Manukan Island (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Manukan Island?
What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: Soft sand, shade shelters and lap-friendly glass-bottom boats suit infants, yet paths are mostly sand, there is no nursing room or crib rental, and the speedboat ride may jar a very young baby.
Positives:
- Family-friendly sand and water: Soft beaches and shallow water make safe play areas for babies.
- Basic facilities available: Restrooms, showers and changing areas are free and onsite.
Challenges:
- No dedicated baby room: Use public changing rooms or find shelters for privacy.
- Uneven sandy paths: A light stroller can be hard to push; prefer a baby carrier.
What is Manukan Island?
- Island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park archipelago off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Coral-fringed landmass supporting tropical rainforest, limestone cliffs, and white-sand beaches
- Protected area managed by Sabah Parks, hosting a resort, marine research station, and basic visitor infrastructure
What is so special about Manukan Island for with baby?
- Shallow shores perfect for baby’s first water play
- Picnic shelters offer shaded rest stops
- Short museum tour fits stroller access
- Glass-bottom boat reveals marine life safely
- Basic lockers and facilities keep essentials secure
Recommended visit duration: 4-6 hours
Why 4-6 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Time suits beach play, picnic, short museum visit and a boat trip without rushing a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Manukan Island
Beach Play:
Let baby crawl or wade on the soft sand and in the gentle shallows.
Tip: Bring a sun hat and baby vest; stick to the eastern tip for calmer water.
Picnic under Shelter:
Use one of the picnic shelters for shade and a midday rest.
Tip: Pack finger foods and extra water; arrive early to secure a table.
Marine Museum Quick Visit:
Explore small indoor exhibits ideal for a stroller.
Tip: Visit between shows at 9–11 AM to avoid crowds.
Glass Bottom Boat:
See coral and fish from a covered boat.
Tip: Hold baby securely on your lap; check with operator for child seat availability.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Manukan Island
- Arrive early: Beat the heat and crowds by taking the first boat around 8:30 AM.
- Pack shade essentials: Bring a travel umbrella or pop-up tent for extra sun protection.
Reviews of Manukan Island
roslan i
We had a lovely family trip here for a day, enjoying snokelling and the beach. However, the seabed was not as clean as expected and by afternoon it was crowded. A lovely area to escape from the city life. A short trip to the island by bot from Jesselton Point Jetty.
Follow Fauzia
Very very nice island it is so unfortunate that there is plastic and garbage in the beautiful south China sea very sad and they make you pay conservation like island conservation fee and before we pay that we said are you gonna do something about the plastic and the cleanup she said yes that’s something that happens and I’m like because it looks like the island has not been cleaned for many many y...
A Ismail
We visited here last weekend. Beautiful crystal clear water, soft sand, PLASTIC everywhere - in the ocean and on the sand. This was extremely disheartening to see. If you wish to snorkel with plastic bottles and bits of plastic, then I suggest you visit.
Delia Nur
This place was amazing. The island is stunning, with soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters. Very recommend doing snorkling here since there are various fishes. Never visit Kinabalu without coming here 🔥
Shivani Jadhav
My visit to Manukan Island was truly unforgettable! The island is stunning, with soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters. It’s the perfect tropical getaway for anyone looking to relax or enjoy water activities. One of the highlights of my trip was the jet ski ride—it was thrilling to speed across the beautiful open waters. Snorkeling was also an amazing experience, as the underwater world w...
When is the best time to visit Manukan Island (Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia)?
Visit Mar–Oct for calm seas and drier weather. Start early to avoid midday heat. The island can close in heavy monsoon between Nov–Jan.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Return boat transfers | MYR 120 |
| Park fee for adults | MYR 50 |
| Glass bottom boat trip | MYR 160 |
| Locker rental | MYR 10 |
| Café snacks | MYR 30 |
| Total Estimated | MYR 370 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Manukan Island
Address: Manukan Island, Malaysia
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