Gaya Island Resort

Stayed here for 5 nights after travelling around Borneo and the resort provided the peace and relaxation we were looking for. We stayed in a Kinabalu villa which was fantastic, large room and great sea view. The food was excellent and when the chef knew I was vegetarian he would cook anything to order (the buffet already had lots of vegetarian choice). The pool was huge and great for swimming lengths, the beach area was a small strip but there was a private beach also which was lovely. The food and drinks were expensive though, the buffet meal was 140 MR plus tax and service charge. The pool bar served snacks but only until 5 which was a shame. There was a happy hour 4 to 6 for drinks at the pool bar. The only downside to the resort other than prices was it’s east facing so most of the sunbeds are in the shade in the afternoon. Also there was a problem some days with rubbish and plastic in the sea, the hotel tried to keep it clean but it seemed to be a problem on all the islands. Would recommend though for a relaxing stay in lovely surroundings

Positive: we liked the Japanese style design of the public areas and rooms. We stayed at a Kinabalu villa which was large and very nice. Room was very clean (apart from some marks on the headboard. Lovely bathroom with 2 sinks, large shower and bath. Large walk-in wardrobe with enough bench space for 2 suitcases. From our balcony really nice sea view of the island bay, Kota Kinabalu outskirts and Mount Kinabalu when it's clear. There were about 50 steps up to our villa, not much fun in the midday heat but manageable for us. The pool was nice and long, good for swimming proper lengths, and not too busy. Lots of available sun loungers (I think hotel was about half full) by the pool and "beach" strip near the water. The sun loungers were every comfortable. The beach area was cleaned regularly and I didn't see any plastic waste near the hotel. Wi-fi worked very well in room and public areas. Buffet breakfast and dinner had lots of choices and the food was mostly good quality and tasty. We were impressed with the food choices, which were different on all 3 evenings we were there. We had lunch at the pool bar and loved the BBQ satay chicken sticks. The staff were very hardworking and friendly, the enthusiastic chef at the egg station was always happy to chat. The only activity we did was the Coral Garden snorkeling tour, which was good even if the water visibility wasn't perfect. You could also see a good variety fish near around the boat pier. We really enjoyed our stay, it's only a short boat ride from busy Kota Kinabalu, but it feels remote and relaxing. Negative: Separate charge for boat transfer (RM 346 for 2 people return). Small beach. Room Aircon not cool enough. The balcony was unusable most of the day as there was only a fixed bench in direct sunlight. It's a shame as there was a lot of shady space, but no chairs. Food and drink were the most expensive we've had in Malaysia after 3 weeks in various locations, comparable to UK restaurant prices. Service charges and tax were added to the prices on the menu. The buffet dinner was about RM 160-190 per person.

We have just returned from 10 nights on this amazing resort situated on a beautiful island on this National Park. The whole resort is outstanding and so relaxing. Beautiful villa accommodation with fantastic views across the South China sea from our top floor villa/suite. (Room 820 which we requested at the time of booking our holiday) Exceptional staff and restaurants. We booked full board with a choice of restaurants and great beach/ bar for food and drinks. Buffet restaurant would cook anything you wanted or special requests to the chef. Pool and beach area fantastic with plenty sunbeds for everyone. Each and every single member of staff and the management team where amazing and we left this resort feeling we had left friends behind. The warmth and attention to detail and service was outstanding by everyone. I would highly recommend to anyone thinking of booking a short or longer stay here and would hope one day we would return.

Situated in one of the largest underwater national parks. Spectacular natural beauty with sea, sand and jungle. Hundreds of species of marine and island life. Underwater and above ground Activities beautifully curated by YTL staff to blend conservation and fun.

The staff, the staff, the staff. Such genuine helpful staff quick to resolve any problems. Genuine smiles. The East Malaysians are the best hosts.

The property itself and rooms were nice, but the resort was way too expensive for what was provided. we did not feel like we got value doe the money. The meals were excessively expensive for what they were, and left us with traveler's diarrhea unfortunately. Very basic tours were extra charges too, as were the transfers in and out from kota Kinabalu. We also stayed way too long. I think max 3 nights would be recommended so you don't get bored.

Wonderful location and views. Staff were always friendly, helpful and polite. Fantastic range of activities.

Beautiful location, well organised, excellent food, friendly staff, amazing rooms. Many hidden taxes ... and service charge added even for buffet meal (which was self service ... although did finally remove when challenged). The private beach had a huge rubbish dump just behind the sandy beach. Very disappointing to see on a luxury trip. Great to see the conservation work with rescued turtles and coral. Strange to see complimentary ice lollies being handed out by pool, but only if you agreed to a young waiter taking a photo on his mobile phone ... bizarre.

Had a lovely stay, would like to have seen more food options and later bar food service. Activities team were great, reception and waiting staff were not very friendly, expected a higher level of service.

The property has a beautiful setting with the sea and a primary forest as its backdrop. The hotel excursions are excellent with an added inspiration on marine and forest conservation. Coral garden snorkelling and forest trekking are highly recommended. The staff are all genuinely kind and attentive. A very good resort.