Lankayan Island Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive guide to Lankayan Island.


Introduction to Lankayan Island

Lankayan Island is a small tropical island located in the Sulu Sea, off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia. The island is situated within the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area, which is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine biodiversity. Tourists visit Lankayan Island to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the island.

List of Places to Visit in Lankayan Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lankayan Island is known for its pristine white beaches, clear waters, and rich marine life. The island does not have any museums or historical places, but it is a hub for water sports and other outdoor activities.

Natural Attractions of Lankayan Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

One of the main attractions of Lankayan Island is the stunning underwater world. Tourists can go snorkeling and diving around the island to explore the colorful coral reefs, giant clams, and various marine species such as barracuda, stingrays, and turtles. Apart from that, tourists can also enjoy kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and island hopping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lankayan Island

Lankayan Island is a small and flat island, and there are no hiking or biking trails available.

Best Things to Do in Lankayan Island: Activities and Tours

Tourists visiting Lankayan Island can look forward to a variety of activities and tours such as:

  • Snorkeling and diving
  • Kayaking
  • Deep-sea fishing
  • Island hopping
  • Guided tours to the nearby Selingan Turtle Island

Week-Long Itinerary for Lankayan Island

Day 1: Arrival and settling in at the resort Day 2: Scuba diving and snorkeling around the island in the morning, followed by kayaking and beach activities in the afternoon Day 3: Deep-sea fishing tour in the morning, followed by a visit to Selingan Turtle Island in the afternoon Day 4: Rest and relaxation day at the resort Day 5: Island hopping day tour to nearby islands Day 6: Free day for optional activities such as more snorkeling and diving, kayaking or beach activities Day 7: Departure from Lankayan Island

Food and Drink Scene of Lankayan Island

Must-Try Dishes

As Lankayan Island is a small island, it does not have a specific local cuisine. However, tourists can look forward to fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish, prawns, and squid at the resorts.

Local Beverages

Tourists visiting Lankayan Island can try the popular local drink known as Teh Tarik, which is a tea-based hot drink made with condensed milk.

Where to Stay in Lankayan Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lankayan Island has a limited number of accommodations available, mostly in the form of resorts. These resorts offer all-inclusive packages that include activities, meals, and accommodation.

What to Buy in Lankayan Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tourists visiting Lankayan Island can purchase souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, batik clothing, and wood carvings. There are also some local markets where tourists can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as local treats.

Local Culture and Customs of Lankayan Island

The local culture of Lankayan Island is heavily influenced by the indigenous Bajau people who live around the area. These people are known for their seafaring skills and are sometimes referred to as “sea gypsies.” Tourists visiting the island are advised to respect the local customs and beliefs of the Bajau people.

Best Time to Visit Lankayan Island

The best time to visit Lankayan Island is between March and October when the weather is dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as snorkeling and diving.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lankayan Island

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and beliefs of the Bajau people.
  • Follow the designated snorkeling and diving areas to ensure the preservation of marine life.
  • Dispose of waste properly and avoid littering on the beaches.

Don’t:

  • Touch or disturb any marine life while snorkeling or diving.
  • Take any coral or marine life from the island.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lankayan Island

Lankayan Island is generally a safe place to visit, but tourists should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety such as locking their valuables when leaving their rooms and not leaving their belongings unattended on the beach.

Health in Lankayan Island

Tourists visiting Lankayan Island are advised to drink bottled or filtered water and avoid eating food from roadside vendors.

Getting to Lankayan Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lankayan Island

The nearest airport to Lankayan Island is Sandakan Airport, which is located at a distance of about 45 kilometers from the jetty in Sandakan. From Sandakan, tourists can take a speedboat to Lankayan Island.

Bus Stations Near Lankayan Island

There are no bus stations near Lankayan Island.

Other Options

Tourists can also reach Lankayan Island by taking a taxi from their accommodation to the jetty in Sandakan and then taking a speedboat to the island.

How to Get Around in Lankayan Island

As Lankayan Island is a small island, tourists can easily walk around or take a bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Lankayan Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tourists can explore other parts of Sabah such as Sandakan, Kinabatangan River, and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center.

Conclusion

Lankayan Island is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia that offers tourists an escape from city life and offers a chance to experience nature at its best. This comprehensive guide to Lankayan Island will help tourists plan their visit and make the most out of their trip.

Aerial view of Lankayan Island Aerial view of Lankayan Island