Lankayan – The Jewel of the Sulu Sea

Diving, snorkeling, turtle watching – and the art of slowing down.

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Lankayan Island, often called the jewel of the Sulu Sea, is one of only three islands within the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area (SIMCA) – a protected zone covering 46,000 hectares of pristine ocean. Located 80 km northwest of Sandakan, the island can be reached in about 90 minutes by speedboat across open sea.

SIMCA is home to an astonishing diversity of life, with more than 500 species of marine fish and 300 species of corals recorded, alongside two species of marine turtles and even the elusive manatee.

A natural coral atoll, Lankayan is ringed by powder-white sand and shallow coral gardens. At just 2.5 hectares, the island is lush with tropical greenery, offering shady refuge between swims. There are no local inhabitants – only the small community of staff from the island’s eco-resort.

After two decades of protection, marine life has flourished. Turtles nest in abundance, reef fish thrive, and snorkelers can often spot hunting reef sharks and jacks right from the shore or walkways.

The resort itself operates under strict IUCN Category II conservation guidelines. All solid waste is shipped back to the mainland, wastewater is treated according to environmental standards, and fishing or extraction of any kind is strictly prohibited. This careful management has allowed marine life to thrive, making Lankayan one of Sabah’s true conservation success stories.

Read our story Splendid Whales & Turtles at Lankayan Island — a glimpse into crystal-clear waters, gentle whale sharks, and nesting sea turtles that make this island a true marine paradise.

Important Notes & Disclaimer

Please note that itineraries may be subject to change due to weather, sea conditions, road conditions, or other operational factors beyond our control. While every effort will be made to adhere to the planned schedule, no guarantee can be given that all activities will proceed as described.

Exclusions

The following are not included in the price unless otherwise stated:

Tourist tax (RM 10 per room per night, payable locally)
Travel insurance
Services not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages

Prices

All prices are subject to change without prior notice due to government policies or unforeseen circumstances.

Liability

We cannot accept responsibility or liability for delays, changes, or cancellations caused by acts of God, weather, traffic, airport conditions, strikes, or other unforeseen events. Additional expenses or loss of vacation time incurred as a result remain the client’s responsibility. We reserve the right to alter routes, amend arrangements, or cancel itineraries if necessary, always with the client’s best interest in mind.

Please read our Terms and Conditions.

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