Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park lies just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, a cluster of five islands that you can see from the waterfront, from Signal Hill and from the beachfront resorts at Tanjung Aru. Boats leave from the jetty at Jesselton Point, and the crossing is short, so a good part of the day is spent in the water rather than on the boat. The classic island hopping day takes in Sapi and Manukan, two of the most developed islands, with white sand, sheltered swimming areas and reef close enough to the shore that beginners can snorkel comfortably. Tours of this kind generally include a local guide, snorkelling gear, lunch and a shared transfer from your hotel, which is why they are so popular with first-time visitors who do not want to arrange boats and permits themselves. Expect company, because these islands are the closest and busiest in the park, but the water is clear, the fish are used to people and the setting, with forested hills behind the beaches and the city skyline across the water, is hard to beat for a day out.
Why go
Sabah sits inside the Coral Triangle, and the marine park is the most accessible slice of that reef. Even in the shallows you can expect to see parrotfish, damselfish, sergeant majors and clams, and with luck a turtle or a reef shark further out. Sapi has a sheltered beach and a short jungle path, while Manukan has the longest stretch of sand, a cafe and changing facilities.
Most half-hearted swimmers find that an hour in the water is enough to see what they came for, leaving time to sunbathe, walk or try an optional activity such as parasailing or sea walking, which are sold on the islands at extra cost.
How the day works
The tour we link to is a seven-hour trip for small groups of up to twelve, with a pickup from your hotel in the morning, a transfer to the jetty, a boat to Sapi and Manukan, snorkelling gear (fins are not included, so bring your own if you want them), a local guide and lunch. Park and jetty fees are normally part of the arrangement on an organised tour, but confirm what is covered when you reserve. Wear a rash vest or a T-shirt in the water, because the tropical sun is fierce and sunburn is the most common souvenir.
Tips and trade-offs
Go early, as the beaches fill by late morning and the light is better for the water. Weekends and school holidays are busy, so a weekday is calmer. Sea conditions can cancel boats in rough weather, and the park's islands have limited shade, so bring a hat and refill your water bottle. If you are staying at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, the resort's own marina is a few minutes from the park, but the organised day is the simplest way to see two islands in one go.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group boat day from Kota Kinabalu to Sapi and Manukan islands, with guided snorkelling, lunch and free time on the beach.
Best time
Go on a weekday morning in the drier months, when the sea is calm and the beaches are not yet crowded.
How long
About seven hours door to door, including hotel pickup, the boat crossings, lunch and roughly an hour or two in the water.
Tips
Bring a rash vest, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, a towel and your own fins. Confirm whether park fees are included and keep a little cash for island extras.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want clear water and an easy beach day without planning boats or permits.
- Families
- Sapi and Manukan have sheltered swimming areas, and life jackets and guides make snorkelling manageable for confident older children.
- Couples
- Pick a weekday, snorkel early and take a quiet walk along the sand before the next boats arrive.
- Pair with
- A sunset at the waterfront or Signal Hill, or the night markets, makes a good second half of the day.
- Time needed
- A full day, usually 8:30 am to mid-afternoon.
Good questions
Which islands are in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park?+
The park has five islands, and the usual day trips visit Sapi and Manukan or Mamutik and Sapi. They are close to Kota Kinabalu, so the boat crossing is short.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel?+
No. Guides provide life jackets and stay close, and the reef is shallow near the beaches. Non-swimmers should say so at the start and stay in the shallows.
What is included in an island hopping tour?+
The tour we link to includes a local guide, snorkelling equipment without fins, lunch and a shared round-trip transfer. Confirm park and jetty fees when you reserve.
When is the best time to go?+
Mornings on weekdays are calmest, and the drier months usually bring the clearest water. Rough seas can cancel boats, so keep a spare day if you can.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, for most ages, as the beaches are sheltered and operators provide life jackets. Young children should wear a rash vest and stay with an adult at all times.
