"Snorkelling, paddle boarding, and kayaking around the resort was incredible."
Nisheet from Switzerland
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"We stayed in a Breeze Villa which was on an ovarian walkway with catfish and marine life swimming around and underneath, just magical."
Kelly Brighty from Malaysia
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"Great sea and snorkelling, with super easy access especially with OCEAN VILLA"
Luca
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Nestled on Gaya Island's Malohom Bay, Gayana Marine Resort offers 5-star accommodations with a focus on ecological preservation. The resort features 52 air-conditioned overwater villas and a diverse range of recreational opportunities, including an on-site Marine Ecology Research Centre.
Rooms & Amenities
Gayana Marine Resort boasts spacious accommodations, including 52 overwater villas that provide views of the surrounding mangrove forests and tropical jungles. Each villa is equipped with premium amenities such as air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Guests can also indulge in 24-hour room service and premium bedding.
Dining Options
Dining options at Gayana Marine Resort include the Macac Restaurant, which serves Western fusion dishes, as well as a Chinese seafood restaurant. Meals can be enjoyed overlooking the turquoise sea, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner offered daily.
Leisure & Spa
Leisure activities at Gayana Marine Resort include snorkeling, fishing, and jungle trekking. The on-site dive centre provides equipment for scuba diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding, catering to both novices and experienced divers. The Solace Spa offers a range of treatments including massages and body therapies.
Location & Transportation
Gayana Marine Resort is conveniently accessible by a 20-minute speedboat ride from the nearby metropolis of Kota Kinabalu. Transport options include water taxis and boat services. Nearby attractions include the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and Signal Hill Observatory Platform.
Must-do experiences
Snorkel at the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for vibrant coral.
Savor the fresh seafood at the nearby Kampung Nelayan Seafood Restaurant.
Explore the eco-educational tours at the Gayana Eco Resort's facilities.
Take a guided night walk at Gaya Island's rainforest for wildlife spotting.
Visit the local Gaya Street Sunday Market for arts and traditional food.
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Select your room type
The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Staycation [Malaysian Citizens & Residents only] Ocean Villa
2 persons
75 m²
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
room details
Rainforest Villa
2 persons
95 m²
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
room details
Ocean Villa
2 persons
75 m²
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
room details
Staycation [Malaysian Citizens & Residents only] Rainforest Villa
2 persons
95 m²
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
room details
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Facilities
The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
Non-smoking rooms
Free Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Luggage storage
Private beach
Sports & Fitness
Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Hiking
Billiard tables
Fishing
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Laundry
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
Kids club
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Spa & wellness centre
Jacuzzi
Massage
Room features
Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Dressing area
Patio
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Parquet floor
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Dining Onsite
At Gayana Marine Resort, the delightful Macac Restaurant offers a laid-back poolside dining experience, serving an enticing selection of Malaysian and international favorites. This family-friendly venue provides a cozy setting to enjoy fresh seafood and hearty meals while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of lush surroundings.
Macac
Malaysian, International
Ambiance
Casual poolside setting, family-friendly
Key Offerings
A diverse menu featuring fresh salads, juicy burgers, flavorful curries, and tender meat dishes, alongside some of the freshest seafood found in Sabah.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; hours vary.
Location
Malohom Bay,
Gaya Island,
Malaysia,
88000,
Sabah
Map view
Malohom Bay,
Gaya Island,
Malaysia,
88000,
Sabah
City landmarks
Beach
Tavajun Bay
340 m
Harbour
Jesselton Point
4.0
km
Landmark
Signal Hill Observatory Platform
4.3
km
Tower
Atkinson Clock Tower
4.4
km
Landmark
I Love KK
4.0
km
Square
Marlin Statue
4.0
km
Market
Gaya Street Sunday Market
4.3
km
Landmark
Pillars of Sabah
4.1
km
Landmark
Borneo Trading Post
4.1
km
Landmark
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
4.2
km
Landmark
Sunday Market
4.3
km
Mall
Wisma Merdeka
4.0
km
Island
Kalimantan
3.9
km
Landmark
Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre
5.1
km
Landmark
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
4.0
km
Landmark
Local food market
4.0
km
Landmark
Island Hop Express
4.0
km
Landmark
Beach Bums Borneo
4.0
km
Landmark
Handicraft Market
4.1
km
Mall
Kk Plaza
4.1
km
Market
Pasar Malam Sinsuran
4.2
km
Park
City Park
4.2
km
Island
Sapi Island
4.6
km
Landmark
Mari Mari Destinations
4.1
km
Landmark
Signal Hill Observatory Tower
4.3
km
Landmark
Street Art & Graffiti Gallery
4.1
km
Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
4.5
km
Landmark
Sabah Tourism Board
4.2
km
Landmark
DHL Sdn. Bhd
4.2
km
Nearby
Malohom Bay Gaya Island
Marine Ecology Research Centre
430 m
Explore Gaya Island
Activities and Dining Near Gayana Marine Resort
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Tavajun Bay
5 minutes' walk
Stunning bay known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Marine Ecology Research Centre
6 minutes' walk
A center dedicated to marine conservation, offering educational displays and insights into local marine life.
Jesselton Point
5 minutes' drive
A bustling ferry terminal that serves as a gateway to nearby islands, featuring shops and cafes along the waterfront.
Atkinson Clock Tower
5 minutes' drive
Historical landmark and one of the oldest structures in Kota Kinabalu, offering great photo opportunities and local history.
Island Hopping Tours
5 minutes' drive
Exciting tours to nearby islands such as Mamutik and Sapi, with snorkeling and swimming included. Rentals are available.
Spa & Wellness Services
5 minutes' drive
Relaxing spa treatments featuring local ingredients and techniques, ideal for recharging after a day of adventure.
Diving Adventures
6 minutes' drive
Thrilling diving experiences available at numerous dive sites around Gaya Island, with gear rentals on offer.
Fisherman's Wharf
5 minutes' drive
Casual eatery specializing in fresh seafood dishes and local cuisine with lovely views of the waterfront.
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
5 minutes' drive
Relaxed café atmosphere offering premium coffee and pastries, perfect for a light snack or meeting spot.
Nook Restaurant
5 minutes' drive
Modern dining experience featuring international cuisine, with vegetarian options and a cozy setting. Reservations recommended.
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
10 minutes' drive
Vibrant waterfront area with street performers, live music, and a variety of bars and restaurants, great for an evening out.
Gaya Street Sunday Market
5 minutes' drive
Weekly market featuring local crafts, food stalls, and live performances, perfect for families and visitors of all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Gaya Island28 min
·
2.3
km
Airports
Kota Kinabalu International (BKI)15 min
·
9.9
km
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
8.5
8.5/10 based on 243 reviews
Juliet
United Kingdom,
March
2025
7.4/10
I recently stayed at Gayana Eco Resort, and overall it was a beautiful and relaxing experience. The environment was stunning with great snorkeling opportunities, and the staff were genuinely friendly and accommodating. However, I encountered some issues with the room cleanliness and the presence of monkeys that made things a bit stressful at times.
Rooms
7.0
We stayed in a spacious Palm Villa that was lovely and comfortable, but it could have used a bit more attention to cleanliness.
Service
6.0
The service was quite good, with staff who were friendly and eager to help, though we had a concerning experience with the lack of support during a monkey incident.
Location
9.0
The resort is beautifully situated in the midst of lush greenery with breathtaking ocean views. However, it's important to be cautious during jellyfish season.
Dining
7.0
Dining options were decent, especially breakfast, but being on a half-board plan left us wanting a bit more variety.
Facilities
8.0
The pool area was lovely and often quiet, which added to the relaxing atmosphere, but the beach area was limited.
Harper
United Kingdom,
February
2025
7.0/10
Our visit was a mixed bag. On one hand, the snorkeling adventure was fantastic, and the included lunch was delicious. On the other hand, the service and condition of the facilities left much to be desired. The location was beautiful, but access to certain areas was quite restricted. Overall, while there were highlights like the activities and meals, the negatives could affect a future stay.
Rooms
5.0
Our room had a nice view but was not what we expected, facing rocky terrain without proper access to the water.
Service
6.0
Service was inconsistent; while some staff were wonderful, others were poorly informed.
Location
8.0
The location amidst lush greenery and ocean views is stunning, but access to water activities was frustrating.
Dining
9.0
Lunch at the seafood Chinese restaurant was fantastic, set in a beautiful location.
Facilities
5.0
Facilities were lacking; many amenities like paddleboards were broken, and the pool had an early closing time.
David
United Kingdom,
December
2024
7.8/10
The resort offers a beautiful and relaxing stay with stunning views and excellent service, especially in the restaurant. However, the pollution in the water detracts from the overall experience, and some amenities were not as accessible as advertised, which is disappointing for the price paid.
Rooms
9.0
We enjoyed our stay in the Palm Villa, which featured a comfortable kingsize bed and a private plunge pool on the balcony. The view of the ocean was breathtaking.
Service
8.0
The service was consistently good, with attentive staff who quickly addressed our concerns during our stay.
Location
7.0
Built on pillars above the sea, the resort provides stunning ocean views and a secluded atmosphere. However, getting to and from the main area requires planning due to limited boat schedules.
Dining
9.0
Dining at the resort was a highlight, with delicious food options at Macac Restaurant, alongside complimentary evening cocktails that enhanced our stay.
Facilities
6.0
Though the eco center was a nice touch, the limited opening hours and closed attractions hindered the full resort experience.
Christian
United Kingdom,
September
2024
8.8/10
Our stay at the resort was absolutely delightful, with stunning ocean views, a beautiful room, and friendly service. The location amidst nature made it feel like a true getaway, although I found the dining options limited for vegetarians. Overall, it's an excellent place for relaxation and adventure, but I wish the food variety was more accommodating.
Rooms
10.0
We chose the Palm Villa, which was breathtaking! The room was spacious, with large windows overlooking the sea and a private deck leading directly into the ocean. The overall setup was very romantic, enhanced by thoughtful touches like flower petals.
Service
9.0
The service was great! The staff were very welcoming, and I felt at home throughout my stay, especially in how they decorated our room.
Location
10.0
The resort is beautifully situated on an island, surrounded by lush forest and breathtaking ocean views. It's truly a picturesque escape.
Dining
6.0
The dining experience fell a bit short for vegetarians, as there were limited options available. I wish there had been more variety for us.
Facilities
9.0
The resort offered fantastic facilities, including a splendid eco-center and activities like snorkeling and a tree-top zip line. It truly enhances the experience.
Beautiful ocean views
Limited vegetarian dining
Naomi
United Kingdom,
September
2024
6.6/10
I had a mixed experience at the resort. The beautiful setting on Gaya Island offered a relaxing atmosphere and amazing marine life to enjoy. Although the staff were friendly and dedicated to ensuring a pleasant stay, several operational issues, such as slow service and limited activity bookings, detracted from the overall experience. The rooms were clean but somewhat dated, and expensive food prices made me wish for better value.
Rooms
7.0
The rooms were clean and comfortable, but felt a bit dated and had a musky smell in the bathroom.
Service
6.0
The staff were genuinely trying to improve guest experiences, but the service was too slow, especially at meal times.
Location
8.0
The resort is located on a beautiful island surrounded by lush forest and stunning ocean views, but be prepared to see some rubbish in the sea.
Dining
5.0
While some of the meals were tasty and at a good standard, we experienced long wait times and high prices.
Facilities
7.0
The resort had a variety of sports activities and a nice spa, but overall, some amenities seemed underdeveloped.
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
All visitors are offered a american breakfast for a fee.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2008
Number of rooms:
77
FAQs
About Gayana Marine Resort
What is the check-in and check-out time at Gayana Marine Resort?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What are the dining options available at Gayana Marine Resort?
Dining options include Macac Restaurant serving international cuisine and Alu Alu specializing in Chinese cuisines.
How far is Gayana Marine Resort from Kota Kinabalu International Airport?
The resort is located 5 km from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, approximately a 20-minute speedboat ride.
Are there any recreational activities offered at Gayana Marine Resort?
Recreational activities include snorkeling, diving, fishing, canoeing, hiking, and visits to the Marine Ecology Research Centre.
Does Gayana Marine Resort have a spa facility?
Yes, the spa offers a range of treatments including massages, body treatments, and features a hot tub and wellness center.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Gayana Marine Resort?
Rooms include air conditioning, a 42-inch flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, coffee and tea making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Is there a children's club available at Gayana Marine Resort?
Yes, there is a kids' club available for younger guests.
What types of views can guests enjoy from their accommodations at Gayana Marine Resort?
Guests can enjoy views of the sea, mangrove, or jungle from their accommodations.
Does Gayana Marine Resort provide airport transfer services?
Paid airport transfer services are available to and from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
What is the distance from Gayana Marine Resort to nearby attractions?
Nearby attractions include the Marine Ecology Research Centre at 0.3 km, Sapi Island at 3 km, and Handicraft Market at 4 km.
Does Gayana Marine Resort offer complimentary breakfast?
Yes, a daily complimentary breakfast is served at Macac Restaurant.