Spa Resort > Bunga Raya Resort | Hilltop Spa From $226

Name: BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT & SPA, Gaya Island
Address: Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Gaya Island, Sabah, 88778
Price range: US$226+
Rating: 8.9

75 photos

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa Gaya Island Beach photo This is a breathtaking aerial view of a tropical paradise. The photo showcases a stunning white sand beach gently curving along a coastline, backed by lush green vegetation. The water is crystal clear and ranges in color from a vibrant turquoise near

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa Gaya Island Exterior photo The photo shows a serene tropical scene with several small, rustic wooden bungalows nestled amidst lush greenery and near a body of water.

The bungalows have dark, steeply pitched roofs, likely made of shingles, and are painted a muted green or bro

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa Gaya Island Exterior photo The photo shows two wooden treehouses nestled amongst lush green trees, likely in a forest or jungle setting. The larger treehouse is on the left and is built on stilts, with a dark shingled roof and a spacious wooden balcony. It has multiple windows

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Key details

About spa resort

Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Gaya Island, 88778

Close to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Great

8.9

8.5

/10

4.6

4.4

Loved by Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa guests

Fine accommodation

Wonderful staff

Delicious food

Spacious villas

Really good service

Fabulous spa

"The way the resort was designed to fit into it's environment is the best aspect of Bungaraya."

Sin from Malaysia

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"We stayed in a spacious two bedroom villa high in the trees with a view of the beach and sea beyond."

Hannah C from Italy

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"We enjoyed the snorkeling day trip offered with a supplemental charge- it was probably one of the highlights from our stay at the resort."

Kimberly

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Luxury rainforest resort on Gaya Island

Villas & Accommodation

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa offers 48 air-conditioned villas with private balconies, handcrafted by local artisans using traditional Bornean architecture. Each villa overlooks the jungle or the South China Sea, and some include a private plunge pool. The rooms are spacious, fitted with a 42-inch flat-screen TV, and the private bathrooms feature luxury amenities and a shower.

Dining & Wine Cellar

The resort has three dining options: the Longhouse for daily buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Pantai Restaurant & Bar for fresh grilled seafood. The Koi Wine Cave houses a selection of over 4,000 bottles of wine and cigars. Breakfast in the room is available, and the bar serves drinks throughout the day.

Spa & Wellness

The hilltop spa offers treatments using local ingredients, including traditional Asian and Western therapies. Guests can also use the fitness centre, sauna, and hot tub. The outdoor infinity pool overlooks the turquoise sea, and the spa provides an immersive wellness experience.

Activities & Beach

The resort provides complimentary snorkelling equipment and guided tours, plus kayaking, canoeing, and jungle trekking. The private beach area is serene, and the beachfront offers easy access to vibrant marine life. Diving, billiards, and a kids' club are also available on-site.

Location & Services

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa is located on Gaya Island, a 25-minute boat ride from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal. The nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu International Airport, 11 km from the ferry terminal. The resort offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, laundry services, and airport shuttle transfers.

Highlights

Location: Secluded island within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Rooms: 48 handcrafted villas with private balconies and plunge pools

Dining: The Koi Wine Cave with 4,000+ bottles

Wellness: Hilltop spa using local ingredients

Activities: Complimentary snorkelling, kayaking, and jungle trekking

Family: Dedicated children's areas and kids' club

Must-do experiences

Snorkel at nearby Sapi Island for vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Savor the seafood at Gaya Seafood Restaurant; try their grilled fish.
Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village to learn about local indigenous culture.
Hike to the lookout point for stunning panoramic views of Gaya Island.
Explore the Kota Kinabalu Night Market for local street food delights.

Location: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Spa & LeisureExpert Hands

The spa offers very skilled massage therapists in a stunning location; a true hidden gem.

Isabelle from France

Review on

DiningFood Perfection

The Longhouse restaurant served outstanding Asian food. Fresh juices and mocktails were especially enjoyable.

Chang from Singapore

Review on

Sports & FitnessActive Paradise

Free kayaks, SUP boards, and snorkel gear are available for exploring the beautiful and healthy coral reef.

Kenji from Japan

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BedroomComfort Defined

The villas feature huge, comfortable beds, ensuring a restful and luxurious experience.

Aisha from United Arab Emirates

Review on

Select your room type

The resort offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Superior Villa
2 persons
70 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Deluxe Villa
2 persons
108 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Villa Private Pool
2 persons
87 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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July 2026 - July 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The resort offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.0/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
Private beach

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Hiking
Billiard tables

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Kids club

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Jacuzzi

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Parquet floor

Dining Onsite

At Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa, dining unfolds in a lush setting that harmonizes with both ocean and rainforest. The Longhouse beckons with its rich tapestry of Malaysian flavors alongside international favorites, offering a welcoming space perfect for families and travelers alike.

The Longhouse
Malaysian, Local, International
Ambiance
Set against the backdrop of a vibrant rainforest and glistening waters, The Longhouse provides a family-friendly atmosphere where guests can relax and savor meals together.
Key Offerings
The menu features a delightful blend of local Malaysian dishes alongside familiar international cuisines, ensuring that every palate is catered to. This charming restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a warm and inviting setting for all occasions.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location

Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Gaya Island, 88778

Explore Gaya Island

Local Experiences

Sapi Island

25 minutes' walk

Sapi Island features stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

25 minutes' walk

This park offers diverse marine life and picturesque trails, perfect for eco-tourism and picnics.

Coral Flyer Zipline

25 minutes' walk

The Coral Flyer is the world's longest island-to-island zipline with thrilling views overhead.

Canopy Walk and Zip Lines

1 minute' walk

A brief stroll leads you to the canopy walk and zip lines, offering an adrenaline rush and unique views.

Snorkeling at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

25 minutes' walk

Guided snorkeling excursions let you explore coral reefs; equipment rentals available nearby.

Sundowner Restaurant

5 minutes' drive

Savor local specialties in a relaxed atmosphere, known for its fresh seafood and stunning sunset views.

Kampung Style Cafe

10 minutes' drive

Offering Malaysian cuisine with a homey vibe, featuring classic dishes like Nasi Lemak and Satay.

Pacific Sutera Hotel Lounge

10 minutes' drive

Enjoy live music and elegant cocktails at this upscale lounge, known for its vibrant ambiance.

Wisma Sabah Theatre

10 minutes' drive

Catch local performances and cultural shows; a great option for families and all ages.

Getting around

City Centre
Gaya Island 22 min · 1.1 mi
Airports
Kota Kinabalu International (BKI) 11 min · 4.5 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Breakfast

A continental breakfast is served at affordable prices.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa is nestled in a rainforest setting with direct beach access and clear, warm waters. The spacious villas are thoughtfully placed on a hillside, and electric carts provide efficient transport around the resort. While the resort is generally well-maintained, some guests have noted occasional rubbish on the beach due to the tide. Guests particularly enjoy the South China Sea view from the bar.

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Review score

Based on 162 verified reviews

8.2 /10

Great

78 %

Recommend

Location

9.6/10

Staff

9.5/10

Paid Wi-Fi

4.3/10

Breakfast

7.5/10

Pros

Stunning location

Friendly staff

Clean beach

Comfortable rooms

Delicious food

Cons

Slow service

Overpriced trips

Philippe from France

Couple

Deluxe Villa

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

6/10

aggressive monkeys persistent sandflies

the staff was friendly and mostly helpful i appreciate that much

the beach was quite disappointing sand flies were everywhere it was impossible to relax without getting bitten constantly also the monkeys were aggressive they stole food right off the table from other guests that is unnaceptable

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Questions of the users

About Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Is there a complimentary boat service to transfer between the mainland and the resort?

15 December 2024

Yes, the boat service is complimentary for arrivals and departures, following a specified schedule.

Could you explain how the boat transfer operates?

20 November 2024

Boat transfers are available at scheduled times: Check-In at 12:30, 16:30, and 22:00 hours, and Check-Out at 11:00 hours.

What is the recommended arrival time at the Jesselton Point Pier for the boat transfer?

10 January 2025

It's advisable to arrive at Jesselton Point Pier at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Are snorkeling equipment and classes available for guests?

5 February 2025

Snorkeling equipment is provided complimentary for guests. Beginners can also request snorkeling classes during their stay.

Is it safe to travel to the island if I'm 6 months pregnant?

24 March 2025

Traveling to the island is generally safe, but consulting with a doctor beforehand is highly recommended.

Where can I purchase boat transfer tickets or book a chartered boat, and what are the costs?

30 April 2024

Boat transfer tickets can be purchased through the resort's page. Please reach out for specific pricing details.

Is the staycation offer available for expatriates holding an Employment Pass in Malaysia?

12 May 2025

Yes, the staycation offer is valid for Malaysian citizens and residents, including expatriate Employment Pass holders, but proof of residency is required at check-in.

What types of activities do you offer, and are they included in the accommodation package?

3 June 2024

Many activities, such as snorkeling and kayaking, may incur additional charges. For a complete list of included and extra-charge activities, please inquire with the resort.

Is there a fitness center available at the resort?

15 July 2025

Yes, the resort features a gym equipped with various fitness machines, including treadmills.

Are there parking facilities available for guests on the mainland?

2 August 2024

The resort does not provide parking, but guests can utilize nearby facilities like Jesselton Mall or Suria Sabah, located just a short walk from the jetty.