Situated on a hillside amidst lush rainforest, these inviting villas offer a peaceful setting with leafy views ranging from the rainforest canopy to the tropical mangroves. Connecting rooms are available for families.
- Overview
- Room Types
- Dining
- Gallery
There are few places as naturally breath-taking as the 5-star Gaya Island Resort in Borneo. Tucked away within the wild tendrils of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a protected marine reserve along Borneo’s Kota Kinabalu coastline, you’re guaranteed some of the most jaw-dropping scenery: crystal-clear waters, colourful coral reefs and sugary beaches with rare views of Borneo’s Mount Kinabalu. With the aim to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the resort has been built using locally sourced materials and features traditional Sabahan influences. Towering on stilts that peek out from the mangrove forest, many of the villas offer unparalleled views across the South China Sea and beyond. The lantern-lit Spa Village is the ultimate mind and body treat with traditional therapies and healing practices harnessing local ingredients from the surrounds. For those not content to simply relax and soak up the scenery, forest walks, snorkelling, meditation, and yoga classes will keep even the busiest entertained.
WHY WE LOVE IT
Surrounded by the largest stretch of tropical rainforest in Southeast Asia, Gaya Island is a thrill for nature seekers looking to discover the history and nature in a responsible way. We love that daily forest walks – led by a Resident Naturalist – allow guests to explore the biodiverse habitat in a responsible way. The mangroves are home to 288 species of mammals, over 600 species of birds and 10 species of primates, including the unusual proboscis monkey.
Room Types
Bayu Villa Views of the rainforest or the mangroves
Canopy Villa Views of the mangroves
Set amongst a tropical mangrove on a gently sloping hillside, these villas offer a beautiful outlook and are walking distance from the resort's pristine sandy beach, with a selection of rooms that are located closer to the resort's main facilities.
Kinabalu Villa Views of the sea
With views stretching across the South China Sea, and where the silhouette of Mount Kinabalu can be seen on a clear day, these Kinabalu Villas provide the best views in the resort. Connecting rooms are available for families.
Suria Suite Views of the sea
This luxurious two-bedroom suite lies on the hillside with stunning ocean views. The ground floor features relaxing lounge and dining areas, and a pantry which leads onto an outdoor deck. The spacious bedrooms on the first floor both come with en-suites and a decadent outdoor bath on the balcony provides breathtaking views.
Dining
Feast Village International cuisine
Savour a vibrant, interactive dining experience that offers diverse cuisine from the Asia-Pacific region. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the dynamic open kitchens showcase a bakery, Japanese/Korean, Asian and Western selections. The location by the lap pool offers stunning views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding beach.
Fisherman's Cove Seafood restaurant
"Situated on the rooftop with a breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu, Fisherman's Cove features a unique symphony of seafood themed dishes crafted by Chef Wai, the pioneer of this locally and internationally acclaimed restaurant, which focuses on sustainable fishing practices and the freshest ingredients. The seaside restaurant welcomes children aged 12 years and above for the comfort of all our guests. Dress code for adults is resort smart casual."
Omakase Japanese restaurant
Surrounded by an ancient rainforest, this two-storey Japanese restaurant is perched on a hillside with a stunning view of Malohom Bay and Mount Kinabalu. Three Japanese omakase-style dining experiences are available under one roof ranging from teppanyaki, shabu-shabu and nabe. These heart-warming dinners will delight guests of all ages.
Pool bar & Lounge Enjoy all the live action at the buzzing Teppanyaki restaurant!
Overlooking the resort's tranquil infinity pool and floating cabanas, the Pool Bar & Lounge with its al fresco location and natural light is the perfect place to relax after a swim or relish a casual lunch. In the evenings, enjoy sundowners and light refreshments as the sun sets over Mount Kinabalu.
Tavajun Bay Destination dining
A short 5-minute boat ride from the resort, this tranquil private beach is perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun, lulled by a gentle sea breeze. Infused by local and international influences, lunch is a single dish meal made over charcoal embers which changes daily. Alternatively, simply pre-order a personalised gourmet picnic basket.
Gallery
