Turtle Islands Park Travel Guide

A detailed travel guide to Turtle Islands Park, covering places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Turtle Islands Park

Turtle Islands Park is a beautiful and serene chain of three islands located off the northeastern coast of Sabah, Malaysia. The park consists of Selingan, Gulisan, and Bakungan Kechil Islands, and it was established in 1977 to protect the nesting sites of green and hawksbill turtles. Today, the park has become a popular tourist destination for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and wildlife enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Turtle Islands Park

If you are planning a trip to Turtle Islands Park, here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Marine Science Research and Conservation Centre: This centre is located on Selingan Island and it serves as an important turtle hatchery. Here, you can learn about the breeding and conservation programmes for the turtles and take part in a guided tour.

  • The Museum of Turtle Islands Park: This museum exhibits the history and ecology of the area, as well as information on the different types of turtles that call these islands home.

Natural Attractions of Turtle Islands Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Turtle Watching: Visitors can watch turtles as they lay eggs on the beach or see baby turtles hatch at the hatchery.

  • Snorkeling and Diving: These islands are blessed with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities among visitors.

  • Beachcombing: The beaches on these islands are pristine and secluded, offering a perfect spot to relax and sunbathe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Turtle Islands Park

The islands are small but offer some walking trails that can take you to vantage points from where you can see the stunning views of the sea. Bicycles are available for rent on the islands.

Best Things to Do in Turtle Islands Park: Activities and Tours

  • Night Walks: On Selingan Island, visitors can take a night walk to spot some nocturnal wildlife.

  • Island Hopping: Visitors can explore all the three islands via organised boat tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Turtle Islands Park

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Sabah and transfer to Selingan Island
Day 2-4 Spend the day on the island swimming, turtle-watching, or snorkeling
Day 5 Check out from the hotel and transfer to another island
Day 6-7 Explore other islands, indulge in watersports, or relax at the beach
Day 8 Depart from the islands and head back to Sabah

Food and Drink Scene of Turtle Islands Park

Must-Try Dishes

Seafood is an essential part of the local cuisine, and visitors can try some of the local dishes such as ikan bakar (grilled fish) or udang masak lemak (prawns in coconut milk curry).

Local Beverages

Coconut water and the local ‘tropical ice’ juice made from a combination of fruits are popular beverages on the islands.

Where to Stay in Turtle Islands Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors can choose to stay in one of the chalets on Selingan Island or opt for rustic accommodations on the other islands. Basic guesthouses are also available.

What to Buy in Turtle Islands Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Souvenir shops on the islands offer turtle-shaped trinkets, handicrafts, and local snacks and produce.

Local Culture and Customs of Turtle Islands Park

The locals on the islands live a simple life and visitors are advised to respect their way of living. Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages.

Best Time to Visit Turtle Islands Park

It is advisable to visit between May and September, as this is the peak turtle nesting season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Turtle Islands Park

Do:

  • Respect the environment and wildlife

  • Adhere to the park’s conservation rules

  • Take plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent

Don’t:

  • Collect souvenirs, including sand and shells, from the beaches

  • Feed the turtles

Safety and Health

Safety in Turtle Islands Park

While on the islands, visitors should not attempt to swim in the sea, particularly after dark. Life jackets are provided during the boat transfer to the islands.

Health in Turtle Islands Park

Visitors are advised to bring their mosquito repellent and to get vaccinated for certain tropical diseases before visiting Turtle Islands Park.

Getting to Turtle Islands Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can get to the islands via Sandakan, which is a short flight away from Sabah’s capital city, Kota Kinabalu. Regular boats are available for transportation to the islands.

Airports Near Turtle Islands Park

The nearest airport is Sandakan Airport

Bus Stations Near Turtle Islands Park

Buses to Sandakan are available from major cities in Sabah.

Other Options

Chartered taxis are available from Sandakan.

How to Get Around in Turtle Islands Park

Visitors can get around via sea transportation provided by local operators running boat transfers between Selingan and other islands.

Where to Go Next from Turtle Islands Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby attractions include Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and Kinabalu Park.

Conclusion

Turtle Islands Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and beach enthusiasts. It offers breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and an opportunity to learn about marine wildlife conservation. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Turtle Islands Park.

Impressions from the national park Impressions from the national park