SUTERA SANCTUARY LODGES AT MANUKAN ISLAND | Beach Resort in Kota Kinabalu | Book from 141$/Night

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Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island Kota Kinabalu Nature photo

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Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island Kota Kinabalu Interior photo

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Overview & Features

Pulau Manukan Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Near Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Great

8.9

8.7

/10

4.4

Loved by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island guests

Friendly staff
Private beach
Spacious rooms
Beautiful interior design

"Our hillside villa was superb - a huge sitting room, large bedroom, and a vast bathroom, plus an outdoor area."

Thomas from Japan

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"We also enjoyed an early morning 7am snorkel and saw lots of (small), colourful fish and also swam with reef shark."

trailgirl10 from United Kingdom

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"It was lovely to be on a beautiful tropical island with white sandy beaches (sand flies not withstanding), crystal clear aquamarine seas."

Dev Sidhu from Malaysia

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Location

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Manukan Island is situated on a private beach that overlooks the South China Sea. The hotel is just a 15-minute boat ride from Sutera Harbour and accessible via Kota Kinabalu International Airport, located 6.7 km away. This location provides guests with the ability to explore Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and experience marine adventures.

Rooms

The hotel offers multiple room options including Beach Suite King, Hillside Villa Double Storey, and Manukan Villa 2, ensuring accommodations for various preferences. Each unit features air conditioning, a balcony with sea views, and some provide kitchen facilities. The spacious layouts can cater to families and groups with units that have up to four beds.

Dining

Dining is available at the on-site Prahu Restaurant which serves breakfast and all-day dining. The restaurant menu includes a selection of local and international dishes, ensuring various flavor experiences. Guests can also enjoy room service for added convenience.

Activities

The hotel provides direct access to a beautiful beach where guests can engage in snorkeling and diving activities at an additional charge. An outdoor swimming pool is available for relaxation, alongside options for hiking and fishing nearby. Daily housekeeping and retail shops on-site add to the convenience of the stay.

Wellness

For those looking to unwind, the hotel offers a spacious outdoor pool and opportunities for leisure walks along the beach. There are also family-friendly amenities, making it adaptable for various guest needs. This setting is conducive to relaxation amid natural beauty.

Highlights

Location: private beach overlooking the South China Sea

Rooms: Beach Suite King, Hillside Villa Double Storey

Dining: Prahu Restaurant with all-day dining

Activities: snorkeling and diving activities available

“Sutera Sanctuary Lodges makes the most of its secluded island location, providing direct access to a private beach far from Kota Kinabalu's bustle; villas are spacious, and the daily buffet at Prahu Restaurant is a convenience. It's a solid choice for families seeking a mix of relaxation and water-based activities.”

Edward HayesEditor-in-Chief at Beachresort

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Guest Emotional Experience

Shine on SocialsPhoto-perfect sunsets

“Walk to and sunset spot are picturesque.”

Mirjam from Switzerland

Safe HavenInstantly cared for

“We were immediately taken care off by the team.”

Marko from Germany

Explorers, Not TouristsGuided explorations

“The sunset walk was on a path to the other side of the island snd was guided.”

Jane from United Kingdom

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Pick the Room Type That Suits You

Choose from spacious beach suites, family rooms, or cosy couples’ retreats with perks like breakfast and free cancellation

Beach Suite Twin Return Boat Transfer

2 persons

455 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Beach Suite King Return Boat Transfer

2 persons

455 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Hillside Villa Single Storey Return Boat Transfer

2 persons

895 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Hillside Villa Double Storey Return Boat Transfer

2 persons

885 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

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Facilities

Enjoy comfortable stays and unforgettable experiences at our beach resorts

Facilities: Perfect

9.0/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Diving
Snorkelling
Hiking
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's menu
Children's pool

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Live entertainment

Room features

Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Dressing area
Dining table

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Location & Nearby Attractions

Pulau Manukan Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Map view

Pulau Manukan Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

City landmarks

Landmark

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

2400 ft

Island

Sulug Island

5300 ft

Island

Sapi Island

2.4 mi

Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

2.4 mi

Island

Pulau Sinjataan

2.5 mi

Island

Pulau Sapi

2.4 mi

Landmark

Coral Flyer

2.6 mi

Landmark

Coral Flyer Zipline

2.6 mi

Landmark

Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort

3.0 mi

Landmark

Borneo Trading Post

3.8 mi

Nearby

Island

Manukan Island

1500 ft

Pulau Manukan

200 ft

Beach

Pulau Mamutik

1300 ft

Explore Kota Kinabalu

Experience Manukan Island

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

9 minutes' walk

A stunning marine park offering diverse ecosystems, great for snorkeling and hiking with beautiful views and rich biodiversity.

Manukan Island

1 minute' walk

Home to pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and beach activities right at your doorstep.

Pulau Mamutik

5 minutes' walk

Known for its vibrant coral reefs and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for snorkeling and picnicking in a scenic setting.

Sapi Island

12-minute drive

A popular island known for its scenic beaches and water sports, offering opportunities for thrill-seekers and relaxation.

Snorkeling and Diving

9 minutes' walk

Vibrant underwater life awaits in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Equipment rentals and guided tours available on-site.

Ziplining at Coral Flyer

12-minute drive

Adrenaline-fueled ziplining offers breathtaking views over the jungle and sea. Reservations recommended for peak times.

Beach Yoga

1 minute' walk

Relaxing yoga classes on the beach, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating while enjoying the serene ocean sounds.

Sunset Bar & Grill

5 minutes' walk

A vibrant beachfront eatery serving local seafood and international dishes. Perfect for sunset meals and casual dining.

The Bamboo Cafe

9 minutes' walk

Charming café known for its fresh local ingredients and vegetarian options. A cozy spot for brunch or light meals.

Ocean Treasures Restaurant

12-minute drive

An upscale dining experience featuring a diverse menu, focusing on local flavors with stunning ocean views.

Manukan Beach Night Market

1 minute' walk

Nightly market offering local crafts, foods, and cultural performances. A family-friendly atmosphere with vibrant energy.

Borneo Nightlife Lounge

12-minute drive

Chilled lounge offering live music and themed nights, popular among both locals and tourists for a fun night out.

Getting around beach destinations

City Centre

Kota Kinabalu13 min · 5.3 mi

Airports

Kota Kinabalu International (BKI)11 min · 4.2 mi

Train

North Borneo Railway11 min · 4.3 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-15:30

Check-out

from 10:00-12:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

No internet access available.

Breakfast

The hotel Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island provides visitors with a free full breakfast.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Year renovated:

2010

Number of rooms:

Former name

Manukan Island Resort Kota Kinabalu

Guest Ratings & Coastal Resort Reviews

See What Past Guests Had to Say About Their Stay

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges offers a tropical escape with hillside villas that boast amazing sea views, private beach access, and spacious, bright interiors. Guests love the Beach Suite King, noting its beautiful decoration and balcony. The breakfast receives praise for its mix of options, although some guests have mentioned limited choices for light snacks at the restaurant. The private beach is clean and offers calm waters for swimming and snorkeling.

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Review score

Based on 328 verified reviews

8.9/10

Great

90%

Recommend

Free Wi-Fi

10.0/10

Staff

9.4/10

Paid Wi-Fi

2.5/10

Breakfast

7.5/10

Pros

Spacious rooms

Clean beach

Helpful staff

Safe snorkeling area

Fresh food

Cons

Maintenance issues

Limited boat transfers

Sabrina from Germany

Single

Beach Suite King Return Boat Transfer

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 31, 2026

9.0/10

an island getaway to remember!

helpful staffspacious suiteresident-only pool

i found the staff helpful and friendly. the beach suite king was spacious and beautifully decorated with a nice balcony. i loved that the pool and gym were for residents only.

the restaurant service was slow at times, and they occasionally ran out of certain items. however, the food was delicious once it arrived.

Dining

8/10

The resort restaurant offers good food, though service can be a little slow. I suggest ordering in advance to avoid waiting. breakfast had many local and international options. there are also options for a personal chef.

Location

9/10

the location is fine, a true paradise. the private beach is beautiful with calm, clear water and soft sand, wonderful for a relaxed swimming experience. the resort is easily accessible by boat.

Rooms

10/10

My beach suite king had ample space and stylish décor, complete with a good balcony. It provided a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the views. the hillside villas seem to offer even better views. cleanliness was definitely noticeable.

0 Helpful

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Olivia from United Kingdom

Family with children

Manukan Villa 1 Return Boat Transfer

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 22, 2026

9.0/10

island paradise stay

private beachworking air conditioningturn-down service

breakfast had great offerings. air conditioning worked well in our spacious room. the private beach was away from crowds and i liked that. turn-down service provided chocolate and a weather forecast each evening after dinner.

Facilities

9/10

the hotel includes a pool and a small gym. boat transfers were available to and from the island. snorkeling gear can be borrowed from the main desk.

Dining

8/10

the restaurant served good food and many options. there is one restaurant and it has higher prices. breakfast include varied choices each morning during services.

Location

9/10

the island location offers a private beach for hotel guests. sunset point is within walking distance and it has great views. day trippers visit the public beach.

Rooms

10/10

the villa was large and clean with comfortable furniture. the bathroom included a big space for movement and a shower. a sofa area looked out to the ocean.

0 Helpful

Adam from United States

Family with children

Beach Suite King Return Boat Transfer

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 18, 2026

6/10

mixed feelings about the stay

comfortable bedsslow servicelimited menu

the room was okay. the beds were comfortable enough.

i had issues with the restaurant, though. the service was slow, and the menu seemed REALLY limited, and the restaurant struggled to accommodate my allergies. our meals NEVER arrived together.

0 Helpful

Noelle from France

Beach Suite King Return Boat Transfer

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 27, 2025

9.0/10

Island Bliss!

spacious suitebeautiful decorationresidents poolguided walk

The Beach Suite King was amazing! It was spacious, and beautifully decorated. I loved the balcony. Everything was so clean! The pool, the weights gym, and the beach were just for us guests. Day trippers could only use the public beach. The sunset walk was guided on a path to the other side of the island! The sunset was gorgeous!

The food options for light snacks at the restaurant were somewhat limited.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel offers a private beach area exclusively . There is also a well-equipped gym available. Guests also have access to a clean, dedicated swimming pool, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

Dining

9/10

The restaurant has a delicious menu. Live music enhanced my dinners! The staff are quick to address anything you require. a really great experience.

0 Helpful

John from United Kingdom

Single

beach suite king return boat transfer

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:November 04, 2025

9/10

tropical escape

free upgradecomfortable villa

i was lucky to get a free upgrade to the forest hill villa. the villa was super comfortable. i loved snorkeling in the sea in front of the villas.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island

Is there good mobile network coverage available on the island? Which provider should I choose for reliable internet access during my stay?

15 January 2024

Among the telecommunication providers, Maxis tends to provide better coverage on the island.

Can travelers arrange island hopping activities directly through the hotel, or should they look for external services?

22 February 2024

All water sport activities, including island hopping, are organized by a travel agency. The hotel provides accommodations and meals only.

Which room category is closest to the beach and where can I find the main registration area?

10 March 2024

All room categories have similar distances to the beach, but the Beach Suite is the nearest to the front office registration area.

What are the standard boat transfer costs and how often do the boats run to and from the mainland?

5 April 2024

The boat transfer schedule generally includes departures at 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM from Sutera Harbour Marina, most days of the week.

If a family is traveling with a total of six adults and four children, how many villas would be necessary to accommodate everyone and the boat transfer requirements?

18 May 2024

Two hillside villas can accommodate six adults and four children, with each unit entitled to two people for boat transfer. Additional persons may incur extra charges.

Is it possible for four guests to stay in a room designed for just two?

30 June 2024

The maximum room occupancy is for two adults and two children; four adults cannot be accommodated in a room meant for two.

Are there any fees associated with boat transfers if they have been prepaid with the accommodation?

21 July 2024

If the booking includes boat transfer, there are no extra payments required as long as the scheduled times are followed. Fees apply for additional passengers or those traveling outside of schedule.

What can guests expect from the dining options at the resort, and are there any limitations on what will be available?

14 August 2024

The restaurant at the resort offers a limited menu and may experience shortages of certain food items, which can occasionally affect availability.

What activities or services can guests enjoy during their stay at Sutera Sanctuary Lodges?

30 September 2024

Guests can participate in various activities such as snorkeling, diving, and relaxing by the poolside. The lodge also provides assistance for outdoor activities at an additional charge.

What languages are spoken by the staff at Sutera Sanctuary Lodges?

12 October 2024

The staff at the lodge primarily communicate in English and Malay.