Sabah: Ara Dinawan Island

Imagine escaping the hustle and bustle of city life for a peaceful day on an island where lush greenery meets crystal-clear waters. That’s what a trip to Ara Dinawan Island promises—if only from stories and reviews, since we haven’t been there ourselves. Located just 20 minutes from Kota Kinabalu, this private island offers a blend of serenity, adventure, and scenic beauty.

What we love about this experience is the chance to enjoy secluded beaches, the opportunity for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, and the local, freshly prepared seafood with stunning sunset views. Plus, it’s designed to be eco-friendly, which appeals to travelers who want to protect the environment while having a good time. However, a potential drawback is that the snorkeling isn’t as spectacular as some might hope, with reviews mentioning less marine life and some dead coral.

This tour is ideal for those who seek a relaxing escape with a sprinkle of adventure—perfect for nature enthusiasts, families, or solo travelers craving some peace and quiet. If you’re looking for a more lively, bustling beach day or a top-tier marine ecosystem, you might want to consider other options. But if a tranquil, scenic day on a private island sounds appealing, Ara Dinawan could be worth the price.

Key Points

• Private and serene environment ideal for relaxation and peace
• Multiple activities available like snorkeling, kayaking, and jungle trekking
• Fresh seafood and local dishes served in a scenic tropical setting
• Eco-conscious approach helps preserve the island’s biodiversity
• Average reviews highlight decent but not spectacular snorkeling and some construction issues
• Suitable for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting with a hotel pickup in Kota Kinabalu, your day on Ara Dinawan Island kicks off with a scenic 20-minute boat ride. As the boat approaches the island, the view of the lush greenery and pristine beaches already hints at the tranquility that awaits. The anticipation builds as you’ll be greeted with a refreshing tea, and then it’s time to explore.

Arrival and Jungle Trails

Once on shore, the first impression is of untouched natural beauty—jungle trails alive with sounds of birds and wildlife like hornbills, as some reviews hint. The guides are experienced and friendly; one reviewer described guide Kelvin as lovely, emphasizing the importance of good local guides in making the trip enjoyable. Walking the trails gives you a chance to see more of the island’s flora and fauna, setting the tone for a peaceful day.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The highlight for many is the snorkeling sessions in crystal-clear waters. You’ll get to see vibrant coral reefs and marine creatures such as clownfish and turtles. However, a couple of reviews mention that the marine life was less abundant, with some describing the coral as dead or lacking fish. One reviewer, Allegra, noted that the snorkeling was “OK,” but not spectacular, and she found the overall experience somewhat spoiled by wind and construction.

Expect boat and shore snorkeling included, allowing plenty of time to explore different spots. If you’re a snorkeler, bringing your own mask and fins might help, especially if you’re particular about marine ecosystems. For those less keen on snorkeling, the beach activities like lounging or playing volleyball offer relaxing alternatives.

Lunch and Scenic Views

After working up an appetite, a delicious seafood lunch is served, featuring fresh catches and local dishes. Reviewers appreciated the quality of the food, describing it as nice, and that it added to the overall experience. The lush surroundings make for a stunning backdrop as you dine, and many guests find the scenic scenery during lunch to be a real highlight.

More Great Tours Nearby

Afternoon Activities

Post-lunch, you can choose from a variety of activities: kayaking, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, or simply relaxing on the beach. The clubhouse provides a comfortable space to lounge, and the scenic sunset views truly cap off the day. Some reviews mention that the windy conditions mean you might have to leave earlier than planned, so packing accordingly is wise.

Ending the Day

As the tour winds down, you’ll enjoy hi-tea overlooking the horizon, a perfect moment to reflect on the day. The gentle waves, exotic bird sounds, and vibrant sunset create a peaceful atmosphere to round off your island visit.

The Practical Side of Things

Price-wise, the tour costs around $86 per person, which includes return boat transfer, lunch, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and clubhouse access. For active travelers or seafood lovers, this offers good value, especially given the secluded nature of the island. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, providing some peace of mind.

Transportation is straightforward with hotel pickup included, and the boat ride is short and scenic. The tour typically lasts a full day, giving plenty of time to experience multiple activities without feeling rushed.

What to Bring

Make sure to pack sunglasses, a change of clothes, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, and insect repellent. Since the tour is outdoors and involves water activities, comfortable clothes and sun protection are a must. Smoking is not permitted on the island, which helps maintain its eco-friendly status.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with high blood pressure, and some areas may be under construction, impacting the aesthetic and comfort. The reviews also mention windy weather that can cut the day short, so flexibility is key.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

The reviews, though mixed, offer valuable insights. Allegra’s experience highlighted that some parts of the island are slightly scruffy, with ongoing construction, which can detract from the pristine vibe. She also pointed out that the snorkeling was “average” and the food was just “okay”, which suggests that expectations should be kept realistic.

Meanwhile, the review from a GetYourGuide traveler appreciated the quiet atmosphere and friendly guide Kelvin, indicating that the personal touch and peaceful setting are real selling points. The less impressive marine life was a common theme, which is helpful to know if snorkeling is your priority.

Is This Tour for You?

If you crave a quiet escape with beautiful scenery, fresh seafood, and light adventure options, Ara Dinawan offers a good value day trip. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a break from tourist-heavy spots.

However, if you’re expecting world-class coral reefs or vibrant marine ecosystems, you might find the snorkeling underwhelming. It’s better suited for those who value relaxed beaches, scenic vistas, and eco-conscious practices over a bustling underwater life.

This tour is also well-suited for those who want a flexible, all-in-one day—with kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach lounging included—without having to organize multiple activities independently.

The Sum Up

Ara Dinawan Island is a solid choice for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic day escape close to Kota Kinabalu. While reviews suggest the marine environment may not be spectacular, the serene beaches, friendly guides, and fresh seafood make it a charming retreat from the city’s hustle. It’s especially suitable for those who prioritize nature, tranquility, and eco-friendly experiences over vibrant marine life.

The tour offers good value for the price, with a variety of activities and scenic moments packed into a full day. Keep expectations realistic regarding snorkeling and marine biodiversity, but enjoy the stunning vistas, lush surroundings, and laid-back atmosphere that define this private island paradise.

For anyone wanting a relaxed day on a tropical island with some adventure and beautiful scenery, Ara Dinawan can be a delightful choice—just remember to bring your sunblock and your sense of adventure (or patience)!

FAQ

How long is the boat ride to Ara Dinawan Island?
The boat ride from Kota Kinabalu takes about 20 minutes, making it a quick and scenic trip.

What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes boat and shore snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and access to the clubhouse.

Is food provided during the trip?
Yes, a seafood lunch featuring freshly caught fish and local dishes is included, along with a hi-tea service during sunset.

What should I bring with me?
Pack sunglasses, a change of clothes, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, and insect repellent.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Absolutely, the tour allows you to reserve now and pay nothing upfront, which offers flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
While suitable for most, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with high blood pressure.

Are there any restrictions on smoking?
Smoking is not permitted on the island to help maintain its eco-standards.

What happens if the weather is windy?
Reviews mention that windy conditions might cause early departure, so it’s wise to dress appropriately and be flexible.

How is the overall value for the price?
Considering the activities, meals, and scenic setting, many find it reasonable, especially for a full day of relaxed fun.

Is snorkeling worth it here?
Reviews suggest that snorkeling is average, with some dead coral and fewer fish, so it may not be the main draw for marine life enthusiasts.

In essence, Ara Dinawan Island offers a peaceful, scenic escape. While it might not impress hardcore snorkelers, its tranquil beaches, fresh seafood, and eco-conscious vibe make it a worthwhile day trip for those wanting to unwind amidst nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: