An untouched paradise, Lankayan Island lies an hour and a half north of Borneo’s Sandakan city. This tranquil island is ideal for relaxation while the waters around it are becoming the next hotspot for diving. The only resort on the island, Lankayan Island Resort offers modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and excellent dive facilities. Located in a marine protected area, the resort takes conservation seriously, ensuring the island and its waters stay beautiful.
Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area
Conservation efforts have made Lankayan one of Borneo’s best dive destinations by maintaining the pristine condition of its reefs and by protecting its rare and endangered creatures. Visitors to Lankayan may see the huge and harmless whale shark from March through May. From June through September sea turtles come through Lankayan to nest, and guests can see turtle hatchlings during this time as well. All year round Lankayan’s colourful reefs are home to a wealth of marine life.
In December 2001 the Malaysian government declared Lankayan one of three islands constituting the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area (SIMCA). Fishing is now prohibited in the area and officers from the Malaysian police, the Wildlife Department of Sabah, and the company Reef Guardian work hard to protect the reef and to combat poachers. Resident marine biologists also survey and census the surrounding ecosystem to track its health and learn more about the intricacies of its ecology.
As part of the Sea Turtle Corridor, Lankayan Island is a regular stop for Green and Hawksbill turtles. Local marine preserve staff work hard to protect the turtles from poachers, careless humans, and predation. Turtle eggs are carefully counted and brought to a fenced off turtle hatchery. Upon hatching the turtles are counted again and released into the sea.
Guests at the Lankayan Island resort can request that they be woken up or contacted if the turtle hatching occurs during their stay. Visitors can also learn more about Lankayan’s conservation efforts at its information centre.
Facilities
Enjoy the fresh sea air as you eat your meals on Lankayan Island Resort’s open terrace. A beautiful wooden structure overlooking the ocean, diners often see juvenile black tip sharks leisurely swimming by. The resort’s beach front bar occasionally throws evening barbecues so guests can enjoy stunning sunset views as they dine. Guests can also make their way to the resort’s TV room and watch footage from the day’s dive or head to the main building for Internet access. A small shop sells souvenirs as well as necessities such as batteries and toiletries. Of course, the island also has a dive centre where guests can rent their scuba equipment as well as ocean kayaks and snorkels.
Attractions
This resort brings divers to Lankayan Island
Room Types
All guests will be treated to a beach front chalet with gorgeous ocean views. All chalets have private balconies that overlook the white sandy beach and crystal clear ocean. Rooms include a mini refrigerator, hot running water, and a coffee maker. Power outlets are compatible with 220V or 110V appliances. All rooms are made with local materials that blend in with the natural surroundings.
Beach Chalet
From $1,939 per diver twin share for 7 days 6 nights.
From $1,436 per non-diver twin share for 7 days 6 nights.
Area: Not Available
Water Chalet
From $2,133 per diver twin share for 7 days 6 nights.
From $1,630 per non-diver twin share for 7 days 6 nights.
Area: Not Available