"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,...
"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,...
"Excellent stay! Clean, comfortable room, very friendly and helpful staff, and a great location. Everything was perfect – highly recommended, would definitely stay here again!"
"Excellent stay! Clean, comfortable room, very friendly and helpful staff, and a great location. Everything was perfect – highly recommended, would definitely stay here again!"
"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"
"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"
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.
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.
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.
Stayed at Bunga Raya for 2 nights with a friend. We had a deluxe villa which was much larger than expected. We had requested twin beds on booking and unfortunately arrived to 1 large bed, however this was quickly taken care of when discussed with hotel staff. The resort is built into the mountains in a very unobtrusive way and is much larger than it looks. There's a lovely pool but it is situated on a beautiful beach which was pristine during our visit. We snorkelled in the coral reef just off...
Stayed at Bunga Raya for 2 nights with a friend. We had a deluxe villa which was much larger than expected. We had requested twin beds on booking and unfortunately arrived to 1 large bed, however this was quickly taken care of when discussed with hotel staff. The resort is built into the mountains in a very unobtrusive way and is much larger than it looks. There's a lovely pool but it is situated on a beautiful beach which was pristine during our visit. We snorkelled in the coral reef just off...
Spectacular island resort. Room / villa was amazing with the most wonderful shampoo / conditioner etc. Only two slight negatives - when i arrived my room was not ready and for 2 hours i sat in the heat without access to my luggage to get my swimmers for a refreshing dip in the pool. And the other was the food - after having been in KK experiencing the street food and my other hotel's food, the resort food was a little ordinary, particularly given the cost of in-resort food. it was bountiful but...
Spectacular island resort. Room / villa was amazing with the most wonderful shampoo / conditioner etc. Only two slight negatives - when i arrived my room was not ready and for 2 hours i sat in the heat without access to my luggage to get my swimmers for a refreshing dip in the pool. And the other was the food - after having been in KK experiencing the street food and my other hotel's food, the resort food was a little ordinary, particularly given the cost of in-resort food. it was bountiful but...
Anonymous traveller
Reviewed January 15, 2019Reviewed January 15, 2019
This was our 2nd stay and it didn’t disappoint. Both times we have stayed 1 night as a stop over between flights.
The service is excellent, friendly, helpful and welcoming. You get the feeling nothing would be too much trouble. We were also given a surprise upgrade this trip, which was very welcome for our family of 3.
The room so cosy and lux. The bed is super soft and comfortable which is just what you need after a long day of travelling, and the bathroom is generous and modern with a large...
This was our 2nd stay and it didn’t disappoint. Both times we have stayed 1 night as a stop over between flights.
The service is excellent, friendly, helpful and welcoming. You get the feeling nothing would be too much trouble. We were also given a surprise upgrade this trip, which was very welcome for our family of 3.
The room so cosy and lux. The bed is super soft and comfortable which is just what you need after a long day of travelling, and the bathroom is generous and modern with a large...
We loved our three nights here. Every small touch was well considered and we enjoyed the snorkeling and kayaking offered. Only very minor complaint was noisy neighbour ma could be heard through wall of adjoining villa on the first night
We loved our three nights here. Every small touch was well considered and we enjoyed the snorkeling and kayaking offered. Only very minor complaint was noisy neighbour ma could be heard through wall of adjoining villa on the first night
AC residence isn't what you expect from your normal hotel stay. There is no hotel lobby, there is no reception as it's located on the third floor of shophouses. However don't let it fool you! We arrived after midnight due to flight delays, yet when we messaged the property, we were immediately welcomed at the door. Once inside, we were shown to our room which was pleasantly quite spacious! It was simple but yet so cosy. The room was also really clean and tidy.
Getting around was quite easy as...
AC residence isn't what you expect from your normal hotel stay. There is no hotel lobby, there is no reception as it's located on the third floor of shophouses. However don't let it fool you! We arrived after midnight due to flight delays, yet when we messaged the property, we were immediately welcomed at the door. Once inside, we were shown to our room which was pleasantly quite spacious! It was simple but yet so cosy. The room was also really clean and tidy.
Getting around was quite easy as...
The communication was prompt, accurate, and polite full. Staff assisted by carrying out luggage upstairs, and is happy and polite. The massage chair was an amazing addition to our stay. In the heart of all shops. Will definitely book with them again.
The communication was prompt, accurate, and polite full. Staff assisted by carrying out luggage upstairs, and is happy and polite. The massage chair was an amazing addition to our stay. In the heart of all shops. Will definitely book with them again.
Kunthea
Reviewed September 29, 2026Reviewed September 29, 2026
Great location - close to all amenities and the waterfront
Great roof top pool although very overpriced food in the restaurants.
Great staff
Would definitely recommend
Great location - close to all amenities and the waterfront
Great roof top pool although very overpriced food in the restaurants.
Great staff
Would definitely recommend
Michaela
Reviewed September 24, 2026Reviewed September 24, 2026
Staying at the Magella Sutera Resort (14 nights) was the highlight of our trip. We stayed in a Deluxe Sea Facing Room which we highly recommend. The room is spacious, neat and clean and it has a beautiful, uniquely designed bathroom which we loved. Sunsets from out balcony were a sight to see.
The Magellan has a shuttle service for a small fee which leaves at 10am, 2pm, 4pm and 8pm from the hotel to the KK Town. It stops at the Imago Mall (an upper class shopping Centre), the KK Waterfront (a...
Staying at the Magella Sutera Resort (14 nights) was the highlight of our trip. We stayed in a Deluxe Sea Facing Room which we highly recommend. The room is spacious, neat and clean and it has a beautiful, uniquely designed bathroom which we loved. Sunsets from out balcony were a sight to see.
The Magellan has a shuttle service for a small fee which leaves at 10am, 2pm, 4pm and 8pm from the hotel to the KK Town. It stops at the Imago Mall (an upper class shopping Centre), the KK Waterfront (a...
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 Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
80.1°F (26.7°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
February
79.9°F (26.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
March
80.4°F (26.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
April
81.7°F (27.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
May
82.6°F (28.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
June
82.2°F (27.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
July
81.5°F (27.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
August
81.9°F (27.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
September
81.5°F (27.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
October
81.3°F (27.4°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
November
81.3°F (27.4°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
December
81.0°F (27.2°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
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.