Shangri-La Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious 5-star hotel with an amazing location by a private beach and stunning ocean views. Guests love the strategic location and wonderful sunset views from the beach and sunset bar. The breakfast buffet is praised for its vast selection of local and international cuisines, fresh juices and good food selection. The hotel's staff is described as super nice, friendly, helpful, kind, accommodating and welcoming. The pool area is a true highlight of the hotel with an infinity pool offering a breathtaking view of the sea. The hotel is perfect for families with children with excellent amenities, including an enormous pool with water slides, game options, kids' playrooms and a kids' club. The beds are comfortable, providing a restful night's sleep. While some parts of the hotel may appear outdated, guests rave about the fantastic facilities that cater to kids, especially the pool with water slides. Overall, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is an excellent and truly 5-star experience, perfect for a luxurious stay by the beach.
Set amidst a nature reserve, the hotel enchants endlessly with its natural magic.
Summary of reviews
Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious five-star hotel with exceptional service, facilities and food. The hotel is situated in a stunning location within a nature reserve with easy access to the beach, making it perfect for those seeking privacy and relaxation. Guests rave about the great breakfast, delicious buffet and unlimited options available at the Oceana Restaurant. The hotel offers a variety of room options for families and couples alike with spacious and well-appointed rooms. The staff go above and beyond to ensure their guests have an unforgettable experience with many guests praising the friendly and warm staff. The spa and pool are major highlights for guests with the pool featuring a water slide perfect for families with children. The hotel is also a great family-friendly resort with plenty of activities for kids. For a romantic getaway, guests can book a room in the Ocean Wing and enjoy the spa on their own private balcony. Despite some negative comments about the need for refurbishing and the food not being up to Shangri-La's five-star standards, the overall experience was excellent. Overall, Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Kota Kinabalu is a fantastic hotel that provides an extraordinary experience for its guests.
Gaya Island Resort in Kota Kinabalu, an SLH Hotel, is an enchanting destination that captivates visitors with its breathtaking location amidst the lush landscapes of Gaya Island. The resort provides a unique blend of jungle and sea, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. Guests appreciate the proximity to clear waters and marine life, adding to the allure of this idyllic setting. The resort's villas offer spacious and elegant accommodation, accentuated by stunning views and private balconies for a serene retreat.
Dining at Gaya Island Resort is a notable highlight. Both the breakfast and dinner receive acclaim for their variety and quality, with special mention of the exceptional buffet at Feast Village and the exquisite offerings at Fisherman's Cove. The themed beachside dinners with local performances enhance the dining experience, despite minor remarks about pricing and room service options. The resort also excels in its spa services, with high-quality treatments and inviting facilities, complemented by daily yoga classes.
Guests praise the impressive pool area for its size and design, creating a perfect space for relaxation and swimming. The private beach, Tavajun Bay, although not directly on the property, is accessible by a short boat ride and offers calm, clear waters suitable for snorkeling, though it could benefit from enhanced maintenance in certain areas.
Service at the resort is commended for its warmth and attentiveness, with staff often going beyond expectations to ensure guest satisfaction and comfort. This strong commitment to hospitality is a standout feature, contributing significantly to the overall positive experiences of visitors. Although cleanliness generally meets guest standards, there are occasional reports of areas needing more attention.
While Gaya Island Resort offers a luxurious and picturesque escape, some guests feel that its five-star claims are slightly ambitious, noting the need for minor improvements in service promptness and room updates to fully meet expectations. Despite this, the resort remains a stunning retreat with its opulent ambiance and commitment to offering memorable experiences, making it a desirable destination for travelers looking to indulge in the beauty and serenity of Kota Kinabalu.