A group of five islands just offshore from Kota Kinabalu with beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and jungle trails.

About Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park encompasses five islands — Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug — forming a tropical paradise visible from Kota Kinabalu\'s waterfront. The park protects coral reefs, mangrove forests, and pristine beaches that feel worlds away from the city despite being just a short boat ride offshore.

Manukan Island is the most developed, with a resort, restaurant, and the best facilities including changing rooms and snorkel rental. Sapi Island offers excellent snorkeling with clear water and abundant marine life, plus a zipline between Sapi and Gaya. Gaya Island is the largest, home to a luxury Gayana Marine Resort and the water village of Kampung Gaya. Mamutik is the smallest and often the least crowded — ideal for a quieter beach experience.

The coral reefs around the islands support an impressive diversity of tropical fish, sea cucumbers, and occasionally sea turtles. Snorkeling equipment is available for rent on the more developed islands. For the best experience, visit on weekdays when the islands receive fewer day-trippers. Island-hopping packages allowing visits to 2-3 islands in a day are popular and available at Jesselton Point.

Nearby Landmarks

Manukan Island Sapi Island Gaya Island Coral reefs Jesselton Point terminal

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost RM40-60 (~$9-13) to jetty
Time 20-30 min to jetty

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost RM30-50 (~$7-11) to jetty
Time 20-30 min to jetty

Grab to Jesselton Point jetty

Step-by-Step Directions

Take Grab to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in city center, then speedboat to islands (Sapi, Manukan, or Mamutik).

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi RM40-60 (~$9-13) to jetty 20-30 min to jetty Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare RM30-50 (~$7-11) to jetty 20-30 min to jetty Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The marine park islands must be vacated by sunset (around 6:00 PM) unless staying at an island resort. All boats return to Jesselton Point by late afternoon. For guests at Gayana Marine Resort or Manukan Island Resort, private boat transfers operate on a different schedule. There is no overnight camping on public island areas.

Luggage Tips

Speedboats have very limited luggage space — bring only a daypack with towel, sunscreen, water, and snorkel gear. Leave main luggage at your KK hotel or airport storage. If staying at an island resort, the resort will arrange luggage transfer separately. Waterproof bags or phone cases are strongly recommended for the boat ride.

Accessibility

Access to the marine park islands is challenging for wheelchair users. Speedboats require stepping down into the vessel and boarding involves waves and movement. Island beaches are sandy with no paved paths. Manukan Island has the best facilities but is still limited in accessibility. Contact the park authorities for specific advice. Jesselton Point terminal itself is accessible.