Long Beach Watersports

Top Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu 2025 – Island & Sunsets

When you think of things to do in Kota Kinabalu, island hopping and marine adventures usually come to mind — turquoise waters, sunny beaches, and tropical islands just minutes from the city. One of the best things about Kota Kinabalu island activities is that you can enjoy world-class snorkeling, water sports, and beach experiences within a 20-minute boat ride from the city centre.

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 holidays
2. 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 day
Departure: 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

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 holidays
2. 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 day
Departure: Jesselton Point (Counter No. 14 – Long Beach Sabah)
WhatsApp: +6014 852 6505 (for booking)
Catalogue: Click Here
Island Hopping Guide 2025 Updated: Click Here

👉 Book your island hopping tour directly with Long Beach

2️⃣ Parasailing & Water Adventures in Kota Kinabalu

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/pax
Location: Manukan, Mamutik, Tg. Aru Beach (sunset time)
Duration: 10 minutes (approx.)
Best For: Thrill seekers, couples, first-timers
Booking: Click here

3️⃣ Seawalking – Explore Kota Kinabalu Island Underwater 

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 old
2. Don’t wear makeup or sunscreen before dive (for helmet visibility)
3. Bring towel & dry clothes
4. You must passed all the health requirements

Price: From RM250/pax. Long Beach Promo RM140 only!
Duration: 20 minutes approx.
Location: Sapi or Manukan Island
Operator: Long Beach
Booking : Click Here

4️⃣ Jet Ski Adventure in Kota Kinabalu (Guided 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 in Kota Kinabalu Islands

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/pax
Location: Manukan, Mamutik Island & Tg. Aru Beach (sunset time)
Duration: 5–10 minutes approx.

6️⃣ Snorkeling & Marine Activities in KK

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 shore
2. Mamutik shallow reef area

7️⃣ Sunset Stand-Up Paddle Boarding at Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu

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 hours
Location: Tanjung Aru Beach  (sunset time)
Booking: WhatsApp to book

8️⃣ Borneo Sunset & Dinner Cruise in Kota Kinabalu

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 Point
Booking : WhatsApp Now!

9️⃣ Diving at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu

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. Bring waterproof camera!

Price: RM300–RM450 (intro dive)
Dive Centers: Borneo Dream, Downbelow, Long Beach

🔟 Gaya Island Jungle + Beach Combo

Gaya Island, the largest in the marine park, offers both rainforest trails and hidden beaches. Combine snorkeling with a short jungle walk for a full-day adventure.

Tips
1. Bring insect repellent & hiking shoes.
2. Start early (8 AM – 2 PM).

Entrance Fee: RM20 (trail access)
Duration: Half day

✨ Bonus Tips for Island Adventures

  1. 🕗 Best Time to Visit: February – August (dry season)
  • 💸 Marine Park Conservation Fee:

    • Malaysian: RM8 (adult) / RM5 (child)

    • Non-Malaysian: RM25 (adult) / RM20 (child)

  • 🎒 What to Bring:
    Waterproof bag, extra clothes, sunscreen, towel, hat, cash

  • 🐠 Respect Marine Life:
    No touching coral or taking shells

📍 Where to Start: Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal

  • Address: Jesselton Point, Kota Kinabalu City Center

  • Opening Hours: 8 AM – 2 PM

  • Our Counter: No. 14 – Long Beach Sabah

  • WhatsApp Booking: +6014 852 6505

  • Deposit: RM45/pax only, pay balance on activity day if you’re booking with Long Beach

👉 Book online via WhatsApp or website to secure your slot early — cheaper and faster than walk-in!

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general guidance only. Prices, schedules, and activity details may change without prior notice and can vary between travel agents and tour operators.

Long Beach Sabah is not responsible for any trip issues, changes, cancellations, or discrepancies that may occur during your travel experience.

👉 Always confirm the latest information directly with us or your chosen tour operator before booking your trip.

Q&A

1. How can I make payment for island hopping packages?

You can book online easily through the Long Beach Sabah website

using VISA, Mastercard, or AliPay. Alternatively, payment can be made via QR code or online bank transfer and E-wallet
When you arrive at the counter for registration, the balance payment can be made by cash, bank card, QR code, online transfer, or AliPay.

💡 Only a RM45 per person deposit is required to secure your booking.

 

Because the islands are part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a protected national park managed by Sabah Parks.The conservation fee helps fund reef protection, waste management, and park maintenance to keep the islands clean and beautiful for everyone.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the most visited cities in Malaysia, especially during school holidays and public holidays. Island hopping tours and water sports can sell out quickly, so booking early ensures you get a confirmed seat and avoid long queues at the jetty.

All island trips depart from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, located in the city center of Kota Kinabalu.
It’s only about 5–10 minutes by Grab or taxi from most hotels in town — very convenient and easy to reach by walking

The best months are February to August, during the dry season when the weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and snorkeling visibility is at its best.
However, island hopping tours operate all year round, weather permitting.

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