🏝️ Manukan Island Resort — Paradise Quite Close to Kota Kinabalu

#kotakinabaluguide Background Manukan Island Resort is tucked away on Manukan Island, one of the five islands in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.  The island is surrounded by coral reefs, dense tropical rainforest, and white sandy beaches, offering both natural beauty and peaceful seclusion.  The resort is operated by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges, and is the only accommodation on Manukan that lets you stay overnight among the island’s natural setting.  Why It’s Worth Visiting If you’re after island atmosphere without going too far, this hits the mark. You can snorkel, dive, kayak, or swim in clear waters with reefs abundant with marine life.  There are well-marked walking trails and mild hikes (e.g. up to Sunset Point) through the forested parts of the island for views and tranquility.  The resort offers different types of chalets (beach-side, hillside, single/double-storey) with views either over the sea or forested slopes.  Dining options serve both local and international food, there’s a swimming pool, sports courts (volleyball, sepak takraw), and facilities to arrange island hopping.  My Impression Staying at Manukan Island Resort feels like a gentle retreat. The boat ride in from Kota Kinabalu already shifts the mood — city noise fades, blue sea opens up. Waking up in a chalet with the sound of water lapping nearby, spending the day full of snorkelling and beach time, and watching sunset from a quiet corner—these are moments that settle you. It’s the sort of place that refreshes you, especially if you often move fast. If I had to pick, the water clarity, marine life, and balance of quiet and access make this one of my favourite island stays near Kota Kinabalu.