Gaya Island is a majestic jewel in the Kota Kinabalu district, in the state of Sabah, Malaisie. This island territory of 1,483 hectares is bathed in the crystalline waters of the South China Sea. It is the largest island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity.

History

Gaya Island was initially under the influence of the Brunei Sultanate before territorial concessions were granted to Baron von Overbeck in 1877–1878, leading to the creation of the British North Borneo Chartered Company (the British North Borneo Company).

In 1882, the BNBCC established a trading post and an administrative centre for collecting raw materials from the west coast. Colonial infrastructure, built from local materials such as nibong and rumbia palm, included administrative buildings, jetties and shops.

However, the island's development was short-lived due to the scarcity of fresh water, infertile soil and shallow waters. In July 1897, a rebellion led by local chief Mat Salleh razed the settlement, which was never rebuilt. This event hastened the founding of Jesselton (present-day Kota Kinabalu) on the mainland in 1899.

The island's status evolved towards conservation in the 20th century. It was classified as a forest reserve in 1923 (under British administration), then incorporated into the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (TARP) in 1974.

Gaya Island Today

Gaya Island presents itself today as a territory of many facets, blending cutting-edge conservation with complex demographic challenges. It is home to luxury hotel complexes while remaining covered in dense tropical forest that rises to 300 metres in altitude.

The current population, estimated at approximately 30,000 inhabitants in 2024, is composed mainly of migrants who arrived in the 1970s. Only 1,000 residents are descendants of the island's original inhabitants.

This situation creates a striking contrast between upscale resort areas and stilt-house villages (such as Kampung Lok Urai), considered illegal settlements, facing sanitation, security and waste management challenges.

What to do on Gaya Island?

Discovering the island's marine and terrestrial biodiversity

The Marine Ecology Research Centre (MERC), located at Gayana Marine Resort, is an essential stop for marine biology enthusiasts. It is dedicated to coral reef restoration and the protection of seven indigenous species of giant clams. Visitors can learn conservation methods interactively.

On the terrestrial fauna side, it is possible to spot proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques and Sunda pangolins on the island. The wildlife centre at Gaya Island Resort specifically manages the preservation of proboscis monkeys. You may also see wild Bornean bearded pigs or monitor lizards on your excursions.

Hiking and water activities

Hikers have access to 20 km of hiking trails winding through the lush jungle. They allow you to reach the ridges of the island and observe rare birds such as the Philippine megapode or the pied hornbill. The pristine forest provides a unique sense of serenity, heightened by the absence of urban noise.

The island's waters appeal to snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts. You can admire colourful fish, crustaceans and seagrass beds. The sea is also suitable for kayaking.

Finally, those seeking an adrenaline rush can try the Coral Flyer zipline, which connects Gaya to the neighbouring island of Sapi, or attempt parasailing.

Access to the island is exclusively by sea from the city of Kota Kinabalu. The Jesselton Point Waterfront ferry terminal is the main departure point for transfer boats and hotel complex shuttles. The journey takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on the type of vessel used.

When to visit?

The region's climate suggests a visit between March and June. This period corresponds to the local summer season and guarantees optimal conditions for outdoor activities. Note that this time window attracts a large number of tourists, making advance reservations necessary.

FAQ

What is the nearest airport to the island?

The Kota Kinabalu International Airport is the closest airport terminal for reaching the archipelago.

Can you visit the island in a single day?

A one-day excursion is sufficient to discover the island's main sites, but staying overnight allows you to better absorb the local atmosphere.

Is it easy to find snorkelling equipment?

You can rent your equipment directly on the island, particularly if you visit the research centres or hotel complexes.