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Island Hopping Kota Kinabalu Snorkeling & Manukan Island Tour

Q: Can beginners join snorkeling at Manukan Island?

Yes, snorkeling at Manukan Island is suitable for beginners. Life jackets and basic snorkeling gear are provided.

Q: How far are the islands from Kota Kinabalu?

Sapi Island and Manukan Island are located within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and can be reached within 15 to 20 minutes by boat.

Q: Is this tour family-friendly?

Yes, this island hopping and snorkeling tour is suitable for families and does not require advanced swimming skills.

Q: Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?

No, snorkeling equipment including mask and snorkel is included in the tour package.

Q: Is Sapi Island good for snorkeling?

Yes, Sapi Island is one of the best snorkeling spots near Kota Kinabalu because of its clear and shallow water.

️Sapi & Manukan Island Hopping – A Tropical Paradise Awaits!

Why book with us?

We have a PADI certified guide that skips the line for you.
Our certified guide will accompany you into the deepr waters which allows you not to wear a life jacket, it is compulsory without a certified guide!
In the case of a rainy day (excluding lightning and strong waves/currents), you would still be able to snorkle and swim because you are accompanied by a certified guide!

Our guide is equipped with an underwater camera to take photos for you. For the same price as others, we go an extra mile to ensure you would be able to have fun and enjoy!

Important Notice: Snorkeling is a natural marine experience, and marine life sightings may vary. The presence, variety, and visibility of fish and coral depend on factors such as tides, weather conditions, water currents, and time of day. Water clarity may range from clear to slightly cloudy, especially after rain or strong waves, which can affect visibility underwater. These conditions are beyond our control, and each trip offers a unique experience shaped by nature. We appreciate your understanding and kindly ask guests to refrain from negative reviews based on marine visibility or fish sightings, as these are natural environmental factors.

Pick up begins at the selected meeting points around 8:30-8:40AM please be on time. Then you will head to Shangri La Tanjung Aru Jetty for departure by boat. Your adventure begins with a scenic boat ride from Kota Kinabalu to the beautiful Sapi Island, where you’ll step onto soft white sands and be greeted by calm blue waters.

Dive in for a fun snorkeling session, swimming alongside tropical fish. If you prefer to stay dry. After your island activities, relax with a delicious lunch on the beach, cooled by the soothing sea breeze.

Next, hop over to Manukan Island, known for its long sandy beaches, lush greenery, and easy coastal trails perfect for a light stroll. Relax under swaying palm trees, take a dip in the sea, or go snorkeling to spot even more marine life. Manukan also offers a short jungle trail where you can enjoy a gentle walk surrounded by nature. After some free time to explore, sunbathe, or simply unwind, board the boat for a scenic ride back, ending your perfect island getaway!

Optional add ons for paragliding, banana boat, sea walking etc. Just let out friendly guide know and he’ll make the necessary arrangements. Pick up and drop off at designated pick up location, lunch and guide included.

Things to bring:

Towel
Change of clothes
Sunscreen

Per Adult: 250 MYR

Per Child: 240 MYR

Inclusions

Entrance fees to Sapi & Manukan Islands
Round-trip boat transfers
Experienced guide and driver
Lunch on Sapi Island
Snorkelling at both islands
Snorkelling equipment (mask & snorkel)
Life jackets for safety

Everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable island-hopping experience is included.

Exclusions

Optional water sports activities (e.g. banana boat, parasailing, flying fish)
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tips and gratuities (optional)

Optional activities can be arranged on-site at your own expense.

Sapi Island Snorkeling with City MPV Travel & Tours

Sapi Island is known for its calm water and good snorkeling conditions. The beach is close to the reef, so you can enter the water and start exploring without going far.

This area is popular for Sapi island snorkeling because of its visibility and shallow depth. You can see reef fish, coral, and clear sandy patches in one place. It is a comfortable spot for beginners and also enjoyable for experienced swimmers.

The environment here feels quiet and natural, making it one of the best stops during any Sabah island hopping tour.

Manukan Island Sabah

Manukan Island is the second stop of the tour and offers a different setting. It is larger and has better facilities, making it a popular choice in many Manukan island packages.

The beach is long and clean, with space to relax, walk, or swim. There are shaded areas and places to sit, which makes it easier to spend more time here.

If you are looking for a mix of activity and comfort during your snorkeling Manukan island experience, this island provides that balance.

Sabah Island Hopping Experience – Easy Access from Kota Kinabalu

One of the main reasons travelers choose island hopping Kota Kinabalu is the short travel time. From Kota Kinabalu, it takes only a brief boat ride to reach the islands. The journey is smooth and direct. Within a short time, you move from the city to open water. This makes the tour suitable for families, couples, and even short-stay travelers.

The combination of two islands, snorkeling, and beach time makes this one of the most complete Sabah island hopping experiences without long travel or complex planning.

What Makes This Manukan & Sapi Island Package Worth It

This tour brings together the best parts of both islands in one plan. You get clear snorkeling water at Sapi Island and a more relaxed beach setting at Manukan Island.

There is no need to arrange transport or equipment on your own. Everything is managed by City MPV Travel & Tours so you can focus on the experience.

Itinerary:

8:30 AM – Pick-up from designated pick up location
Transfer to the jetty and boat registration
Speedboat ride to Sapi Island
Snorkelling, swimming, free time and lunch at the beach
Continue to Manukan Island
Relax on white sandy beaches and enjoy island facilities
Lunch break (barbeque lunch with seafood, rice pasta, etc)
Afternoon return by boat to the mainland
3:30 PM – Drop-off back at designated pick up location

⛔ Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation (4%+RM1 Transaction Charges Apply) 24 hours prior to the tour. To cancel, please contact us via email or WhatsApp.

3D2N Mount Kinabalu Climbing

Malaysia’s highest mountain, watch the sunrise from Low’s Peak.

Catamaran Snorkle & Sail (Morning/Sunset)

Morning sail & snorkel. Kayak, paddle board packed meal included.

They went there, they tell us about it

At City MPV Travel & Tours, our Sapi & Manukan island hopping tour is planned to give you a smooth and enjoyable day by the sea, and here’s what travelers have shared after experiencing snorkeling and island time with us.

    
 
 
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   Nicola Malorgio 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My friend and I booked the snorkeling activity in Kota Kinabalu. My friends is super happy for this activity and the beauty of the places visited. I was sick last minute so I couldn't go but I am impressed with the level of professionalism of the assistance received with handling my reservation. Thank you!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Alexander Wambo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We booked the Mari Mari River Combo Tour. Our Guide Eddie did a great job telling us many details about the history and nature in Sabah.
The tour was well organized and we saw plenty of wildlife as well as one of the most stunning sunsets.
I would book the tour everytime again and already plan another tour with City MPV.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Grace Harvey 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing trip of the islands and snorkelling. Our guide Zai took us to some amazing snorkelling spots and was really attentive. He got some great footage of our group swimming and snorkelling too!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kimberly Sun 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We booked a catamaran day tour with city mpv travels, it was awesome! Food was prepared for us and snorkelling was fantastic we swam with fishes and paddle board and a kayak was provided too!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Helmut Eglseder 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sehr gut organisierte Touren. Ich habe die Bongawan Rivertour gemacht und es war eine schöne Erfahrung. Der Guide war freundlich und sehr informativ. Der Minibus war in sehr gutem Zustand. Alles in allem perfekt.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Chihung Lu 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I sincerely thanks Timmy, John, Eddie (and also Aaron)
For the last three days for my Sabah trip that I booked with them. No words can I express my gratitude and appreciation towards them. They are knowledgeable, generous, kind and helpful. They try to care for everyone (and explaining in different languages). They had made my KK trip meaningful and enjoyable. I will definitely recommend this to my friends and family!! Well done and hope to see you soon.  You are the true MVP ☺️
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   HL L 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Catamaran sunset cruise -Many thanks to Timmy, Captain Zam and crew Din, for a fantastic sunset cruise. We had a really good time snorkelling and truly enjoyed the experience. Although it stormed in the evening, we never felt unsafe. What a privilege it was to watch the rain clouds rolling in and the sun peeking through the clouds.
Mari Mari Cultural Village- Eddie was articulate, knowledgeable and an absolute delight. We learnt so much about the various tribes and their culture. Pick up and drop off was seamless. Many thanks to Eddie for looking after us.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Noor Fazlina Dadan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We went for Yacht trip with City MPV Travels & Tours, we truly enjoy it! Definitely will be coming back soon, as we didn’t get the chance to see sunsets due to the weather 🥹 recommended and worth to try guys !!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Louise Rowan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended. We went on the river cruise with Timmy. Everything went smoothly, Timmy was really knowledgeable, informative and helpful. The weather changed our plans slightly but we were kept informed all the way through. The driver was excellent (sorry, I can’t remember his name) as weather made driving conditions unpleasant and we felt extremely safe in his care. Food at the jetty was extremely good and plentiful. In terms of getting to know the area, learning about the wildlife and value for money, I can’t recommend highly enough. Thanks to everyone involved.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ryan Smith 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely amazing tour and awesome guides. Just a note that the mosque is closed on Friday so take that into consideration when you book. Despite not being able to see the mosque, the tour was great. The chocolate factory was a hit with our kids. Our guide Eddie was super knowledgeable about the river and Mangrove ecosystem. We saw Proboscis Monkeys and a small crocodile. Sunset on the beach was beautiful and the fireflies were the cherry on top. Highly recommend this tour!

Book Sapi & Manukan Island Hopping Tour

Spend a day exploring clear waters, sandy beaches, and two of Sabah’s most popular islands. This island hopping Kota Kinabalu tour is simple, accessible, and designed for a smooth experience. Reserve your spot now and enjoy snorkeling, island views, and a relaxed day at Sapi and Manukan Island.