Lay back on Lankayan
Located within the ‘turtle corridor’, an immense protected marine area that spans Indonesian, Malaysian and Philippine waters, Lankayan Island is often referred to as the jewel in the Sulu Sea. Lying approximately 35km north east of Sandakan, Lankayan is covered in lush tropical vegetation and ringed by a clean, white sandy beach. It’s only accessible by boat - the journey takes one and a half hours.
Both hawksbill and green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs throughout the ‘turtle season’ (approximately June to September). Lankayan is rapidly growing renowned as one of the world’s most sought after dive sites. There’s a friendly, fully equipped, professional dive centre which also rents out kayaking equipment.
Pristine coral and off-shore wrecks provide an amazingly diverse and healthy eco-system, home to hundreds of species of fish, rays, manatees, sponges, anemones, and a number of shark species including the huge (but harmless) whale shark. The island’s accommodation is limited to 23 simple but elegant beach-front chalets and rooms, with meals served at a central open air restaurant and bar.
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Wanted: An idyllic island island, charming rustic bungalows, world class diving and plenty of sunshine.
Found: Lankayan Island.