Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal - USS Midway Museum in San Diego, California
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Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal

4.2
·13k reviews·Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Your gateway to Sabah's stunning islands, offering affordable island hopping tours and vibrant waterfront experiences.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings (7:30 AM)

Beat the crowds & enjoy islands

CrowdLow
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Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal - USS Midway Museum in San Diego, California

Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal

Best Time

Early mornings (7:30 AM)

Beat the crowds & enjoy islands

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Your gateway to Sabah's stunning islands, offering affordable island hopping tours and vibrant waterfront experiences.

4.2
(13k reviews)

"A bustling hub for island hopping, praised for its affordability and access to beautiful destinations."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Island Hopping Adventures

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!

TikTok
Waterfront Dining

Waterfront Dining

Jesselton Point vicinity

Enjoy delicious and affordable meals with stunning seaviews at local eateries. RM8 lunch deals are a steal!

TikTok
Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Jesselton Point waterfront

Witness breathtaking sunsets over the water, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Perfect for a relaxing evening.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Book Island Hopping in Advance

To avoid the chaos and secure your preferred island hopping package, it's best to book a day in advance or during non-peak hours. This ensures a smoother experience, especially during busy periods. Reddit

Parking & Essentials

Parking at Jesselton Point can be tricky; consider parking at the mall nearby or the opposite small bay (fee applies). Pack snacks and water, as kiosk drinks can be disappointing. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings (7:30 AM)
Why
Beat the crowds & enjoy islands
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (after 2 PM)
Why
Less crowded return trips
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cuba Komen dulu guys..perbezaan k.kinabalu dulu dan sekarang.. 📍JETI PELANCONGAN DBKK KOTA KINABALU SABAH #jetipelamcongandbkk #sunsetkotakinabalu #waterfronttodakkotakinabalu #sabah #sabahancrew_fams
@pokdi.44884
34.9K likes • 542.9K views

Negotiate Tour Prices

Most published tour prices can be negotiated by 30-60%. Don't be afraid to bargain! Reddit :moneybag:

Pack Your Own Snacks

Kiosk drinks like juices and coffee can be low quality. Bring your own snacks and water for island trips. Reddit :apple:

RM8 lunch with a seaview? YES PLEASE! 📍 Gong Fu Restaurant @ Jesselton Point serves generous, tasty meals at affordable prices. RM8 LUNCH MENU ‼️ (12PM-5PM) #kotakinabalu #jesselton #Foodie #seafood #cheap #fypage #lunch
@janelis51
11.9K likes • 248.4K views
Love the deco for this unit 😍 Kalau kmu mau cari airbnb untuk small family memang syok ni sini 🙈 Boleh swimming dgn seaview lagi 🫶 #seaview #airbnbkotakinabalu #jesseltonquay #kotakinabalu #kkcity #homestaykotakinabalu
@boba_buttercup
9K likes • 219.4K views

Book Ahead for Smoothness

Book your island hopping tours a day in advance or during non-peak hours to avoid chaos. Reddit :ticket:

Water Shoes Recommended

Wear water shoes with rubber soles for snorkeling and exploring islands to protect your feet from sea urchins. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

The Bedrock @ Jesselton Docklands • Title : Commercial • Project completion : within 52 months • Located next to Jesselton Points • Consist of 14 layouts • Open for booking 20/6/2025 by 10AM #sabahan #sabahancrewfam #JesseltonDocklands #TheBedrockJesseltonDocklands #TheBedrock #jesselton #kotakinabalu #fyp #kkcity@Miss Fara
@juniorm_1992
8.9K likes • 190.3K views

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! Reddit :moneybag:

Pack Your Own Snacks

Kiosk drinks like juices and coffee can be low quality. Bring your own snacks and water for island trips. Reddit :apple:

Book Ahead for Smoothness

Book your island hopping tours a day in advance or during non-peak hours to avoid chaos. Reddit :ticket:

Water Shoes Recommended

Wear water shoes with rubber soles for snorkeling and exploring islands to protect your feet from sea urchins. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Solo Female Traveler Friendly

Jesselton Point is a safe and convenient starting point for solo female travelers exploring the islands. TikTok :woman_traveling:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(13k reviews)

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

Affordable island hopping
Beautiful island scenery
Negotiable tour prices

What People Dislike

Chaotic terminal environment
Inconsistent kiosk food quality
Limited parking

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Grab is a popular and convenient option for getting to Jesselton Point from anywhere in Kota Kinabalu. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, numerous agents at the terminal offer island hopping packages. Prices are generally the same, but you can negotiate for better deals. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, there are shops at Jesselton Point selling sea activity gear, including life jackets and snorkel sets, if you forget to bring your own. Reddit

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

Mamutik Island is highly recommended for snorkeling due to its great reef and abundant fish. Sapi Island also offers good snorkeling opportunities. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Besides snorkeling and swimming, you can enjoy parasailing, sea walking, and hiking on some islands. Prices for these activities can often be negotiated. Reddit

Yes, all the islands visited during island hopping tours have lifeguards for your safety. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

Yes, places like Gong Fu Restaurant near Jesselton Point offer RM8 lunch menus with generous portions and a seaview. TikTok

Food and beverage prices at the kiosks are generally okay, but the quality might not always match the price. Reddit

Yes, many of the islands, like Sapi, have restaurants available for dining. Reddit

It's generally advised to be cautious with drinks at most kiosks, as quality can be inconsistent. Packing your own is a safer bet. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront offers great views, especially during sunset. The colorful boats and the general buzz of the terminal also make for interesting shots. TikTok

Absolutely! The clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery of the islands provide stunning backdrops for photography. TikTok

Look out for the vibrant marine life while snorkeling, the picturesque island landscapes, and the panoramic views from the boats. Reddit

A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing underwater shots and protecting your device from water. Reddit

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

Jesselton Point is a fantastic starting point for family adventures. The island hopping tours are a hit with children, offering opportunities for swimming, building sandcastles, and exploring marine life. Reddit Consider islands like Manukan for its beautiful beaches and Sapi for its calmer waters and snorkeling. Reddit

For a more relaxed experience, look into accommodations near Jesselton Quay that offer swimming pools with seaviews, perfect for kids to enjoy. TikTok+1 Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as options on the islands can be limited and sometimes overpriced. Reddit Ensure children have appropriate safety gear, like life jackets, which are compulsory for water activities. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Jesselton Point is very budget-friendly, especially for island hopping. Packages can be negotiated, and you can find RM8 lunch deals nearby. TikTokReddit While there are fees for island tax and gear rental, these are generally reasonable. Reddit

To save more, pack your own food and drinks instead of relying on kiosks. Reddit Consider which islands offer the best value for your interests – Mamutik for snorkeling or Padang Point Gaya for a quieter, less commercial experience. Reddit

couples

For couples, Jesselton Point offers a romantic escape to beautiful islands. Enjoying a sunset cruise or a leisurely day on a pristine beach like Manukan can be very memorable. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Island Hopping Logistics

Jesselton Point is the primary gateway for island hopping adventures in Kota Kinabalu. The process typically involves selecting a package from one of the many tour operators available at the terminal. Popular choices include the 3-island or 4-island packages, which usually cover islands like Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi, and sometimes Gaya Island. It's crucial to confirm the exact islands included in your chosen package. Reddit

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. Reddit It's wise to book your trip a day in advance or during less busy times to avoid the morning rush and potential chaos. Reddit 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. TikTok

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. Reddit While the terminal itself has limited food options, packing your own snacks and water is recommended, as kiosk drinks can be of questionable quality. Reddit

Exploring Jesselton Quay & Docklands

Adjacent to the ferry terminal, Jesselton Quay and Jesselton Docklands represent modern developments offering a different vibe. Jesselton Quay features amenities like a swimming pool with seaviews, which is open from 7 AM to 9 PM, making it a great spot for relaxation. TikTok This area is also home to various accommodations, including Airbnbs suitable for small families looking for a staycation with a view. TikTok

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. TikTok 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

Jesselton Point is a well-trodden path for solo travelers, particularly those looking to explore the islands of Sabah. As highlighted by one traveler, heading to Jesselton Point via Grab is a straightforward and safe option. TikTok The terminal itself is a hub of activity, and while it can be chaotic, it's generally manageable for a solo female traveler. TikTok

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. Reddit 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. Reddit