Tucked amidst protected mangroves, sheltered coral reefs and curled around the pristine sandy coast of Malohom Bay rests Gaya Island Resort. Set on an island within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, discover a sanctuary nestled in the hillside of an ancient rainforest with a stunning outline of Mount Kinabalu on the horizon.
With its youthful vibe and sun-dappled moments, this beachfront resort blends harmoniously with the natural environment featuring a collection of hillside villas with views that range from mangrove forests and the surrounding canopy to the outline of Mount Kinabalu. Villa interiors are contemporary and elegant, eco-luxury yet respectful of Sabahan elements.
Discoveries, authentic experiences and a sense of intimacy with the natural world all prevail across the land and seascape of this resort offering travellers and families an escape that is distinctively Borneo.
The resort is committed to ecologically-sustainable practices to minimise its carbon footprint within the environment. Therefore, it is a walking resort with minimal motorised vehicles used for operational purposes.
Accommodation
Beautifully situated, Gaya Island Resort is set amidst lush rainforest with breathtaking views of the wonders created by nature over thousands of years.
Ancient rainforest and protected mangroves surround the idyllic villas set in the hills. Spacious, tactile and modern yet respectful of local Sabahan elements, each accommodation uses local materials that blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Villa interiors are designed with a contemporary elegance and offer a variety of views including mangrove, canopy, tropical rainforest and the South China Sea. The villas' amenities include comfortable bedding, a writing desk, a powered safe, a flat screen television with satellite channels, a large open en-suite bathroom with an oversized bathtub and two vanity units, and an outdoor verandah with day beds.
Sunset Private Dining
Cooking Class
Gastronomy
The regional cuisine and exquisite fresh seafood prepared by our skilled chefs is a play on the senses, setting the stage for guests to recount the day's adventures with family and friends, new and old.
Be it dining at leisure on your personal verandah space in-villa or a picnic at your chosen nook or the simple pleasure of gathering around a crackling barbecue pit on the beach at dusk, these experiences form another facet of treasured memories to take home.
Feast Village
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
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.
Omakase
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
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
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
Private dining experiences
Breathtaking vistas, verdant greenery, waves crashing on the shore, or fresh, salty air to whet the appetite make our private dining experiences a treat for all the senses.Every dining experience is a unique culinary adventure waiting to be explored with indelible memories to treasure for a lifetime.
The Wellbeing Difference
Reconnect to a PURE world, the island, and the pace at which you choose to experience its endless wonders, is yours.
Red Giant Flying Squirrels
Resort Marine Centre