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Gaya Island Resort

5.0 star property
Luxury resort on the beach, with outdoor pool

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Photo gallery for Gaya Island Resort

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Kinabalu Villa | View from room
Kinabalu Villa | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, minibar, in-room safe
Terrace/patio

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Gym
  • Free WiFi
  • 24/7 front desk

Explore the area

Map
Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Gaya Island, Sabah, 88000
  • Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
  • Imago Shopping Mall
  • Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal
  • Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)

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Room options

View all photos for Canopy Villa

Canopy Villa | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, minibar, in-room safe

Canopy Villa

  • 506 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Kinabalu Villa

Kinabalu Villa | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, minibar, in-room safe

Kinabalu Villa

  • 505 sq ft
  • Partial sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Bayu Villa

Bayu Villa | View from room

Bayu Villa

  • 505 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

About the neighborhood

Gaya Island

Gaya Island Resort places you next to Sapi Island and Mamutik Island. This 5-star resort welcomes guests with 121 rooms and conveniences like a full-service spa, a private beach, and an outdoor pool.
View more Resorts in Gaya IslandOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Sapi Island - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles

Getting around

  • Putatan Station - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • New WK Dining 新旺角
  • Sushi King
  • 亞燕 Traditional Fried Pork Kuey Teow
  • Sushi Zanmai
  • McDonald's

About this property

Gaya Island Resort

Luxury resort on the beach, with outdoor pool
Gaya Island Resort features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour gym. Airport transportation is made easy with an airport shuttle (available on request) for MYR 140 per vehicle one-way. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with dry cleaning/laundry, concierge services, and securing valuables. Other amenities at this beach resort include free WiFi in public areas, a library, and free newspapers.
LED TVs come with satellite channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer deep soaking tubs, rainfall showers, hair dryers, and free toiletries, and pillowtop beds with premium bedding ensure a restful night. Balconies, minibars, and electric kettles are also available.
Recreational amenities at the resort include an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

The onsite spa has massage/treatment rooms and couples treatment room(s). Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, Swedish massages, and Thai massages. The spa is open daily.

Awards and affiliations

The property is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Languages

English, Malay

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available
  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) from 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM on request

Food and drink

  • 4 restaurants
  • A bar/lounge
  • A beach bar
  • A poolside bar

Restaurants on site

  • Feast Village
  • Fishermans Cove
  • Omakase
  • Pool Bar and Lounge
  • Tavajun Bay

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Full-service spa
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool
  • Snorkeling
  • Yoga classes

Family friendly

  • Babysitting (surcharge)
  • In-room crib
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service
  • Wedding services

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • On the beach
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas

Full-service spa

  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Hot stone massages
  • Spa open daily
  • Spa treatment rooms
  • Swedish massages
  • Thai massages

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only

More

  • 2 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 2012
  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Free crib
  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Bidet
  • Deep soaking bathtub
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • LED TV with satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Electric kettle
  • Free bottled water
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Desk
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 9:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

Guests must transfer to the property via boat and must arrange the transfers by contacting the property before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
This property offers transfers from the ferry terminal and airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The check-in location differs from the property location; go to: [Gaya Lounge, Jesselton Point Jetty]
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 9:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Speedboat transfers (surcharge) are required between Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal and Gaya Island Resort. Departure times are as follows: Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal to Gaya Island Resort: 10 AM, noon, 2 PM, 4 PM, 6 PM and 9 PM. Gaya Island Resort to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal: 7 AM, 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM, and 6:30 PM. Guests who miss the last transfer of the day must board a private charter boat (surcharge). Rates for private charters are MYR 500 from 7 AM to 9 PM, and MYR 700 from 9 PM to 7 AM.

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Destination fee: MYR 35 per person, per night. This fee does not apply to children under 1 year of age.
  • Boat transfer per adult: MYR 172.80 (roundtrip)
  • Boat transfer per child: MYR 86.40 (roundtrip), from 2 to 11 years old

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: MYR 140 per vehicle (one-way)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available during limited hours), which is offered for a fee.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • No parking is available onsite.
  • This property accepts credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Gaya Island Resort
Resort Gaya Island
Gaya Island Resort Malaysia/Pulau Gaya
Gaya MalaysiaPulau Gaya

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Gaya Island Resort?

Gaya Island Resort provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For more details, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What can I see around Gaya Island Resort?

This resort is located in Gaya Island and just steps from Sapi Island and Mamutik Island. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is within a walking distance of 0.8 mi.

Will I be able to park at Gaya Island Resort?

No, this resort doesn't offer parking.

Is a spa located at Gaya Island Resort?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include Thai massages, Swedish massages, and couples treatments.

Does Gaya Island Resort feature a casino on the premises?

No, Gaya Island Resort doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Gaya Island Resort?

No, this resort doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

What do couples enjoy most about Gaya Island Resort?

This beachfront resort offers plenty of amenities for couples including a beach bar, an outdoor pool, and a beachfront restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at Gaya Island Resort?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this resort.

Does Gaya Island Resort have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Gaya Island Resort has 4 restaurants, and serves breakfast for a surcharge.

Will Gaya Island Resort allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Gaya Island Resort.

Are there connecting rooms at Gaya Island Resort?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this resort.

Where is the closest airport to Gaya Island Resort?

The closest major airport to Gaya Island Resort is Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI), which is about 6.5 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Gaya Island Resort?

Yes, every guestroom at Gaya Island Resort comes with a balcony with some featuring sea or garden views.

Does Gaya Island Resort host weddings?

If you plan to exchange vows during your trip, consider the wedding services available at Gaya Island Resort.

Gaya Island Resort Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 246 out of 446 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 148 out of 446 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 36 out of 446 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 10 out of 446 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 446 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gitanjali

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Situated in one of the largest underwater national parks. Spectacular natural beauty with sea, sand and jungle. Hundreds of species of marine and island life. Underwater and above ground Activities beautifully curated by YTL staff to blend conservation and fun.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

hywel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff, the staff, the staff. Such genuine helpful staff quick to resolve any problems. Genuine smiles. The East Malaysians are the best hosts.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

6/10 Okay

Amanda

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property itself and rooms were nice, but the resort was way too expensive for what was provided. we did not feel like we got value doe the money. The meals were excessively expensive for what they were, and left us with traveler's diarrhea unfortunately. Very basic tours were extra charges too, as were the transfers in and out from kota Kinabalu. We also stayed way too long. I think max 3 nights would be recommended so you don't get bored.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful location and views. Staff were always friendly, helpful and polite. Fantastic range of activities.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Beautiful location, well organised, excellent food, friendly staff, amazing rooms. Many hidden taxes ... and service charge added even for buffet meal (which was self service ... although did finally remove when challenged). The private beach had a huge rubbish dump just behind the sandy beach. Very disappointing to see on a luxury trip. Great to see the conservation work with rescued turtles and coral. Strange to see complimentary ice lollies being handed out by pool, but only if you agreed to a young waiter taking a photo on his mobile phone ... bizarre.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Lesley

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Had a lovely stay, would like to have seen more food options and later bar food service. Activities team were great, reception and waiting staff were not very friendly, expected a higher level of service.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Siu Chui

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property has a beautiful setting with the sea and a primary forest as its backdrop. The hotel excursions are excellent with an added inspiration on marine and forest conservation. Coral garden snorkelling and forest trekking are highly recommended. The staff are all genuinely kind and attentive. A very good resort.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jane

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tracy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sophie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

6/10 Okay

Matthew

Traveled with partner
Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service
Starting with the positives, Gaya Island Resort is in a wonderful setting. The accommodation is spacious with nice outlooks, though depending where you are you could have quite an uphill hike to your rooms. We had the buffet meals in the dining room and the standard of what was offered was very high. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The service however of the management and reservations team leading up to our visit was appalling. Despite having paid in full we were sent automated messages threatening to cancel our booking and keep any monies already paid. When we replied explaining payment had been made and asking for clarification we simply received the same message again. None of these messages came with a name or contact details. Several attempts to ring the reservations line all concluded the same way i.e. being told all the lines were busy and the phone call was dropped. Expedia's initial attempts to contact the resort also failed but we assume they eventually worked, as we received an email from the resort informing us we should ignore the previous messages. No hint of an apology was offered. On top of this, on two of the days we stayed there was, for different periods of time, no water and no electricity. Regarding the water, on one occasion this lasted for over 9 hours. Finally the cleanliness of the resort in some areas was disappointing. In particular the gym floor was covered in sand and even hairs - very unpleasant.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Samantha, Li Cheng

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Villa was nice and spacious. Service was excellent. Food needs to improve
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Yen Ying

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Beautiful Gaya Island Retreat

My family and I stayed at GIR for 2 nights and had a great time. The rooms were enormous (complete with separate areas for walk in robes, bathtub, shower, toilet). Room amenities were excellent, with bug spray and ointment for insect bites. Our rooms had fantastic views across the sea to Mt Kinabalu, beautiful to watch the sunrise every morning. The staff were all very friendly and attentive to our needs. We will absolutely be back again. Thank your GIR for a great time!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Each room has a bath tub but there were less hot water in the evening. Even after water filled, many aunts was floating.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
suggest book activity or dinner reservation early, before arrive as not many slots
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved almost everything. The property and rooms were spectacular. pool was beautiful and the food was fantastic. The only thing I didn't absolutely love - mattress softness, having to rent watersports equipment rather than it being included
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Alice

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel and staff. A very relaxing island escape.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The water was clear and beautiful, the staff was extremely welcoming, and the experience was overall very relaxing.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Adam

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Jungle walk and snorkeling ..... . ................. .
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019