Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu (Part 1): Islands & Marine Adventures 2025

When you think of Kota Kinabalu, you probably picture turquoise waters, sunny beaches, and islands just a short boat ride away. The good news? You can enjoy world-class island adventures within 20 minutes of the city. This first part of our Ultimate KK Guide covers 10 best island and water activities, all accessible from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal — the heart of Kota Kinabalu’s island adventures. Whether you love snorkeling, jet skiing, or just chilling by the beach, these are must-do experiences that show why Sabah is known as the Maldives of Borneo. 1️⃣ Island Hopping – Manukan & Mamutik The classic KK activity! Visit 2–3 islands in a day — usually Manukan, Mamutik, and sometimes Sapi Island. Enjoy white sand beaches, snorkeling, and seaside cafés. Tips:1. Book online in advance to avoid long queues.2. Book a few days or weeks in advance esepcially during high season, school and public holidays2. Bring sunscreen, towel, and a waterproof bag.3. Avoid feeding fish or touching coral. Fees from RM60/pax (2 islands, boat transfer+ jetty fees) + Marine Park fee RM5–RM30.Duration: Half day to full dayDeparture: Jesselton Point (Counter No. 14 – Long Beach Sabah)WhatsApp: +6014 852 6505 (for booking)Catalogue: Click Here 👉 Book your island hopping tour directly with Long Beach Island Hopping Deposit Payment Rated 0 out of 5 RM45.00/guest Island EN Island Hopping Deposit Payment Rated 0 out of 5 RM45.00/guest View More Island Hopping Basic Rated 0 out of 5 RM60.00/guest Island EN Island Hopping Basic Rated 0 out of 5 RM60.00/guest View More Island Hopping C SPECIAL PROMO! Rated 0 out of 5 RM195.00/guest Island EN Island Hopping C SPECIAL PROMO! Rated 0 out of 5 RM195.00/guest View More Island Hopping B Rated 0 out of 5 RM135.00/guest Island EN Island Hopping B Rated 0 out of 5 RM135.00/guest View More Island Hopping Deposit Payment Rated 0 out of 5RM45.00/guest View More Island Hopping Basic Rated 0 out of 5RM60.00/guest View More Island Hopping C SPECIAL PROMO! Rated 0 out of 5RM195.00/guest View More Island Hopping Deposit Payment ☆☆☆☆☆RM45.00/guestView Product Island Hopping Jetski x ☆☆☆☆☆RM145.00/guestView Product Island Hopping Basic ☆☆☆☆☆RM60.00/guestView Product Island Hopping C SPECIAL PROMO! ☆☆☆☆☆RM195.00/guestView Product Island Hopping B ☆☆☆☆☆RM135.00/guestView Product Island Hopping A ☆☆☆☆☆RM115.00/guestView Product 1️⃣ Island Hopping – Manukan & Mamutik The classic KK activity! Visit 2–3 islands in a day — usually Manukan, Mamutik, and sometimes Sapi Island. Enjoy white sand beaches, snorkeling, and seaside cafés. Tips:1. Book online in advance to avoid long queues.2. Book a few days or weeks in advance esepcially during high season, school and public holidays2. Bring sunscreen, towel, and a waterproof bag.3. Avoid feeding fish or touching coral. Fees from RM60/pax (2 islands, boat transfer+ jetty fees) + Marine Park fee RM5–RM30.Duration: Half day to full dayDeparture: Jesselton Point (Counter No. 14 – Long Beach Sabah)WhatsApp: +6014 852 6505 (for booking)Catalogue: Click Here 👉 Book your island hopping tour directly with Long Beach 2️⃣ Parasailing – Fly Above the Sea Get a bird’s-eye view of the islands while flying up to 100 meters above the sea! A thrilling yet safe activity suitable even for beginners. Parasailing activity is available at the islands and at Tg. Aru beach, Kota Kinabalu during the sunset, operated by Long Beach Tips:1. Go between 10 AM – 2 PM when skies are clear.2. You can fly solo, in pairs, or even in triple. Price: From RM100–RM130/paxLocation: Manukan, Mamutik, Tg. Aru Beach (sunset time)Duration: 10 minutes (approx.)Best For: Thrill seekers, couples, first-timersBooking: Click here 3️⃣ Seawalking – Underwater Without Swimming No diving experience needed! Put on an oxygen helmet and walk among coral fish — one of the most unique water activities in KK. Tips:1. Minimum age: 8 years old2. Don’t wear makeup or sunscreen before dive (for helmet visibility)3. Bring towel & dry clothes4. You must passed all the health requirements Price: From RM250/pax. Long Beach Promo RM140 only!Duration: 20 minutes approx.Location: Sapi or Manukan IslandOperator: Long BeachBooking : Click Here 4️⃣ Jet Ski Adventure (with Instructor) Ride the waves around the islands on a powerful jet ski. In Sabah, every jet ski is 3-seater, meaning 2 guests + 1 instructor as per local marine authority rules. Tips:1. Bring waterproof phone pouch for photos.2. Listen to safety briefing carefully before ride. Price: From RM250 (15–20 min) LONG BEACH PROMO (RM190/unit/30 min)Location: Manukan, Mamutik, or Gaya waters & Tg. Aru Beach (sunset time)Note: Instructor rides for safety & control. 5️⃣ Banana Boat Ride Fun, fast, and perfect for groups! Hold on tight as your inflatable boat speeds through turquoise waters. Tips:1. Minimum 3 people per ride.2. Expect to get fully wet — wear swimwear! Price: RM40–RM60/paxLocation: Manukan, Mamutik Island & Tg. Aru Beach (sunset time)Duration: 5–10 minutes approx. 6️⃣ Snorkeling Crystal-clear waters of Manukan & Mamutik make them the best snorkeling spots in Sabah. Coral gardens start just 5 m from the beach! Tips:1. Rent snorkel sets (RM10–RM15) or bring your own. (Free snorkeling mask with Long Beach packages)2. Avoid stepping on coral — it’s fragile and protected. Best Spots:1. Manukan eastern shore2. Mamutik shallow reef area 7️⃣ Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) A relaxing water sport that lets you explore at your own pace — standing, kneeling, or sitting on a paddleboard. Tips:1. Go early morning for calm waters.2. Perfect for families and beginners. Price: From RM85/unit for 1.5 hoursLocation: Tanjung Aru Beach  (sunset time)Booking: WhatsApp to book 8️⃣ Borneo Sunset & Dinner Cruise End your day with a romantic cruise around the coast of Kota Kinabalu. Watch the sunset behind the islands while enjoying snacks and music on deck. Tips:1. Book in a few days or weeks in advance (limited seats).2. Arrive by 4:30 PM for 5 PM departure. Price: RM250/pax (LIMITED PROMO with long Beach RM199 only)Departure: Sutera Harbour Marina or Jesselton PointBooking : WhatsApp Now! 9️⃣ Diving at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Ideal for beginner divers — calm currents, shallow reefs, and colorful marine life. Choose from fun dives, intro dives, or PADI courses. Tips:1. Must know basic swimming.2.

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