Located in the northern part of the Island of Borneo in Malaysia, Sabah is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning islands as well as pristine beaches. Travellers are invited to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mengalum Island, known for its vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling or diving. Alternatively, island-hop around 50 sq. km. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park whilst exploring its luxurious resorts, serene beaches and participating in fun water sports activities.
In addition, Sabah's coastline is also dotted with idyllic beaches such as Tanjung Aru and Kelambu Beach, both famous for spectacular sunset viewings and the Sipadan-Mabul Island, which is a true haven for divers.
Whether it is adventure or tranquillity you are seeking, you will likely find all that and more in Sabah's stunning series of islands and beaches, discovering why they are known as some of the most beautiful Southeast Asia destinations.
Kota Kinabalu is home to breathtaking islands including Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi and Gaya Islands. This cluster of islands was gazetted as the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park in 1974 and is managed by the Sabah Park to ensure sustainable tourism to cultivate marine conservation.
Accessing the islands is seamless with the centralised boat ticketing system at the Jesselton Jetty Terminal, where island-hoppers can easily purchase boat transfer tickets and opt to add-on island activity packages such as a banana boat, parasailing or snorkelling at the jetty for better prices. Alternatively, visitors can pre-book their boat transfer tickets online at https://jesseltonpoint.com.my/. The boat transfer starts at 8.00AM and ends at 5:00PM daily.
Note that Mengalum Island is located farther from the mainland, which is why it is often packaged as a one-day tour and requires pre-bookings at least a day before with local tour operators.
Travellers can access the Jesselton Point Jetty from Kota Kinabalu International Airport conveniently by taxi or other e-hailing services.
Note that each traveller will be required to pay a separate one-off island entrance fee, which grants access to all islands listed under the Park.
Travellers can enjoy various activities at all islands listed under the Park at an additional price as follows:
Manukan Island is a part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park in Sabah, Malaysia. It is a true paradise for travellers seeking sun, sea and adventure. Renowned for its clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life, this island offers fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy other activities such as parasailing, kayaking and beach volleyball.
For those looking for ultimate relaxation, the island’s pristine beaches are perfect for sunbathing. Accommodation options range from luxurious beachfront resorts from the Sutera Sanctuary Lodges to cosy chalets, ensuring a comfortable stay for travellers across individual preferences.
The island’s stunning natural beauty coupled with its array of activities make Manukan an ideal destination for both thrill seekers and those simply looking to unwind. Insider tip: the island's best beach is located on the eastern point, offering good snorkelling prospects, plus a Sunset Point with spectacular sunset views.
Photo Credit : Louis Pung Photography
It is worth noting that camping activities are not permitted on Manukan Island. For day-trip island-hoppers, Manukan Island is your best bet for lunch or tea time breaks with opportunities to sample local delicacies and snacks.
The smallest of the island clusters, the shores of Mamutik Island are covered with both rocky coasts and sandy beaches. Plus point: it is less crowded than Manukan Island, making it perfect for those who are craving some quiet or privacy. Nature lovers can also enjoy a short hike around the island while camping here during nighttime.
Sapi Island has the highest coral concentration on its southern side, which provides a unique sea-walking experience. During low tide, travellers can walk along a sandbar that connects Sapi Island with Gaya Island. This island also has a simple cafe and snack shop.
Visitors to Sapi Island can enjoy camping at a fee. Malaysian adults aged 18 and above pay RM 10, while children under 17, senior citizens aged 60 and above as well as tourists with disabilities camp for free. For non-Malaysians; adults pay RM 20, while minors under 17 pay RM 10. While camping is permitted on the island, tourists are expected to bring their own tents.
Known as Tunku Abdul Rahman Park's biggest island, visitors can access Gaya Island through Padang Point. Nature lovers will be thrilled to hear that camping is also permitted here on the island. In addition, there is a 20 kilometre stretch of marked trails to Police Beach, which is another famous spot for diving. For luxury travellers, access to various resorts such as the Gayana Resort, Bunga Raya Resort also Gaya Island Resort is possible through dedicated jetties and private boat transfers from the mainland.
Located further out from the mainland, Mengalum Island offers an unparalleled tropical escape that stands out from other destinations. This secluded paradise is renowned for its crystal-clear waters plus powdery, white beaches, providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation or adventure. Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts will be captivated by the vibrant marine life alongside stunning coral reefs here, which is currently home to a kaleidoscope of colourful fish and other sea creatures.
If island-hopping is not your style, Tanjung Aru Beach is a great alternative. Located just a 12-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Aru Beach, which loosely translates in the Malay language for ‘casuarina cape’, is known for its beautiful sunsets that paint the sky and water in vivid hues. It is flanked by casuarina trees, which add to the beauty of its surroundings. This beach is also known for its beautiful white sands, crystal blue seas and a mild breeze that blows through, making it an excellent place to unwind. Tanjung Aru Beach is located approximately 6 kilometres south of Kota Kinabalu's city centre and can be accessed via the following options:
Kelambu Beach is easily one of Sabah's hidden treasures, with its crystal-clear seas and a beautiful stretch of beach that is ideal for strolls or picnics. During low tide, travellers can walk on a sandbank to a neighbouring island, which adds to the beach's appeal. Here, you will also find a designated area for photographing spectacular sunsets.
This destination is the famed ‘Tip of Borneo’; the northernmost part of Borneo which is known as the third largest island in the world, after Greenland and New Guinea, marking the meeting point of the South China Sea, also a Sulu Sea.
Kelambu Beach is about a three-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu. To get here, it is advisable to rent a car or join a chartered tour group. Alternatively, visitors can purchase an express bus ticket directly to Kudat.
Sipadan and Mabul islands are located off the coast of Semporna, Sabah, renowned for their breathtaking marine biodiversity and world-class diving experiences.
Sipadan, a pristine oceanic island, is famous for its stunning coral walls, vibrant marine life, along with frequent sightings of turtles, barracudas and reef sharks. It is consistently ranked among the top dive sites globally, while Mabul, a nearby island, complements Sipadan with its rich macro marine life, making it a paradise for underwater photographers.
The island's unique stilt houses and traditional Bajau Laut (Sea Gypsies) community come together to create a rich cultural experience for all visitors. Together, Sipadan and Mabul offer an unforgettable adventure for those seeking both underwater wonders or cultural enrichment alike.
There are no direct flights to Sipadan or Mabul Islands, therefore you will be required to fly to Semporna. The most effective option is to travel from Kota Kinabalu International Airport to the Tawau Airport, then take a bus or cab to the Semporna tourist dock at Kampung Bangau-bangau. For a more affordable or adventurous option, you can take a bus to Tawau before transferring to another bus or cab to Semporna. Accommodation in Semporna has been closed since 2004 to protect its natural beauty, however resorts are available on Mabul Island.
The Sipadan Island Park manages Malaysia's only oceanic island, which rises 600 metres above the seabed. It was naturally formed by corals growing atop a volcanic cone. It is located in the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Malaysian Borneo, between Indonesia and the Philippines, and is home to one of the world's most diverse marine environments.
Sipadan is renowned as a prime diving destination, with pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear seas and vibrant wildlife. Among them are sea turtles, reef sharks and barracuda schools. Over 400 fish species and several coral species make up its underwater topography, further framed by cliffs and beautiful coral gardens to provide a spectacular diving experience.
Above water, the island is covered with thick rainforests and is home to tropical birds, fruit bats and monitor lizards. Sipadan was declared a bird sanctuary in 1933, as well as a marine park in 2004. Do note that diving permits must be obtained via operators. There are twelve dive sites in total, including Drop Off, Turtle Cavern and Barracuda Point. Due to popular demand, prior reservations are required. All accommodation facilities in Semporna were closed in 2004 to protect its pristine treasures. Resorts are available on Mabul Island.
Mabul Island, located only a short boat ride from Sipadan, provides a more relaxed vibe as well as excellent diving and snorkelling options. Mabul is known for its muck diving, which allows visitors to see unusual macro marine life such as seahorses, nudibranchs also pygmy seahorses, as well as gorgeous sandy beaches within a laid-back atmosphere.
Stay at the picturesque water bungalows at Mabul such as the Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART), Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort or at the Borneo Divers Mabul Resort, immersing yourself in various activities including kayaking, visiting the friendly Bajau Laut (Sea Gypsies) settlement, watching stunning sunrises plus sunsets or island-hopping to neighbouring islands like Bum Bum Island and Pom Pom Island.
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