With its beautiful beaches, offshore islands and pristine coral reefs, Sabah’s coastline is as fascinating as its rainforest and mountain-clad interior. The Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park near Kota Kinabalu covers 50 sq km and includes five islands, Gaya, Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi and Sulug. Each of these offers diving and snorkeling possibilities. In addition to water sports activities the islands have a number trekking trails. All the islands are easily accessible from Kota Kinabalu, the nearest being 15 minutes by boat and the furthest one hour away.
Best Time To Visit
The park can be visited all year round. However, the best time to visit the islands is during the dry season months from March to September. During the wet season there will be more rain and sometimes rougher seas. Underwater visibility is often less water during the monsoon months so snorkelling is not as good.
Accommodation
There are four luxury resorts located in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Gaya Island Resort, Bunga Raya Island Resort and Gayana Eco Resort are all located on Gaya Island. Manukan Island Resort is the only hotel style accommodation on Manukan Island.
Sabah Parks operate camp sites on Mamutik, Manukan and Sapi Islands.
Getting There
Boats depart to the islands in the park at regular intervals from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu. Boats leave the terminal from 8 am to 4 pm each day. The last boats from the islands back to Kota Kinabalu are around 5pm.
The return boat fare is RM 23 (adult) and RM 18 (child below 11). There is also a Terminal fee of RM 7.20 (adult) and RM 3.60 (child).
Boats to the park also depart from Sutera Harbour.
Entry Fee
The conservation / entry fee for the park for foreigners is RM 20 (adult), RM 15 (child 6-17 years) and RM 10 (child below 6). The fees for Malaysians are RM 5 (adult) and RM 3 (child 6-17 years). There is no entry fee for Malaysian children below 6.
Tours
For details or our tours to the park see Mamutik and Manukan Islands day trip
