Signature Experiences

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES

Treasured experiences to be remembered

The first breath of inspiration drawn from our island home defines the very character of our resort—traditions are embraced, colours absorbed, stunning scenery folded into every encounter.

EXPLORE THE 7 WONDERS OF GAYA

EMBRACE THE ROLE OF A WILDLIFE EXPLORER

This distinctive nature offering in Sabah is dedicated to preserving the island’s flora, fauna, and wildlife—many of which are fast facing extinction. Guests are invited to experience signature encounters that celebrate this living heritage, from the extraordinary Elephant Foot Yam and the gliding Red Giant Flying Squirrels to the enchanting twilight fireflies, the mysteries of nocturnal wonders, and the iconic Proboscis Monkeys.

Embrace the role of a wildlife explorer on this two-day tour, guided by our team of naturalists, and reconnect with the wonders and mysteries of Mother Nature. Through immersive journeys into the island’s heart, discover the rare and remarkable biodiversity that makes Gaya Island a true sanctuary.

CORAL GARDEN MARINE EXPEDITION

EXPLORE A VIBRANT UNDERWATER WORLD

Beneath the surface of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park lies a hidden world of vibrant marine life. Join our Resident Marine Biologist for an exploratory snorkelling tour and discover the breathtaking coral sites within the marine park. Swim above lush gardens of hard and soft corals, where intricate formations create delicate, living labyrinths teeming with activity. Encounter colourful reef fish darting through the shallows and keep watch for graceful sea turtles gliding effortlessly in the distance. Throughout the journey, your guide will illuminate the wonders of this underwater realm, sharing expert knowledge on coral conservation and the essential role these reefs play in protecting marine biodiversity. It’s an unforgettable glimpse into a fragile and fascinating ecosystem.

SINGGAH-SINGGARUNG

Savour a Night of Tribal Flavours and RHYTHMS

Gain insight into the Borneo way of life through Singgah Singgarung, a prelude experience that unveils native arts, time-honoured activities, and traditional delicacies before an enchanting tribal-style beach barbecue dinner at the edge of the mangroves. Here, amidst the whispering coastal trees and the soft glow of flickering flames, the rich cultural heritage of Sabah comes alive.

As melodious Kadazan music fills the evening air, savour skewered fish grilled campfire-style alongside an array of fresh local produce, all accompanied by the warmth of Lihing—Sabah’s celebrated rice wine. Share stories and laughter with fellow guests as the stars emerge overhead, creating an evening of tradition, taste, and togetherness that celebrates the soul that is Distinctively Borneo.

OTHER EXPERIENCES

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

SUNSET CRUISE

Sail along Gaya Island’s coastline as the setting sun paints the sky in hues of gold and rose. Enjoy gentle sea breezes and the sparkle of the Kota Kinabalu skyline.

SUNSET CRUISE

Sail along Gaya Island’s coastline as the setting sun paints the sky in hues of gold and rose. Enjoy gentle sea breezes and the sparkle of the Kota Kinabalu skyline.

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

GAYA SNORKELLING EXPEDITION

Drift above coral gardens teeming with reef fish, sea turtles, and other marine life while learning about coral conservation guided by our Resident Marine Biologist.

GAYA SNORKELLING EXPEDITION

Drift above coral gardens teeming with reef fish, sea turtles, and other marine life while learning about coral conservation guided by our Resident Marine Biologist.

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

THE BORNEO CULINARY JOURNEY

Learn to prepare authentic dishes using fresh local ingredients and explore the flavours and traditions of Sabahan cuisine.

THE BORNEO CULINARY JOURNEY

Learn to prepare authentic dishes using fresh local ingredients and explore the flavours and traditions of Sabahan cuisine.

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

THE WILDLIFE WONDERS

Discover Pulau Gaya’s rich birdlife on a guided birdwatching expedition and observe rare avian species, led by the resort’s Director of Conservation.

THE WILDLIFE WONDERS

Discover Pulau Gaya’s rich birdlife on a guided birdwatching expedition and observe rare avian species, led by the resort’s Director of Conservation.

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

SAVOUR THE LOCAL RICE WINE, LIHING

Taste Lihing, Sabah’s traditional rice wine crafted from fermented glutinous rice and steeped in Kadazan-Dusun heritage.

SAVOUR THE LOCAL RICE WINE, LIHING

Taste Lihing, Sabah’s traditional rice wine crafted from fermented glutinous rice and steeped in Kadazan-Dusun heritage.

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

KOTA KINABALU CITY EXCURSION

Explore the vibrant streets of Kota Kinabalu on a guided tour through bustling markets, heritage landmarks, and local eateries. Discover the culture, flavours, and everyday life of Sabah’s lively coastal capital.

KOTA KINABALU CITY EXCURSION

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

GAYA STREET (SUNDAY MARKET)

Visit the iconic Gaya Street Sunday Market in Kota Kinabalu, where a vibrant street fair showcases local crafts, food, produce, and souvenirs.

GAYA STREET (SUNDAY MARKET)

Visit the iconic Gaya Street Sunday Market in Kota Kinabalu, where a vibrant street fair showcases local crafts, food, produce, and souvenirs.

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

THE SABAH SCENT ADVENTURES

Learn the art of blending indigenous essential oils and craft a personalised scent inspired by the island in this intimate workshop.

THE SABAH SCENT ADVENTURES

Learn the art of blending indigenous essential oils and craft a personalised scent inspired by the island in this intimate workshop.

CRAFTED EXPERIENCES

MOVIE NIGHT UNDER THE STARS

Unwind and enjoy cinema beneath the island’s starry sky with an open-air film screening on the resort’s tropical lawn beside the Pool Bar.

MOVIE NIGHT UNDER THE STARS

Unwind and enjoy cinema beneath the island’s starry sky with an open-air film screening on the resort’s tropical lawn beside the Pool Bar.

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.