Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal
Your gateway to Sabah's stunning islands, offering affordable island hopping tours and vibrant waterfront experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy islands
Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy islands
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your gateway to Sabah's stunning islands, offering affordable island hopping tours and vibrant waterfront experiences.
"A bustling hub for island hopping, praised for its affordability and access to beautiful destinations."
Negotiate Tour Prices
Most published tour prices can be negotiated by 30-60%. Don't be afraid to bargain! :moneybag:
Pack Your Own Snacks
Kiosk drinks like juices and coffee can be low quality. Bring your own snacks and water for island trips. :apple:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Island Hopping Adventures
Departing from Jesselton Point
Embark on thrilling island hopping tours to pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. A must-do for any visitor!
Waterfront Dining
Jesselton Point vicinity
Enjoy delicious and affordable meals with stunning seaviews at local eateries. RM8 lunch deals are a steal!
Sunset Views
Jesselton Point waterfront
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the water, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Perfect for a relaxing evening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Island Hopping in Advance
Parking & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Tour Prices
Most published tour prices can be negotiated by 30-60%. Don't be afraid to bargain!
:moneybag:Pack Your Own Snacks
Kiosk drinks like juices and coffee can be low quality. Bring your own snacks and water for island trips.
:apple:Book Ahead for Smoothness
Book your island hopping tours a day in advance or during non-peak hours to avoid chaos.
:ticket:Water Shoes Recommended
Wear water shoes with rubber soles for snorkeling and exploring islands to protect your feet from sea urchins.
:athletic_shoe:Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Tour Prices
Most published tour prices can be negotiated by 30-60%. Don't be afraid to bargain!
:moneybag:Pack Your Own Snacks
Kiosk drinks like juices and coffee can be low quality. Bring your own snacks and water for island trips.
:apple:Book Ahead for Smoothness
Book your island hopping tours a day in advance or during non-peak hours to avoid chaos.
:ticket:Water Shoes Recommended
Wear water shoes with rubber soles for snorkeling and exploring islands to protect your feet from sea urchins.
:athletic_shoe:Solo Female Traveler Friendly
Jesselton Point is a safe and convenient starting point for solo female travelers exploring the islands.
:woman_traveling:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Jesselton Point is a bustling hub for island hopping, praised for its affordability and access to beautiful destinations. While the terminal can be chaotic and kiosk food quality is inconsistent, travelers appreciate the negotiable tour prices and the stunning natural beauty of the islands. It's a functional, if sometimes unpolished, gateway to Sabah's marine wonders.
"Best to check out the packages and confirm one day before you go for your trip. Many packages and service provider to choose from, just go with whichever you are comfortable with. Boat and island prices is fixed and standard across all companies.
Definitely a fun and interesting part of our vacation."
dianna sinuza
"Make your booking early during non-peak hour (late noon) or 1 day earlier as the place can be quite chaotic when it is crowded.
Most of published prices at the tour kiosks can ge negotiated (30-60%).
Avoid having drinks at most of the kiosks here (fruit juices, coffee as the quality is quite bad - don't waste your money).
Parking at the moment not available - need to park at the opposite small parking bay (myr 5/car collected in the morning most of the time. No collection in the afternoon).
This jetty need a digital signboard announcing departures time of each operator to make the experience going to the islands more systematic & pleasant (this however may be difficult to be done at the moment as some tour operators resouces-pool to maximise the usage of their boats or facilities).
Same chaotic arrangement on the islands (the same as the jetty departure point)."
Wong TF
"As per May 2025, the parking is not available, but you can park opposite the old parking entrance. RM10/entry. Or you can park in the mall beside the jetty. Food & beverage prices are okay. "Long Beach" company provides the earliest trip. Make sure you are there by 7.30 so you can enjoy the island before a lot more people are coming."
nabilah abd rahman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal by Grab or taxi from Kota Kinabalu city center. It's a well-known landmark, so drivers will know the way.
Parking at Jesselton Point itself is currently unavailable. You can park at the opposite small parking bay (fee applies) or at the mall beside the jetty.
While some travelers consider leaving cars for trips to Labuan, it's advisable to confirm safety and designated parking areas in Menumbok beforehand, as direct parking at Jesselton Point is not guaranteed.
Grab is a popular and convenient option for getting to Jesselton Point from anywhere in Kota Kinabalu.
While Grab is prevalent, local buses might serve the area, but they can be less direct and more time-consuming for tourists. Confirm routes locally if opting for public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Island hopping packages vary, but expect around RM55-RM65 for a 3-4 island package. An additional island tax (around RM25) is usually paid on the first island. Snorkel gear rental is about RM10.
It's highly recommended to book your island hopping tickets a day in advance or during non-peak hours to avoid the crowds and ensure a smoother experience.
Yes, numerous agents at the terminal offer island hopping packages. Prices are generally the same, but you can negotiate for better deals.
The island tax is a conservation fee typically paid upon arrival at the first island visited. It usually covers entry to all subsequent islands on your package.
Yes, there are shops at Jesselton Point selling sea activity gear, including life jackets and snorkel sets, if you forget to bring your own.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Mamutik Island is highly recommended for snorkeling due to its great reef and abundant fish. Sapi Island also offers good snorkeling opportunities.
Manukan Island boasts beautiful beaches and great views, though it's not ideal for snorkeling. For peace and quiet, Padang Point Gaya Island is less crowded but more run-down.
Island hopping boats typically start departing around 8:30 AM. Some operators like 'Long Beach' offer the earliest trips, so aim to be there by 7:30 AM.
Besides snorkeling and swimming, you can enjoy parasailing, sea walking, and hiking on some islands. Prices for these activities can often be negotiated.
Yes, all the islands visited during island hopping tours have lifeguards for your safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are food vendors and kiosks, some travelers find the quality of drinks like fruit juices and coffee to be poor. It's better to pack your own snacks.
Yes, places like Gong Fu Restaurant near Jesselton Point offer RM8 lunch menus with generous portions and a seaview.
Food and beverage prices at the kiosks are generally okay, but the quality might not always match the price.
Yes, many of the islands, like Sapi, have restaurants available for dining.
It's generally advised to be cautious with drinks at most kiosks, as quality can be inconsistent. Packing your own is a safer bet.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront offers great views, especially during sunset. The colorful boats and the general buzz of the terminal also make for interesting shots.
Absolutely! The clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery of the islands provide stunning backdrops for photography.
Look out for the vibrant marine life while snorkeling, the picturesque island landscapes, and the panoramic views from the boats.
A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing underwater shots and protecting your device from water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and permissions before flying a drone over the islands or the terminal area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed experience, look into accommodations near Jesselton Quay that offer swimming pools with seaviews, perfect for kids to enjoy. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as options on the islands can be limited and sometimes overpriced. Ensure children have appropriate safety gear, like life jackets, which are compulsory for water activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save more, pack your own food and drinks instead of relying on kiosks. Consider which islands offer the best value for your interests – Mamutik for snorkeling or Padang Point Gaya for a quieter, less commercial experience.
couples
Consider booking a private boat charter if you prefer a more intimate experience, though this will be more expensive. Alternatively, the general island hopping tours still offer plenty of opportunities for couples to relax and enjoy the scenery together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Hopping Logistics
When you arrive at Jesselton Point, you'll find numerous kiosks offering various tours. While prices are generally standardized, don't hesitate to negotiate, as discounts of 30-60% are sometimes possible. It's wise to book your trip a day in advance or during less busy times to avoid the morning rush and potential chaos. Boats usually start departing around 8:30 AM, but arriving by 7:30 AM can give you a head start on the islands before they become crowded.
Remember to factor in additional costs such as an island tax (around RM25 per person, paid on the first island) and rental fees for snorkeling gear (approx. RM10). Life jackets are compulsory for water activities and island entry. While the terminal itself has limited food options, packing your own snacks and water is recommended, as kiosk drinks can be of questionable quality.
Exploring Jesselton Quay & Docklands
Jesselton Docklands is a developing commercial and residential area located next to Jesselton Point. Projects like 'The Bedrock' are slated for completion within 52 months, indicating ongoing growth and investment in the precinct. This suggests that the area is evolving, with new facilities and attractions likely to emerge, enhancing the overall visitor experience beyond just the ferry terminal. The proximity to the ferry terminal makes it a convenient base for exploring both the city and the nearby islands.
Solo Travel at Jesselton Point
The island hopping tours are a popular choice for solo visitors as they offer a structured way to see multiple beautiful locations without the need for extensive planning. The availability of various tour packages and the ability to negotiate prices can be advantageous for budget-conscious solo travelers. While the terminal might lack some modern amenities like digital signboards for departures, the overall experience is considered fun and interesting, making it a worthwhile part of a solo itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit