Five islands 15 to 20 minutes by speedboat from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal make up Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu's most accessible escape. Pulau Manukan has the best snorkeling — good coral close to shore and regular sightings of sea turtles and reef fish — while Pulau Sapi and Pulau Mamutik are smaller and quieter for beach lounging. Combined island-hopping day trips take in two or three islands.
Speedboats depart throughout the morning from the Jesselton Point terminal in central KK. Go early to get ahead of the day-trip crowds. Snorkeling gear is available for rent on the islands. Overnight camping is permitted on Pulau Sapi with advance permission from the park authority.