How to Get to Gaya Island Resort [2025–2026 Guide]
From Singapore, fly to Kota Kinabalu (2h30m, S$120–250), take a 20-min taxi to Jesselton Point (~S$10), then a 15-min speedboat (S$20). Total journey: ~3.5h, S$150–280.
Visiting Gaya Island Resort in Sabah, Malaysia is one of the most rewarding trips you can take if you love nature, coral reefs, and luxury blended with sustainability. The resort is located on Pulau Gaya, the largest island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. While you can’t fly directly to the island, the journey is simple: fly into Kota Kinabalu, transfer to Jesselton Point Jetty, and then take a short boat ride to the resort. This 2025–2026 guide will walk you through each step with updated travel costs and times.
✈️ Step 1: Fly into Kota Kinabalu
Your first step is to get to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), the main gateway to Sabah.
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If you’re flying from Singapore, the journey is just 2 hours 30 minutes nonstop, with airlines like Scoot, AirAsia, and Singapore Airlines offering daily flights.
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Flight prices range between S$120–250 roundtrip when booked in advance, though during peak seasons (June, July, December) fares can climb to S$300–400.
🚐 Step 2: Transfer from Kota Kinabalu Airport to Jesselton Point Jetty
Once you land in Kota Kinabalu, you’ll need to travel to Jesselton Point Jetty, where boats to Gaya Island depart.
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The ride takes about 20 minutes by taxi or Grab (the local rideshare app), and the cost is around RM30–40 (S$9–12).
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For added convenience, the resort can arrange a private transfer service, costing about RM60–80 (S$18–24), ensuring a seamless pickup from the airport.
⛴️ Step 3: Speedboat Transfer to Gaya Island Resort
The final leg is the most scenic and enjoyable — a speedboat ride across the South China Sea.
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From Jesselton Point, the boat journey takes just 15 minutes to reach Gaya Island Resort’s private jetty.
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Roundtrip transfers cost around RM60 (S$20 per person), with several scheduled departures throughout the day. If you’re arriving late, the resort can help organize a private boat at extra cost.
🏝️ Travel Summary Table
| Route | Mode | Duration | Cost (per person, one-way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore → Kota Kinabalu | Flight | 2h 30m | S$60–125 | Budget airlines (Scoot, AirAsia) |
| Singapore → Kota Kinabalu | Flight | 2h 30m | S$120–200 | Singapore Airlines (premium) |
| Kota Kinabalu Airport → Jesselton Point | Taxi/Grab | 20m | S$9–12 | Cheapest option |
| Kota Kinabalu Airport → Jesselton Point | Private Transfer | 20m | S$18–24 | Resort-arranged |
| Jesselton Point → Gaya Island Resort | Speedboat | 15m | S$20 return | Multiple daily trips |
💡 Tips for 2025–2026 Travelers
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Time your flight wisely — aim to arrive in Kota Kinabalu before late afternoon so you can catch a scheduled boat, avoiding the need for private transfers.
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Use Grab for reliability — it’s cheaper and more straightforward than haggling with taxis, especially during busy hours in Kota Kinabalu.
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Pre-book transfers with the resort to ensure someone is waiting at Jesselton Point to assist you with luggage and tickets.
❓ FAQs – Getting to Gaya Island Resort
Q1: How long does it take to get from Singapore to Gaya Island Resort?
The journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours in total — 2h30m flight, 20m by taxi, and 15m by speedboat.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to get there?
The cheapest option is Scoot or AirAsia flights (~S$120–150 roundtrip), plus a Grab to Jesselton Point (~S$10), and the scheduled speedboat (~S$20).
Q3: Can I arrive late at night?
Regular boat transfers operate during the day. If you land late, you’ll need to arrange a private boat through the resort at additional cost.
Q4: Is the boat transfer included in the room price?
No, the boat transfer fee is separate (~RM60/S$20 roundtrip) unless you’ve booked a package that includes it.
Q5: Which airlines fly direct to Kota Kinabalu from Singapore?
Direct flights are offered by Scoot, AirAsia, and Singapore Airlines, with several flights daily.