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Our top choices for Manukan Island hotels

1. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Super nice and scenic place to stay. Excellent swimming pools, huge gym. Marina nearby to visit islands. Beautiful beach nesrby"
United States
Linda JUNE
The price is NZ$344
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

2. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (201 reviews)
"We stayed in the double bungalow, Perfect for 3 seperate friends, so much private space. Just beautiful."
Australia
Nikko
The price is NZ$569
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

3. Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (527 reviews)
"Excellent stay. Rooms were lovely and food very good"
United Kingdom
Matthew
The price is NZ$391
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Gayana Marine Resort

4. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (451 reviews)
"We had an amazing time at Gaya Island Resort. It is a luxury resort with great food and drinks, comfortable rooms, and incredible views/proximity to the ocean. Worth noting is that this is in a nature reserve, surrounded by jungle and ocean, and the resort embraces and supports this, which means coexisting with wildlife. You can walk out from the resort beach to their own protected reef and swim with dozens of species of beautiful fish (equipment is available for free). We didn’t see any snakes,...
United States
Eric
The price is NZ$786
includes taxes & fees
10 Dec - 11 Dec
Gaya Island Resort

5. The Aru Hotel, Aru Suites by Ayuhouz

The Aru Hotel, Aru Suites by Ayuhouz
4.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (40 reviews)
"Excellent stay! Clean, comfortable room, very friendly and helpful staff, and a great location. Everything was perfect – highly recommended, would definitely stay here again!"
United Kingdom
Krisztina Rahel
The price is NZ$92
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
The Aru Hotel, Aru Suites by Ayuhouz

6. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (206 reviews)
"The complimentary airport shuttle (one-way only) was very useful along with the breakfast buffet. Definitely worth staying if you do not want to go island hopping or to the city centre"
Australia
Velmor
The price is NZ$73
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

7. Monocolo Boutique Hotel

Monocolo Boutique Hotel
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (10 reviews)
"Great stay,helpful staff, nice room"
United Kingdom
Thomas
The price is NZ$102
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Monocolo Boutique Hotel

8. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (999 reviews)
"Very nice room. Excellent breakfast one of the best we've ever had in a hotel"
United Kingdom
Matthew
The price is NZ$138
includes taxes & fees
9 Dec - 10 Dec
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

9. The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"It was really a pleasant stay and the view was so beautiful. Our charity golf was well organised there."
Singapore
JUNKYU
The price is NZ$285
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
The Magellan Sutera Resort

10. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"We thought the staff were wonderful and the hotel was very elegant. The breakfast was especially good."
United States
Kip
The price is NZ$152
includes taxes & fees
14 Nov - 15 Nov
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

11. Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (253 reviews)
"Great location. Able to walk to many locations and night food market next door."
Canada
Tamara
The price is NZ$76
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
Mandarin Hotel

12. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (164 reviews)
"Very helpful and accommodating staff, lovely rooms and breakfast."
United States
Paula
The price is NZ$123
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

13. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (256 reviews)
"Room was very clean and maintained well by the service staff. Breakfast was reasonable and staff was friendly"
Canada
Catherine
The price is NZ$114
includes taxes & fees
27 Nov - 28 Nov
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

14. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (84 reviews)
"nice,will stay again insyaAllah"
Malaysia
Mohd Hafizuddin
The price is NZ$139
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

15. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Stayed for our honeymoon staff where attentive and made special arrangements for us. Also very good location and nice room with great view"
Singapore
KAI YUN KATE
The price is NZ$182
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

16. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (631 reviews)
"Staff members are so friendly and helpful! Beautiful rooms"
Australia
Savannah
The price is NZ$191
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

17. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (741 reviews)
"Great location with close proximity to shopping & dining."
Singapore
MUN TAT
The price is NZ$102
includes taxes & fees
14 Nov - 15 Nov
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

18. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (225 reviews)
"Very helpful staff good location"
United Kingdom
MRS
The price is NZ$207
includes taxes & fees
12 Nov - 13 Nov
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

19. The Pacific Sutera Hotel

The Pacific Sutera Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (999 reviews)
"We love the place Very nice lication"
United Kingdom
Antonette
The price is NZ$152
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
The Pacific Sutera Hotel

20. Megah D'Aru Hotel

Megah D'Aru Hotel
3.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
7.0 out of 10, Good, (92 reviews)
"歯ブラシは置いてほしいです 空港から近いのはいいですね! スッタッフは親切でした"
Japan
Anonymous traveller
The price is NZ$55
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Megah D'Aru Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Learn more about Manukan Island

Snorkel the crystal-clear waters surrounding this pristine island to discover vibrant coral gardens and colourful tropical fish. Beach-lovers can relax on powdery white sand while more adventurous visitors take boat trips to nearby Sapi Island for ziplining adventures.

A clear beach with turquoise water, a small island in the distance, and a boat on the water.
Photo by Tan Tan Tan
Open Photo by Tan Tan Tan

Top Manukan Island Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Manukan Island

Top reasons to visit Manukan Island

  • Stunning Beaches: Manukan Island boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
  • Exciting Water Activities: Enjoy thrilling experiences like boat trips and sea walking, suitable for all ages.
  • Vibrant Marine Life: Explore the rich underwater ecosystem, ideal for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.
  • Nearby Island Exploration: Venture to nearby Mamutik Island for more adventures and stunning scenery.
  • Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from luxury resorts or charming guesthouses for a relaxing stay amidst tropical beauty.

Find great hotels near Manukan Island

Discover the ideal accommodation on Manukan Island, a private tropical paradise in Sabah, Malaysia. Whether you're seeking a luxury resort with stunning sea views or a charming guesthouse, you'll find exquisite options tailored for family getaways or business travel. Indulge in spa-themed experiences and enjoy the serene beauty of this idyllic island, all while reading glowing hotel reviews to guide your choice.

  • Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: A luxurious 5-star resort located 4.8km from Manukan Island, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru offers a vibrant mix of adventure and relaxation. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this property is ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. Enjoy direct access to the beach and partake in various activities such as waterskiing, sailing, and boat tours. For families, the resort features a range of amenities including a supervised childcare service and dedicated children's pool, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for younger guests.
  • The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Situated 6.4km from Manukan Island, The Pacific Sutera Hotel is another 5-star gem with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, catering to families and golf enthusiasts. This resort boasts convenient beach access and provides a fantastic golf experience on-site. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's amenities, including a playground and supervised childcare services. With its serene atmosphere and family-friendly features, it's a great choice for those looking to blend leisure with recreation.
  • The Magellan Sutera Resort: Also 6.4km away from Manukan Island, The Magellan Sutera Resort is rated 8.4 out of 10 and offers a luxurious beachside retreat. This 5-star resort is perfect for those who enjoy both beach relaxation and golfing. Guests can indulge in golf-themed activities while enjoying easy access to pristine beach areas. The resort's tranquil setting and family-friendly amenities make it a delightful option for those seeking a blend of relaxation and activity during their stay.

Where to stay near Manukan Island

Manukan Island is a tropical paradise perfect for an unforgettable getaway. With its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, it's ideal for outdoor adventures and family vacations. Nearby islands offer additional exploration opportunities, while the friendly atmosphere makes it a relaxing retreat. Whether you're seeking romance or family fun, Manukan Island and its surroundings promise a delightful experience filled with beautiful scenery and warm hospitality.

  • Kota Kinabalu: Located approximately 8.0km from Manukan Island, Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city that offers a blend of urban charm and natural beauty. With its bustling shopping centres and private country clubs, it caters to families and business travellers alike. The city features local landmarks such as parks, a marina, and a harbour, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and relaxing by the water. Visitors typically experience peak arrivals in August and during the festive months of December to January, with a quieter period from May to June and November.
  • Gaya Island: Just 6.4km from Manukan Island, Gaya Island is a natural paradise that draws adventure seekers and families looking for outdoor activities. With its stunning beaches and lush parks, the island provides a perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. Popular activities include spa treatments and visits to educational centres, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all ages. Like Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Island also sees its peak visitor numbers in August and during December to January, with a slight dip in May to June and November.
  • Downtown Kota Kinabalu: Situated about 8.0km from Manukan Island, Downtown Kota Kinabalu exudes a lively atmosphere, perfect for families and business travellers. The area is known for its bustling markets and modern shopping centres, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine. Key attractions include scenic parks and vibrant streets, as well as a nearby modern college university, adding to the youthful energy of the neighbourhood. Visitor numbers here align with the peak travel months of August and December to January, with quieter periods in May to June and November.

Things to do near Manukan Island

Shopping

On Manukan Island, you can explore local shops offering unique souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Kota Kinabalu for larger shopping centres like Suria Sabah and Imago Mall, where you'll find a wider range of gifts and local products.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Manukan Island Spa, where you can indulge in traditional Malaysian treatments amidst lush surroundings. Explore the vibrant marine life while snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or unwind on the beach with yoga sessions at sunset for a refreshing escape in nature.

Adventure

At Zip Borneo, located 33.8km from Manukan Island, thrill-seekers can soar above the lush canopy on an exhilarating zipline. This ropes course offers an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst stunning natural beauty, perfect for those looking to embrace the great outdoors.

Nightlife

On Manukan Island, the nightlife is relaxed yet vibrant, with beach bars offering chilled drinks and live music under the stars. Enjoy a casual evening at the island's beachfront venues, where you can savour local flavours and mingle with fellow travellers while taking in the stunning ocean views.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Manukan Island

To save money on your trip to Manukan Island, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March, May, or November. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia, looking for the green banner for discounts. Saturdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. You can also save by bundling your flights and activities with your accommodation for a better deal. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and find eco-friendly hotels, ensuring you get the best offers available.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Manukan Island are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Manukan Island about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Manukan Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Manukan Island is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you spot the most affordable accommodation right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will present you with a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your accommodation at Manukan Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Manukan Island

Manukan Island is a fantastic destination for outdoor and family vacations, offering stunning beaches and various attractions such as the harbour and local tourist precincts. Visitors can enjoy activities suitable for all ages, including exploring nearby Mamutik Island. Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, Manukan Island provides a perfect blend of experiences for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

  • Sutera Harbour: Located 6.4km from Manukan Island, Sutera Harbour offers stunning beach scenery and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for relaxing by the water while enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding area.
  • Sapi Island: Just 4.8km from Manukan Island, Sapi Island is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. It's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rich marine life, making it a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts.
  • Tunku Abdul Rahman Park: Situated 6.4km from Manukan Island, this marine park is perfect for adventure seekers and families alike. You can enjoy activities like snorkelling, hiking, and island hopping, all set in a stunning natural environment.

Best time to go to Manukan Island

The best time to visit Manukan Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Manukan Island falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Manukan Island falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar MonthTemperaturePrecipitationCloudinessOccupancyPricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Manukan Island

Reaching Manukan Island is convenient, with the nearest major airport being Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located 8.0km away. Recommended hotels nearby include the luxurious Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, just 3.2km from the airport, offering airport transfers. Hilton Kota Kinabalu, situated 6.4km away, provides a variety of shuttle services. The Magellan Sutera Resort is also close at 4.8km. Alternatively, you could consider Labuan Airport (LBU), located 112.7km away, with nearby hotels like Dorsett Grand Labuan and Tiara Labuan Hotel, both just 1.6km from the airport, providing shuttle services. For those flying into Kudat Airport (KUD), 140.0km away, options include Kudat Golf & Marina Resort, offering airport shuttles on request.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Manukan Island?

The best area to stay on Manukan Island is the main resort area located on the eastern side of the island, near the jetty.


This area is the primary hub for visitors, offering direct access to the island's main beach and facilities. It's where you'll find the island's only resort accommodations, a restaurant, and activity centres. The beach here is well-maintained, with clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling, and it's backed by lush tropical vegetation.


Families will find this area particularly convenient. With the resort and dining options all in one place, it simplifies logistics. The gentle slope of the beach and the availability of water sports equipment make it easy to keep children entertained.


Couples looking for a relaxing escape will also appreciate this area. The resort offers comfortable bungalows, some with sea views, providing a private and peaceful setting.

When is the best time to go to Manukan Island?

The best time to visit Manukan Island is during the dry season, which typically runs from March to October.


During these months, you'll experience consistently sunny weather and calm seas, which are ideal for all the island's activities. The visibility for snorkelling and diving is usually excellent, and boat transfers to and from the island are very smooth.


Couples looking for a relaxing beach getaway will find this period perfect. You can enjoy sunbathing on the beaches, swimming in the clear waters, and romantic sunset strolls without the interruption of rain. The warm temperatures are also great for exploring the island's trails.


Families travelling with children will also appreciate the dry season. The calm waters make it very suitable for younger swimmers, and the consistent good weather means outdoor activities like building sandcastles or picnicking are always an option.

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Manukan Island.

How can I save on a hotel booking in Manukan Island with Expedia?

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Manukan Island hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Manukan Island?

Prices for hotels in Manukan Island often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$45 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.

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