Ara Dinawan Island Resort
Beringgis Papar, 1, Jalan Baru, Kg. Beringgis, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
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Why people book this hotel
“Also, the staff were nice”
“Amazing staff and GREAT food”
“That’s why, I assume, we were the only guests during our 3 nights stay which was…”
“The island is stunning - the beach is gorgeous and there is turquoise blue water”
“Peace and quiet”
“Comfy beds and tons of space too”
“The tents were clean and comfortable”
“They arranged a private boat for us to meet our schedule at a very reasonable co…”
Overview
Ara Dinawan Island Resort has a garden, shared lounge, a restaurant and bar in Papar. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. The accommodation features entertainment staff and a concierge service. All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a fridge, a minibar, a kettle, a bidet, a hairdryer and a wardrobe. Guest rooms at the resort are equipped with a private bathroom and bed linen. Guests at Ara Dinawan Island Resort will be able to enjoy activities in and around Papar, like snorkelling.
Traveller reviews
Roy Thian
solo_traveller
May 15, 2026
Peace and quiet
Klara
couple
March 26, 2026
“Im”
Wow, this one is special in some regards. So, this is a large compound of old and beautiful trees and amidst these gardens there are a dozen glamping huts that most probably once upon a time were really nice… but somehow became really run-down (as the whole facility). Curious thing is that they still charge as if they were not. That’s why, I assume, we were the only guests during our 3 nights stay which was a bit weird - but also nice to have the beach for ourselves. Also, the staff were nice. They reacted quickly on different matters, were polite and respectful.
Sofia
couple
August 20, 2025
Amazing staff and GREAT food
Rachel
couple
August 19, 2025
“Beautiful turquoise water and fabulous food - updates seriously needed as amenities are tired, broken and not as adverti”
The island is stunning - the beach is gorgeous and there is turquoise blue water. The food cooked by the staff was incredible. The glamping pods were lovely and the interior well equipped for the stay.
Megan
couple
August 11, 2025
“Peaceful, idyllic island overnight - would stay again in a heartbeat”
We had visited the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park a week before arriving on Ara Dinawan, so know how special it is to be on an island that beautiful with very few people! I think all in all about 30 others at any one time - for long periods, we actually had the beach to ourselves. Our glamping accommodation was absolutely beautiful and so well thought out (well beyond what we were expecting for ‘glamping’). Comfy beds and tons of space too. Food was buffet style and of great quality. We went for just one night and it was the perfect place to relax in nature, with a rustic, lo-fi feel to it. The secret beach sunset walk, snorkelling and using the kayak were big highlights. Would 100% recommend Ara Dinawan for anyone looking for an easy, idyllic escape from KK.
See Guan
family_with_children
August 10, 2025
The island is beautiful and relaxing. Staffs are helpful and friendly.
Scarlett
couple
July 13, 2025
“Relaxing stay! Would have loved to stay a third night”
Relaxing atmosphere and vibe (even more after the day trippers have left the island) Nice food The glamping tents are well-equipped, even as non-campers we felt very comfortable
Angelina
couple
June 4, 2025
“Good experience :)”
The tents were really nice built also the organised trips, the boat transfers, the island itself - THE STAFF was really really friendly and helpful all the time every one of them, thank you so much!!
Frances
extended_group
March 4, 2025
The food was excellent, the island was beautiful and very peaceful !
Anmo
family_with_children
February 9, 2025
“I wish more people found out about how lovely this little island is.”
A shout-out thank you to Max, we had a really good travel because of your guide on the island. Even though there were no other guests, you still went through every activity without skipping anything or trying to save time, and we appreciate that a lot. The other staff members on the island were really friendly as well. Be sure you watch the sunrise when the weather is good, it's really beautiful. Thank you to the dogs on the island for keeping us company often as well.
Lauren
family_with_children
October 4, 2024
“Amazing stay on the island, we basically had it to ourselves!”
Food, location, tent, staff, quiet location
Dennis
couple
September 8, 2024
“Nice island and friendly Staff”
The Tent was amazing!! The employees very friendly and the food was amazing!! Beach view
Marta
family_with_children
August 17, 2024
Tents are well equipped and AC works good enough if you set it right (electricity available in tents 02.30 pm to 08.40 am. Food is good enough, however quality and serving hours depend strongly on day tour groups - I didn’t like it. Best part is possibility to rest and enjoy the beach. Best thing? HORNBILLS living on this island and playing with hermit crabs on the beach.
Julia
solo_traveller
July 19, 2024
“Good alternative to Gaya Island”
Great staff and very nice tents
David
extended_group
July 17, 2024
“Nice island close to KK.”
Nice location. Many possible activities. Good food. They arranged a private boat for us to meet our schedule at a very reasonable cost.
Bryce
family_with_children
July 6, 2024
“Beautiful location ruined by litter.”
The accommodation was fantastic. The tents were clean and comfortable. The food we had was simple and nice. The view is spectacular.
Danila
couple
May 20, 2024
“Luxurious experience without hurting your wallet”
Everything was perfect during my stay! The surrounding is very peaceful, away from the city life. I love everything about the resort, from the accommodation, the facilities, the activities provided, the friendly staffs, the FOOD, and of course the views! We were very lucky to witness the sunset and sunrise, they were spectacular! Highly recommended!
Leona
couple
April 20, 2024
“Amazing stay away from the mainland”
10mins boat ride to the island. We went on a Wednesday night and there was only one other couple staying on the whole island with us. Very tranquille settings. They send you an itenary which was perfect as lists all the activities on offer whilst you’re there which is a lot!
david
couple
March 28, 2024
“GOOD .all we wanted /relaxed /great food and super snorkelling”
we did not know that this was a glamping island BUT the facilities were very good. Air con / shower /loo / wash basin were within our tent . lots of space for double bed, hanging rails and storage too. Quite civilised!! The staff ,especially Max , sorted everything out for us. Food was excellent. Snorkelling very good.
Gan
couple
December 23, 2023
“Getaway with Ara Dinawan island”
Nice island and they have activities on the island. Very enjoyable stay and the bed is so comfortable. Recommended who wish to get away from busy city life. Also the room is equipped with fire extinguisher which is plus point for safety reason.
Facilities
Activities
Karaoke, Canoeing, Hiking, Diving, Snorkelling, Private beach area, Entertainment staff, Water sport facilities on site, Beachfront, Public Bath, Fitness/spa locker rooms, Beach
Cleanliness & disinfecting
Guests have the option to cancel any cleaning services for their accommodation during their stay, Use of cleaning chemicals that are effective against Coronavirus, Linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelines, Guest accommodation is disinfected between stays, Guest accommodation sealed after cleaning
Entertainment and family services
Board games/puzzles, Indoor play area
Food & Drink
Kid meals, Kid-friendly buffet, Fruits, Snack bar, Restaurant, Bar, Coffee house on site, Breakfast options
Food & drink safety
Physical distancing in dining areas, Food can be delivered to guest accommodation, All plates, cutlery, glasses and other tableware have been sanitized
General
Bicycle parking, Minimarket on site, Non-smoking rooms, Family rooms, Safety deposit box, Non-smoking throughout, Air conditioning, Designated smoking area
Outdoors
BBQ facilities, Garden, Sun terrace, Outdoor furniture
Parking
Parking, Free parking
Physical distancing
Cashless payment available, Physical distancing rules followed, Screens or physical barriers placed between staff and guests in appropriate areas
Pool and wellness
Sun loungers or beach chairs, Sun umbrellas
Reception services
Invoice provided
Safety & security
24-hour security, Security alarm, Smoke alarms, CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguishers
Safety features
Staff follow all safety protocols as directed by local authorities, Hand sanitizer in guest accommodation and key areas, Process in place to check health of guests, First aid kit available
Self check-in
Passport/ID information collected online before you arrive
Services
Shuttle service, Express check-in/check-out, Airport shuttle, Luggage storage, Concierge service, Airport shuttle (additional charge), Shared lounge/TV area, Private check-in/check-out
Transport
Airport pick up, Airport drop off
Family Room
The spacious family room features air conditioning, a minibar, a terrace with sea views as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 3 beds.
Deluxe King Room
The spacious double room features air conditioning, a minibar, a terrace with sea views as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 1 bed.
Hotel Policies
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