Standing in waist-deep water  dive instructor (middle) is giving  a thorough half hour run-down on all that a diver needed to know before diving down the 15 meters deep under water world...

Young students snorkel off the beach and discover coral and marine life at the shallow and calm water ...

When going to the islands, do not bring any valuables (i.e. earings, necklaces), all cameras must be waterproof or put in water proof begs, contact lenses are not advisable. Bring a towel, separate set of clothing and shoes, sun block, hat, insect repellent & swim wear.

This Sapi Island’s Beach is also very picturesque, with the huge green forest of Gaya Island on one side, and the distant buildings of Kota Kinabalu city as the back ground.

After passing through the park entrance, most visitors will head off to the short white sandy beach which stretches from the jetty to the western rocky cliff. Wooden tables and seats are provided put there are not many, some visitors might have to use floor mate to settle down their belongings.

For those who choose to settle down under the trees that are near to the forest, do keep an watchful eyes on the macaque monkeys which are known to prey on visitors’ belongings.

Forest trails with well maintain walk way that go around the island are a good way to learn more about the island nature habitats. During low tide the sea water decreases so low that it allow ones to walk around the island along the beaches, although some part is more challenging with rocky surfaces.

The strong aroma from the food preparation for the lunch time meal, never fail to bring out the island monitor lizards, which inhabit the near by forest. A group of 6 to 8 monitor lizards with size ranging from 3 to 5 feet can be seen forwarding to the BBQ stand. Clawing on all four limbs and with a thin long tongue, these big lizard like creatures also attract many on lookers.

Having lunch under the many different species of trees at Sapi Island is a wonderful experience. These big trees characterized with many branches and thick leaves provides cooling shade from the strong sun. Special lunch packages are served at the Sapi Island, but one must booked this through the tour agents.

Hourly speed boats depart from  main jetty at  Jesselton Point, and two other jetties are at Sutera Harbour and Tanjung Aru beach hotel.

Depending on which islands and departing point, the speed boat takes about 10 to 20 minutes, and cost about RM 35 to RM 55 return.