Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island, Kota Kinabalu ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

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

Near Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Great

8.8

8.7

/10

4.3

Loved by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island guests

Comfortable rooms
Private beach
Friendly staff
Tasty meals

"The private beach had sunbeds and shades and we never had a problem getting one!"

David from United Kingdom

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"After the masses of daily tourists left the island at 4:30 pm it was quiet and calm."

Rieke from Switzerland

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"We stayed in a hill villa split over 3 levels with an amazing view."

4evaLuv-Holidays

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Accommodations

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Manukan Island offers spacious villas and suites with air conditioning and breathtaking beach views. Each unit includes a private terrace, providing a secluded spot for relaxation. Some accommodations come with kitchen facilities, perfect for those seeking to enjoy home-cooked meals.

Dining

Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site Prahu Restaurant, which serves breakfast and all-day dining options. The restaurant provides a selection of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Room service is also available for those preferring to dine in private.

Recreational Activities

The hotel offers a variety of outdoor activities, including diving and snorkeling, with arrangements made directly through the reception. An outdoor pool provides a relaxing area for guests looking to unwind. Daily housekeeping ensures all accommodations are well-maintained for an enjoyable stay.

Location

Situated just a 15-minute boat ride from Sutera Harbour, the hotel is surrounded by the scenic beauty of Manukan Island. This private beach location offers guests access to pristine shores and clear waters of the South China Sea. The resort's proximity to nature allows for tranquil walks and exploration.

Wellness and Family Amenities

The resort's lush surroundings facilitate leisurely beach walks that promote relaxation and wellness. Family-friendly accommodations cater to guests traveling with children, providing ample space and amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can also unwind by the poolside while enjoying the beautiful island views.

Highlights

Location: 15-minute boat ride from Sutera Harbour .

Dining: Prahu Restaurant serving all-day options .

Activities: Diving and snorkeling available .

Wellness: Beach walks promoting relaxation .

“The draw here is the private beach, exclusively for guests, along with the spacious villas and direct beach access; this creates a genuinely secluded island experience. It's a family-friendly place, with activities and practical amenities, though be aware that daytime crowds impact the otherwise serene setting.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.2/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningSinging Included

Restaurant meals were delicious. Singers performed English songs. Breakfast was particularly good. Guest-only bathrooms were cleaner.

Charlie from Canada

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Room FeaturesHeavenly Sea View

The room had a balcony facing the sea. The air conditioning worked great. It smelled amazing upon arrival.

Mia from United States

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BedroomComfort Defined

The villa was very comfortable and well-decorated. The rooms were very comfortable, clean and spacious.

Hans from Netherlands

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Sports & FitnessSnorkeling heaven

The clear water reveals fish and crabs. Snorkelling at 7am shows reef sharks and colourful fish.

Rajesh from India

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Select your room type

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

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

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.6/10Review 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

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island Location

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

Local Highlights Near Sutera Sanctuary Lodges

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

9 minutes' walk

A stunning national park featuring beautiful islands, diverse marine life, and fantastic snorkeling spots.

Manukan Island

1 minute walking

This nearby island boasts pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for relaxation and water sports.

Pulau Mamutik

5 minutes walking

A tranquil island perfect for swimming and snorkeling, known for its scenic views and picnic areas.

Sapi Island

40 minutes' walk

A popular island destination offering a lively beach atmosphere and a range of water activities.

Snorkeling Adventures

9 minutes' walk

Snorkeling trips to nearby coral reefs can be easily arranged, showcasing an array of marine life.

Coral Flyer Zipline

12 minutes' drive

Experience thrilling views while zipping between islands-a must for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Beach Yoga

1 minute walking

Relaxing yoga sessions on the sandy shores of Manukan Island, offered during the mornings for all skill levels.

Sunset Grill

5 minutes' walk

Casual dining with beautiful sunset views, serving local seafood and grilled dishes, perfect for a relaxing evening.

The Reef Restaurant

9 minutes' walk

Offers a diverse menu spanning Malaysian and international cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and beachfront seats.

Kota Kinabalu Night Market

10 minutes' drive

A vibrant market showcasing local crafts and street food, providing a lively evening atmosphere for all ages.

Live Music at The B Side

10 minutes' drive

An intimate venue featuring local artists and bands, perfect for enjoying a lively atmosphere with great music.

Getting around

City Centre

Kota Kinabalu13 min · 5.3 mi

Airports

Kota Kinabalu (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

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 169 verified reviews

8.3/10

Great

83%

Recommend

Breakfast

7.5/10

Cleanliness

8.9/10

Comfort

9.0/10

Facilities

8.6/10

Free Wi-Fi

10.0/10

Location

9.2/10

Paid Wi-Fi

2.5/10

Staff

9.2/10

Value for money

8.3/10

Pros

Private beach area

Spacious rooms

Helpful staff

Clean beach

Cons

Weak floorboards

Expensive food

Maintenance issues

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Questions of the users

About Sutera Sanctuary Lodges At Manukan Island

Is the mobile phone reception reliable on Manukan Island, especially with Maxis and Celcom? What about 4G coverage for staying connected during a week-long visit?

10 November 2024

Among the telecommunications providers, Maxis offers the best reception on the island.

Are there options for island hopping available on Manukan Island?

22 December 2024

Water sports activities, including island hopping, are managed by a travel agency. The accommodations provided focus on lodging and meals only.

Which accommodation options are closest to the beach and the main registration area on the island?

15 January 2025

All room types are located at a similar distance from the beach. However, the Beach Suite is the nearest to the registration/front office area.

Can you provide details on the boat transfer services to and from the island? What are the costs and schedules available?

18 February 2025

The normal boat transfer schedule is as follows: From Sutera Harbour Marina Club, boats depart at 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM from Sunday to Thursday, and at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Please check with the service for pricing.

If a group consists of 6 adults and 4 children, will booking two hillside villas cover the boat transfer for all?

3 March 2025

The maximum occupancy for each villa is 2 adults and 2 children, which means additional charges will apply for the boat transfer for extra guests.

Is it possible for four people to stay in a room that accommodates only two? Are there any exceptions?

5 April 2025

The standard policy states that each room can accommodate a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children, so trying to fit four adults in a room is not allowed.

If the boat transfer is included in the booking, is any additional payment required?

20 May 2025

If the boat transfer is part of the booking and the schedule is followed, there will be no additional charges. However, fees will apply for extra guests and off-schedule transfers.

What can guests expect in terms of food options and dining at the restaurant on the island?

10 June 2025

The on-site restaurant offers a limited menu, primarily focusing on local seafood dishes. Some guests have noted variability in meal temperatures, so it's advisable to express preferences directly to the staff.

What types of activities are available for guests who enjoy outdoor adventures while staying at the lodge?

12 July 2025

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling and diving for an additional fee, as well as beach lounging and hiking opportunities around the island.

Is there coverage for early departure policies, and how does it work in case of needing to leave earlier than planned?

25 August 2025

In case of an early departure from the resort, the full amount for the stay will be charged, so guests are advised to plan accordingly.