Gaya Island Resort

Distinctly Borneo

Just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Island Resort is located on the beautiful island of Pulau Gaya and reached by the hotels own speedboat in just 10 minutes from Jesselton Point. This resort offers guests a taste of traditional Sabahan architecture blended seamlessly with contemporary design. Relax in your spacious Villa and soak up the tropical jungle scenery that surrounds you.

There is plenty of wildlife on Pulau Gaya, so make sure you visit the Gaya Island Wildlife Centre and take a walk with the resident Naturalist – Justin. If you are lucky you may see the endangered Proboscis Monkeys in their natural environment.

There are two house reefs right in front of the resort, snorkelling equipment can be hired. Coral reef restoration, along with turtle rescue and marine educational programmes are the main projects being undertaken by Scott, the resident Marine Biologist and his team at the Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre. Enjoy a guided snorkel trail to learn more about the fascinating coral reefs and the abundant marine life here at Gaya Island.

Meals can be enjoyed at a choice of restaurants and drinks are available at the pool bar looking out over the sea. Savour world cuisine at the Feast Village where Japanese, Korean, Malay and Western flavours can be enjoyed alongside spectacular ocean vistas. The Fishermans Cove offers fresh seafood and a western style menu in a refined, adult-only atmosphere overlooking the sea. Omakase Restaurant specialises in authentic Japanese cuisine and private dining options can be enjoyed on the beach.

To round off the resorts offerings – The Spa Village provides a completely Sabahan experience with its unique Mangrove setting, many different holistic treatments and the use of local ingredients.

Hayes & Jarvis Rating

Average: 5 (1 vote)

Guide Price

£1,999 per person

Hotel Category

Luxury

Location Type

Away from it all

Recommended For

Adult Orientated

TripAdvisor Review

1895 Reviews

Read reviews

Hotel Gallery

Hotel Features

General Information

Check-in Time:
15:00
Check-out Time:
11:00
121 rooms

Main Facilities

Diving
Fitness facilities
Outdoor pool
Spa facilities
Watersports
Wifi

Accommodation Type

Boutique
Eco-friendly
Hidden gem
Luxury Collection
Off the beaten track

Board Basis Options

Full Board
Bed & Breakfast

For Families

Babysitting
Family Entertainment
Kid's Pool

Hotel Location

Location Highlights

Gaya Island Resort

Away from it all
approx. 30 minutes by road and boat from Kota Kinabalu Airport.

1895 Reviews

80% of travellers recommended this hotel

Traveller ratings

Excellent 1155
Very Good 456
Average 197
Poor 60
Terrible 27

What to Expect

Location
Sleep Quality
Rooms
Service
Value
Cleanliness

Reviews

Dec 12, 2019

Wonderful stay thanks to the management team

Singapore, Singapore

This review follows the previous one posted on the first day of our arrival back in early August 2019 when we were denied the advertised “Book Directly Benefits” and a BBQ dinner. The follow up comes only now because TripAdvisor only allows second post of the same hotel 3-month after the first. The management, specifically the GM Mr. Wayne Lee and the F&B Manager, Mr Ramesh Krishna have swiftly attended to our complaints and have done beyond our expectations to right the wrong. Kudos to the the team’s quick service recovery. Our stay at the resort was pleasant to say the least. The environment, ambience, and service rendered were welcoming. The resort’s F&B was particularly excellent and commendable. We were pleasantly surprised that the breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet lines (complimentary with a Resident’s package) were extensive with many interesting order-to-cook stations. The chefs manning these open cook stations, who were always enthusiastic and accommodating, served us mouth-watery dishes of their creations such as grilled tuna steak, Bolognese egg, crabs and crayfish. Desserts are aplenty and it’s refreshing to see that cold desserts are kept and accessible from a fridge! Also, almost all of the local and Western dishes were changed every meal and every day - a feature hardly found in even 5-star hotels. The F&B manager and head chef Dolis were always on the floor, making sure that diners were happy with their meals. In addition to the clear, gentle and lush sea water fronting the resort that permits some sea activities, it has a second, private beach that we particularly enjoyed. The beach is only accessible via a transfer boat, hence it’s more tranquil and laid-back than the main beach, which can get very crowded at times. In fact, we couldn’t find any unoccupied lazy chairs provided on the beach most of the time. We would also recommend booking for the 3-course lunch that is served at this private beach prior to the visit. The meal was very delicious and offers a break of the often-overstuffed-buffet routine. The service was great, especially that of Ibrahim. In short, while we had hiccup first day of our stay, the remainders of our visit were very pleasant thanks to the prompt recovery service offered by the agile management team.

Dec 08, 2019

Wow wow wow

7 nights in paradise . Location gives it an exclusive feel but we've been to places like this and never left a review so why am I writing one now.I can honestly say we found something special with the level of service we received. As you can imagin not everyone can be pleased with a buffet so if the chef has it in his fridge he will cook it for you or if it's in his power he will get it in for you, now that's amazing service and at no extra cost to you. They treat you like family and want to do their best for you. What's their best? Now that's up to you to let them in and found out for yourself. I would also say like a previous review look no further than GIR. I will be looking at other hotels owned by this company for future holidays in the hope that other teams are as special as the one they have here. We went on to the SLRR resort after and we're very underwhelmed and back to average service. GIR we will be back one day x x x

Dec 07, 2019

Excellent resort for relaxation & chilling out

Singapore, Singapore

Gaya Island Resort (GIR) is an exclusive island resort that provides excellent service and relaxing atmosphere to rest & relax. My family (four of us) spent 5 nights at GIR during the first week of December 2019 and our holiday there was simply fantastic. Right from Day 1, we enjoyed first class service from the very warm and hospitable Executive Sous Chef, Dolis Mongulid at the Feast Village. Chef Dolis is ever so welcoming to everyone and he treated my wife, 2 teenage boys and myself like VIPs throughout our stay at GIR. The specially prepared seafood and meat dishes by Chef Dolis were delicious, amazing and refreshing as GIR uses only the freshest ingredients. We also enjoyed the banana with Nutella crepe prepared by Chef Dolis for breakfast. Restaurant Manager, Silih was equally polite, efficient and helpful throughout our stay. Also thanks to ever smiling Connie, Alice, Rafdi & many more for providing good and attentive service during our meals. What also pleases me is that GIR has a policy to procure their fresh seafood supply from only sustainable sources. We also dined at Omakase & Chef Ben entertained us with his culinary skills. We really enjoyed the teppanyaki dinner. Chef Ben, Sur and Chan are ever so attentive and provided good service, which to me is a trademark of GIR service seen everywhere in the resort. Chef Ben and his team at Fisherman Cove also provided us with an excellent meal and we thoroughly enjoyed the private and quiet ambience there. We also signed up for the 7 Wonders of Gaya program. Justin Juhun from GIR Naturalist team is very knowledgeable and he is such a great delight to be with. The day and night jungle trekkings were indeed very interesting and provided us with good exercise after our hearty meals. We spotted several species of plants, mushrooms, scorpions, spiders and insects, some indigenous to Borneo & we were quite excited when Justin spotted an adult viper (which was about to make its kill) during the night trekking. It is important to note that it is advisable not to trek into the jungle alone, without a guide, as there can be poisonous wildlife lurking nearby somewhere. Justin also brought us to see the nearby mangrove by kayak. Mangrove forest is one of the most degraded forest in the world where only 13% of mangrove forest are still intact in the world. I really admire Justin’s passion and mission to build another mother forest of mangrove by producing 5000 healthy mangrove trees. With the support from everyone, Justin shared that he is hopeful the project will run successfully. We also went snorkeling at the beach fronting GIR and there are many fishes and corals. The excursion to Coral Garden led by Sylvester at Pulau Mamutik was excellent and we enjoyed looking at the vast & beautiful coral garden and fishes there. If you’re looking for an amazing eco-holiday with excellent service and good food, I recommend GIR. Do sign-up for the all inclusive meal package as it was well worth it and fuss-free. Special thanks to GIR team for making our stay so enjoyable and memorable. Looking forward to our next visit to GIR. It has been indeed been an amazing holiday for us.

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Gaya Island Resort

Facilities

Swimming Pool

Overlooking the beach, the Gaya Island Resorts 40 metre lap pool features floating cabanas and a wading pool for children. You can also enjoy drinks from the poolside bar.

Spa Village

Set in the mangrove forest, the spa village features six treatment rooms, outdoor decks and space for yoga. A range of treatments are available each utilising only the finest fresh local ingredients. Children below the age of 16 are not permitted in the Spa Village.

Classes and Activities

Enjoy a range of creative classes and activities including Malaysian cooking, dance and Borneo craftwork and immerse yourself in Malay culture. For children there is a storytelling session full of local tales and folklore.

Fitness Centre

The resort offers a fully equipped gym with weight-training and cardio equipment. Alternatively enjoy a brisk walk or a jog around the resort grounds with the sounds of nature.

Sunset Cruise

For a wonderful sunset and a relaxing and romantic evening take the Sunset Cruise, on a 64-foot yacht. You will enjoy light refreshments on board and why not finish the evening off with dinner at Fishermans Cove Restaurant? This is bookable and payable in resort.

Library

The Library has a wide variety of literature available.

Sports & Entertainment

Discover the natural wonders of Borneo and enjoy guided natural walks through the jungle whilst for those that want to enjoy the ocean a wide range of water sports and activities can be organised including diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, yachting and kayaking, among other opportunities. In addition golf and yoga are available.

Gaya Island Resort

Room Types

More images

Suria Suite

Double and Twin: max 4 adults and 1 child

The Suria Suite is a luxurious two-bedroom suite which sits on the hillside and has stunning ocean views. The ground floor consists of a lounge, dining area and outdoor deck. The bedrooms are located on the first floor and both come with en-suites and an outdoor bathrub on the balcony.

Size: 188sqm

Show room facilities

Air Conditioning
Balcony or Terrace
Bath
Hairdryer
In Room WiFi
Ironing Facilities
Satellite/Cable TV
Separate Shower
Tea & Coffee Facilities
Telephone
Towels included

Kinabalu Villa

Double: max 2 adults or 2 adults and 1 child

Kinabalu Villas provide the best views in the resort over the South China Sea. The silhouette of Mount Kinabalu can also be seen on a clear day. All feature an outdoor veranda with day beds, a large open bathroom fitted with an oversized bathtub and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Some connecting rooms are available for families.

Size: 47sqm

Show room facilities

Air Conditioning
Bath
Flatscreen TV
Minibar
Safe
Satellite/Cable TV
Sea View
Separate Shower
Telephone
Towels included

Canopy Villa

Double: max 2 adults or 2 adults and 1 child

Canopy Villas are set amongst a tropical mangrove on a gently sloping hillside within walking distance from the beach. All feature an outdoor veranda with day beds, a large open bathroom fitted with an oversized bathtub and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Size: 47sqm

Show room facilities

Air Conditioning
Bath
Flatscreen TV
Minibar
Safe
Satellite/Cable TV
Separate Shower
Telephone
Towels included

Bayu Villa

Double: max 2 adults or 2 adults and 1 child

Bayu Villas are set amidst lush rainforest on a hillside. All feature an outdoor veranda with day beds, a large open bathroom fitted with an oversized bathtub and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Some connecting rooms are available for families.

Size: 47sqm

Show room facilities

Air Conditioning
Bath
Flatscreen TV
Minibar
Safe
Satellite/Cable TV
Separate Shower
Telephone
Towels included

Gaya Island Resort

Food & Drink

Feast Village

Feast Village is an all day dining restaurant that offers a range of cuisines from the Asia-Pacific area. The open kitchens showcase a bakery, Japanese/Korean, Asian and Western cuisine. Feast Village is located by the lap pool with stunning views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding beach.

Fishermans Cove Restaurant

Fishermans Cove is a beautiful fine dining restaurant located on the resort's rooftop and serves fresh seafood with breathtaking views of the sea and Mount Kinabalu. This restaurant is only available for children over 12 years and a smart casual dress code applies to all diners. Gentlemen must wear long trousers and shoes.

Omakase

Omakase is the hotel's Japanese restaurant and is split over two levels with stunning views over the bay.

Pool Bar & Lounge

The Pool Bar & Lounge overlooks the infinity pool, the perfect place to relax with a refreshment. Light lunches and refreshments are served throughout the day.

Tavajun Bay

Tavajun Bay is a tranquil private beach set in an enclave, a short five minute boat ride from the resort. Open daily for lunch between 12:00 and 15:00 and for beverages until 17:00. You can also arrange private dining here and gourmet picnic baskets.

Board Basis Options

Bed & Breakfast

An extensive buffet breakfast is served at the Feast Village Restaurant.

Full Board

Breakfast is served at the Feast Village Restaurant while lunch can be enjoyed at either Feast Village, the pool bar or Tavajun Bay. Dinner is served at either Feast Village, Omakase or or Fisherman's Cove. Both lunch and dinner include three courses plus mineral water, tea and coffee.

Gaya Island Resort

Family Friendly Facilities

KuRi-KuRi Kids Programme

Keep children entertained with KuRi-KuRi meaning 'play' in the local Bajau language. Half day programmes are available to keep young adventurers occupied with activities and games designed to nurture creativity and educate about the natural surroundings. Programmes are suited for children aged between four to 12 years of age.

Pure Activity Centre

The Pure Activity Centre is designed to satisfy all ages with everything from adventure sports, environmental education and children's activities available. Here you will find a games room with X-Box and Nintendo Wii stations, computer terminals and recreational areas for outdoor movies and other activities. Tribal games can also be enjoyed here.

Children's Swimming Pool

Located next to the main pool there is a small children's section.

Gaya Island Resort

Special Offers

Early booking discount

Early Bird discount

Book 60 days or more prior to arrival to receive up to 10% discount on accommodation

Valid for stays of 3 nights or more travelling 01 April 2020 - 31 March 2021

Blackout dates apply 20 December 2020 - 05 January 2021 and 11 - 21 February 2021

Travelling

Wednesday, April 1, 2020 to Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Offer ends in 413 days

Special offer

Long stay offer

Stay 5 nights or more to receive an additional 10% discount on accommodation and one complimentary 50 minute couples massage per stay

Valid for stays 01 April 2020 - 31 March 2021

Travelling

Wednesday, April 1, 2020 to Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Offer ends in 472 days

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Gaya Island Resort

Distinctly Borneo

Hayes & Jarvis Rating

Guide Price

TripAdvisor Review

Hotel highlights

Hotel Gallery

Beach

Beach Barbecue

Spa Village

Villa

Fisherman's Cove Restaurant

Balcony

Spa Village

Fisherman's Cove Restaurant

Balcony

Spa Reception

Hotel grounds

Swimming Pool

Mount Kinabalu

Pool Bar

Mount Kinabalu

Beach

Breakfast

Beach

Lounge

Lap Pool

Restaurant

Feast Village Restaurant

Gaya Island Beach

Gaya Island Jetty

Kinabalu Guest Room

Hotel Features

General Information

Main Facilities

Accommodation Type

Board Basis Options

For Families

Hotel Location

Location Highlights

Gaya Island Resort

Traveller ratings

What to Expect

Reviews

Wonderful stay thanks to the management team

Wow wow wow

Excellent resort for relaxation & chilling out

Amazing customer service!

Outstanding hospitality

Gaya Island Resort

Facilities

Swimming Pool

Spa Village

Classes and Activities

Fitness Centre

Sunset Cruise

Library

Sports & Entertainment

Gaya Island Resort

Room Types

Suria Suite

Kinabalu Villa

Canopy Villa

Bayu Villa

Gaya Island Resort

Food & Drink

Feast Village

Fishermans Cove Restaurant

Omakase

Pool Bar & Lounge

Tavajun Bay

Board Basis Options

Gaya Island Resort

Family Friendly Facilities

KuRi-KuRi Kids Programme

Pure Activity Centre

Children's Swimming Pool

Gaya Island Resort

Special Offers

Early Bird discount