Gaya Island Resort

Nestled in the ancient rain forest within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the resort's design integrates the natural world with local architecture and materials. Check-in takes place in the open-air main building, which, like most structures on the property, features vaulted timber ceilings, teak furniture, and wooden floors. Outside, wooden boardwalks and concrete walkways overhung with lush foliage encircle the hilly property, and rustic signposts point the way to resort destinations. These include the Spa Village -- a two-story contemporary structure with serene koi ponds and open-air lounging and treatment pavilions -- the main dining room, and the well-equipped gym. Further uphill, protected mangroves lend privacy to the villas, though reaching these requires a steep climb. This resort primarily attracts couples looking to explore the surrounding nature, thanks to its extensive list of free activities offered, but families are also common.

The resort is situated on Gaya Island, the largest of five islands that comprise Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, located off Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia. The hotel is reached by a 15-minute ferry ride from the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu. Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Malaysia's second busiest, is a two-hour drive from the ferry terminal. A wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center open to visitors is a five-minute boat ride or a 45-minute guided trek from the resort. 

The Gaya Island Resort's 120 hillside villas are large yet intimate, combining traditional textiles and local materials with contemporary design. Sleek wooden platform beds with Italian linens rest under vaulted timber ceilings, while locally handmade baskets and crafts decorate the spaces. Room styles range from smaller Bayu Villas near the beach (ideal for families with small children) to hilltop Kinabalu Villas, which offer more privacy plus sea and mountain views. Standard features include free Wi-Fi, large flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and safes. Extra perks include butler service and outdoor verandas with daybeds, though cushions may be dirty. Large bathrooms have big bathtubs, separate glass showers, and double sinks. Robes and slippers, hairdryers, and luxury toiletries are also provided. 

Apart from its stunning natural surroundings, a key feature of the resort is its location within the Coral Triangle, an underwater realm just off the shore offering more than 25 year-round dive spots. The PADI five-star dive center has programs for novices through seasoned explorers, including intensive scuba training, guided snorkeling, and dive tours. The PURE activity center organizes a daily list of organized programs, including deep sea fishing excursions, free beachside exercise classes, free guided nature walks, free visits to the marine rescue center, and local craft classes. 

The lovely crescent-shaped beach is a stretch of beige sand lined with cushioned loungers and parasols. Overlooking the beach is the 40-meter (132 feet) pool with daybeds just above the water and a swim-up bar. There's also a separate children's wading pool, and green cushioned loungers are set up for guests.

The multilevel spa has a variety of traditional and local-inspired treatments available for both couples and individuals. Yoga classes and guided meditations are also available. The wood-filled gym has cardio and weight-training equipment, as well as free weights. There's also a library to check email on a computer or browse shelves with books for borrow. A second-story conference room in the main complex holds up to 100 people and weddings can be held on the beach. The resort also features a gift shop selling local handicrafts, tea, and spices. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

There are three on-site restaurants, plus private dining can be arranged. In the main complex overlooking the pool, the large and airy Feast Village serves buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The rooftop Fisherman's Cove offers a seafood menu and gorgeous sunset views, but note that a dress code is required and children under 12 aren't allowed. The hillside Omakase restaurant serves traditional Japanese specialties for dinner. Overlooking the resort's infinity pool and floating cabanas, the all-day Pool Bar & Lounge serves casual fare and cocktails. Guests can also take a five-minute ferry ride to the private Tavajun Bay for lunch.