From lush tropical rainforests to pristine white sandy beaches, Sabah has it all. Besides wildlife nature reserves and the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Sabah is surrounded by some of the most beautiful islands and beaches.
Chances are, Kota Kinabalu will be your entry in and exit out of Sabah. So why not book a stay at one of these luxury resorts paired with wildlife adventure to Sukau Rainforest Lodge.
GAYANA MARINE RESORT
Gayana Marine Resort, formerly known as Gayana Eco Resort, is located at the idyllic sea waterfront of Gaya Island, which is just a 30-minute boat ride from Jesselton Point jetty, at Kota Kinabalu city centre. The resort sits on in the Malohom Bay of the coast of the island.
What sets this resort apart from other island resort, is that this resort has a research centre of its own. Believe it or not, the Marine Ecology Research Centre is a fully fledged research centre that focuses on the rehabilitation and restoration of damaged coral reefs, propagation of giant clams and overall well-being of marine life.
From its 52 floating villas you can see the KK city façade and the endearing Mount Kinabalu on the distant horizon. Indulge in the luxury of beach and island holidays that balanced with progressive ecology effort that truly emphasizes body and soul enlightenment.
BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT
Hop on a short 30-minute boat ride from the Jesselton jetty towards Gaya Island, where you’ll arrive at the Bunga Raya Island Resort. This resort is known for its 48 hardwood villas perched on the hillsides of Polish Bay. Each villa has a private balcony blessed with stunning views of the jungle and some overlooking the South China Sea.
As you arrive, you’ll be greeted with crystal-clear waters and white-sandy beaches. The minute you enter the Bunga Raya Island Resort you’ll notice the essence of traditional Bornean influences from the landscape and architecture down to the details of the rooms and services provided.
If it’s rest and relaxation you’re after, you can head on to the Echo Wellness Spa. Where you can indulge in one of the best traditional oriental and western spa treatments one can offer. There are even day trip spa packages just for this incredible self-pamper experience.
Besides water activities like snorkeling, kayaking and island hopping, you’ll be glad to know that there are several jungle trails for you to explore. Soak in breath-taking views from the tree-top canopy walk, circling around green hardwood trees. Fancy a little adrenaline? Well then why not ride on a flying fox through the jungle as you descend to the forest floor.
The Bunga Raya Island is full of surprises and is definitely one worth visiting.
SHANGRI-LA RASA RIA RESORT
The Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort is less than an hour drive from the Kota Kinabalu airport. Located on a 64-acre nature reserve sanctuary, the resort is tucked away not too far from the city. You’ll be surprised to find yourself surrounded by stunning outdoor jungles and white-sandy beaches at the same time.
The resort caters experiences for guests of all kinds, whether you’re on a romantic getaway with your significant other or bringing the kids out for some fun in the sun, choosing Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort is bound to give you wide variety of activities to enjoy.
From sunrise morning hikes to jet skiing on the resort seafront, Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort captures the true essence of Borneo’s sea-meets-jungle experience. Enjoy bespoke dining experiences and picture-perfect views over the golf-course, and not to forget to mention to visit the Discovery Centre where there are numerous nature experiences for you to choose from. On top of all the things that this resort has done right, Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort goes a step further by ensuring to create a safe and meaningful experience for all, especially through engaging and supporting local community initiatives. This resort truly embodies a true Bornean paradise.
SHANGRI-LA TANJUNG ARU RESORT AND SPA
The Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa (STAR) is only a 10-minute ride from KK’s city centre. Making this resort an ideal choice for those wanting a luxury beach resort experience and the option of still being able to venture out and explore KK city. The resort’s strategic location makes it one of the best places to experience stunning sunset-filled skies.
The Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa is the ideal weekend staycation for your family getaway. There are tons of safe and kid-friendly activities for you and your young ones to enjoy like the kid-safe pools and a theme-park style play area. If you’re after some one-on-one time with your partner, you can drop off the kids at the Kids Club babysitting service and treat yourself to a massage at Chi, The Spa or maybe even grab a quick drink at the STAR Sunset Bar.
Get your heart pumping with adrenaline at the STAR Marina, where you can take part in water sport activities, paddleboard as the sun is setting or even set out on a sunset cruise. Once you’ve worked up your appetite, the next best part is indulging in a delectable spread of local and international cuisine where there are 6 restaurant and bars on site for you to choose from.
