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Pulau Manukan

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Pulau Manukan

Pulau Manukan

Located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, this island is the second largest within Malaysia's first marine national park. Travelers visit for beach activities and snorkeling in the surrounding waters.

Getting There

The island is reached by boat from the city center. The journey typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes depending on the departure point and sea conditions.

Duration of Visit

Most visitors allocate a full day to the island to allow time for swimming, walking the trails, and relaxing on the beach. A half-day trip is also possible for those focusing solely on snorkeling.

When to Visit

Morning arrivals are recommended to secure a spot on the beach and avoid the midday heat. The island can get crowded, particularly during weekends and public holidays when local tourism increases.

Nearby Attractions

Since the island is part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, it is easy to combine a visit with other nearby locations:

  • Sulug Island (1km): A short boat trip away for further exploration.
  • Mamutik Island (1.5km): Another nearby island within the same park system.
  • Tanjung Aru (6km): A coastal area on the mainland, accessible after returning from the islands.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Pulau Manukan

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Pulau Manukan Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Kota Kinabalu 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Kota Kinabalu grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Kota Kinabalu 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Kota Kinabalu grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Parks & gardens

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

This national park off the coast of Kota Kinabalu consists of five islands, with much of its total area made up of sea. Separated from the mainland since the end of the last ice age, the islands create an exotic landscape.

0.0 km away
Sulug Island

Nature

Sulug Island

Located off the west coast of Sabah, Malaysia, this island is one of those making up Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. It's a natural attraction that's easily accessible from Kota Kinabalu.

1.0 km away
Mamutik island

Nature

Mamutik island

This small island belongs to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park off the coast of Kota Kinabalu and is known for its clear waters and coral reefs. It's popular with travelers looking to snorkel or relax on the beach.

1.5 km away
Tanjung Aru

Shopping & districts

Tanjung Aru

A roughly 2km-long beach in Kota Kinabalu, known for sunsets beautiful enough to be ranked among the world's top three. It's close to the Shangri-La resorts, drawing many travelers.

6.0 km away
Double Six Monument

Heritage & monuments

Double Six Monument

A monument in the Sembulan area of Kota Kinabalu, commemorating the plane crash on June 6, 1976, which killed Sabah's first chief minister and several other officials. It offers a chance to reflect on a painful chapter of Sabah's modern history.

6.9 km away
Gaya Island

Nature

Gaya Island

Gaya Island lies off the coast of Kota Kinabalu within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Its ridgeline rises to about 300 meters, making it a great spot for trekking with ocean views.

6.9 km away