Kota Belud Holidays from NZ$2,321

The room was spacious but the furniture was old. The ironing board in the room was broken. There were no bath towel and floor mat. I had to ask twice. The 2 pieces of bath towels were old and worn out as well. Overall, I had a decent stay.

We stayed in a Palm Villa and it was amazing. Loved everything about it, especially the breakfast delivered by boat. We spent a lot of time on our deck and in and out of the water. All staff were friendly and genuine. Food at all meals was great. Snorkeling around the property to look for giant clams was a highlight.

A wonderful resort for our honeymoon, and one we’d highly recommend particularly the plunge pool villa that overlooks and has private access to the beach. The jetty was a particular highlight — very well lit, and every night we would walk there looking at the marine life; it was like having our own private aquarium. Some caveats. Don’t expect parties, activities and shows — this is a great resort to unwind and recharge, particularly if you love nature (exactly what we needed for the tail end of a mammoth 3 weeks). The jungle hikes and snorkelling trips are definitely worth doing; the snorkelling around the resort is good but you do have to swim out for the best coral. We considered private boats to KK but didn’t feel the need when you can party with monkeys, monitors, hornbills and wild boar at your doorstep. There are only 2 restaurants on site which can feel a bit limiting, but the food is varied and excellent so we didn’t mind. The staff were warm and attentive throughout without ever being intrusive — a tough balance to strike. And the wine list from their amazing cellar is simply one of the best we’ve ever seen — serious depth in Australian wines alongside some genuine heavy hitters: First Growths, Grange, Sassicaia. Exceptional.

Room was clean with a nice view of bay, great swimming pool overlooking bay. Great location right next to waterfront, market, shopping mall. Staff where all friendly during interaction. Can recommend staying here. Only small negative is the air conditioner was not great. But otherwise great stay, thanks.

We were a group of nature lovers who were using this as a three night stay to get used to the temperature and time change upon arrival in Borneo. Loved the grounds and snorkeling right from the beach. Fantastic nature center staffed by several biologists. The food options were a bit pricey but we were expecting that. The grounds were very birdy and we found two Borean Pit Vipers. The mangrove tour was fantastic. Room is very good quality for the price.