Selingan Island: An Introduction
A designated National Park, Selingan Island is popular with tourists and turtles alike. Lying approximately 40km off the coast of Sabah and surrounded by the emerald waters of the Sulu Sea, the island is a breeding site for both hawksbill and green turtles looking to come ashore and lay their eggs. The possibility of visitors seeing a mother lay her eggs or new hatchlings is high throughout the year, although peak season is considered May through to September.
The sight of giant turtles hauling themselves up the beach, sometimes hundreds at a time, is unforgettable. It is also possible to handle hatchlings, incubated and born in the breeding centre located on the island, before being released back into the surrounding waters. There is a limited amount of basic accommodation available on Selingan Island and this often books up many months in advance especially for high season dates. It is therefore advisable to book as far in advance as is possible. You cannot make day visits.
Other islands in the National Park are Bakungan, Kecil and Gulisan islands. You cannot overnight on the islands due to conservation efforts and research being carried out; however day visits are sometimes possible.