Things to Do at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Complete Guide to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park in Kota Kinabalu
About Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
What to See & Do
Manukan Island
The largest and most developed island with white sandy beaches, clear waters, and the best facilities. You'll find restaurants, chalets, and well-maintained walking trails through the tropical forest.
Sapi Island
Popular for its excellent snorkeling spots and the famous 'Sapi-Gaya channel' where you might spot sea turtles. The beaches here are particularly photogenic, and it's connected to Gaya by a sandbar at low tide.
Coral Reefs
The underwater gardens between the islands offer some of the best snorkeling in the region. You'll likely encounter colorful reef fish, sea cucumbers, and if you're lucky, green sea turtles.
Gaya Island
The largest island with dense rainforest and several luxury resorts. It's home to interesting wildlife including proboscis monkeys, and offers more challenging jungle trekking for those wanting to explore beyond the beaches.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Islands are accessible daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Last boat back to mainland typically departs around 4:30 PM, though this can vary by operator.
Tickets & Pricing
Marine park conservation fee is RM5 for adults, RM2 for children. Island hopping boat tours range from RM25-50 per person depending on number of islands visited. Snorkeling gear rental typically costs RM10-15 per set.
Best Time to Visit
March to October offers the best weather with calmer seas and less rainfall. That said, the park is visitable year-round - just expect occasional afternoon showers during monsoon season (November to February).
Suggested Duration
A full day trip (8-10 hours) allows you to visit 2-3 islands comfortably. If you're staying overnight on one of the islands, 2-3 days gives you time to properly explore and relax.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
Also known as the floating mosque, this beautiful structure appears to float on water during high tide and offers stunning sunset views.
The highest accessible point in KK city offering panoramic views of the coastline, islands, and Mount Kinabalu on clear days.
A bustling waterfront market where you can find local handicrafts, pearls, and souvenirs. It's particularly atmospheric in the evening.
One of the few remaining pre-war structures in KK, this historic clock tower gives you a sense of the city's colonial past.
If you need a break from the tropical heat, this modern mall offers shopping, dining, and a cinema - plus it's conveniently located near many hotels.