Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (TARP)
Sabah
A scenic option for water-sports fans and wildlife lovers who don’t have time to travel to Mabul or Sipadan, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park is just a 20-minute speedboat ride from downtown Kota Kinabalu. Comprising five small islands, the park combines white-sand beaches with coral reefs, jungle, and abundant marine life.
Several guided half- and full-day trips departing from Kota Kinabalu explore Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park. Choose a boat tour featuring ample time for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation—or opt for an excursion that includes a ride on the Coral Flyer zipline connecting two of the islands. Scuba diving tours cater to all levels of experience with a range of PADI courses, while sunset dinner cruises reveal the marine park at its most magical.
- The park headquarters is located on Gaya Island, which (along with Manukan and Mamutik) offers eco-friendly overnight accommodation.
- The most developed of the islands, Manukan and Sapi have restrooms, snack shops, and simple restaurants.
Boats destined for Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park depart regularly for Sapi Island from the Jesselton Point ferry terminal—find the schedule online. There are several different operators, so ensure you’re on the correct boat.
Though this part of Borneo doesn’t experience an intense monsoon season, it’s best to visit sometime between March and October, when the seas are calm and marine life is plentiful.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, check out Gaya Island, the largest in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park. Hike more than 12 miles (19 kilometers) of trails that harbor wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, hornbills, and bearded pigs.
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