Gaya Island Holidays

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Your Gaya Island Holiday

The easiest way to experience this city is with a custom-made Gaya Island holiday package. Stay in the neighbourhood of Downtown Kota Kinabalu, which is good for bars and pubs, dining and markets or go someplace else — our package deals are all about you. Fill your days with tours of Likas Stadium, Sabah State Mosque and Imago Shopping Mall, some of the top attractions you shouldn't miss during a trip to Gaya Island. Whoever you're taking time off with and whatever you plan to spend, your dream Gaya Island holiday is only clicks away with Expedia.

Things to do near Gaya Island

Gaya Island, Sabah, is perfect for outdoor and adventurous family holidays. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities including island and marine excursions, day cruises, and relaxing treatments at the spa village. For those seeking budget-friendly options, there are also free activities available. Additionally, the island features shopping centres for leisure and education, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

Shopping

Anjung Samudera, located 6.4km away, offers a vibrant public market experience with a bustling atmosphere. Similarly, the KK Plaza, also 6.4km away, features a shopping mall with entertainment and family-friendly options. Finally, the Kota Kinabalu Central Market, 6.4km away, is great for local goods and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Likas Stadium, immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with sports activities, just 8.0km from Gaya Island. Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, situated 14.5km away, offers a perfect blend of golf and outdoor relaxation. For a touch of luxury, Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club awaits 20.9km away.

Adventure

The Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, located 8.0km from Gaya Island, offers thrilling climbing experiences amidst an adventurous atmosphere. For a scenic hike, trek Bukit Padang, situated 9.7km away, where stunning views await. For an adrenaline rush, try the Zip Borneo zipline ropes course, 29.0km from the island.

Nightlife

Gaya Island offers a serene nightlife, perfect for unwinding. Enjoy cocktails at the luxury Gaya Island Resort's bar or dine under the stars at Fisherman’s Wharf. For a lively atmosphere, visit nearby Kota Kinabalu, where vibrant bars and live music thrive after dark.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Gaya Island

Gaya Island in Sabah, Malaysia, is an ideal destination for families and adventure seekers alike. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant tourist precincts, visitors can explore the beauty of Pulau Gaya while enjoying a variety of experiences suitable for all ages. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the harbour or engaging in adventurous pursuits, Gaya Island promises a memorable getaway for every traveller.

  • Sapi Island: Just 3.2km from Gaya Island, Sapi Island offers pristine beaches and vibrant outdoor vibes, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The clear waters and coral reefs provide excellent snorkelling opportunities, making it a haven for marine life enthusiasts.
  • Tunku Abdul Rahman Park: Nestled within Gaya Island, this marine park is ideal for families and adventure seekers. Enjoy activities like snorkelling, diving, and hiking, all while surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and stunning sea views.
  • Sutera Harbour: Located 6.4km away, Sutera Harbour features beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery. It's a perfect spot for leisurely strolls, water sports, or simply relaxing while soaking in the stunning sunset views.

Best time to go to Gaya Island

The best time to visit Gaya Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Gaya Island falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Gaya Island falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December81.0°F (27.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Gaya Island

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Gaya Island.
  • Consider traveling to Gaya Island during the low season (March, May and November) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Gaya Island Essential Information

Language
Malaysian
Currency
Malaysian ringgits
Local Goodbye
Sampai jumpa lagi
Closest Airport
Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI)
Max Temp Winter
29ºC
Max Temp Summer
29ºC
Top Sights
Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park and Sabah State Museum

Top hotels in Gaya Island

Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort

5 out of 5
Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Gaya Island Sabah
The price is £176 per night from 4 Jun to 5 Jun
£176
4 Jun - 5 Jun
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (509 reviews)
"We stayed in a Palm Villa and it was amazing. Loved everything about it, especially the breakfast delivered by boat. We spent a lot of time on our deck and in and out of the water. All staff were friendly and genuine. Food at all meals was great. Snorkeling around the property to look for giant clams ..."

Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026

Gayana Marine Resort
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

5 out of 5
Polish Bay, Gaya Island Gaya Island Sabah
The price is £219 per night from 20 Jun to 21 Jun
£219
20 Jun - 21 Jun
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (188 reviews)
"A wonderful resort for our honeymoon, and one we’d highly recommend particularly the plunge pool villa that overlooks and has private access to the beach. The jetty was a particular highlight — very well lit, and every night we would walk there looking at the marine life; it was like having our own ..."

Reviewed on 20 Apr 2026

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort

5 out of 5
Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya Gaya Island Sabah
The price is £302 per night from 9 Jun to 10 Jun
£302
9 Jun - 10 Jun
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (449 reviews)
"Could be so much better - this is 3 or 4 start at best - Its missing the finishing touches that enhances guest experience - eg 1 hour for bags to be brought to room, food over priced and average - room aircon is not up to standard, not enough power outlets - in reality only one for guest use in the ..."

Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026

Gaya Island Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

What to do in Gaya Island

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.