Your Kota Kinabalu itinerary should definitely start by heading out to the numerous islands that make up Tunku Abdul Rahman park. The best way to get there is by heading over to Jesselton point. As you enter you will see a huge building which resembles a warehouse on your right. Enter in and a number of tour companies have their stands. Take your pick on the islands that you want to visit. Hop on to a boat and enjoy a day of snorkeling and relaxing on the beach.

While we did not do this on our first day, we did it on one of the days that we were there. Our choice was to visit two islands: Sapi and Manukan. If you are looking for a more peaceful place and don’t mind spending a bit extra, then head out to Gaya island. Heading out to Gaya also means that you get a chance to visit the Marine Ecology Research Center (MERC) which was one of my favorite things to do in Kota Kinabalu.

The last boat from Tunku Abdul Rahman park heads in around 5 pm. If you chose to go Gaya island you will probably reach a bit earlier. Needless to say you will probably be exhausted just like we were. A quick trip to wherever you are staying will give you a chance to relax before it is time to head out again. Just make sure that you plan the timings properly when planning your Kota Kinabalu itinerary or you may miss the boat.