A Guide To Island Hopping In Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

We know how it feels when planning a trip for island hopping in Kota Kinabalu. It seems straightforward, yet figuring out the logistics, from boats to fees, can quickly become confusing, especially for first-time visitors.

The good news is that Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, with its five distinct islands, is incredibly accessible, located just a 15 to 20-minute boat ride from the city.

The key is knowing which island suits your style and how to navigate the process smoothly.

In this guide, we will break down the unique character of each main island. We will also cover the activities available and provide practical, up-to-date tips to help you plan your island-hopping in Kota Kinabalu without any stress.

Must-Visit Islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

The islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park offer clean beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and incredibly easy access from Kota Kinabalu City. Each destination provides a unique experience, whether you are looking for active water sports activities or a quiet spot to relax under the sun.

To help you choose, here is a quick comparison of the three most popular islands.

Manukan Island

Manukan Island is the second largest in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and the most developed, making it a top choice for travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Its long sandy beaches and clear blue waters are a major draw.

The island is particularly well-suited for families, as it features comprehensive facilities managed by Sabah Parks. You will find cafes, changing rooms, and even the Manukan Island Resort for those who wish to stay overnight. Because of its popularity, it tends to be the busiest of the islands.

Water sports activities are plentiful here, with options like parasailing, kayaking, and snorkelling readily available. After paying our jetty fee in MYR, we can find picnic spots under shady trees or explore the short, well-marked trails through the inland tropical forest.

Mamutik Island

After the energy of Manukan, Mamutik Island offers a more peaceful alternative. As the smallest island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, it attracts fewer crowds, creating a more tranquil atmosphere.

Its clear water and soft sand make it an excellent spot for visitors who want to relax or enjoy quality snorkelling directly from the shore. The coral reefs here are quite impressive and home to a variety of fish, with some visitors even spotting sea turtles.

While facilities are more basic than on Manukan or Sapi, you will still find essentials like toilets and a small shop for drinks. It is a great choice for a packed lunch, allowing you to maximise your time by the water. Tour operators at Jesselton Point offer budget-friendly packages to Mamutik, making it an accessible option for everyone.

A useful tip from frequent visitors on forums is to bring a thick beach mat, as sandflies can sometimes be a nuisance on the quieter beaches.

Sapi Island

Sapi Island is a favourite for adventure seekers and nature lovers within Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Though small, it is packed with activities and is particularly famous for its vibrant marine life and resident monitor lizards that often wander near the picnic areas.

The island’s main attraction is the Coral Flyer Zipline, the world’s longest island-to-island zipline, which connects Sapi to the neighbouring Gaya Island. This 250-metre ride offers breathtaking views as you soar over the turquoise water at speeds up to 60km/h. A ticket for the zipline typically costs around RM 86 for international visitors.

Beyond the zipline, Sapi offers some of the best snorkelling in the park, with designated areas to keep swimmers safe from boats. Sabah Parks ensures the area remains clean, and various tour operators provide packages that include jetty fees for a seamless island hopping experience.

Activities to Enjoy During Island Hopping

The islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park are a playground for travellers, with each location offering its own unique charm. There is always something new to discover, making every island hopping trip from Kota Kinabalu a special one.

Snorkelling and Diving

Snorkelling and diving are essential activities when visiting Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. The clear sea conditions provide excellent visibility for spotting colourful coral reefs and a surprising diversity of tropical fish. The waters are home to nearly 400 fish species, including parrotfish, clownfish, and sometimes even blue-spotted rays.

Many travel services in Kota Kinabalu offer PADI-certified guided experiences for all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy the calm, shallow waters around Mamutik and Manukan Island, while more experienced divers can explore over 30 dive sites within the park. Sapi Reef, located right off the island’s jetty, is a popular spot where octopuses and stonefish are often seen. A day of diving helps you appreciate the incredible biodiversity that Sabah Parks works to protect.

Beach Relaxation

After some time in the water, nothing beats relaxing on a powdery white sand beach. Manukan Island, with its long stretch of golden sand and plentiful palm trees, is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the calm sea views.

If you prefer a quieter environment, Mamutik Island offers peaceful spots where you can escape the larger crowds. Sapi Island also has lovely beaches, with picnic tables conveniently located nearby for enjoying a packed lunch while watching the waves.

All the main islands have designated safe swimming areas, and Sabah Parks staff are present to ensure everyone’s safety. Just find a shady spot, lay down your towel, and listen to the gentle sound of the ocean.

Water Sports

For those of us craving a bit more excitement, the water sports activities available in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park deliver plenty of thrills. Manukan Island and Sapi Island are the main hubs for these adventures.

You can choose from a variety of options offered by licensed operators on the islands. Prices are fairly consistent, but it is always good to confirm before you commit.

• Parasailing: Get a bird’s-eye view of the islands for around RM 100 per person.
• Jet Skiing: Rent a jet ski for about 30 minutes for approximately RM 175-250.
• Banana Boat Rides: A fun group activity that typically costs around RM 45-50 per person.
• Sea Walking: An unusual experience where you walk on the seabed with a special helmet, priced at about RM 250 per person.

Professional guides are on hand to ensure every activity is safe and enjoyable. These activities are booked and paid for directly on the islands, so there is no need to arrange them in advance unless you are part of a specific tour package.

Tips for a Seamless Island Hopping Experience

A little preparation can make your island hopping trip completely seamless. By planning for jetty fees, checking sea conditions, and packing smart, you can focus on enjoying the beauty of Kota Kinabalu’s islands.

What to Pack

Packing the right items ensures a comfortable and enjoyable day trip to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Here are the essentials we recommend bringing for your adventure in this corner of Southeast Asia.

• Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the delicate coral reefs by choosing an eco-friendly sunblock. The tropical sun is strong, even on cloudy days.
• Cash in MYR: While some larger vendors may accept cards, smaller shops and water sports operators often only take cash. There are no ATMs on the islands.
• Waterproof dry bag: Keep your phone, wallet, and camera safe from splashes during boat transfers.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and help reduce plastic waste in the marine park.
• Packed lunch and snacks: While food is available on Manukan and Sapi, bringing your own saves money and time, especially on quieter islands like Mamutik.
• Quick-dry towel: A lightweight towel is perfect for drying off between swims and snorkelling sessions.
• Snorkelling gear: You can rent gear on the islands for about RM 10, but bringing your own ensures a perfect fit and hygiene.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time for island hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is during the dry season, which typically runs from March to September. During these months, you can expect clear skies, calm sea conditions, and excellent water visibility, making it perfect for snorkelling and other water sports activities.

The wet season, from November to February, can bring heavier rain and rougher seas, which might lead to trip cancellations or reduced visibility underwater.

To avoid the biggest crowds, we recommend planning your visit on a weekday. Weekends and Malaysian public holidays are very popular with both locals and tourists, so the jetties and beaches can get quite busy. An early start, aiming to catch a boat between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, allows you to enjoy the islands before they reach their peak capacity.

Booking Your Tickets

Securing your tickets for an island hopping adventure is most easily done at the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu City. Inside the terminal building, you will find numerous counters for different licensed boat operators. Prices are regulated and generally consistent between them.

You will need to pay for a few different things:

• Return Boat Fare: This depends on how many islands you visit. A trip to one island costs around RM 35 for an adult, while visiting three islands is about RM 55.
• Terminal Fee: A fee of approximately RM 7 is paid at the jetty.
• Sabah Parks Conservation Fee: This is paid upon arrival at your first island. For international adults, the fee is RM 25. Be sure to keep this ticket, as it is valid for all islands you visit on the same day.

You can buy tickets on the day of your trip, but arriving early is wise, especially during peak season, to ensure you get a spot on the boat you want. The last boats typically return from the islands between 4:00 and 5:00 PM.

Conclusion

Ultimately, island hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park offers a fantastic escape with something for every kind of traveller.

The crystal-clear waters, rich coral reefs, and sandy shores provide a perfect backdrop for marine adventures or simple relaxation.

With a bit of planning, exploring Manukan, Mamutik, or Sapi Island becomes an easy and rewarding day trip from Kota Kinabalu. Each journey allows you to discover the unique beauty of Sabah Parks, creating personal and unforgettable memories.