Exploring Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park by Sea Kayak: A Different Way to Experience the Islands
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
We meet at Xtreme Paddlers' Watersports base at Tanjung Aru Beach around 8 a.m.
The sea is usually calm at this time. Nothing too intense.
Just a short briefing, a quick demo on how to paddle… and then we get ready to head out.
You don’t need to be experienced.
Most people aren’t.
Pushing off
By around 8:30 a.m., we’re on the water.
That first moment — when you leave the sand and start moving —
it feels simple, but different.
You’re not standing anymore.
You’re not on a boat either.
You’re just… out there.
The paddle out
The paddle to Mamutik Island is about 4km.
It’s steady, not rushed.
You’ll see speedboats in the distance heading straight to the islands.
Meanwhile, you’re moving at your own pace.
Somewhere along the way, most people settle into the rhythm.
Left. Right.
Just the sound of the paddle and the water.
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Seeing the islands differently
Instead of heading straight to the beach, we usually paddle around parts of the island first.
This is the side most people don’t see.
Quieter coastline.
Less traffic.
Small coves and stretches of beach that aren’t part of the usual stops.
It’s still the same island — just a different angle.
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Landing, resting, and snorkeling
When we land, we take a break.
You can snorkel, swim, or just sit and rest.
Even close to shore, there’s plenty to see — small fish, coral patches, clear water.
Nothing complicated, just easy exploring.
Lunch is usually on the island.
Simple, satisfying, and well-earned after the paddle.
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Back on the water
After some rest, we head out again.
Depending on sea conditions and energy levels, we may paddle toward nearby islands like Sapi, or explore a bit more around the area before making our way back.
By now, paddling feels more natural.
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About the marine park
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a protected area managed by Sabah Parks.
It covers about 50 square kilometres of land and sea, including islands like Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Mamutik, and Sulug.
Because it’s protected:
• Marine life is preserved
• Activities like fish bombing are prohibited
• Waste and plastic use are controlled
You can feel that it’s taken care of — especially once you’re out on the water.
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The way back
By late afternoon, we start heading back toward Tanjung Aru.
The paddle feels different on the way back.
Same distance.
But slower, more relaxed.
Sometimes we pass along the coastline, including parts of the water villages nearby, before returning to the beach.
We’re usually back around 3.30 p.m.
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What to expect
A full day out on the water (8 a.m. – 3.30 p.m.)
About 8–10km of paddling in total (with breaks)
No experience needed (guides will assist and pair you if needed)
Time to snorkel, rest, and explore
A slower, more immersive way to experience the islands
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If you have more time
With overnight trips (2D1N or 3D2N), you’re able to go further — including areas around Gaya Island — and explore more of the marine park at a more relaxed pace.
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Final thought
The islands here are already beautiful.
This is just a different way to move through them.
Interested in exploring Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine park islands and marine life? Check out Xtreme Paddlers' seakayaking experiences.
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