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Shangri-la Hotels Near Sapi Island
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
In Kota Kinabalu, this resort is your dream getaway! With a private beach, stunning sea views, and luxurious spa, your perfect vacation starts here. The water park and kids' club keep the little ones entertained, while adults can relax at the sunset bar, sipping signature cocktails while watching the Borneo sunset. Explore coral island snorkeling and water sports, with surprises around every corner. The suites blend Borneo’s rich culture, and the 6 unique restaurants offer everything from seafood feasts to BBQ. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, it’s a must-visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Sapi Island
Ampang Bay Resort is a top choice for guests seeking direct access to Sapi Island. Located just minutes from the private jetty, this resort offers spacious ocean-view rooms with outdoor showers and private balconies overlooking the turquoise waters. The property provides complimentary snorkeling gear and guided island tours, ensuring seamless exploration of Sapi’s coral reefs. For best availability, book through the HopeGoo platform to enjoy exclusive rates and breakfast inclusions.
Staying at Ampang Bay Resort ensures effortless access to snorkeling adventures. The resort features an on-site snorkel rental station and daily guided excursions to Sapi Island’s vibrant coral reefs, complete with bilingual guides and safety gear. Guests receive complimentary boat transfers directly to the island dock, minimizing travel time. For convenience and value, reserve a room package including snorkeling activities via the HopeGoo app to lock in discounted rates and guaranteed spots.
Yes, Ampang Bay Resort features a private dock with scheduled speedboat transfers to Sapi Island, taking only 10 minutes. The dock operates 24/7, offering luggage handling and instant departure options, maximizing flexibility for travelers. Complimentary shuttles ensure hassle-free access to the island. Whether heading out at sunrise or returning under golden skies, guests enjoy full control over their schedule. This rare feature makes it one of the few resorts in the area with seamless island connectivity—book your premium ocean-view room via HopeGoo to secure priority dock access.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Sapi Island
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
Staying at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu felt like stepping into a tropical dream. The moment you arrive, you're surrounded by lush gardens and the gentle sound of waves—seriously, it's like being transported to a hidden paradise. The resort has multiple pools, including a stunning infinity pool with panoramic sea views, plus a fun kids' water slide that kept the little ones entertained all day. I highly recommend the Chi Spa—had a traditional Asian treatment that left me completely relaxed and refreshed. The private marina, STAR Marina, is perfect for adventure seekers: we went snorkeling and kayaking right from the dock, and the crystal-clear waters were full of colorful fish. Every detail, from the service to the ambiance, feels thoughtfully crafted. It’s not just a stay—it’s an experience. Definitely one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever had.
Rail Suite Aeropod
Staying at Rail Suite Aeropod in Kota Kinabalu was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and easily accessible by local transit. The room design stands out with its unique train-inspired theme, making it feel like you're traveling through the journey itself. Spacious, clean, and well-appointed, the bed was incredibly comfortable for a good night's sleep. Staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to help with any request. What really impressed me was the value for money—this place offers premium comfort and style without the premium price tag. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. It’s definitely my top pick for future trips!
Sovotel @ Napzone Kkia
Right after arriving at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, I was just a short walk away from this cozy little spot—super convenient for travelers needing a quick nap before the next leg of their journey. The room was spotlessly clean, with a comfy bed that made it easy to drift off. I especially appreciated the hot shower—it really refreshed me and helped me recharge. It’s perfect for a quick rest, especially if you’re connecting or have an early flight. Clean, quiet, and well-located—this is exactly what a great airport hotel should be. I’ll definitely come back if I’m passing through again.
Putatan Platinum Hotel
Staying at Putatan Platinum Hotel was an absolute delight. The accommodation is clean, comfortable, and offered excellent value for the price. They even provided basic toiletries like a toothbrush—small touch, big impact. But the real highlight? Waking up to a breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu from the window. Every morning felt like a postcard. Whether you're here for relaxation, photography, or just to escape the city buzz, this place delivers. The location is quiet yet convenient, with easy access to nearby transport. No complaints at all—this hotel exceeded my expectations. I’ll definitely be coming back.
Grapevine Garden
As a backpacker waiting for my connecting flight, I stayed here and couldn’t be happier with the experience. The hotel is incredibly close to the airport—just a short ride away, making it super convenient for early departures. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a fresh, clean feel from the moment I walked in. The bed was comfortable, and the air smelled crisp and inviting. One of the highlights? The shower gel—it has a subtle, pleasant fragrance that’s not overpowering but lingers nicely on the skin. For travelers like me who just need a quick, reliable stopover, this place offers excellent value and peace of mind. I’d definitely come back if I’m ever in Kota Kinabalu again.
Aristo Hotel
The hotel is a great choice for travelers visiting Kota Kinabalu. Located just a short walk from the city center, it's super convenient for exploring local restaurants and attractions. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, making check-in and check-out smooth. What stood out most was the excellent value for money—great quality without the high price tag. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable place to stay in the heart of the city.
Napzone KKIA by Sovotel
Staying at Napzone KKIA by Sovotel was a game-changer during my layover at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The space was spotless and meticulously clean, with a comfortable bed that made it easy to catch a good night's sleep. I especially appreciated having access to a hot shower—perfect for refreshing after a long flight or just unwinding before the next journey. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about peace of mind. Everything is well-maintained, quiet, and thoughtfully designed for travelers who need a quick recharge. If you're looking for a reliable, cozy spot to rest between flights, this is definitely worth trying.
Restful Respite Tanjung Aru Inifnity Pool 2BR
Staying at this property was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the beach and close to local restaurants and attractions. The unit is spacious, bright, and beautifully designed with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the room with natural light. It’s incredibly quiet, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway. The infinity pool overlooking the sea is simply breathtaking—especially at sunset. I loved lounging by the water, sipping something cool while watching the sky turn golden. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, always ready to help with anything. Cleanliness, comfort, and attention to detail are top-notch. This place truly delivers on every level. I’d come back in a heartbeat and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a serene, luxurious escape in Kota Kinabalu.
Deco Home @ Aru Suites
This place is a hidden gem! The room comes with a built-in induction cooker and microwave, making it super convenient to prepare meals—perfect for couples or families traveling together. No need to eat out every day; cooking at home saves money and adds a personal touch to the trip. The building has a keycard-access elevator system, which adds a great sense of security. On the 11th floor, there's a lovely swimming pool and well-maintained fitness center—ideal for relaxing or staying active during your stay. It’s a self-service guesthouse, so check-in and check-out require prior coordination via WeChat, but the communication is smooth and friendly. Located in downtown Kota Kinabalu, it’s easy to get around by public transport. With its modern decor, thoughtful amenities, and excellent value, this is definitely a top choice for a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
Casuarina Hotel
Staying at Casuarina Hotel was a great experience overall. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Tanjung Aru Beach, making sunset views incredibly easy to enjoy. I loved how convenient it was for exploring the area; getting to nearby attractions by public transport was hassle-free. The room was clean and well-maintained, with basic but functional amenities—nothing fancy, but perfectly adequate for a comfortable stay. What really stood out was the value for money. For the price, you get excellent location, good cleanliness, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s rare to find such a solid balance between cost and comfort in this area. If you're looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable option in Kota Kinabalu, this hotel is definitely worth considering. I’d happily stay here again on my next visit.
KWEN Suites-Tanjung Aru InfinityPool Seaview/Airport View
Stayed here with two friends and was absolutely impressed by the spacious, comfortable rooms. The unit felt more like a home away from home—big enough for three people without feeling cramped. It's just a short taxi ride to the beach, making it super convenient for those who love seaside access. The apartment comes well-equipped with a fridge, washing machine, and water purifier that provides both hot and cold water—perfect for daily living. I even used the balcony to hang out laundry, which was a nice touch. Although we didn’t get a chance to try the infinity pool due to time constraints, the pre-arrival communication with the host was smooth and helpful—the welcome guide arrived in advance, making check-in hassle-free. Overall, the location is excellent, transportation is easy, and the value for money is outstanding. Highly recommend this stay for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu.
Seapark Condotel Hotel
Staying at Seapark Condotel Hotel in Kota Kinabalu was an absolute highlight of our trip! The hotel is located in a quiet, charming neighborhood just a 10-minute walk from the beach—perfect for watching sunset with a peaceful vibe. There are plenty of great local eateries nearby, so food lovers won’t be disappointed. What truly made our stay special was the owner—he speaks fluent Chinese and went above and beyond to help us. He personally drove us to the beach, dinner spots, and even the dock for our island-hopping tour. When we waited an hour at the dock, he stayed with us the whole time, making sure everything ran smoothly. He noticed us enjoying durian right outside the hotel and kindly brought over mosquito repellent while giving us helpful tips on how to make the most of our trip. Free drinks were also available throughout the stay—no strings attached. It’s clear they genuinely care about guests, especially those from China. Friendly, welcoming, and incredibly thoughtful. This place deserves every single point on the rating scale. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu!
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