subject: Wet And Wild Adventures In Captivating Kota Kinabalu [print this page] Home to some of the most spectacular sea beds in the region, Kota Kinabalu can be described as a marine haven adored by water sports lovers worldwide. This is mainly due to the stunning marine park that is the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, which is located within minutes of the Kota Kinabalu city limits. Comprising five islands, the various dive centres and water sports operators offer a host of activities under the sea for amateurs and seasoned professionals. With underwater cameras on hand, divers and snorkelers can expect to see blue-spotted rays, sea fans ,scorpion fish, mantis shrimps, bright blue starfish and cuttlefish among numerous other marine creatures.
Gaya Island is perhaps one of the most beautiful of the islands at 140 hectares in size, with a shoreline that stretches on for 25km. As a site where Downbelow - PADI 5 Star IDC Dive & Adventures Centre is located, the island offers a variety of diving and snorkelling activities within its dive centre and Sabah Parks Headquarters. With innumerable vibrant coral reefs visible near the shoreline, snorkelers neednt venture far to get a glimpse of life underwater. Sapi Island similarly offers fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities, while colourful coral reefs complete with glittering marine life are also visible. Perfect for shallow water snorkelling, guests can engage with the marine creatures by feeding the multi-hued fish bread crumbs.
As the single most developed island in the park, the pine-lined shores of Manukan Island are ideal for deep sea divers, as bright-hued marine species inhabit the jetty and deeper regions of the sea. Scubadoo underwater scooters and snorkelling gear are also provided on-site while lifeguards are also on hand for added safety. Beach toy rentals and boat hires are also available in Manukan which remain a poopular spot among tourists during vacation season.
Mamutik Island is the smallest of the five islands and spans 6 hectares in size, although it boasts a rich heritage of coral reefs and marine animals.
Amateur and first-time divers are encouraged to visit Mamutik first, as it is made for shore dives. With breathtaking white distichopora lace corals among its most prized features, popular activities on the islet include open water dive programs and courses while a Borneo Divers dive centre is also found here. Quiet and tranquil Sulug Island is known for the charming coral patches that adorn its southernmost end.
Another popular activity at Kota Kinabalu include sport fishing as several companies offer charter boats for game fishing and bottom activities. Giant barracuda, black marlins, giant trevallies, tunas among many others are up for grabs by experienced and novice anglers via day and overnight tours.
When it comes to a Kota Kinabalu luxury resort with a difference, no other establishment quite matches the standards of Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort Kota Kinabalu. Home to its very own Orangutan education centre, nature reserve and golf course, this 400-acre Kota Kinabalu hotel is undoubtedly one of Sabahs finest rests.
