Gaya Island
Island Forest-covered island near Kota Kinabalu, coral reefs
Off Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Island forms part of a marine park with rainforest, resorts and boat-access beaches; visitors arrive for snorkeling, short hikes and day trips from the city.
Gaya Island is an island off the coast of Sabah in eastern Malaysia and is the largest island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The island is known for its forested interior and marine habitats.
The island’s shoreline includes beaches, coral fringing reefs and small bays used for snorkeling and swimming. A limited number of resorts and guest facilities occupy parts of the coast, and trails lead into areas of lowland tropical forest and mangrove.
Gedong Songo details not applicable here.
Gaya Island lies in the South China Sea off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah; it is part of the offshore island group that makes up the marine park and sits close to other park islands.
- Significance: Forms the largest island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park off Kota Kinabalu and is noted for its lowland tropical rainforest and coral fringing reefs.
What to See #
- Gaya Island Resort: A private resort on the island that operates high-end accommodation and organizes transfers and activities for guests.
- Pulau Gaya village: A traditional settlement of stilt houses and local community facilities located on the island's shore that is inhabited year-round.
How to Get to Gaya Island #
Ferries and speedboats depart Jesselton Point, Kota Kinabalu, for Gaya Island (about 15-20 minutes). Park entrance/conservation fees are payable at the jetty prior to departure.
Tips for Visiting Gaya Island #
- Ferry from Jesselton Point (Kota Kinabalu) takes about 15-20 minutes - book early in high season.
- Day visitors must pay park/conservation fees at the jetty before boarding boats to the island.
- For snorkeling, use operators who follow reef-protection rules and provide briefings.
Best Time to Visit Gaya Island #
Most visitors favour the dry months (Mar-Oct) for beach and snorkel activities.
Weather & Climate near Gaya Island #
Tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 23°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (2570 mm/year), wettest in October.
January
January is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Significant rainfall (137 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (140 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is the hottest month, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (256 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (262 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 30°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (244 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 30°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (255 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 30°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (277 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (321 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (283 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (242 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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