Crafted Experiences

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

Personal journeys to be discovered

Encompassing the vibrant culture, raw natural beauty and captivating people of the area in which it resides, these experiences celebrate all that is inherent to the resort. Here the curious can choose to actively engage or just peacefully absorb all the destination has to offer as they embark on their own personal journey of discovery.

SUNSET CRUISE

SET SAIL INTO THE SUNSET

Embrace the spirit of seafaring tradition as you set out towards the neighbouring islands at dusk. Feel the gentle sea breeze and listen to the lapping of waves as you cruise along the coastline. Sip on a complimentary glass of house wine or a refreshing soft drink while the horizon transforms into a breathtaking canvas of golden hues, deepening into shades of amber and rose. As daylight fades, watch the distant city skyline begin to sparkle like scattered diamonds against the twilight—a perfect harmony of nature’s spectacle and urban charm. It is an evening of quiet magic, where the beauty of sea and sky unfold in timeless elegance.
“Selamat Berlayar” – may your voyage be as enchanting as the sunset.

GAYA SNORKELLING EXPEDITION

GLIDE OVER LUSH CORALS

Another wondrous world lies just moments from our main beach. Explore the clear waters of the House Reef on an exploratory snorkelling tour guided by our Resident Marine Biologist. Drift over lush coral gardens and discover a wealth of marine life amidst an array of hard and soft corals that form intricate and fragile labyrinths across the seabed. Glide alongside schools of colourful reef fish, spot graceful sea turtles gliding through the depths, and keep watch for the occasional blacktip reef shark patrolling the reef edge. Along the way, your marine biologist will share insights into coral conservation, the delicate balance of this underwater ecosystem, and the vital role these reefs play in sustaining marine biodiversity—offering a deeper appreciation for the living wonders beneath the surface.

BORNEO CULINARY JOURNEY

DISCOVER BORNEO’S KITCHEN SECRETS

Embark on an immersive exploration of Sabahan cuisine with a cooking class hosted by our skilled Chef. The journey begins with an introduction to the island’s vibrant local ingredients and fresh produce—many foraged or sourced from nearby communities—revealing the rich tapestry of flavours that define Borneo’s culinary identity.

Guided by the Chef’s expertise, the interactive cooking session offers hands-on insights into authentic recipes handed down over generations from the region’s diverse ethnic groups. Each dish tells a story of tradition, heritage, and the land from which it came. The experience culminates in a communal-style tasting, where guests gather to savour the fruits of their labour, sharing stories and flavours around a single table. To mark the occasion, each participant receives a certificate commemorating their journey into the heart of Borneo’s culinary soul.

THE WILDLIFE WONDERS

UNCOVER THE BIRDS OF BORNEO

Pulau Gaya is a bird lover’s paradise, home to over 40 spectacular species thriving in its lush rainforests and pristine coastal habitats. From the soaring Oriental Pied Hornbill to the elusive Philippine Megapode, the island teems with avian life waiting to be discovered. Guided by the resort’s dedicated Director of Conservation, Justin Juhun, guests embark on immersive birding expeditions that reveal the hidden rhythms of the island’s wildlife. Along the way, Justin shares his work monitoring nesting sites, rehabilitating injured birds, and preserving fragile habitats, offering an intimate glimpse into the island’s conservation efforts.

Whether you are a seasoned birder or a curious novice, each expedition unveils the hidden rhythms of the island’s wild heart, deepening your connection to the natural world and the efforts to protect it.

LIHING, THE LOCAL RICE WINE

SAVOUR A TASTE OF TRADITION

Lihing is a treasured rice wine originating from the state of Sabah, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Kadazan-Dusun people. Crafted from pulut—a prized glutinous rice—this indigenous libation reflects generations of knowledge passed down through time.

The production process is a labour of love, consisting of two principal steps: the rice is first cooked to perfection, then carefully mixed with natural yeast before being left to ferment in quiet patience. Over time, the transformation yields a wine of remarkable character.

Similar in profile to a fine sherry, Lihing offers a delicate sweetness with a smooth, lingering finish. It serves beautifully as an aperitif, whether served chilled to highlight its crispness or at room temperature to unveil its deeper notes. More than a beverage, each sip is a taste of Sabahan heritage—a toast to the land and its people.

KOTA KINABALU CITY EXCURSION — CULTURE, FOOD & SCENIC STROLLS

EXPLORE THE HEART OF KOTA KINABALU

Explore the vibrant streets of Kota Kinabalu on this immersive excursion, perfectly blending culture, cuisine, and urban exploration. Designed for travellers seeking to experience the authentic heart of the city beyond the usual tourist spots, this guided walk takes you through colourful markets, historic landmarks, and hidden local gems.

Stroll through bustling bazaars, sample delicious local specialities, and uncover the rich heritage of Sabah’s capital. From lively handicraft stalls to Instagrammable locations, this tour offers a deeper connection to Kota Kinabalu’s dynamic energy and warm local spirit. Whether you’re savouring traditional flavours or chatting with friendly vendors, you’ll discover why this excursion is not to be missed!

GAYA STREET (SUNDAY MARKET)

STEP INTO LOCAL SCENES & LIFE

Originally named Bond Street, Gaya Street located in the Kota Kinabalu Central Business District has been the centre of business for over a hundred years. The wooden shops with nipah roofs are long gone but here is where generations-old family businesses are still thriving passed down from father to son.

Every Sunday from 6.00am to 1.00pm the whole stretch of Gaya Street is closed off to traffic to make way for the street fair. A must visit market while in Kota Kinabalu, you will be fascinated by the various items and goods sold at this fair.

From arts and crafts, batik sarongs, footwear, fruits and flowers, local food such as Mee Tuaren, antiques and souvenirs, to even pets and herbs, this is the best place to experience the culture and lifestyle of the locals.

THE SABAH SCENT ADVENTURES

DISCOVER THE AROMAS OF SABAH

Explore the intangible yet powerfully evocative realm of scent, where memory, emotion, and nature converge. Guided by our resident scent artist, journey into the heart of Borneo’s aromatic heritage through a curated selection of indigenous oils, each distilled from the island’s lush landscapes.

Discover the stories behind these precious essences—their origins, their potent benefits, and the generations of wisdom they carry. Under the gentle guidance of our scent artist, learn the basics of olfactory alchemy and the art of custom blending, where you will craft a fragrance uniquely your own. Whether seeking a personal memento or simply a deeper connection to the island, this immersive experience awakens the senses and leaves you with a lingering trace of Borneo’s soul.

MOVIE NIGHT UNDER THE STARS

WATCH, SIP AND RELAX UNDeR THE STARS

As dusk settles over the island, the atmosphere at Gaya Island Resort transforms into something truly magical with our weekly Movie Nights under the Stars. Held every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, we invite guests to swap the confines of a traditional cinema for the natural beauty of our open-air garden area, situated right next to the Pool Bar and Lounge. Here, amongst the lush tropical lawn, we thoughtfully place comfortable bean bags, creating a relaxed and cosy setting where families and couples alike can unwind and enjoy a film together. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the tropical evening, guests can simply sink into their seats, order their favourite drinks and snacks from the nearby bar, and experience the magic of cinema in the heart of nature. It is the perfect way to wind down after a day of adventure, offering a unique blend of entertainment and island serenity beneath the canopy of the stars.

OTHER EXPERIENCES

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES

EXPLORE THE 7 WONDERS OF GAYA

Embark on a two-day journey into Gaya Island’s remarkable biodiversity with our team of naturalists. Discover extraordinary speciesfrom the Elephant Foot Yam to the endangered Proboscis Monkeys.

EXPLORE THE 7 WONDERS OF GAYA

Embark on a two-day journey into Gaya Island’s remarkable biodiversity with our team of naturalists. Discover extraordinary speciesfrom the Elephant Foot Yam to the endangered Proboscis Monkeys.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES

CORAL GARDEN MARINE EXPEDITION

Swim among colourful reef fish and sea turtles while learning about the fragile marine ecosystems that make this underwater sanctuary so extraordinary.

CORAL GARDEN MARINE EXPEDITION

Swim among colourful reef fish and sea turtles while learning about the fragile marine ecosystems that make this underwater sanctuary so extraordinary.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES

SINGGAH SINGGARUNG

Experience the spirit of Sabah through native crafts, cultural activities, and traditional delicacies before a tribal-style beach barbecue by the mangroves as Kadazan music fills the air.

SINGGAH SINGGARUNG

Experience the spirit of Sabah through native crafts, cultural activities, and traditional delicacies before a tribal-style beach barbecue by the mangroves as Kadazan music fills the air.

ESSENCE OF BORNEO

MANGROVE EXCURSION EXPERIENCE

Kayak beneath the shaded canopy of mature mangroves, spot wildlife of the ecosystem, and contribute to conservation through hands on replanting of mangrove saplings

MANGROVE EXCURSION EXPERIENCE

Kayak beneath the shaded canopy of mature mangroves, spot wildlife of the ecosystem, and contribute to conservation through hands on replanting of mangrove saplings

ESSENCE OF BORNEO

SNORKELLING & DIVING EXPERIENCES

Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, reef sharks, and colourful tropical fish in the turquoise waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

SNORKELLING & DIVING EXPERIENCES

Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, reef sharks, and colourful tropical fish in the turquoise waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

ESSENCE OF BORNEO

FISHING EXCURSIONS

Venture into Sabah’s biodiverse waters on a private fishing trip inspired by the traditions of the Bajau Laut sea nomads.

FISHING EXCURSIONS

Venture into Sabah’s biodiverse waters on a private fishing trip inspired by the traditions of the Bajau Laut sea nomads.

ESSENCE OF BORNEO

DISCOVERY NATURE WALKS

Explore the island’s ancient rainforests on guided trails, choose from Guided Nature Walk (approx 1.5hr) or Tavajun Bay Discovery (approx 2-2.5hr).

DISCOVERY NATURE WALKS

Explore the island’s ancient rainforests on guided trails, choose from Guided Nature Walk (approx 1.5hr) or Tavajun Bay Discovery (approx 2-2.5hr).

ESSENCE OF BORNEO

BORNEO CRAFTWORKS

Learn traditional techniques and create your own handcrafted keepsake inspired by Borneo’s cultural traditions.

BORNEO CRAFTWORKS

Learn traditional techniques and create your own handcrafted keepsake inspired by Borneo’s cultural traditions.

ESSENCE OF BORNEO

YOGA

Practise yoga in a tranquil rainforest setting with expert instructors, offering daily sessions that restore balance, wellbeing, and inner calm.

YOGA

Practise yoga in a tranquil rainforest setting with expert instructors, offering daily sessions that restore balance, wellbeing, and inner calm.

PRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCES

A BAJAU LAUT EXPERIENCE

Dine by the shores of Malohom Bay with a private beach barbecue inspired by Bajau Laut seafaring traditions, featuring grilled seafood, local delicacies, and stargazing beneath the night sky.

A BAJAU LAUT EXPERIENCE

Dine by the shores of Malohom Bay with a private beach barbecue inspired by Bajau Laut seafaring traditions, featuring grilled seafood, local delicacies, and stargazing beneath the night sky.

PRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCES

THE NORTH BORNEO STRAITS TIFFIN

Savour a heritage-inspired tiffin dinner where each tier reveals a course celebrating the East–West culinary influences of historic Straits cuisine.

THE NORTH BORNEO STRAITS TIFFIN

Savour a heritage-inspired tiffin dinner where each tier reveals a course celebrating the East–West culinary influences of historic Straits cuisine.

PRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCES

PICNIC AT TAVAJUN BAY

Escape to secluded Tavajun Bay for a private gourmet beach picnic, where a chef-prepared hamper is enjoyed amidst powdery sands, turquoise waters, and lush rainforest.

PICNIC AT TAVAJUN BAY

Escape to secluded Tavajun Bay for a private gourmet beach picnic, where a chef-prepared hamper is enjoyed amidst powdery sands, turquoise waters, and lush rainforest.