Morning: Ara Dinawan Private Island

Guests embark on an exhilarating journey to Ara Dinawan Private Island in the morning. The trip begins with a scenic 30-minute van ride from Kota Kinabalu to the speedboat jetty, followed by a thrilling 20-minute speedboat ride across crystal-clear waters. Upon arrival, visitors are warmly welcomed with refreshing drinks and a brief orientation, setting the stage for a day of exploration and relaxation on this enchanting island. But what awaits them beyond the initial arrival?

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Key Points

Guests are picked up from Kota Kinabalu and taken to a speedboat jetty for a 20-minute ride to the private island.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with refreshing drinks and given a brief orientation about the day’s activities and island facilities.
Guests can enjoy a 1.5-hour snorkeling adventure to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life surrounding the island.
Lunch is served in a scenic tropical dining area, featuring locally-sourced seafood dishes, vibrant vegetable platters, and refreshing tropical fruit desserts.
Beyond lunch, guests can engage in a variety of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and a jungle trek to spot exotic wildlife.

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Getting to Ara Dinawan Private Island

How does one get to the serene Ara Dinawan Private Island? Guests are picked up from Kota Kinabalu and take a 30-minute van ride to the speedboat jetty.

Then, it’s a 20-minute speedboat ride to the island. This private island escape is accessible only by boat, ensuring a truly secluded experience.

A 20-minute speedboat ride transports guests to the secluded Ara Dinawan Private Island, accessible only by boat.

Once on the island, visitors can enjoy the serene natural surroundings, with opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and other water activities.

The journey to Ara Dinawan is part of the overall island adventure, setting the stage for a day of exploration and relaxation.

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Arrival and Welcome Refreshments

Upon arrival at the private island, guests are warmly welcomed with refreshing drinks and a brief orientation.

The staff provides an overview of the day’s activities and island facilities. Visitors can take a moment to enjoy the serene setting, sipping on chilled coconut water or tropical juices.

This introductory time allows everyone to settle in and get acquainted with the island’s peaceful ambiance before the adventure begins.

After the welcome, guests are free to explore the island’s pristine beaches and lush natural surroundings at their own pace, preparing for the upcoming snorkeling experience.

Snorkeling Adventure

After enjoying the welcome refreshments, guests can’t wait to jump into the crystal-clear waters surrounding the private island for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure.

The vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life provide a captivating underwater experience. Guests will have 1.5 hours to explore the snorkeling site, marveling at the colorful schools of tropical fish and the occasional sea turtle.

Guided by experienced local instructors, guests can feel safe and confident as they discover the enchanting beauty of the island’s pristine marine ecosystem.

Savoring the Lunch Experience

As guests are guided to the scenic tropical dining area, they eagerly anticipate the freshly prepared lunch.

The menu features:

Locally-sourced seafood dishes, highlighting the island’s bountiful marine life
Vibrant vegetable platters, showcasing the chef’s commitment to sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients
Fragrant rice and noodle options, providing a satisfying cultural experience
Refreshing tropical fruit desserts, a sweet finale to the meal

Dining amidst the lush greenery and serene ocean vistas, guests savor each bite, fully immersed in the island’s tranquil ambiance.

The lunch experience epitomizes the resort’s dedication to offering an authentic, eco-friendly retreat.

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Exploring the Island’s Activities

Guests are eager to explore the island’s diverse array of activities beyond the serene lunch experience.

They can choose from a range of options, including snorkeling to witness the vibrant marine life, kayaking through the tranquil waters, and stand-up paddleboarding for a unique perspective of the island.

For the adventurous, a jungle trek offers the chance to spot exotic wildlife like hornbills.

The island also features beach volleyball and football, allowing visitors to engage in some friendly competition.

Throughout the day, guests can freely access the island’s eco-friendly clubhouse facilities.

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Enjoying the Tea Ceremony

Towards the end of the island experience, guests are invited to partake in a traditional tea ceremony. This intimate ritual allows visitors to fully enjoy the island’s cultural heritage.

The ceremony features:

Carefully prepared green tea, steeped to perfection
Delicate Japanese-inspired sweets to complement the earthy flavors
Serene ambiance in a dedicated tea house setting
Explanations from a skilled tea master on the significance of each step

The tea ceremony provides a moment of tranquility, inviting guests to slow down, appreciate the present, and connect with the island’s unique spirit.

Preparing for the Return Journey

With the island adventure drawing to a close, it’s time for guests to prepare for the return journey.

They’ll board the speedboat for the 20-minute ride back to the mainland. Before departure, guests can take a quick freshening up in the shower rooms to rinse off the sand and saltwater.

Once ready, the group will hop into the waiting van for the 30-minute drive back to Kota Kinabalu.

Throughout the return trip, guests can reflect on the day’s memorable experiences – the serene private island, thrilling watersports, and the authentic tea ceremony.

Soon, they’ll be back in the city, with memories of Ara Dinawan to cherish.

Important Reminders and Tips

As guests prepare to depart the island, there are a few important reminders and tips to keep in mind.

Sunscreen and insect repellent should be reapplied before the return journey. Guests are advised to change into dry, comfortable clothes and secure any valuables. The tour guide will provide reminders about the departure schedule, so punctuality is key.

Additionally:

Avoid littering or disturbing the natural environment during the trip.
Follow all safety instructions provided by the tour staff.
Respect the local culture and traditions of the island.
Be mindful of fellow travelers and keep noise levels reasonable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Island?

According to the overview, personal expenses and outside food/drinks are not included. Guests are advised to bring only the recommended items, suggesting outside food and drinks may not be permitted on the island.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Island?

There is no Wi-Fi available on the private island. The tour focuses on enjoying the natural environment and outdoor activities, so guests are encouraged to disconnect from technology and fully enjoy the scenic tropical setting.

Can I Customize the Activities Based on My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the activities based on your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to suit your interests within the overall schedule and duration of the trip.

What Is the Policy for Bringing Pets to the Island?

Pets are not allowed on the Ara Dinawan Private Island tour. The island is an eco-friendly retreat focused on preserving the local biodiversity, so bringing pets is prohibited to minimize disturbance to the natural environment and wildlife.

Are There Any Medical Facilities or Emergency Services on the Island?

There are no medical facilities or emergency services on the private island. Visitors should inform the tour guide of any medical conditions and bring any necessary medications. In case of emergency, the nearest hospital is located in Kota Kinabalu.

The Sum Up

Guests depart Ara Dinawan Private Island with unforgettable memories, having immersed themselves in its natural beauty, thrilling activities, and warm hospitality. The journey back to Kota Kinabalu concludes this enriching experience, leaving visitors eager to return and further explore the island’s charms.