Kota Kinabalu : Snorkeling at Ara Dinawan Private Island

Exploring Snorkeling at Ara Dinawan Private Island from Kota Kinabalu: An Honest Review

Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of day trips, but this one—snorkeling at Ara Dinawan Private Island—stands out for its promise of a quiet, eco-friendly escape. While it’s not a perfect paradise, it does deliver some genuine highlights that will appeal to nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

What we like most about this tour? First, the privacy and exclusivity of the island make it feel like a true retreat. Second, the scenic boat ride provides anticipation and adventure en route. Lastly, the delicious beach picnic offers a satisfying break amid stunning surroundings. A potential hurdle? The limited snorkeling spots and some inconsistency in timing and activities might disappoint those expecting a more action-packed day.

This experience suits travelers craving a calm, nature-centered day rather than lively party scenes or extensive underwater exploration. If you appreciate solitude, good food, and scenic views, this trip could fit your style perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Exclusive Island Access: You’ll visit a private, eco-friendly island with few visitors, ideal for a peaceful escape.
• Underwater Beauty: Coral reefs and tropical fish make for memorable snorkeling, though the reef conditions can vary.
• Scenic Boat Journey: The boat rides to and around Ara Dinawan add a sense of adventure and anticipation.
• Sunset Views: Relaxing on the beach at dusk provides a wonderful opportunity to witness the island’s spectacular sunset.
• Included Facilities & Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing facilities are available for a full day of leisure.
• Variable Experience Quality: Based on reviews, some guests felt the snorkeling was underwhelming, and timing could be confusing.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Arrival and Pickup

Depending on your booking choice, you’ll be picked up from your Kota Kinabalu hotel around 7:30 AM if you’ve arranged land transfer, or you’ll meet directly at the designated jetty at 8:30 AM. This slight variation in pickup times, as noted by travelers, can cause some confusion—so double-check your instructions.

The pickup is included in the price and is shared with other participants, which is a plus for reducing costs. The meeting point at Beringgis Riverside Seafood Restaurant offers a convenient and scenic starting point. Keep in mind, no hotel pickup is included if you don’t choose that option.

The Journey to Ara Dinawan Island

The boat ride itself is quite short—about 15 minutes with a subsequent 5-minute transfer, followed by another 15-minute ride to reach the island. The speedboat makes the trip feel like part of the adventure, with some reviews mentioning the boat ride as a highlight for its scenic views and the thrill of heading toward a secluded spot.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Island Environment

Once on Ara Dinawan, you’ll find a rustic and quiet atmosphere. It’s described as a place where you can truly unwind—lounge chairs are plentiful, and the natural setting feels untouched. The island’s eco-conscious approach means facilities are simple but functional: small huts, sunbeds, beach chairs, hammocks, plus showers and changing rooms.

Snorkeling and Underwater Exploration

The main draw—snorkeling—can be hit-or-miss based on reviews. You’ll explore coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, with masks, snorkels, and life jackets provided. The tour promises access to an underwater wonderland, but some guests, like those in recent reviews, found the reefs to be bleached or less vibrant than expected. One reviewer described the coral as “dead” and only saw a single fish, which can be disappointing if snorkeling is your main interest.

The boat takes you to different spots, but timing is crucial. Because the tide and weather conditions influence visibility, your experience might vary. One guest pointed out that snorkeling was performed during a choppy tide with low visibility, which affected the overall impression of the underwater scene.

Activities and Facilities

Beyond snorkeling, the island offers a range of activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. These are self-guided with no instruction, which suits some but might leave others wanting more guidance or insight into the surroundings.

Guests also have access to lounging facilities such as paddleboards, floats, a clubhouse, sunbeds, small huts, beach chairs, and hammocks. These add to the feeling of a true retreat, allowing you to relax or soak in the scenery at your own pace.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The boat ride to the island is a highlight for many travelers, offering a quick but picturesque journey through waters dotted with islands and lush greenery. The boat transfers are included in the package, and the boat staff are generally helpful and friendly.

Lunch and Refreshments

The tour includes a set lunch and a local high tea delight, typically served on the beach or in shaded areas. While some reviews mention the lunch being decent, others feel it doesn’t quite justify the price, especially if snorkeling doesn’t meet expectations. That said, the overall vibe and quality of the food often add a pleasant touch to the day.

Watching the Sunset

One of the most often praised moments is watching the sunset from the island’s sandy shores. If you’re lucky with weather and timing, this can be a truly memorable experience, perfect for photos and reflection.

The Practicalities: Transport, Cost, and What’s Included

The tour costs around $102 per person, which covers shared hotel pickup and drop-off, jetty fees, boat transfers, a set lunch, and access to all facilities. While the price seems reasonable for a private island day trip, some reviews suggest it could feel a little pricey compared to the limited snorkeling experience and the short duration of the main activity.

You’ll also have access to kayaking, paddleboarding, and lounging facilities, which add value if you prefer relaxing on the water or the sand rather than intense underwater activity.

The group size is not explicitly mentioned but sharing transport implies a small to medium group, allowing for a more intimate experience—though some travelers felt the schedule and timing were a bit inconsistent or confusing.

What to Bring

• Change of clothes for after water activities
• A camera for capturing the scenery
• Beachwear for comfort
• Cash for tips or souvenirs

Important Notes

Weather and sea conditions can affect the day’s plan, especially snorkeling. If conditions are unsafe, activities may be modified or canceled, with refunds available if this happens. Expect some variability in the itinerary, as the guide and operators prioritize safety and weather considerations.

Authentic Feedback from Past Guests

While many appreciated the tranquil environment and friendly staff, reviews also reveal some frustrations. One guest described the island as “quiet, rustic, and with ample lounge chairs”, noting the delicious food and helpful staff. However, they pointed out the confusing meeting times and felt the trip was somewhat overpriced for the limited snorkeling—just about 3 minutes from the island for an hour, with the rest of the time spent swimming or relaxing.

Another traveler warned against expecting a well-planned snorkeling adventure. They described the reef as “dead, bleached, and with virtually no visibility”, which was a disappointment given the tour’s promise of an underwater wonderland. Their experience underscores that conditions can vary and that the tour may not always live up to the idealized snorkeling image.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for those seeking peace, natural beauty, and leisurely activities rather than hardcore snorkelers or adventure seekers. If your priority is to relax, enjoy beautiful surroundings, and have a picnic on a quiet island, you’ll find value here.

However, if you’re looking for vibrant reefs or varied underwater life, you might be disappointed, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal. The tour offers a relaxed, nature-focused experience that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a calmer day out.

Final Thoughts

Snorkeling at Ara Dinawan Private Island offers a chance to step away from busy city life and enjoy a quiet, eco-friendly environment. The private island setting, scenic boat rides, and relaxing facilities make it a good value for those wanting time to unwind in nature.

Nevertheless, the actual snorkeling experience can be unpredictable—conditions can vary, and coral reefs may not always be as colorful as hoped. The included amenities, picnic lunch, and sunset views help balance the experience, especially for travelers who prioritize scenery and tranquility over high-impact underwater exploration.

If you’re flexible, appreciate a peaceful setting, and want a simple but beautiful day on the water, this tour might be just right. But if vibrant reefs and extensive activities are your top priorities, it’s worth considering other options or managing expectations accordingly.

FAQ

How do I get to Ara Dinawan Island?
You’ll be picked up from your Kota Kinabalu hotel if you choose the land transfer option, or you can meet directly at the designated jetty. The boat ride lasts about 15-20 minutes, offering a scenic journey across the waters.

What is included in the tour?
The price covers shared pickup and drop-off, jetty fees, boat transfers, a set lunch, local high tea, and access to all facilities such as paddleboards, kayaks, loungers, and changing rooms.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, masks, snorkels, and life jackets are included, allowing you to explore the reefs comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, a camera, beachwear, and cash for extras or tips.

Is the snorkeling good?
Reviews are mixed—some found the reefs vibrant, while others described the coral as bleached with limited fish. Conditions depend heavily on weather and tide.

Can I do other activities on the island?
Yes, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are available for self-guided fun. Facilities like sunbeds, hammocks, and huts add to the relaxing atmosphere.

Is this trip suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or babies under 1 year, and the activities are geared toward those comfortable in and around water.

In summary, if your idea of a perfect day involves peaceful scenery, good food, and a chance to disconnect, this tour offers a charming escape. Just keep in mind that the snorkeling experience can be unpredictable, and the overall vibe is more about relaxing than intense underwater exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby