Review: Gaya Island Resort, an SLH Hotel
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- Big bedroom
- Idyllic setting
- Small pool
- The lack of professionalism from the staff
When it comes to choosing a getaway that combines refinement, wilderness, and authentic experiences, few destinations rival Gaya Island Resort. As a member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) collection, this property is now available through Hilton Honors. Located off the coast of Malaysian Borneo, this luxurious haven of peace offers much more than just accommodation: it promises a sensory, cultural, and ecological journey in the heart of a magnificent island.
To plan your next Hilton stays, explore our Hilton hotel brands guide and our guide to transferring Amex points to Hilton.
First Impressions and Welcome
Upon arrival at the Kota Kinabalu port jetty, guests are greeted by the resort team with a cool towel and a refreshing drink in the hotel’s arrival lounge. This is where check-in takes place before boarding one of the hotel’s private boats.
As we leave the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu behind, we gradually take in the natural beauty of Gaya Island and the resort, with its villas nestled along the mountainside. As soon as the boat docks, the on-site team, already familiar with our names, welcomes us, gives us a tour of the resort, and escorts us to our room.
A Prime Location Between the Ocean and Lush Jungle
Gaya Island Resort is nestled on Gaya Island, the largest island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, just a short boat ride away from the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival, the contrast is striking: the urban hustle gives way to the soothing symphony of waves, the songs of exotic birds, and the fragrant breeze of the mangroves.
Accessible by just a 10-minute boat transfer after a short journey from the airport, the resort offers an uncompromising escape. The protected Gaya Island serves as a sanctuary for remarkable wildlife and lush vegetation, home to rare species such as the rhinoceros hornbill, long-tailed macaque, and Malayan monitor lizard. Golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters invite both contemplation and adventure.
The Natural Elegance of the Suites and Villas
Gaya Island Resort offers 121 suites and villas, all designed to blend harmoniously into the lush vegetation. The accommodations nestled on the hillsides offer breathtaking views of the South China Sea or the forest canopy. Natural wood, ethnic weavings, local materials, and private terraces create an elegant atmosphere where comfort meets authenticity.
Dining that Celebrates the Flavours of Borneo
From a culinary perspective, Gaya Island Resort highlights the region’s culinary richness through several restaurants:
- Feast Village offers buffets and cooking stations, where freshly caught fish, exotic fruits, and local spices can be savoured without reservation. For a more intimate experience,
- Fisherman’s Cove offers a menu focused on seafood
- Omakase Japanese Restaurant introduces the subtlety of Japanese cuisine in a zen and elegant setting.
For future stays with Hilton Honors, explore the Hilton Honors American Express® Card and its welcome offer. Our guides to Hilton Honors status and using Hilton points explain how to earn and redeem your rewards.
Our Hilton free night certificate guide covers redemption rules, finding standard room availability and hotels where the award can offer strong value. Read it before planning a stay with a certificate.
Activities for Every Traveller
Staying at Gaya Island Resort means enjoying a range of activities, suited to all types of travellers. Those seeking relaxation will love the infinity pool and the private beach accessible by boat, while more adventurous guests can explore the jungle on guided hikes. The resort also offers snorkeling and scuba diving excursions, allowing guests to observe corals, colourful fish, and turtles in crystal-clear waters.
Wellness enthusiasts can unwind at Spa Village Gaya Island, which offers a rejuvenating escape inspired by Indigenous traditions and uses local medicinal plants.
For an optimal stay, it is recommended to book activities in advance.
Cultural Immersion and Environmental Respect
One of Gaya Island Resort‘s great strengths lies in its commitment to sustainable development and the promotion of local culture. The resort staff, mostly from Borneo, gladly shares their knowledge of the island’s traditions, flora, and fauna.
The resort actively supports conservation programs, particularly for the protection of sea turtles and the rehabilitation of mangroves. Workshops introducing guests to Malay cuisine, local crafts, and batik painting are regularly offered, giving travellers an authentic opportunity to connect with the spirit of Borneo.
Some Drawbacks
As for the tranquility of the place, unfortunately, the promise was not met. While the island has only a handful of vehicles, mainly used to transport luggage to rooms located higher up in the resort, staff continue to get around by motorbike even after sunset, which can disrupt the sense of tranquillity that many travellers seek on this island.
Furthermore, the resort seems to be a victim of its own success, and the staff is very disorganized. The service is truly not up to the standard usually expected from the SLH brand. This is reflected, for example, by a non-existent towel service and sun loungers scattered across the small area around the pool.
There was also some chaotic coordination with the front desk staff, who booked restaurant reservations for us at times when we had already scheduled activities weeks in advance. The lack of professionalism reached its peak when leaving the resort, as we were presented with a bill full of errors.
How to Book with your Hilton Honors Points?
Since the integration of certain SLH hotels into the Hilton network, it is now possible to book Gaya Island Resort directly via Hilton.com, using your Hilton Honors points. Nights are available there starting from 30k points. This is a rare opportunity to access SLH excellence while maximizing the value of your points. Furthermore, paying with points allows you to benefit from the 5th night free, as well as the waiver of resort fees that may apply at some resorts.
Why Choose Gaya Island Resort?
This destination will delight travellers seeking a change of scenery, adventure, and comfort. The promise of immersion in a preserved environment, combined with the refined service of the Hilton group, places Gaya Island Resort among the gems accessible to Hilton Honors members.
Whether for a honeymoon, a family vacation, or an exploratory trip, Gaya Island Resort stands out for its holistic approach and respect for nature. A must-visit in Borneo for those wishing to combine luxury, authenticity, and responsible commitment.
Hilton Honors loyalty program
Like any Hilton hotel, this property lets you earn or redeem Hilton Honors points. Gold and Diamond members enjoy exclusive benefits such as upgrades and free breakfast. Booking with points can offer excellent value, especially during busy periods.
The Platinum Card® from American Express gives you Hilton Honors Gold status every year.
Read our guide to learn more about Hilton Honors status benefits.
You can also transfer your Membership Rewards points to Hilton Honors at a 1:1 ratio, or sometimes even better during a Hilton Honors transfer promotion. With their very generous current welcome offers, the Platinum Card® from American Express and the Business Platinum Card® from American Express are the best cards to have for enjoying free nights and Hilton Honors benefits.
| Credit card | Annual fee | Welcome offer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $150 |
Bottom Line
The environment is exceptional, and even if our experience did not meet our expectations, we informed the hotel, and we are certain they will make the necessary adjustments to address the problematic points.
Thanks to the benefits of the Hilton Honors program and the integration of SLH, Gaya Island Resort becomes a dream destination for Canadian members wishing to experience a unique stay in an exceptional natural reserve.
All that’s left is to pack your bags… and your points!
