099 /villa
Gaya Island, Malaysia

Gaya Island Resort

8.9
Excellent
37 reviews
Tranquil Borneo Villas with Daily Breakfast, Nightly Dinner, Cocktails & Return Speedboat Transfers
Gaya Island Resort logo
8.9
Excellent
37 reviews

Discover the unspoiled tropical beauty of Borneo’s Gaya Island at this tranquil eco hotel within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. This cluster of islands, just a 10-minute speedboat ride off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, envelops you in the splendour of Borneo’s famed rainforests, where secluded villas overlook sparkling bays.

A member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, this beachfront haven offers moments of relaxation alongside immersive experiences, such as coral reef snorkelling and guided nature walks. Take a boat or short hike to a private beach and leave the world behind with only sun, sand and wildlife like proboscis monkeys for company.

Savour sumptuous and sustainable seafood dishes at Fisherman’s Cove, marvel at sunset views over Mount Kinabalu from the two-storey Omakase restaurant or cool off with a refreshing tipple by the pool. Whenever you need to revitalise your body and mind, visit the resort’s Spa Village or simply drink in breathtaking vistas from your dreamy villa.

Indulgence Upgrade: Select this upgrade to enjoy a daily three-course lunch and dinner and a one-time speciality dinner. Extend your Indulgence to five nights or more for an additional 50-minute massage at Spa Village.

One of The 100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World in 2025 – Fodor’s Finest

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Bayu Villa
47m²
1 King Bed
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5 nights from
 US$1,099 /villa
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Location

Gaya Island Resort
Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 88000, Malaysia

Gaya Island Resort is located on Gaya Island, part of an archipelago of five islands within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. From Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI), make your way to Jesselton Point Jetty (approximately a 20-minute drive and await your 10-minute speedboat transfer direct to the resort. See Fine Print for departure times.

Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Facilities

Fine Print

Valid for travel from 22 November 2025 until 20 November 2026 (bookings must be made before 21 October 2026).

Tourism Tax: A Tourism Tax of MYR10 per person, per night, must be paid directly to the hotel at check-in.

Conservation Fee: A conservation fee of MYR35 on the first night of stay and an additional MYR25 for each day thereafter applies per person, including children, for every night of stay. This amount is paid directly to the hotel at check-in. The conservation fee is contributed to Sabah Parks in support of its effort towards preserving the region’s rich ecosystem.

Compulsory Christmas Gala Dinner: For stays on 25 December, an additional surcharge of MYR380 per adult (12+) and MYR190 per child (2–11) applies for the compulsory Christmas Gala dinner. Payable directly to the hotel/resort.

Compulsory New Year’s Gala Dinner: For stays on 31 December, an additional surcharge of MYR485 per adult (12+) and MYR250 per child (2–11) applies for the compulsory New Year’s Gala dinner. Payable directly to the hotel/resort.

Blackout Dates & Surcharges: A non-refundable surcharge per room, per night may apply, payable at the time of booking. Dates and prices are identified in the Booking Calendar. Blackout dates may apply.

7-Day Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee: Things don’t always work out. Our 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee is there to help. Bookings (except for cruise bookings, flights and deposit fee, if applicable, which are subject to the cancellation terms of the relevant supplier) may be cancelled with a full refund provided that cancellation occurs strictly within 7 days from the date of purchase and provided that the cancellation is made no less than 14 days prior to the check-in date. Excludes flight and service fee, if applicable.

  • Cancellations outside of the 7-Day Change of Mind period will not be provided, except as required by Australian Consumer Law, your local law or as otherwise provided for in the Fine Print.

Flexible Cancellation: You can cancel your booking for credit up until 21 days prior to the original check-in date. This can be done via self-service in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Your credit will be valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation. Credits are not transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. Excludes service fee, if applicable.

Please note this does not apply to flights booked with us. Flight fulfilment is provided by the airline(s) selected at the time of finalising the booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s).

Date Changes: If you need to amend your booking, you can self-service unlimited date changes in your ‘My Escapes’ account up until 21 days before your original check-in date. If you can’t find a suitable date, or still need further assistance, please contact our 24/7 customer service team. Subject to availability and surcharges.

Please Note:

  • Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.
  • Daily buffet breakfast is served at Feast Village from 7am to 10.30am.
  • Daily three-course lunch (select packages only) is available at Feast Village, Pool Bar & Lounge or Tavajun Bay from 12pm to 3pm.
  • Nightly dinner is served at Feast Village from 7pm to 10.30pm.
  • Free-flow cocktail hour is served daily at Pool Bar & Lounge from 3pm to 4pm. House wine and beer are also included.
  • Massages: Complimentary 50-minute massages are available at Spa Village from 10am to 2pm and from 5pm to 7pm. Advance reservation is required upon check-in.
  • Sunset cruise: Departs from the resort jetty at 5.15pm. Advance reservation is required. Please refer to the resort recreation desk for more information.
  • The snorkelling experience is available from 8am to 6pm. Advance reservations are required by 5pm the day before.
  • ⁠For the mangrove kayak tour (select packages only), advance reservation is required by 5pm the day before. Snorkeling activities depend on the sea and weather conditions, please refer to the recreation desk for more information.

Speedboat Transfers Inclusions & Fine Print:

  • Return speedboat transfers between Kota Kinbalu mainland (Jesselton Point Jetty) and the resort island are included in your package.
  • Departures from Jesselton Jetty to Gaya Island Resort: 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm & 9pm
  • Departures from Gaya Island Resort to Jesselton Jetty: 7am, 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm & 5pm
  • Check-in at the Gaya Lounge at Jesselton Point Jetty is required at least 20 minutes prior to scheduled speedboat departure times.
  • Scheduled speedboat transfer for infants is complimentary.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to the website’s terms and conditions.

Fine Print and package inclusions are accurate at the time of purchase and not subject to change, unless updates or corrections are specifically noted in the latest Fine Print with a timestamp. Please check the Fine Print prior to departure for any updates.

Images are for illustrative purposes and may not be reflective of the package purchased. See individual offers and packages for details.

Reviews

8.9
Excellent
37 reviews
Summary
AI-generated based on customer reviews
Gaya Island Resort offers a stunning location with lush rainforest and reef views. Guests rave about the friendly and accommodating staff, luxurious accommodations, and a variety of activities. While some logistical challenges were noted, the resort's commitment to guest satisfaction shines through.
AI-generated based on customer reviews
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