If you would rather fill your time with activities than soak up the Vit D by the pool, then you are spoilt for choice at Gaya Island Resort. Every day there’s a full schedule of activities so you can pick from mangrove kayaking to snorkelling expeditions, trail walks to sunset cruises. 

There really is something for everyone. Booking ahead at reception means you can plan your stay around what you are interested in doing. There are also options for kids whilst you have the option to join guided mediation, yoga classes and treat yourself to a massage at the Spa Village. 

Top tip: The sunset cruise takes you around the other side of the island where you are rewarded with some amazing vistas. Enjoy canapes and a drink as you sit out on the front of the boat and watch the day end in the most beautiful way.

Gaya Island snorkelling trips take you out and around the house reef in search of marine wildlife. Not much searching is needed though as there is so much incredible sea life to find. From rainbow fish to parrot fish, blue-spotted stingrays to barracuda, you really are spoilt for choice. 

If you would rather stay on solid ground, then you can join the trail walks that head into the jungle. Gaya Island is blessed with a few groups of proboscis monkeys, so keep your eyes out for those as well as the other resident creatures that call Gaya their home. 

Top tip: Snorkel around the jetty to be surrounded by hundreds of fish.

Prepare to be spoilt for choice, for every meal of the day. Savour diverse cuisine from the Asia-Pacific region at Feast Village. If you are celebrating a special occasion during your stay, make sure you book into Fisherman’s Cove boasting rooftop views over Mount Kinabalu. 

Three Japanese dining experiences are available under one roof at Omakase restaurant where the chef will put on a show as you sit back and enjoy the delicious food prepared in front of your eyes. And for the days when you don’t want to move from your sun lounger, you have the Pool Bar & Lounge that offers al fresco dining and a two hour sundowner happy hour. 

Top tip: Book the Borneo Culinary Journey to learn more about the Sabahan cuisine in a cooking class hosted by their skilled chefs. You will learn about local ingredients and make a delicious three course meal to be enjoyed with a communal style tasting after.

Since its launch in October 2013, the marine centre at Gaya Island Resort has rescued, treated and cared for multiple endangered green sea turtles. Should there be any turtles who are being rehabilitated during your stay you will be able to visit them over on Tavajun Bay in the Marine Centre. Whilst over there you can also learn about the work marine biologist Scott Mayback does to restore the house coral reef. Over at the Wildlife Centre you can continue your education on ecological conservation with Resident Naturalist, Justin and his team.

Top tip: Whilst out snorkelling keep a look out for the fresh coral that has been planted by the marine biologists.

The main beach on the resort is a long stretch of white sand with the house reef just off the shore. Close to the hotels swimming pool and pool bar and not far from the watersports centre you can choose to have your lunch at your sunbed or rent a paddleboard and get out on the water. For those looking for something a little quieter and more secluded, Gaya Island Resort has its own private beach on Tavajun Bay which is around a five minute boat ride from the main hotel, hop over and spend the day in the shallow sea or relaxing on a sun lounger. 

Top tip: There is also a restaurant on Tavajun Bay, so you don’t even have to come back to the hotel for lunch.