Kota Kinabalu: Manukan & Sapi Islands Snorkeling With Lunch

Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant city on the northern coast of Borneo, offers a captivating adventure for nature enthusiasts. A day exploring the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park provides a chance to take in the breathtaking beauty of Manukan and Sapi Islands. From colorful marine life to serene beaches, this snorkeling excursion promises an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you eager to uncover more of Sabah’s wonders.

Key Points

• Explore the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, with a snorkeling tour that includes Manukan and Sapi Islands.
• Experience vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles, during the three-hour snorkeling session at Manukan Island.
• Enjoy an additional two hours of free time for snorkeling at the less crowded Sapi Island, with excellent visibility and a scenic beach.
• Refuel with a packed lunch consisting of a fresh sandwich, a piece of fruit, and water, while taking in the stunning island vistas.
• The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable exploration of the underwater wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a stunning archipelago located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, offers visitors a chance to explore its pristine islands and crystal-clear waters.

This protected marine park encompasses five islands, each with its own unique charm and natural beauty.

Manukan and Sapi Islands, in particular, are popular destinations for snorkeling enthusiasts, providing a window into the vibrant underwater ecosystem.

With a diverse array of marine life, from colorful coral reefs to playful schools of tropical fish, the park promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Manukan Island: The Jewel of the Archipelago

Manukan Island, the jewel of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, awaits visitors with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life.

Snorkelers can explore the island’s underwater wonderland, teeming with:

Vibrant tropical fish, gentle sea turtles, and mesmerizing coral formations await snorkelers in Manukan Island’s underwater wonderland.

• Colorful tropical fish

• Gentle sea turtles

• Mesmerizing coral formations

The island’s facilities cater to guests, with a variety of dining options, clear snorkel spots, and opportunities for relaxation.

Alongside Sapi Island, Manukan offers a comprehensive day-long adventure, delivering an unforgettable snorkeling experience amidst the natural beauty of Sabah’s coastal treasures.

Snorkeling in the Pristine Waters

Snorkelers can look forward to discovering the vibrant marine life teeming in the pristine waters surrounding Manukan and Sapi Islands.

The tour includes three hours of snorkeling, swimming, and a packed lunch at Manukan Island, followed by two hours of free time for snorkeling and relaxation at Sapi Island.

Guests will have the opportunity to observe a diverse array of tropical fish, vibrant corals, and possibly even encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat.

With the tour’s included equipment and guidance, even beginners can safely explore the underwater wonders of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Enjoying the Packed Lunch

After a morning of exhilarating snorkeling, guests can refuel with the packed lunch provided as part of the tour.

The lunch includes:

• A fresh, healthy sandwich

• A piece of fruit

• A bottle of water

This simple yet satisfying meal offers the energy needed to continue exploring the beautiful Sapi Island.

The tour allows ample time for guests to enjoy their lunch while taking in the stunning vistas of the surrounding islands and azure waters.

Refueled and recharged, visitors can then transition to the next segment of the day’s activities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Sapi Island: A Hidden Gem

While Manukan Island is the first stop, the tour’s highlight often lies in the tranquil beauty of Sapi Island. This small, secluded island offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Visitors can spend their time snorkeling in the pristine waters, where they might spot vibrant marine life or even turtles. The island also features a picturesque beach, perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun. The table below showcases some of the key features that make Sapi Island a hidden gem within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Solitude | Fewer crowds and more tranquility compared to Manukan Island |

| Snorkeling | Excellent visibility and diverse marine life |

| Beach | Scenic, well-maintained beach for swimming and sunbathing |

| Facilities | Basic amenities like changing rooms and restrooms |

| Accessibility | Short 15-minute boat transfer from Manukan Island |

Relishing in the Free Time

Visitors revel in the free time offered at Sapi Island, reveling in the chance to explore the island’s tranquil beauty at their own pace.

They can:

• Unwind on the pristine white sand beaches, soaking up the sun and admiring the clear turquoise waters.

• Venture into the lush, verdant interior and spot colorful native flora and fauna.

• Snorkel in the shallow waters, marveling at the vibrant marine life and coral formations.

This unstructured time allows travelers to fully enjoy the natural wonders of Sapi Island, creating lasting memories of their Kota Kinabalu adventure.

Convenience and Inclusions

The tour offers convenient pick-up and drop-off service from various locations around Kota Kinabalu, ensuring a hassle-free experience for participants. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, packed lunch, and all necessary boat transfers and entrance fees. To highlight the inclusions, the following table outlines the key features:

| Included | Optional |

|———–|———-|

| Hotel Pickup/Drop-off | Water Sports |

| Tour Guide | Outskirt Surcharge |

| Packed Lunch | – |

| Boat Transfers | – |

With these conveniences and inclusions, participants can focus on enjoying the snorkeling and island hopping without worrying about additional costs or logistics.

Important Considerations

Although the tour offers a convenient and inclusive package, there are a few important considerations participants should keep in mind. The tour may not be suitable for some individuals, such as pregnant women, those with back problems, or those prone to seasickness.

Plus, participants should be mindful of the following:

• Bring necessary items like sun hats, swimwear, towels, and sun protection to make the most of the experience.

• Refrain from activities like smoking, consuming alcohol, or littering, which aren’t allowed.

• Be aware of the optional water sports available at an additional cost, such as banana boat rides, jet skiing, and parasailing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks for the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks for the tour. The tour includes a packed lunch, and outside food and beverages are not allowed. Participants should follow the tour’s guidelines to ensure a seamless experience.

Are There Any Group Size Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific group size restrictions. It’s a shared tour, so you’ll join other guests on the excursion. The tour’s maximum capacity and flexibility allow for individual and group bookings.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or special dietary meal. Simply inform the tour provider at the time of booking, and they’ll accommodate your dietary needs. The packed lunch included in the tour can be customized to meet your requirements.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Guests can inquire about extending the tour when booking or speaking with the tour guide on the day of the activity.

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Shared One?

Yes, travelers can book a private snorkeling tour to Manukan and Sapi Islands instead of a shared tour. Private tours offer more flexibility and personalized experiences, but they’re typically more expensive than shared group tours.

The Sum Up

Kota Kinabalu’s Manukan and Sapi Islands offer a remarkable snorkeling adventure. Travelers can enjoy the vibrant underwater world, spotting colorful fish and turtles, followed by a relaxing lunch and additional snorkeling time. This excursion provides a seamless experience, combining the natural beauty of the islands with convenient inclusions for an unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: