The marine park is a cluster of islands comprising Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug, all only 10 – 20 minute speedboat ride from the city of Kota Kinabalu. The five islands of the Marine Park are characterized by shallow waters, sumptuous coral gardens and all boast splendid white sandy beaches.

The reefs lie in shallow waters with little current making it an ideal location for novice divers, however, the diverse and sometimes rare marine creatures also make it an interesting dive location for experienced divers and underwater photographers.

To dive in the marine park you must contact one of the local dive centers based in Kota Kinabalu who also offer a full variety of PADI courses ranging from Discover Scuba to Instructor.

Among the sandy seabed a good variety of marine life can be found such as Scorpion fish, Blue-spotted rays, cuttlefish, mantis shrimps and the occasional green or hawksbill turtle. At some locations, rare creatures such as the harlequin ghost pipefish and mandarin fish can be found especially with the help from local dive guides.

During the cooler months from November to February, plankton blooms attract krill which in turn attract whale sharks, the world’s largest fish. At times, the density of the krill can be so thick in these murky conditions underwater encounters with these colossal animals can be exciting as they suddenly appear out of the gloom.

Non-diving visitors can still have as much fun in the islands with other optional activities such as snorkeling in Pulau Sapi and Manukan and seawalking in Pulau Sapi. If water sport is your cup of tea, you may contact any local tour companies for more information regarding the water sport activities that are available.

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is open daily from 8.30am to 5pm.

Getting there

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is accessible via 15 – 20 minutes speedboat ride from Kota Kinabalu. The departure and arrival point for the boat transfers is at the KK Ferry Terminal, situated next to the Malaysia Royal Custom Department. Boat transfers to the islands are available daily from 7.30am to 5pm.

Boat transfer fares to the Islands are listed as follows:

* A levy of RM50 per boat will be charged for special pick up times or overnight stays

The following rates are not inclusive of charged terminal fee (RM1); each entrance fee is valid for 5 islands per day.

Tariffs

Other fees and additional charges are listed as follows:

Water World Theme Park

What better way to cool down under the brilliant Sabah sun than to enjoy a day at the Water World Theme Park! Situated at Taman Tun Fuad Stephens, Bukit Padang, the park is a great place to bring the family for a splashing good time. Thrill-seekers will love the Torpedo Speed Slide and Double Loop Slide. There are several swimming pools to cater to adults as well as children.

Enjoy a round of Water Basketball or have a go at the Water Cannons. Other facilities include a cafeteria, an air-conditioned lounge with equipped with Astro, lazy chairs and a souvenir shop. The Park can also help organize special events, such as children’s birthday parties, making it a memorable event for your little one. Contact the Park for their Special Packages.

Getting There
Taman Tun Fuad Stephens is only 15 minutes from the city centre. Take a taxi from the Milimewa taxi station (along Beach Street) for approximately RM17.00 per ride. Arrange for your return with your taxi driver. You can also take Bus no.11 from Jalan Tugu (opposite the KK High Court) for RM1.00 per person.

Opening hours
Monday, Thursday and Friday: 12:00pm to 7:00pm
Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: 9:00am to 8:00pm

Admission fee
Children: RM5.00
Adults: RM10.00
Children below 3 feet & Senior Citizens: Free

Kota Kinabalu’s one-stop dining and entertainment centre is found right here along the famous Waterfront. Located along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, the Waterfront is a popular hangout for both locals and visitors alike. As you stroll along the esplanade, be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining.

Go exotic at the Kohinoor North Indian Restaurant, enjoy Japanese fare at Kawana, fusion food at Toscani’s or indulge in a great seafood selection at the Grand Portview Seafood Restaurant. In the evening, the Waterfront comes to life at various watering holes such as the popular after-hours hangout, The Loft, Cock & Bull and Shamrock – all great places to enjoy happy hours as you watch the sun set over the South China Sea.

At night, paint the town red at BED (Best Entertainment Destination), one of the biggest dance clubs in Sabah. The Waterfront is also home to a myriad of shops, including the Borneo Trading Post, ideal for Sabah souvenir hunters. Dazzling lights, pulsating rhythms and a fantastic blend of energy makes The Waterfront a must-visit during your time in Kota Kinabalu.

The Mustapha Gallery

The Tun Mustapha Gallery opened its doors in 2006, paying tribute to one of Sabah’s outstanding personalities. The late Tun Mustapha was a visionary leader who was instrumental to leading Sabah to independence. He was a freedom fighter during World War II, a nationalistic activist, an inspiring leader and Sabah’s first Head of State, among many other achievements.

The beautiful gallery, located in the premises that once housed the Sabah State Assembly from 1980 to 1995, chronicles the life and times of Tun Mustapha. It offers visitors an glimpse into his triumphs and tribulations, with detailed descriptions accompanying the images displayed here.

The gallery also showcases many of Tun Mustapha personal artifacts, from medals of honour to specially-tailored suits. A torn golfing hat also sits in the gallery. According to the inscription, his beloved wife tore his hat and tossed it outside their home during a quarrel.

The hat was retrieved by their driver who kept the hat all these years and today finds its home at the gallery. Tun Mustapha was not only a golf enthusiast but a talented musician. His collection of violins can also be seen at the gallery. Another story tells of how the Japanese soldiers spared his life after hearing him play several Japanese tunes on his violin during World War II.

All these fascinating facts and various memorabilia are immortalized right here at the Tun Mustapha Gallery. The gallery also operates a souvenir shop that specializes in high quality crafts, inspired by the traditional ethnic motifs of Sabah’s various tribes.

The Tun Mustapha Gallery is located at the Podium Level of Menara Tun Mustapha (Sabah Foundation Building) .

Opening hours:
8.30am to 5.00pm, Monday to Saturday
Closed on Sunday – except during School Holidays