Overview
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (TARP) is a picturesque group of five islands located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. It offers stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, and a diverse range of marine life, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
TARP is known for its rich biodiversity and is a popular spot for island-hopping tours, snorkeling, and diving. It is also an important site for scientific research and conservation efforts.
Location
Address
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Neighborhood: Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Coordinates
5.981081, 116.076160
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and sunny
- • beach clean-ups
- • conservation workshops
summer
hot and humid
- • water sports
- • island-hopping
autumn
cooler and less humid
- • wildlife spotting
- • photography tours
winter
warm and humid
- • beach bonfires
- • festive decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tours in advance
- Bring ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • swim safely
- • watch for jellyfish
Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor centers
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, light clothing, swimwear, hat, sunglasses, sandals, flip-flops, or water shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1 month
- • official website or authorized tour operators
- • 48 hours
- • available for tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
TARP Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Tour bookings, Audio guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Ferry terminals
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1.5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Beautiful natural scenery and relaxing atmosphere
Historical Significance: Named after Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman
Insider Tips
- Free entry to the park
- Best food at local warungs (stalls)
Local Recommendations
- • Try local seafood at Jesselton Point
- • Ask for guide Ahmed
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Malay, Chinese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Gaya Island Beach
Best Time: Mid-morning
Tips: Wide angle shots of the beach and ocean
Result: Stunning beachscapes
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Sabah Foundation Memorial
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Historical Site
Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Transport Hub
Marine Conservation Area
Distance: 5km
Walking: 60 min
Type: Nature Reserve
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tours early"
- "Bring water"
- "Visit multiple islands"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (7)
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park 2 Islands Hopping Tour from Kota Kinabalu
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park Leisure Diving from Kota Kinabalu
Island Hopping Tour (2 Island) From Kota Kinabalu
Island Hopping Tour From Kota Kinabalu (2 island)
Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Proboscis Monkey from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu Sunset Cruise with Buffet Dinner
Kota Kinabalu Sunset Cruise with Dinner, Live Band & Hotel Pickup
Quick Info
Available Tours
19
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
Free (park entry), tours vary