Gaya Island Resort.

Set within the protected waters of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Gaya Island Resort trades typical beachfront sprawl for a car-free, immersion-first layout. Its 121 hillside villas are tucked into the rainforest canopy, offering views of the mangroves, the bay, or Mount Kinabalu in the distance. The resort’s identity is tied to its wild surroundings; guests can divide their days between diving the house reef, exploring jungle trails, and visiting the on-site marine center dedicated to turtle and coral conservation. For recovery, the spa is tucked into a quiet mangrove pocket, while dining options range from beachside lunches at Tavajun Bay to rooftop seafood at Fisherman’s Cove. It is a polished sanctuary that prioritizes walking, contemplation, and nature over flashy resort tropes.