Several guided half- and full-day trips departing from Kota Kinabalu explore Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park. Choose a boat tour featuring ample time for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation—or opt for an excursion that includes a ride on the Coral Flyer zipline connecting two of the islands. Scuba diving tours cater to all levels of experience with a range of PADI courses, while sunset dinner cruises reveal the marine park at its most magical.
Boats destined for Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park depart regularly for Sapi Island from the Jesselton Point ferry terminal—find the schedule online. There are several different operators, so ensure you’re on the correct boat.
Though this part of Borneo doesn’t experience an intense monsoon season, it’s best to visit sometime between March and October, when the seas are calm and marine life is plentiful.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, check out Gaya Island, the largest in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park. Hike more than 12 miles (19 kilometers) of trails that harbor wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, hornbills, and bearded pigs.