One of the only two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo, Sabah is well-suited for outdoorsy travellers. It’s also a nature lover’s paradise and a great spot for staycations, with protected forests, mountains, and rich flora and fauna, both terrestrial and aquatic, including coral reefs. The tourist base and the capital is Kota Kinabalu, which is a charming resort destination in itself. From here, take a speedboat to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park to witness coral reefs and enjoy snorkelling and diving. Should you want more marine adventures, you can check out Sabah’s many charming islands and diving destinations, such as Mabul and Sipadan, also famous for their rich aquatic life. As for the accommodations, you can book an Airbnb vacation rental if you’re looking for some privacy. If you’re visiting Sabah for its coastal lifestyle and stunning beaches, it would be ideal to stay in a beach resort. For more information, scroll down for the best beach resorts in Sabah, Malaysia.
What’s new in Sabah
Puu Jih Shih Temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha where you’ll be enchanted with monks chanting prayers and ringing bells.
Green Cottage Trading, Hidden Garden near Kota Kinabalu is a nursery where you can spend hours exploring the different plants.
Popular picks in Sabah
Renowned as the first World Heritage Site in Malaysia, Kinabalu Park is home to Mt Kinabalu and Mt Tambayukon. Here, you can visit the botanical park or explore the area through one of the trails.
Nature lovers can visit Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre located in Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve. Apart from seeing the orangutans, it’s also one of the best places for trekking and bird-watching.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 28, 2025.
Beach life in Sabah
The state of Sabah is renowned for its stunning beaches, one of the most beloved being Tanjung Aru Beach, famed for its breathtaking sunset vistas. The five islands comprising the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, on the other hand, are a haven for snorkelers eager to explore their vibrant coral reefs. Situated closer to Kota Kinabalu, this area is among the premier destinations for swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and beachcombers alike.
For those seeking water sports adventures, Lagoon Park in Tuaran offers a plethora of activities including kayaking, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and various cruises. Alternatively, if privacy is your priority, Paka Beach beckons with its pristine shores and coastal foliage. Here, one can indulge in swimming or simply bask in the warmth of the sun.
Beach resorts in Sabah
1. Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu; Kota Kinabalu (from USD 173)
Fantastic buffet options, world-class dining experiences, and attentive staff.
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
Secluded, picturesque location with a beautiful beach, but far from the city center.
Private beach, jungle trek, kids' facilities, spa, and multiple dining options.
To help you better with your choice of accommodation, we interviewed Fiona, the general manager of Shangri-La Rasa Ria. Check out the above video for exclusive details!
Located 32.2 km (20 mi) from the city centre of Kota Kinabalu, this resort offers a private beach, a beachside bar, and a music lounge for a refreshing holiday. To enjoy the sea comfortably, you can book a room with a sea view and a balcony.
The property also features five on-site restaurants where you can enjoy cuisines, such as local Malaysian, Japanese, and Italian. Offering amenities such as cots, strollers, a kid-friendly buffet, and two outdoor pools with a view, I feel this property is well-suited for families.
- Property highlights: The resort offers a plethora of water sports including, jet skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: You can choose elegant and luxurious accommodations from the Garden Wing or the Ocean Wing. The Garden Wing Deluxe Sea View is a great option for couples on a romantic getaway.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "A beautiful beach resort in a quiet, secluded location. Loved the beach, almost 3kms of it as well as the nature reserve that’s part of the property. There are enough activities such as water sports, nature walks, horse riding, cycling, golf, trekking, as well as games rooms that you won’t need to leave the resort and can spend your whole time there. Really enjoyed our stay, the beach, breakfast was scrumptious, morning trek to see the sunrise, the sunsets on the beach, as well as the swimming pools." - by Google reviewer, Rakesh Kunhiraman
Traveler's tips
Fiona
The sunsets at the resort are incredible. You can enjoy them from the Sampan Bar by the beach, the lobby lounge, or even from the bathtubs on the balconies of the ocean wing rooms.The beach itself is safe and well-maintained with lifeguards on duty from sunrise to sunset. But don’t forget to wear sunscreen and a hat, as it can get quite hot.
If you enjoy eco-friendly activities, join the resort’s beach cleaning activities in the mornings to help maintain the beautiful coastline. Guests who participate receive a free coffee or drink as a thank-you.
Finally, I’d like to stress the importance of always packing insect repellent, sunscreen, and a water bottle. The humidity can be surprising for first-time visitors, especially if you’re coming from a dry climate.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Address: Pantai Dalit, Tuaran
25.55 km (15.9 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
2. Bigfin beach resort; Kota Belud (from USD 40)
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Featuring a balcony with a sea view in every room, this beachfront resort is perfect for unwinding. It also features a private beach on the shore of the South China Sea. For water sports enthusiasts, the resort offers surcharged snorkelling, diving and canoeing. As an explorer, I feel these facilities are beneficial for wanderlust souls who’re always looking for a new adventure. Other areas from which you can admire the sea and the outdoors include a terrace, a garden and a picnic area.
For budget travellers wanting accommodation by the seaside, it offers dorm rooms as well. In addition, daily housekeeping is provided to make your stay hassle-free.
- Property highlights: The on-site PADI dive centre offers courses to both beginners and experienced divers.
- Nearest beach: The resort is nestled along the vast stretch of Pantai Merakit Beach and is only a few steps away.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: Families or a group of friends can consider booking the quadruple en-suite chalet with ocean views. The accommodation has single bunk beds and can host up to four guests. You can also enjoy panoramic ocean and jungle views from the balcony.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Special little resort located right on its own beach with plenty of others accessible by kayak. Dive sites are about 20-30 minutes boat ride away..." - by Google reviewer, Tom Triglone
Bigfin beach resort
Address: Pantai Merakit Kampung Mengkabar
54.35 km (33.8 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
3. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu; Kota Kinabalu (from USD 271)
Delicious and extensive breakfast buffet with local and international options.
Reasonably priced with great value for the amenities and location.
Scenic beachfront location with convenient access to nearby cultural village and islands.
Wide variety of recreational activities, clean pools, and spacious rooms.
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Only 6.8 km (4.2 mi) from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, this resort is in one of the best spots in Sabah. The beachfront property offers water activities such as jet skiing, surfing, diving and snorkelling for an additional fee. It also has sea-view rooms where you can comfortably admire the charming vistas.
Furthermore, the accommodation features Shangri-La’s exclusive Chi, The Spa, which provides unmatched wellness and spa services. You can also take refreshing baths in the two year-round pools, one of which is indoor and suitable for kids as well.
- Property highlights: The resort-owned STAR Marina offers watersports facilities, island transfers, sunset cruises, and more.
- Nearest beach: Tanjung Aru Beach, which is only 5 minutes away by car and is located 1.5 km (0.93 mi) from the resort.
- Suggested rooms: If you would prefer to get a nice view of the sunset from your room, you can consider booking the Tanjung Wing Sea-View Terrace Room. This 53 sq m (570.49 sq ft) guestroom is located on the ground floor and guests can enjoy views of the lush garden and South China Sea in the distance from the open-air patio. Families with kids can opt for the Clownfish-Themed Family Room. The accommodation is specially designed for two adults and two children aged 12 years and below. Tropical fish and corals adorn the walls and kids can play with their water guns and have a welcome bag and amenities kit.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Beautiful hotel and location on the beach enjoying views of the beach and the islands beyond. The hotel has its own private white sand beach with lounges and umbrellas. Next to the beach you can find the sunset bar which is a perfect location to watch the setting sun..." - by Google reviewer, Bruser NZ
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
Address: No 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru
884 meters (0.6 ft) from Tanjung Aru Beach
4. JSK Mantanani Island Resorts; Pulau Mantanai Besar (from USD 299)
Tasty Malaysian cuisine, though limited variety and vegetarian options.
Reasonable pricing for a beachfront resort with inclusive meals and activities.
Paradise-like island with breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings.
Snorkeling, kayaking, bicycles, and clean beach with available water sports.
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Located on Pulau Mantanai Besar in the middle of the South China Sea, the resort offers a surreal stay surrounded by the sea and the woods. It features a private beach lined with sun loungers and a pier in addition to a terrace from which you can admire the pristine waters.
To reach the island and the resort, you can take a ferry from JSK Rampayan Jetty (JSK River Cruise). A 24-hour desk and a concierge are on-site to help you with your enquiries and bookings during your stay.
If you’re a photography enthusiast like me, you’ll get ample spots here to click beautiful pictures.
- Property highlights: The on-site dive centre allows you to explore the life underwater and experience scuba diving.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a few steps away from the property.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Sea View Villa King units can accommodate a group of three guests. It also has outdoor furniture where you can lounge and enjoy the sea views.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Definitely value for money. The resort room booking covers transportation, ferry and snorkelling tour and meals! Very nice, clean and quiet beach." - by Google reviewer, Jason Wang
JSK Mantanani Island Resorts
Address: Pulau Mantanani Besar Mantanani Island
91.13 km (56.7 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
5. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa; Gaya Island (from USD 258)
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This resort is situated on Gaya Island just off Borneo’s coast in Kota Kinabalu. Wedged between a small bay and the woods, it provides a magical and secluded stay with a private beach. Offering only spacious suites and lavish villas, it’s well suited for a luxurious retreat.
For rejuvenation, the property includes a spa with a hot tub, sauna and fitness centre. During your stay, you can try the best seafood at the on-site restaurant. For an additional fee, you can get a hassle-free airport transfer and a ferry ride to the island.
- Property highlights: Explore recreational activities, such as trekking into a tropical rainforest, ziplining, canopy walking, kayaking, snorkelling, and paddle boarding. Scuba diving is also a popular activity in water.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
- Suggested rooms: If you want to taste luxury and indulgence during your stay, you can consider booking the Plunge Pool Villa. The 87 sq m (936.46 sq ft) villa has a private plunge pool and lounging chairs along with a private balcony. Couples on their honeymoon can opt for the gorgeous Tree House Villa. This accommodation amid the treetops has a romantic ambience and features an outdoor deck with a bathtub or a plunge pool.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Great place for a beach holiday but be aware there is no Maxis line. Only celcom and digi. Wifi at lobby. Nice for snorkeling and water activities." - by Google reviewer, Shameen M Dahalan
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
Address: Polish Bay, Gaya Island
9.48 km (5.9 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
6. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai; Kota Kinabalu (from USD 102)
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Book your stay at this luxurious resort for leisure on its private beach or drinks at the semi-outdoor and poolside bars. Every spacious room in the establishment includes a balcony, with some providing sea views as well. The property also features three outdoor pools perfect for fun swim sessions with your kids. As a traveller, I am always excited to try new cuisines and local speciality. During your stay, you can try a wide variety of cuisine in the six on-site restaurants to recharge after outdoor activities.
Other family-friendly amenities include free cots, family rooms, surcharged babysitting services and surcharged kid meals. Meanwhile, in-room amenities include air conditioning and a TV.
- Property highlights: You can enjoy cruising on the Mengkabong River and sail past the beautiful mangroves. There is a host of daily activities, such as bird watching, traditional fun fishing, batik making, a run on the beach, and mini soccer. If you are a water sports enthusiast, you can try motorised sports, such as fishing trips, ATV rides, banana boat rides, and jet skiing. Non-motorised ones include kayaking, surfboarding, and stand-up paddle boarding.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
- Suggested rooms: If you need privacy during your stay at the resort, you can consider the Club Lounge. This exclusive accommodation lets its guests enjoy their time in a peaceful setting while savouring a sunset cocktail and the personalised services of friendly hostesses.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "enjoyed the beautiful beach. recommended for those who want peaceful & romantic place. out from hustle & bustle of the city. i love the sunset here." - by Google reviewer, Alice Falix
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
Address: Off Jalan Sepangar Bay
19.76 km (12.3 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
7. The Magellan Sutera Resort; Kota Kinabalu (from USD 137)
Varied breakfast options, good local food, excellent dinner service, some room for improvement in menu variety
Good value for money, package deals with meals and activities
Beautiful seaside location with stunning sunsets, close to city center and airport
Multiple swimming pools, beach access, live music, gym, spacious rooms
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Located in a central location in Kota Kinabalu, this beachfront resort is easy to reach and ideal for exploring the city. Other than the sea, it’s surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, where avid travellers like me can document their experiences and unwind peacefully. The pools provide charming sights to guests. In addition, beach chairs and towels are provided for a perfect day at the private beach.
With three restaurants, two of which serve Italian cuisine or seafood, and two coffee houses, the resort has plenty of options to keep you satiated. You can also enjoy several activities such as movie nights, live performances, a game room, and surcharged karaoke.
- Property highlights: Guests can enjoy a day trip and an excursion by sailing on Puteri Sutera, the resort's luxury yacht. You can also plan an intimate dinner or a party on this yacht.
- Nearest beach: The beach is barely steps away from the property.
- Suggested rooms: The Magellan Deluxe Room. This accommodation has elegant furnishings, modern amenities, and a balcony that offers dreamy views of the South China Sea and the marina. For an indulgent stay, you can book the Club Suite, which features sophisticated décor, a delicious breakfast spread, complimentary evening snacks, and all-day tea and coffee among other perks and privileges.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Nice place to stay. Have a lot facility provided.. Golf, ballroom, gymnasium, swimming pools, bowls, golf, and many more. Relaxing and near to beach.. can go to jetty’s and get beautiful sunset. Suitable for functions activity, relax and honeymoon.. recommended.." - by Google reviewer, Muhd Zulhusni Ag Jaludin
The Magellan Sutera Resort
Address: No 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard
3.61 km (2.3 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
8. The Pacific Sutera; Kota Kinabalu (from USD 141)
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Sitting adjacent to Sutera Harbour in Kota Kinabalu, this resort offers a hassle-free stay and easy access to Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club just a two-minute ride away.
It features a private beach, terrace, garden and sun deck to let you bask in the surrounding scenery. The property also has two year-round outdoor pools with charming views and loungers. During your stay, pamper yourself with massages in the spa and bring balance to your mind and body with yoga classes. Furthermore, with an on-site currency exchange facility, international travellers can stay trouble-free in case of additional cash requirements.
- Property highlights: A Balinese menu for spa treatments at Chavana Spa to unwind after a busy day at the beach.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a few meters away from the property.
- Suggested rooms: If you are visiting with family, you can consider booking the Pacific Family Room. Specially designed for families, this accommodation is a perfect choice for a family of four.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Having a comfortable stay at this hotel..the kids enjoyed playing at the beach and pool while adults enjoyed the beautiful sunset. Breakfast with various choices. Coffee was nice. Room rate was acceptable with a big clean room for 2 pax." - by Google reviewer, Sue L
The Pacific Sutera Hotel
Address: No 1 Sutera Harbour Boulavard
2.63 km (1.7 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
9. Ara Dinawan Island Resort; Kota Kinabalu (from USD 142)
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Situated on Dinawan Island off the northern coast of Borneo by Papar, this establishment is great for a secluded seaside retreat. The resort offers tent rooms, with all tents having luxurious amenities such as air conditioning, a fridge, a minibar and tea and coffee makers. The premises also feature a private beach perfect for a secluded or romantic time admiring the sea.
To conveniently reach this resort on the island, you can book a surcharged airport shuttle. For bookings or any other requirements, you can reach out to the concierge.
- Property highlights: Popular activities offered here are snorkelling, diving, canoeing, and other water sports.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a few steps away from the property.
- Suggested rooms: If you are looking for extra space during your stay, the Deluxe King Room will be a good fit for you. Best-suited for couples, this accommodation has a large bed and offers sea views.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Private island, friendly staffs, amazing beach, lots of clown fish while snorkelling, spreads of yummy food and even saw the resident hornbills ❤.as well as had a great time singing around the bonfire at night" - by Google reviewer, Hazeqa Salleh
Ara Dinawan Island Resort
Address: Beringgis Papar, 1, Jalan Baru, Kg. Beringgis, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
12.77 km (8.0 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
10. Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island; Kota Kinabalu (from USD 174)
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Book your stay at this resort on Manukan Island and have a lavish retreat in your sea-view suite or villa with a private balcony. You’ll also find that the private beach has a long pier and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it ideal for a charming day out by the sea.
For on-site entertainment, the property offers regular live performances. Meanwhile, the outdoor swimming pool is fenced so that you can have fun and safe swimming sessions with your kids.
The on-site bar, restaurant, and coffee house will make your stay on the island more convenient as well. Moreover, if you’re an adventure seeker like me, the resort offers snorkelling opportunities, too!
- Property highlights: Surprise your partner with a romantic dinner on the shore and enjoy the food with a beautiful water view.
- Nearest beach: The beach is barely steps away from the property.
- Suggested rooms: The Manukan Villa features a balcony with picturesque sights of the South China Sea. It is the perfect choice for families.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Snorkeling at the beach is great if you do it before 9am and after 4pm that's when the public comes for their day trip since it's a public beach." - by Google reviewer, Thomas Tee
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island
Address: Manukan Island
5.5 km (3.5 mi) from Tanjung Aru Beach
Explore the lush coast of Borneo in Sabah
Many of these beach and dive resorts, especially those on islands surrounded by lush woods, create a surreal setting featuring the best of nature. Elevate your trip to the coast and the islands of Sabah and stay in one of these resorts to relish the most stunning beaches.
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