Bunga Raya Resort | Rainforest Villas * Infinity Pool from $226

75 photos

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa Gaya Island Beach photo This is a breathtaking aerial view of a tropical paradise. The photo showcases a stunning white sand beach gently curving along a coastline, backed by lush green vegetation. The water is crystal clear and ranges in color from a vibrant turquoise near

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa Gaya Island Exterior photo The photo shows a serene tropical scene with several small, rustic wooden bungalows nestled amidst lush greenery and near a body of water.

The bungalows have dark, steeply pitched roofs, likely made of shingles, and are painted a muted green or bro

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa Gaya Island Exterior photo The photo shows two wooden treehouses nestled amongst lush green trees, likely in a forest or jungle setting. The larger treehouse is on the left and is built on stilts, with a dark shingled roof and a spacious wooden balcony. It has multiple windows

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Key details

About the Resort

Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Gaya Island, 88778

Near the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Great

8.9

8.5

/10

4.6

4.4

Loved by Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa guests

Secluded resort

Comfortable villas

Friendly staff

Delicious food

Picture perfect beach

"Snorkelling just off the beach and seeing so many fish was really cool, could pop to and from the pool to snorkel when needed."

Melissa from United Kingdom

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"The highlight of my trip here is definitely outdoors exploring the reef in the bay. So colorful and vibrant teeming with life."

Relax51603759815

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"Beautiful property with private beach (awesome gym views!), delicious meals and, most importantly, excellent service from the staff."

Carla

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5-star luxury tropical escape in Gaya Island

Location

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa is located on Gaya Island off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia, nestled in pristine rainforest on the hillsides of Polish Bay. Access to the resort is via a scenic boat ride, offering guests an immersive experience in nature. The stunning white-sand beach adjacent to the resort provides direct access to tranquil waters for various water activities.

Rooms

The resort contains 48 timber villas built in traditional Bornean architecture, each providing direct views of the beach or the surrounding rainforest. Each villa is designed to offer serenity with private balconies and quality furnishings. Guests can choose between different villa types, ensuring an authentic stay rooted in the natural landscape.

Dining

On-site dining options include Sunset Restaurant, where guests can enjoy a mix of local and international cuisine. The hotel also offers a renowned underground wine cellar for wine enthusiasts looking to sample exceptional selections. Culinary experiences often highlight regional flavors, ensuring authentic and diverse meal options.

Wellness

The hilltop spa at Bunga Raya Island Resort provides a range of treatments designed to enhance relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can take advantage of various wellness programs that incorporate natural surroundings into their treatments. The wellness offerings prioritize holistic health, ensuring a tranquil experience amid the Resort's tropical setting.

Activities

Bunga Raya Island Resort offers numerous activities, including snorkeling and diving excursions in the nearby coral reefs. The resort provides guided nature walks exploring the surrounding rainforest, showcasing local flora and fauna. Evening entertainment features local performances that provide insight into Bornean culture.

Highlights

Location: Scenic boat ride access to pristine rainforest

Rooms: 48 timber villas with private balconies

Dining: Sunset Restaurant featuring local cuisine

Wellness: Hilltop spa offering rejuvenating treatments

Activities: Snorkeling and diving in nearby coral reefs

“Villas crafted by local artisans sit nestled in Gaya Island's rainforest; the setting feels secluded, and the wine cellar impressive. The infinity pool and beachfront offer relaxation, while the family-friendly facilities are a plus. It's a place where luxury meets nature seamlessly.”

Emma JohnsonEditor-in-Chief at Toresort

Location: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningCreative Chefs!

The complimentary breakfast was amazing. Asian fusion pastries and pastas were delicious. The wine cellar offered fine choices too.

Isabelle Dubois from France

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Spa & LeisureMagical Hands

Enjoyed several treatments at the spa. The couples massage was rejuvenating. After the facial, my skin glowed.

Anika Olsen from Denmark

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Sports & FitnessReef adventures!

Snorkeling off the beach was a highlight. Stingrays, turtles and reef fish are abundant in crystal clear waters.

Steven Parker from New Zealand

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Room FeaturesBeachfront bliss

Our villa had direct beach access. It was spacious, pristine, and surrounded by hibiscus and wildlife.

Gemma Abernathy from United States

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Select your room type

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Superior Villa
2 persons
70 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Deluxe Villa
2 persons
108 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Villa Private Pool
2 persons
87 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

July 2026 - July 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.0/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
Private beach

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Hiking
Billiard tables

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Kids club

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Jacuzzi

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Parquet floor

Dining Onsite

At Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa, dining transforms into a delightful journey through flavors that reflect Malaysian heritage and culinary diversity. Guests can enjoy meals in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, surrounded by the beauty of nature, where every bite resonates with the essence of the island.

The Longhouse
Malaysian, Local, International
Ambiance
A charming venue nestled between the turquoise ocean and the lush rainforest, offering a relaxed and inviting environment for families and friends.
Key Offerings
The menu features a balance of Malaysian delights and international favorites, ensuring a satisfying selection for every palate. Perfect for leisurely breakfasts under the tropical sun or cozy dinners amidst nature's embrace.
Reservation
No
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; hours vary.

Location

Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Gaya Island, 88778

Explore Gaya Island

Local Attractions & Activities

Sapi Island

25 minutes' walk

Sapi Island features stunning beaches and snorkeling opportunities, perfect for relaxation and marine life observation.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

25 minutes' walk

A protected marine park with diverse coral reefs and rich underwater life offers fantastic snorkeling and diving experiences.

Coral Flyer Zipline

25 minutes' walk

The Coral Flyer offers thrilling zipline experiences across the ocean, providing stunning views and an adrenaline rush.

Canopy Walk and Zip Lines

1 minute walking

A short trek leads to a thrilling canopy walk and zip lines, great for adventure seekers wanting a unique aerial perspective.

Beach Activities at Pulau Sapi

30 minutes' walk

Enjoy beach sports like kayaking and paddleboarding at Pulau Sapi, perfect for a family day under the sun.

Fisherman's Wharf

10 minutes' drive

Offers fresh seafood dishes in a vibrant atmosphere, with signature dishes like grilled fish and local favorites.

Kampung Style Restaurant

10 minutes' drive

Authentic Malaysian cuisine in a casual setting, featuring specialties like Nasi Lemak and Char Kway Teow.

Gaya Island Resort Lounge

10 minutes' drive

A relaxed lounge with live music sessions, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure with light refreshments.

Cultural Night Markets

10 minutes' drive

Family-friendly market featuring local crafts, food stalls, and live performances, open on weekends for a lively experience.

Getting around

City Centre
Gaya Island 22 min · 1.1 mi
Airports
Kota Kinabalu International (BKI) 11 min · 4.5 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Breakfast

A continental breakfast is served at affordable prices.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa from previous guests about their experience

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa is often described as a true paradise, boasting spacious and comfortable villas nestled in the forest, some located on a steep hill. Guests appreciate the high-quality cuisine, including fantastic fluffy pancakes at the breakfast buffet, as well as the delicious fresh fish and local dishes at the restaurants; electric carts provide efficient transport around the resort. While the resort is generally well-kept, some guests have noted that rubbish can occasionally wash onto the beach with the tide. Many guests enjoy snorkeling and have spotted sea turtles, sting rays and colorful fish.

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Review score

Based on 162 verified reviews

8.2 /10

Great

78 %

Recommend

Location

9.6/10

Staff

9.5/10

Paid Wi-Fi

4.3/10

Breakfast

7.5/10

Pros

Comfortable villas

Delicious food

Exceptional staff

Cons

Creaking floors

Broken router

Renato from Italy

Couple

Deluxe Villa

6 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 03, 2026

9.7/10

Really good Resort Experience

beautiful beach wonderful sight peaceful retreat

I stayed six nights in this amazing location. The resort has a beautiful beach stretching across its length. The beach is surrounded by rainforest. The pool area overlooks the beach, a wonderful sight. I especially enjoyed the spa, a peaceful retreat located amongst the trees.

During my visit, the drink service was sometimes slow, a slight inconvenience.

Facilities

9/10

The resort offers a range of free water activities. These include diving and snorkeling. There is a spa with bamboo treatments, a unique and rejuvenating experience. Guests can also find a pool area overlooking the beach, allowing them to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Location

10/10

The resort is situated in a fine cove with a private beach. The surrounding rainforest adds to the secluded atmosphere. The location offers opportunities for snorkeling and diving directly off the beach.

Service

10/10

The staff provided excellent service, and they were attentive. The personnel were always smiling, they also addressed all requests promptly. Their service enhanced the overall experience.

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Pandora from Greece

Couple

Deluxe Villa

5 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

6/10

underwhelming stay at this resort

slow service unimpressive manager

the service was quite slow at both restaurants , and i often waited over an hour just to receive a starter. i learned to order drinks at the bar and pre-order my dinner. this way , my food was ready when i arrived at the table. the manager was also unimpressive AT ALL.

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Questions of the users

About Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Is transportation between the mainland and Bunga Raya Island Resort complimentary?

18 March 2024

Yes, boat transfers between the mainland and the resort are complimentary at scheduled times. Check-in times are 12:30, 16:30, and 22:00 hours, while check-out is at 11:00 hours.

How should I plan for the boat transfer timings for my stay?

25 April 2024

It's advisable to arrive at Jesselton Point Pier at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled boat departure time to ensure a smooth transfer.

Is it possible to enjoy snorkeling and are beginners given any assistance?

09 May 2024

Snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge for guests, and beginner snorkeling classes can be requested during your stay for those who need guidance.

Are there direct beach access villas available at the resort?

12 June 2024

The villas known as the Plunge Pool Villas are set on the beach, providing direct access to the stunning sandy shores.

Is it safe for pregnant travelers to visit Bunga Raya Island?

03 July 2024

While travel to the island is generally safe, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before planning your trip, especially for those who are six months pregnant.

How can I book the boat transfer or a private charter, and what cost should I expect?

25 August 2024

Boat transfers can be arranged by contacting the resort directly. For private charters, rates start at RM 350 nett per boat one way.

Can expatriates with an Employment Pass take advantage of the special rate for Malaysian citizens?

14 September 2024

Yes, the staycation rate is available for Malaysian citizens and residents, including expatriates with an Employment Pass, provided proof of residency is shown at check-in.

What activities are available at the resort, and do any come with an additional cost?

20 October 2024

The resort offers various activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. For a detailed list of all activities and any applicable charges, it is best to contact the resort directly.

Can couples made up of a Malaysian resident and a non-resident book promotional packages?

05 November 2024

Absolutely! Couples with one Malaysian resident and one non-resident can still book the Malaysian resident promotional offer.

Is there a fitness center available at Bunga Raya Island Resort?

15 December 2024

Yes, a fitness center is available at the resort, equipped with a treadmill and other workout facilities for guests to maintain their fitness routines.

Where can guests safely park their vehicles while visiting the resort?

28 January 2025

The resort does not provide on-site parking. Guests can utilize nearby options such as Jesselton Mall or Suria Sabah, which are both within a five-minute walking distance to Jesselton Point jetty.