Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu Sabah is a natural haven for divers and nature lovers. Comprising five beautiful islands, this marine park offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and conservation. Here’s everything you need to know about this stunning destination.
Established in 1974 and named after Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, the park covers five beautiful islands called Gaya Island, Manukan Island, Mamutik Island, Sapi Island, and Sulug Island. Managed by Sabah Parks, it is a protected area aimed at preserving its marine biodiversity and coral reefs.
These islands are surrounded by pristine coral reefs and are located near the eastern tip of Kota Kinabalu, making the park an underwater paradise.
The marine park is just a short boat ride away from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu. Boats depart regularly, with return fares costing starting from RM 35 for adults and RM 30 for children, plus a terminal fee. An alternative route is via Sutera Harbour. Plan to leave the islands by 5:00 PM, as this is when the last boats head back to Kota Kinabalu.
The park is best visited during the dry season, from March to September. During this period, the weather is calm, and the water is clear, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving.
In contrast, the wet season from November to February brings more rain and choppy seas. This can reduce underwater visibility and make water activities less enjoyable.
As the largest island in the park, Gaya Island spans 15 square kilometers. It’s famous for its lush rainforests, marked nature trails, and the luxurious Gaya Island Resort and Bunga Raya Island Resort. A highlight is the plank walk across a mangrove swamp in Gaya Bay.
Manukan Island is the second-largest island and a favorite among snorkelers. Its sandy beaches and clear waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Manukan Island Resort, the only hotel-style accommodation, provides a comfortable stay. Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and kayaking.
The smallest of the five islands, Mamutik Island, offers a quieter atmosphere. Its rocky shoreline, long sand beaches, and calm waters make it a peaceful retreat. The island is just half a kilometer long, making it easy to explore.
This compact island boasts stunning coral reefs and exciting activities like ziplining to Gaya Island. With its marked trails and vibrant marine life, it’s a hotspot for adventure seekers.
Sulug Island is the most secluded of the five. While currently not open to the public, its untouched nature and surrounding reefs highlight the park’s beauty.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a playground for water enthusiasts and nature lovers. Popular activities include:
Image by: bungarayaislandresortgayaisland.com
If you’re planning an overnight stay, the park offers luxurious resorts like:
The park’s formation dates back to the last Ice Age, when sea levels were lower, creating unique ecosystems that remain today. It’s fascinating to imagine the roughly triangular islands standing as part of a connected landmass thousands of years ago. eastern
Whether you’re diving into the crystal-clear waters, hiking through lush forests, or simply soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park offers something for everyone. This state park is a testament to the natural beauty of Malaysia and a must-visit for anyone in Kota Kinabalu.
Aside from the beautiful islands, you can also explore other attractions in Sabah, such as climbing Mount Kinabalu, visiting Danum Valley, enjoying a Kinabatangan River cruise, and more.
Want to get in touch? We’d love to hear from you. Here’s how you can reach us…
Remarkable Borneo Travel & Tours is a Malaysian tour operator based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. We offer a wide range of affordable and appealing Sabah tour packages, such as Mount Kinabalu climb, Borneo tours, Sabah diving and island packages and Sandakan tours. Our mission is to provide memorable travel experiences that allow our customers to discover the wonders of Borneo.
