Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Resorts
8.8
/10
Very Good
449 reviews

What Guests Say About Their Stay

Thomas
10.0
/ 10
We were a group of nature lovers who were using this as a three night stay to get used to the temperature and time change upon arrival in Borneo. Loved the grounds and snorkeling right from the beach. Fantastic nature center staffed by several biologists. The food options were a bit pricey but we were expecting that. The grounds were very birdy and we found two Borean Pit Vipers. The mangrove tour was fantastic. Room is very good quality for the price.
Gitanjali
10.0
/ 10
Situated in one of the largest underwater national parks. Spectacular natural beauty with sea, sand and jungle. Hundreds of species of marine and island life. Underwater and above ground Activities beautifully curated by YTL staff to blend conservation and fun.
hywel
10.0
/ 10
The staff, the staff, the staff. Such genuine helpful staff quick to resolve any problems. Genuine smiles. The East Malaysians are the best hosts.
In the Area
See Map
Malahom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Gaya Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, 88000

Main Facilities

Read More
AC
Restaurant
Swimming Pool
24-Hour Front Desk
Parking
WiFi
Staying at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a good choice when you are visiting Gaya Island. 24-hours front desk is available to serve you, from check-in to check-out, or any assistance you need. Should you desire more, do not hesitate to ask the front desk, we are always ready to accommodate you. WiFi is available within public areas of the property to help you to stay connected with family and friends.
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What's around Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Malahom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Gaya Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, 88000
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Lobby Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Lobby 2 Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Discover More About Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Location


Staying at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a good choice when you are visiting Gaya Island.

About Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

This resort is the perfect choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway or a honeymoon retreat. Enjoy the most memorable nights with your loved one by staying at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World is the splendid choice for you who are seeking a luxurious treat for your holiday. Get pampered with the most excellent services and make your holiday memorable by staying here.

Spa treatment is one of the main features of the resort. Pamper yourself with the relaxing treatment that rejuvenates you.

This resort is the best spot for you who desire a serene and peaceful getaway, far away from the crowds.

The highest quality service accompanying its extensive facilities will make you get the ultimate holiday experience.

The resort’s fitness center is a must-try during your stay here.

Have an enjoyable and relaxing day at the pool, whether you’re traveling solo or with your loved ones.

Get the best deal for finest quality of spa treatment to unwind and rejuvenate yourself.

24-hours front desk is available to serve you, from check-in to check-out, or any assistance you need. Should you desire more, do not hesitate to ask the front desk, we are always ready to accommodate you.

Savor your favorite dishes with special cuisines from Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World exclusively for you.

WiFi is available within public areas of the property to help you to stay connected with family and friends.

Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a resort with great comfort and excellent service according to most resort's guests.

Get precious and unforgettable moment during your stay at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

All facilities in Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Bar, Cafe and Lounge Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Bar, Cafe and Lounge
Swimming Pool Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Swimming Pool
Lobby Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Lobby
Accommodation Services Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Accommodation Services
Exterior Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Exterior

In-room Facilities

  • Bathrobe
  • Bathtub
  • Cable TV
  • Desk
  • Hairdryer
  • In-room safe
  • Minibar
  • Separate shower and tub
  • Shower
  • TV

Hotel Services

  • Bellhop
  • Welcoming drinks
  • Concierge
  • Front desk
  • 24-hour Receptionist
  • 24-hour security
  • Laundry service
  • Medical service
  • Wedding service

Things to Do

  • Beach towel
  • Fitness center
  • Garden
  • Library
  • Massage
  • Outdoor pool
  • Private beach
  • Spa

Food and Drinks

  • A la carte dinner
  • A la carte lunch
  • Breakfast
  • Breakfast and dinner
  • Breakfast and lunch
  • Continental breakfast
  • Fullboard without drinks

Public Facilities

  • Parking
  • Restaurant
  • Breakfast restaurant
  • Dinner restaurant
  • Lunch restaurant
  • Safety deposit box
  • WiFi in public area

General

  • AC
  • Heater
  • Non-smoking room
  • Swimming pool
  • Smoking area

Kids and Pets

  • Babysitting
  • Babysitting with surcharge
  • Highchairs

Business Facilities

  • Conference room
  • Meeting facilities

Transportation

  • Airport transfer

Nearby Facilities

  • Shops

Sports and Recreations

  • Fitness center

Connectivity

  • Free WiFi

Shuttle Service

  • Airport transfer (surcharge)

Accommodation Policy & General Information in Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Important Note

As announced by Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Tourism Tax is imposed starting 1 January 2023 for all hotel guests that are non-Malaysian or non-permanent Residents of Malaysia. Please expect that hotel will collect the Tourism Tax from you during check-in at the hotel. The Tourism Tax rate is 10 RM per room per night.

Check-in/Check-out Time

Check-in:
From 15:00
Check-out:
Before 11:00

General Check-in Instructions

Speedboat transfers are required for your arrival to and departure from the resort. Transfer rates are as follows: MYR 80 per way for each adult MYR 40 per way for each child From Jesselton Point Jetty : 10:00am | 12:00pm | 2:00pm | 4:00pm | 6:00pm | 9:00pm From Gaya Island Resort : 8:00am | 9:00am | 11:00am | 1:00pm | 3:00pm | 5:00pm | 6:30pm. Please check-in at the office which located at Jesselton Point Jetty 20 minutes prior to schedule speedboat departure times. Alternately, a chartered private speedboat can be pre-arranged at MYR500 between 07:00 hours to 21:00 hours or MYR700 between 21:00 hours to 07:00 hours.

Pets

Pets are not allowed in the accommodation.
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General Information

Popular Facilities
AC, Restaurant, Swimming Pool, 24-Hour Front Desk, Parking, WiFi
Check-In / Check-Out Time
From 15:00 - to 11:00
Breakfast Availability
Yes, hotel has room that provide breakfast
Available rooms at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
121
Number of floors in Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
2
Another facilities in Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Bathrobe, Bathtub, Cable TV, Desk, Hairdryer

Frequently asked questions about Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

What are available facilities at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World?
There are top facilites at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World such as AC, Restaurant, Swimming Pool, 24-Hour Front Desk, Parking, WiFi. (some may require extra charges)
What is normal check-in & check-out time at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World?
The standard check-in time at Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World is starting from From 15:00 while the latest check-out time is at Before 11:00
Does Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World provide breakfast?
Yes, Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World provides breakfast. However, you need to choose a room with breakfast or pay extra charge if you book a room without breakfast.
What is the star rating of Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World?
Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World has a 5.0-star rating.
How many floors does Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World have?
Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World has 2.
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More Reviews from Other Guests in Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

8.8
Very Good
From 445 reviews
Cleanliness

9.0

Room Comfort

9.2

Location

8.0

Service and Facilites

9.0

Sort by
Most Relevant
Preferences
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Traveller Reviews Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Number of reviews per page
20
40
Top reviews
Thomas
icon-Leisure Family
Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 34 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

We were a group of nature lovers who were using this as a three night stay to get used to the temperature and time change upon arrival in Borneo. Loved the grounds and snorkeling right from the beach. Fantastic nature center staffed by several biologists. The food options were a bit pricey but we were expecting that. The grounds were very birdy and we found two Borean Pit Vipers. The mangrove tour was fantastic. Room is very good quality for the price.
Read More
Gitanjali
icon-Business and Leisure Family
Business and Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 48 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Situated in one of the largest underwater national parks. Spectacular natural beauty with sea, sand and jungle. Hundreds of species of marine and island life. Underwater and above ground Activities beautifully curated by YTL staff to blend conservation and fun.
hywel
icon-Leisure Family
Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 52 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The staff, the staff, the staff. Such genuine helpful staff quick to resolve any problems. Genuine smiles. The East Malaysians are the best hosts.
Amanda
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
6.0
/10
Reviewed 59 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The property itself and rooms were nice, but the resort was way too expensive for what was provided. we did not feel like we got value doe the money. The meals were excessively expensive for what they were, and left us with traveler's diarrhea unfortunately. Very basic tours were extra charges too, as were the transfers in and out from kota Kinabalu. We also stayed way too long. I think max 3 nights would be recommended so you don't get bored.
Read More
Verified traveler
10.0
/10
Reviewed 66 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

Wonderful location and views. Staff were always friendly, helpful and polite. Fantastic range of activities.
Verified traveler
icon-Friends and Family
Friends and Family
8.0
/10
Reviewed 69 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

Beautiful location, well organised, excellent food, friendly staff, amazing rooms. Many hidden taxes ... and service charge added even for buffet meal (which was self service ... although did finally remove when challenged). The private beach had a huge rubbish dump just behind the sandy beach. Very disappointing to see on a luxury trip. Great to see the conservation work with rescued turtles and coral. Strange to see complimentary ice lollies being handed out by pool, but only if you agreed to a young waiter taking a photo on his mobile phone ... bizarre.
Read More
Lesley
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
8.0
/10
Reviewed 85 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Had a lovely stay, would like to have seen more food options and later bar food service. Activities team were great, reception and waiting staff were not very friendly, expected a higher level of service.
Siu Chui
10.0
/10
Reviewed 93 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The property has a beautiful setting with the sea and a primary forest as its backdrop. The hotel excursions are excellent with an added inspiration on marine and forest conservation. Coral garden snorkelling and forest trekking are highly recommended. The staff are all genuinely kind and attentive. A very good resort.
Matthew
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
6.0
/10
Reviewed 124 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Starting with the positives, Gaya Island Resort is in a wonderful setting. The accommodation is spacious with nice outlooks, though depending where you are you could have quite an uphill hike to your rooms. We had the buffet meals in the dining room and the standard of what was offered was very high. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The service however of the management and reservations team leading up to our visit was appalling. Despite having paid in full we were sent automated messages threatening to cancel our booking and keep any monies already paid. When we replied explaining payment had been made and asking for clarification we simply received the same message again. None of these messages came with a name or contact details. Several attempts to ring the reservations line all concluded the same way i.e. being told all the lines were busy and the phone call was dropped. Expedia's initial attempts to contact the resort also failed but we assume they eventually worked, as we received an email from the resort informing us we should ignore the previous messages. No hint of an apology was offered. On top of this, on two of the days we stayed there was, for different periods of time, no water and no electricity. Regarding the water, on one occasion this lasted for over 9 hours. Finally the cleanliness of the resort in some areas was disappointing. In particular the gym floor was covered in sand and even hairs - very unpleasant.
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Samantha, Li Cheng
icon-Leisure with Friends
Leisure with Friends
8.0
/10
Reviewed 161 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Villa was nice and spacious. Service was excellent. Food needs to improve
Yen Ying
icon-Friends and Family
Friends and Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 305 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

My family and I stayed at GIR for 2 nights and had a great time. The rooms were enormous (complete with separate areas for walk in robes, bathtub, shower, toilet). Room amenities were excellent, with bug spray and ointment for insect bites. Our rooms had fantastic views across the sea to Mt Kinabalu, beautiful to watch the sunrise every morning. The staff were all very friendly and attentive to our needs. We will absolutely be back again. Thank your GIR for a great time!
Read More
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
4.0
/10
Reviewed 307 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Each room has a bath tub but there were less hot water in the evening. Even after water filled, many aunts was floating.
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
8.0
/10
Reviewed 307 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

suggest book activity or dinner reservation early, before arrive as not many slots
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure Family
Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 308 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

I loved almost everything. The property and rooms were spectacular. pool was beautiful and the food was fantastic. The only thing I didn't absolutely love - mattress softness, having to rent watersports equipment rather than it being included
Alice
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
10.0
/10
Reviewed 308 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Great hotel and staff. A very relaxing island escape.
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
10.0
/10
Reviewed 310 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The water was clear and beautiful, the staff was extremely welcoming, and the experience was overall very relaxing.
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
8.0
/10
Reviewed 314 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Jungle walk and snorkeling ..... . ................. .
Robert
10.0
/10
Reviewed 316 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

We had an excellent weekend at Gaya Island Resort. An amazing setting so near KK and yet so far away. Without exception staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. The food was also perfect with the chef willing to go the extra mile.
Stella
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
10.0
/10
Reviewed 316 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Beautiful resort!! And from our room excellent view to the bay and all the pied hornbills, loved it!!!! A pity that the European and Japanese food were not good, instead of the local food, which was wonderful!
Verified traveler
icon-Friends and Family
Friends and Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 322 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Loved the location and experience, although as a single traveller thought there might be s bit more to do especially at night
Number of reviews per page
20
40

Ready to make up your mind?

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Exterior 4 Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: It is the hotel's responsibility to ensure that all photos are accurate. Traveloka will not be held responsible for any photo inaccuracies.
8.8
Very Good
From 445 reviews
Cleanliness

9.0

Room Comfort

9.2

Location

8.0

Service and Facilites

9.0

Sort by
Most Relevant
Preferences
See All

Traveller Reviews Gaya Island Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Number of reviews per page
20
40
Top reviews
Thomas
icon-Leisure Family
Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 34 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

We were a group of nature lovers who were using this as a three night stay to get used to the temperature and time change upon arrival in Borneo. Loved the grounds and snorkeling right from the beach. Fantastic nature center staffed by several biologists. The food options were a bit pricey but we were expecting that. The grounds were very birdy and we found two Borean Pit Vipers. The mangrove tour was fantastic. Room is very good quality for the price.
Read More
Gitanjali
icon-Business and Leisure Family
Business and Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 48 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Situated in one of the largest underwater national parks. Spectacular natural beauty with sea, sand and jungle. Hundreds of species of marine and island life. Underwater and above ground Activities beautifully curated by YTL staff to blend conservation and fun.
hywel
icon-Leisure Family
Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 52 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The staff, the staff, the staff. Such genuine helpful staff quick to resolve any problems. Genuine smiles. The East Malaysians are the best hosts.
Amanda
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
6.0
/10
Reviewed 59 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The property itself and rooms were nice, but the resort was way too expensive for what was provided. we did not feel like we got value doe the money. The meals were excessively expensive for what they were, and left us with traveler's diarrhea unfortunately. Very basic tours were extra charges too, as were the transfers in and out from kota Kinabalu. We also stayed way too long. I think max 3 nights would be recommended so you don't get bored.
Read More
Verified traveler
10.0
/10
Reviewed 66 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

Wonderful location and views. Staff were always friendly, helpful and polite. Fantastic range of activities.
Verified traveler
icon-Friends and Family
Friends and Family
8.0
/10
Reviewed 69 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

Beautiful location, well organised, excellent food, friendly staff, amazing rooms. Many hidden taxes ... and service charge added even for buffet meal (which was self service ... although did finally remove when challenged). The private beach had a huge rubbish dump just behind the sandy beach. Very disappointing to see on a luxury trip. Great to see the conservation work with rescued turtles and coral. Strange to see complimentary ice lollies being handed out by pool, but only if you agreed to a young waiter taking a photo on his mobile phone ... bizarre.
Read More
Lesley
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
8.0
/10
Reviewed 85 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Had a lovely stay, would like to have seen more food options and later bar food service. Activities team were great, reception and waiting staff were not very friendly, expected a higher level of service.
Siu Chui
10.0
/10
Reviewed 93 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The property has a beautiful setting with the sea and a primary forest as its backdrop. The hotel excursions are excellent with an added inspiration on marine and forest conservation. Coral garden snorkelling and forest trekking are highly recommended. The staff are all genuinely kind and attentive. A very good resort.
Matthew
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
6.0
/10
Reviewed 124 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Starting with the positives, Gaya Island Resort is in a wonderful setting. The accommodation is spacious with nice outlooks, though depending where you are you could have quite an uphill hike to your rooms. We had the buffet meals in the dining room and the standard of what was offered was very high. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The service however of the management and reservations team leading up to our visit was appalling. Despite having paid in full we were sent automated messages threatening to cancel our booking and keep any monies already paid. When we replied explaining payment had been made and asking for clarification we simply received the same message again. None of these messages came with a name or contact details. Several attempts to ring the reservations line all concluded the same way i.e. being told all the lines were busy and the phone call was dropped. Expedia's initial attempts to contact the resort also failed but we assume they eventually worked, as we received an email from the resort informing us we should ignore the previous messages. No hint of an apology was offered. On top of this, on two of the days we stayed there was, for different periods of time, no water and no electricity. Regarding the water, on one occasion this lasted for over 9 hours. Finally the cleanliness of the resort in some areas was disappointing. In particular the gym floor was covered in sand and even hairs - very unpleasant.
Read More
Samantha, Li Cheng
icon-Leisure with Friends
Leisure with Friends
8.0
/10
Reviewed 161 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Villa was nice and spacious. Service was excellent. Food needs to improve
Yen Ying
icon-Friends and Family
Friends and Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 305 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

My family and I stayed at GIR for 2 nights and had a great time. The rooms were enormous (complete with separate areas for walk in robes, bathtub, shower, toilet). Room amenities were excellent, with bug spray and ointment for insect bites. Our rooms had fantastic views across the sea to Mt Kinabalu, beautiful to watch the sunrise every morning. The staff were all very friendly and attentive to our needs. We will absolutely be back again. Thank your GIR for a great time!
Read More
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
4.0
/10
Reviewed 307 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Each room has a bath tub but there were less hot water in the evening. Even after water filled, many aunts was floating.
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
8.0
/10
Reviewed 307 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

suggest book activity or dinner reservation early, before arrive as not many slots
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure Family
Leisure Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 308 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

I loved almost everything. The property and rooms were spectacular. pool was beautiful and the food was fantastic. The only thing I didn't absolutely love - mattress softness, having to rent watersports equipment rather than it being included
Alice
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
10.0
/10
Reviewed 308 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Great hotel and staff. A very relaxing island escape.
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
10.0
/10
Reviewed 310 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

The water was clear and beautiful, the staff was extremely welcoming, and the experience was overall very relaxing.
Verified traveler
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
8.0
/10
Reviewed 314 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Jungle walk and snorkeling ..... . ................. .
Robert
10.0
/10
Reviewed 316 week(s) ago

Hotels.com verified review

We had an excellent weekend at Gaya Island Resort. An amazing setting so near KK and yet so far away. Without exception staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. The food was also perfect with the chef willing to go the extra mile.
Stella
icon-Leisure with Partner
Leisure with Partner
10.0
/10
Reviewed 316 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Beautiful resort!! And from our room excellent view to the bay and all the pied hornbills, loved it!!!! A pity that the European and Japanese food were not good, instead of the local food, which was wonderful!
Verified traveler
icon-Friends and Family
Friends and Family
10.0
/10
Reviewed 322 week(s) ago

Expedia Group verified review

Loved the location and experience, although as a single traveller thought there might be s bit more to do especially at night
Number of reviews per page
20
40