The short answer
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park: what visitors should know first
Yes, if you like water and open air. Pick one or two islands (Manukan and Mamutik are the usual choices), go on a morning boat from the waterfront, and check sea conditions and current fees with the operator before you buy tickets.
History and context
The story behind Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Gaya and Sapi were gazetted in 1974 and the park was extended in 1979 to take in Manukan, Mamutik and Sulug. Gaya was also where the North Borneo Chartered Company opened a trading settlement in 1882 before the capital moved to the mainland.
Useful facts
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park facts at a glance
- Location
- Five islands off Kota Kinabalu: Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Sulug and Mamutik
- Area
- About 49 sq km, roughly two-thirds sea
- Gazetted
- 1974, extended 1979
- Good for
- Snorkelling, swimming, short walks, picnics
- Access
- Boat from the city waterfront terminal
Why it matters
Why Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is worth your time
The park explains why Kota Kinabalu is a coastal city that people leave by boat. It was gazetted in 1974 with Gaya and Sapi, and enlarged in 1979 to include Manukan, Mamutik and Sulug, so about two-thirds of its roughly 49 square kilometres is sea. That makes it a protected reef and island system within sight of the city's offices.
It also matters historically: the first British North Borneo Company settlement was on Gaya in 1882, before the administration moved to the mainland. For a family trip it is the simplest way to add a beach, a swim and some quiet time without moving hotels.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Manukan for comfort
The second-largest island has facilities, shade and a good beach, so it suits mixed-age groups.
- 02
Reef snorkelling
Reefs off Manukan and Sapi are close to shore and good for a first snorkel.
- 03
Gaya trails
Gaya has about 20 km of forest paths for those who want walking over beaches.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Book a morning boat package from the waterfront terminal, because the sea is calmer and the beaches are less crowded before midday. Most visitors choose Manukan, the second-largest island, which has chalets, restaurants, a pool and a diving centre, or Mamutik, the smallest, which has a jetty, picnic shelters and changing rooms. Ask the operator which islands the ticket covers and how long you get ashore, and make sure the return time is written down.
On arrival, walk to the shallow reef edge for snorkelling in the clear water close to the beach, and keep to roped areas if you are not a confident swimmer. Gaya, the largest island, has around 20 km of forest trails and is a better choice for walkers than for beach-lovers, while Sapi is known for snorkelling and has picnic shelters.
Carry sun protection, drinking water and any medicines in a dry bag, and eat on Manukan rather than carrying food. If anyone in the group has trouble with boats or stairs, plan one island only and enjoy it slowly.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Book a morning boat and note the return time
- Carry water, a hat and sunscreen
- Check what the ticket covers before paying
- Wear a life jacket on the boat
- Skip it on rough-sea days
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Offshore from Jesselton Point, west of the city centre
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day
- Best time
- Morning departures in the drier months, roughly February to April
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Boarding speedboats from a jetty means steps and a rocking deck, and island paths are mostly short but sun-exposed. Choose Manukan, which has facilities and shade, and carry a hat and water.
- Tickets and access
- Boats leave from the Jesselton Point terminal in the city. A park conservation fee and a boat fare usually apply, and they change, so confirm both with the operator or Sabah Parks and ask about life jackets. Weather can cancel sailings.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Boarding speedboats from a jetty means steps and a rocking deck, and island paths are mostly short but sun-exposed. Choose Manukan, which has facilities and shade, and carry a hat and water.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Which island is easiest for older visitors?
Manukan has the most facilities, including restaurants and shade, and a simple beach, so it is usually the easiest choice.
Can I swim and snorkel without experience?
The shallow reef near the beach suits beginners, but stay in marked areas, use a life jacket and ask staff about currents.
Is it open all year?
The park is generally accessible through the year, but boats can be cancelled in rough weather, so confirm the day before.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
