Hotels in Gaya Island

Embrace the Wild Serenity: Gaya Island’s Hidden Paradise

Gaya Island, nestled in the heart of Sabah, Malaysia, is an idyllic paradise where untouched rainforests meet pristine beaches. This private island boasts luxurious villas that offer breathtaking views and a serene ambiance. Explore the vibrant coral reefs that surround Gaya and nearby Sapi Island, perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures. Immerse yourself in nature as you trek through lush jungles, discovering diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Whether you seek romance, relaxation, or adventure, Gaya Island is a captivating escape that promises an unforgettable experience in paradise. For the best hotel rates in Gaya Island and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Gaya Island

Some of the best places to stay in Gaya Island are Karambunai, Kampung Air and Alamesra. Karambunai, Kampung Air, and Alamesra are fantastic destinations for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Karambunai features luxury beachfront resorts, perfect for those wanting a high-end experience. Kampung Air offers a unique cultural experience with charming accommodations. Alamesra is ideal for nature lovers, with easy access to stunning landscapes. For first-time visitors, Karambunai is the best choice, as it combines luxury and beautiful scenery, with options like free Wi-Fi and resort amenities. Enjoy a memorable stay in this stunning part of Borneo! Here are some of the best hotels in Gaya Island that our travelers love:

1. KarambunaiOpens in a new window: Karambunai is a fantastic destination for beach lovers and families, featuring stunning coastlines and a variety of recreational activities. With attractions like Imago Shopping Mall and 1Borneo Hypermall nearby, visitors can enjoy shopping and entertainment options. Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai is perfect for golf enthusiasts. Recommended hotels include Nexus Resort & Spa KarambunaiOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel with direct beach access, suitable for families and business travelers, offering amenities like a children’s playground and meeting rooms. Borneo Beach VillasOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, also provides beach access and various business services. For a luxurious stay, consider Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota KinabaluOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort that features adventure sports and golf experiences.
2. Kampung AirOpens in a new window: Kampung Air is an excellent choice for families and adventure seekers, with easy access to family-friendly attractions like Gaya Street Sunday Market. The area boasts vibrant shopping options, including Suria Sabah Shopping Mall. Notable hotels include Le Meridien Kota KinabaluOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that provides a range of adventure sports and business amenities, and Hilton Kota KinabaluOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel with excellent business facilities and child-friendly options like a pool. Hyatt Regency KinabaluOpens in a new window, another luxury choice, offers meeting rooms and childcare services, catering to both families and business travelers.
3. AlamesraOpens in a new window: Alamesra is ideal for business travelers, conveniently located near major shopping centers like 1Borneo Hypermall and Imago Shopping Mall. The area is equipped with various dining and entertainment options. Courtyard Hotel @ 1BorneoOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, offers essential business amenities, including meeting rooms. YYK 1Borneo CondominiumOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, features recreational facilities and dining options, ensuring guests have a comfortable stay. For a slightly more upscale experience, Grand Borneo HotelOpens in a new window provides quality accommodations along with fitness facilities and dining options.

Things to do in Gaya Island for first time

Gaya Island is a serene paradise perfect for a three-day getaway, featuring stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs. Travelers can immerse themselves in snorkeling adventures, unwind at idyllic villas, and enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, all while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and diverse marine life. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Gaya Island:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Sabah State Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Sabah. After exploring the museum, head to the nearby Sabah State Mosque, an architectural gem that offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the water. Wrap up your day with a relaxing visit to Sutera Harbour, a beautiful waterfront area perfect for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the sunset, or indulging in a delightful dinner at one of the many restaurants overlooking the harbor.
• Day 2: Start your morning by taking a boat trip to Sapi Island, where you can relax on the sandy beaches or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. Once you've soaked up the sun, return to Kota Kinabalu and visit the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, an impressive structure that reflects the beauty of Islamic architecture. Finish your day with a visit to the Signal Hill Observatory Platform, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline, especially stunning as the sun sets.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, perfect for a leisurely walk along the waterfront, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Next, head to Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, where you can relax in lush surroundings, enjoy a picnic, or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. Conclude your trip with a visit to Sedco Square, where you can explore local shops and enjoy some authentic Malaysian cuisine, making for a delightful end to your Gaya Island exploration.

5 tips to find a great Gaya Island hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Gaya Island is during February, March, and November when hotel prices tend to be lower. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure better rates. To really experience the main attractions, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Gaya Island offers great value for money with its stunning beaches and lush jungles, making it a fantastic destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Gaya Island, consider checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find enticing discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a bargain, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers. This way, you’re more likely to seize opportunities for savings on your getaway. Don't forget to check availability for your desired dates!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the location, star rating, and season. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Gaya Island.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Gaya Island is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like boats to explore the area, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Gaya Island and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Gaya Island

Here are some must-try dishes in Gaya Island, Sabah, Malaysia:

• Nasi Lemak: This beloved Malaysian dish is often considered the national dish. It features fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal (a spicy chili paste), fried crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, and hard-boiled or fried eggs. In Gaya Island, you can enjoy it at local eateries where it’s typically served on a banana leaf, adding to the aroma and flavor. It's a popular breakfast item but enjoyed throughout the day, showcasing the community's love for bold flavors and textures.
• Satay: These skewered and grilled meats, usually chicken or beef, are marinated with a blend of spices and served with a rich peanut sauce. In Gaya Island, you can find vibrant night markets where satay is freshly prepared, offering a spontaneous dining experience. The communal aspect of sharing plates of satay with friends and family highlights the dish’s role in fostering social connections.

Best time to go to Gaya Island

Gaya Island experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 79.9°F (26.6°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). January tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Gaya Island are January, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, April, May, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.