Island Hopping Tour From Kota Kinabalu (2 island)

Explore the Best of Kota Kinabalu’s Islands with an Island Hopping Tour

If you’re headed to Kota Kinabalu and want a taste of Malaysia’s stunning coastline, an island-hopping tour offers a perfect day out. For around $90 per person, this 7-hour adventure takes you through Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, stopping at 3 beautiful islands—Manukan, Mamutik, and Sapi—with time for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying a hearty lunch. The trip includes hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free way to experience Sabah’s tropical waters.

What we love about this tour is how it combines scenic boat rides with easy access to beaches and underwater life—making it ideal for both relaxation and exploration. Plus, the lunch on Sapi Island offers a delightful break from the sun and sea. On the downside, some travelers have noted that the snorkeling might not meet expectations if you’re after vibrant coral and abundant fish. Still, for those craving beautiful beaches and tropical scenery, this trip hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water, families or groups interested in easy watersports, and anyone wanting a quick escape from city life. It’s also perfect if you want a guided, organized outing without worrying about transportation logistics.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup from Kota Kinabalu for convenience.
• Snorkeling opportunities at 3 islands, though marine life may be limited.
• Lunch on Sapi Island is a highlight, with a buffet-style meal and plenty of time to unwind.
• Group size capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Natural beauty with stunning beaches and scenic boat rides.
• Limited underwater activity might disappoint snorkelers expecting vibrant coral reefs.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

Starting at 8:30 am, the tour begins with hotel pickup in Kota Kinabalu, a real time-saver that lets you relax before the adventure begins. The transportation is organized, with a guide providing explanations along the way, which adds a layer of local insight that you won’t get if you’re exploring solo.

The boat ride from Jesselton Point to the Marine Park is short—about 15 minutes—serving as a scenic preview of the water-bound adventure ahead. The admission tickets for each island are included, so there’s no surprise fee at the dock, and gear for snorkeling is provided, making it easy even if you don’t have your own equipment.

First Stop: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

This protected marine area features the two main islands and is a must-see for anyone interested in Malaysia’s coastal environment. It’s a popular destination, which means it can get crowded, but the natural beauty and proximity to Kota Kinabalu make it worthwhile. As one reviewer noted, “The beaches are pretty,” although some felt the snorkeling didn’t live up to expectations due to limited coral and fish.

Second Stop: Manukan Island

The largest of the three, Manukan is famous for its white sandy beaches and clear, calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. It’s also a snorkeling and diving hub, though recent reviews have mentioned that marine life isn’t as abundant as some might hope, with almost no fish in certain areas. But the scenery and beach vibe are definitely worth experiencing.

Third Stop: Mamutik Island

The smallest of the islands, Mamutik offers a more intimate setting with fewer visitors. It’s a good spot for a quick swim or some snorkeling, with admission included. The island’s size makes it manageable for a brief stop, giving you just enough time to explore the shoreline or relax on the beach.

The Highlight: Sapi Island and the Lunch

The final stop is Sapi Island, where the tour culminates in a buffet lunch—a key highlight for many travelers. The meal offers local flavors and plenty of options, perfect for refueling after a morning in the sun. The lunch spot also doubles as a relaxing spot to unwind, with views of the turquoise waters and beachfront scenery.

The return trip to Kota Kinabalu in the late afternoon wraps up the day, giving you a chance to reflect on the stunning sights and new experiences.

What the Reviews Say and How It Helps You Decide

One traveler, David, summed it up well: “Nice beaches but nothing to do underwater.” He appreciated the guide’s organization and the beaches’ beauty, but found the snorkeling disappointing due to no coral and sparse marine life. This is an important point—if underwater exploration is your primary goal, you might find the marine environment less vibrant than expected.

On the plus side, many guests enjoy the scenic boat rides, easy logistics, and the chance to relax on beautiful beaches. The small group size ensures a more personable experience, and the lunch on Sapi Island receives praise for being tasty and filling.

This tour offers a great balance of scenery, relaxation, and guided convenience, but it’s worth tempering expectations regarding underwater life.

Practical Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

• Book in advance—most travelers reserve about 6 days ahead, ensuring availability during peak season.
• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to maximize underwater exploration, though gear is provided.
• Arrive with an open mind—the beaches are lovely, but don’t expect vibrant coral reefs if you’re into serious snorkeling.
• Prepare for the heat and sun—bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated.
• Consider bringing waterproof camera—the scenery is perfect for capturing memories.
• Plan your timing—the tour is about 7 hours, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a full day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This island-hopping trip is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, organized day on the water with stunning beach scenery and a good lunch. It’s perfect if you’re interested in easy snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying nature without strenuous activity. Families, small groups, or couples looking for a convenient way to explore Sabah’s coast will find it a good fit.

However, those with high expectations for vibrant marine life or extensive underwater exploration may find the snorkeling somewhat limited. The tour’s focus on scenic beaches and relaxed stops makes it less suitable for avid snorkelers seeking coral reefs and abundant fish.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In essence, this island-hopping tour provides a solid overview of Kota Kinabalu’s coastal beauty. It’s a great value considering the hotel transfers, lunch, and guided experience included. The scenic boat rides, beautiful beaches, and easy access make it an attractive option for travelers wanting a taste of island life without too much fuss.

While marine life might not be as abundant as some snorkelers hope, the stunning views, relaxing beaches, and lunch on Sapi offer plenty of memorable moments. It’s a tour that’s best suited for those seeking scenic leisure rather than serious underwater adventure.

If you’re after a comfortable, well-organized day in a tropical setting, this trip will serve you well. For adventurers craving vibrant coral reefs and rich marine environments, you might want to look elsewhere. But for easy enjoyment in a beautiful setting, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, land and sea transfers within the city, meals (lunch), snorkeling gear, and admission tickets to each island.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending with a return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for families or groups looking for a relaxed day out. Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but keep in mind the activities are generally suitable for children comfortable around water.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, gear is included, making it easy to slip into the water without bringing your own.

Will I see vibrant marine life?
Based on reviews, the marine environment may be limited, with some travelers noting almost no fish or coral. If underwater scenery is a priority, you might find this tour less ideal.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Changes within that window are not accepted.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and possibly a waterproof camera. Comfortable shoes and swimwear are also recommended for the day.

To sum it up, this Kota Kinabalu island-hopping tour offers a lovely blend of scenic beaches, easy snorkeling, and a delicious lunch, all wrapped up in a hassle-free package. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day exploring Sabah’s coastal treasures without the need for intense underwater exploration. While marine life may not be abundant, the beautiful beaches and scenic boat rides ensure this is a memorable way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.