Best Borneo beaches

Lankayan Island is a tiny, secluded paradise in the Sulu Sea, just off the coast of Sandakan. With powdery white beaches, swaying palms and clear turquoise water, it’s the perfect place to slow down after exploring Borneo’s jungles and wildlife. Beneath the surface, colourful coral reefs are home to turtles and tropical fish, making snorkelling and diving the main attractions. Visit at the right time of year and you might even spot a turtle coming ashore to lay her eggs, or tiny hatchlings making their first dash towards the sea.

Just a short boat ride from the mainland, you’ll find Gaya Island, where tropical rainforest meets white-sand beaches and clear, coral-filled waters. Spend your days swimming, snorkelling or simply slowing down beneath the palm trees. Just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, it’s an easy and relaxing place to finish your Borneo adventure with a few days by the sea.

Just a short boat ride from Kota Kinabalu, Manukan Island is a lovely place to begin or end your Borneo holiday. The island can get busy with day-trippers, but things quieten down in the late afternoon when most visitors head back to the mainland. From then on, it’s all about peaceful beaches, tropical sunsets and the gentle sound of the sea. Take a walk through the lush jungle or snorkel in the sheltered lagoon before settling in for the evening.

If you don’t fancy taking another boat to an island, this beach resort near Kota Kinabalu is an easy option. Set beside the spectacular 3-kilometre stretch of Pantai Dalit Beach, there’s plenty of space to relax on the soft white sand, swim in the sea or cool off in one of the resort’s pools. With a great choice of facilities, from a kids’ club and nature activities to watersports and a spa, there’s something for everyone. Add in several restaurants and plenty of space to unwind, and it’s a relaxing choice for both couples and families.

There are fewer beach options in Sarawak, but Damai Beach is a real gem. Tucked away on the Damai Peninsula near Kuching, this rugged stretch of coastline is backed by lush rainforest and dramatic limestone formations. It’s the perfect place to slow down after exploring the jungle, whether you want to relax on the beach, take a dip in the sea or hop in a kayak and explore the coastline from the water.