Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
A beautiful hotel surrounded by a tropical rainforest at Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & Spa.
Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Rasa Ria
A few years ago we planned a trip to Borneo to spot orangutans. The one hotel that caught our eye was Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria due to it’s uniqueness of being within a Nature Reserve and collaborating with the Sepilok Rehabiliation Centre. Click here to read our post for spotting orangutans in Borneo.
Orangutan sanctuary
Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria resort & spa is a 5 star luxury hotel located amidst 400 acres of lush tropical rainforest with a Nature Reserve and beautiful views of the secluded Pantai Dalit Beach. The resort is only 35 minutes away from the city if you fancy a spot of shopping and 40 minutes away from the nearby airport so no long tortuous hotel treks 😉
Nestled within 400 acres of tropical jungle and all watched over by Sabah’s iconic Mount Kinabalu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Shangri-La's Rasa Ria
All 499 rooms at this resort are decorated with a Malaysian theme – bright, elegant and contemporary spacious rooms, with each room having a private balcony or lanai. There are two wings at the resort, the Garden Wing and the Ocean Wing. Our room was situated on the first floor with a private balcony and we could see the beach peeking through the trees and the ocean beyond. The bedroom was very large, bright and airy and the bathroom was spacious with a large waterfall shower. All the ground floor rooms have a private lanai with access to the garden.
Ian taking in the views
View from the balcony
There’s a wide range of rooms to choose from:
- Premier
- Superior Rainforest
- Deluxe sea/garden view
- Executive sea view
- Executive Suite
- Speciality Suite
For those who crave a little more luxury, there are premier rooms in the new Ocean Wing geared towards adults and the Garden Wing for families. Guests staying in the Ocean Wing are able to enjoy a bathtub on the balcony (oooh!) and a few extra special touches:
- Buffet breakfast at the Oceana restaurant
- Exclusive use of the swimming pool and jacuzzi pool
- Separate garden and courtyard entrance
- Dedicated concierge service
Ocean Wing Premier Room. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Amenities at Rasa Ria include:
- Complimentary Wifi
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- TV
- Mini bar
- In-room safe
- Bathroom and slippers
As we chose the half board option, breakfast was included in our stay and held in the informal Coffee Terrace. There was an extensive selection for breakfast which included cereals, yogurts, cold meats, pastries, cakes, fruits and congee – my favourite 😉 Hot selections included Asian breakfast dishes and eggs cooked the way you want, tasty waffles and even American style pancakes!
Restaurants
Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort provides five restaurants and two bars for the guests, offering Asian, Japanese, Indian, Italian and Malaysian cuisines to cater for all tastes.
Our favourite restaurants during our stay were the Japanese restaurant, Kozan and Coast (which was replaced with Oceana a couple of years ago).
Seating at Kozan was around the teppanyaki station and we were able to admire the cooking skills and the creativity shown from the chef. It was a delight to watch the chef fry vegetables and flick them into the fried rice – there was no way I could manage to do that. Luckily aprons were provided to protect our clothes if the chef did miss, however I think it was more for our sake to prevent us spilling food onto ourselves whilst using chopsticks haha! Ian was slightly hesitant with using chopsticks at first, yet he did remarkably well and his apron remained super clean by the end of the meal (seriously, I don’t know how he managed that!!). The food was delicious … beautiful juicy prawns and salmon – all the dishes were flavoursome and you could definitely taste all the fresh flavours.
Ian mastered using the chopsticks
Teppanyaki counter
Coast was an a la carte restaurant serving International cuisine, perfect for a romantic evening. The restaurant setting was beautiful and sophisticated with an underwater theme. Delicate long blue chandeliers hanging off the ceiling, soft lighting giving that relaxed ambience. The sleek bar was the centre of attention offering a wide variety of liquors! The dishes were beautifully presented just like art on a plate! The food provided endless divine, explosions of flavours in the mouth. Two years ago, Coast was replaced by an upmarket Italian restaurant called Oceana.
Coast restaurant
The Makan Street restaurant is an open-air hawker style buffet, filled with traditional Malaysian food stalls. A great way to sample traditional Malaysian dishes.
Tepi Laut Makan Street. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Naan, the Indian restaurant offers specialities from the North and coastal Goa. The curries were delish and the flavours were intense.
Naan Indian Restaurant. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
The Coffee Terrace is open all day and also offers snacks too if you’re feeling a bit peckish. The Golfers Terrace is open for light meals and snacks, perfect after a game.
Coffee Terrace. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Activities
Being gym bunnies, we were happy that there was a gym on site, equipped with cardio and weight machines. A great way to still keep up the fitness whilst indulging ourselves with tasty food and cocktails. If the gym isn’t your thing, then why not consider the water activities from jet skiing, water skiing to parasailing and kayaking.
Beautiful sandy beach
Jet ski
Why not lounge by the pool, perfect for a refreshing dip or relaxation and enjoy the sunshine. There’s even a water slide for the kids to keep them occupied.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria pool
There’s luxurious treatments available at the Spa ranging from relaxing body massages to help ease the muscles, to a variety of facial treatments. Pure bliss!
The Spa. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Who wants to play a round of golf? Well you’re in luck, as there’s an 18-hole championship gold course with views of Mount Kinabalu in the distance.
Dalit Bay Golf Club. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
18 hole golf course. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Don’t forget to explore the Nature Reserve with 64 acres of rolling forests, a tree top canopy walk and home to a large variety of birds, native animals and fruit trees.
Treetop canopy walk
The resort have recently offered The ‘Breakfast with a View’ Jungle Tour, which allows guests to spot the wildlife whilst on a sunrise guided trek. You have the chance to enjoy a champagne breakfast with stunning views of Mount Kinabalu (I do love champagne!). If we get the chance to return, I think we’ll be add this to the holiday! There was also a ‘Malaysian Cooking Experience’ when we were there which was a great way to learn mixing exotic flavours to get great tasting dishes – Rendang was one that we brought back … Yummy !
Other nature experiences include:
- Night Vision Nocturnal Trek
- Sabah Nature Trail
- Little Rangers Experience
- Sandakan Orangutan Day Trip
Exotic flowers in the garden
There’s plenty of activities for the children:
- Children’s pool by the Garden Wing
- Kid’s Club
- Games Area
- Hire bicycles and explore the resort
Resort pool. Image by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
How to get to Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
There aren’t any direct flights to Borneo, so you’re journey will involve catching a connecting flight to Kota Kinabalu/Kuching from either Hong Kong, Singapore or Kuala Lumpar.
We flew from the UK to Kota Kinabalu via Kuala Lumpar with Malaysian Airlines.
When to go
The temperature in Kota Kinabalu is generally warm and humid with temperatures averaging from 23-30°C (74-85°F). Humidity in Borneo is around 80%. The rainy season falls between October to January/February and the dry season is around March to September.
Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort is ideal for couples as well as families too. The food is fantastic and the service is excellent. The staff are accommodating, professional, courteous and forever smiling! There’s also plenty here to keep you occupied if you want to shy away from the heat and sun. With the resort being nestled in acres of tropical rainforest we found it to be the perfect luxury retreat.
Have we tempted you to book your stay at the Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort? Where did you stay when you were in Borneo?
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Rahat Arora 20/09/2017 (00:39)
Amazing blog post. Stunning panoramic views. You clicked great pics. Loved all.
Lana 20/09/2017 (00:46)
Thanks Rahat. It always nice to hear that people enjoy the photos! Yes the views are amazing too! 🙂
Lyf&Spice 16/09/2017 (18:11)
Oh, this is a gorgeous property! I’v been here 5 years ago, although I stayed in Shangri-la’s Tanjung Aru – another super gorgeous property. Kota Kinabalu is a piece of paradise. 🙂
Lana 16/09/2017 (18:48)
I looked into that resort too and it looked amazing! It truly is paradise! 🙂
The Wildest Tales 16/09/2017 (17:58)
I’m not a hotel person but I have to say it looks like you had a bliss – this could be a perfect honey moon place (I’m getting married next year) as me and my boyfriend we love wildlife and the fact you can see those orangutans so close to you it’s fantastic! Also the suspended bridge in the jungle looks awesome – was it a canopy walk to spot the animals?
Lana 16/09/2017 (18:01)
Yes it was, to spot the wildlife. You should check out out Samoa posts for honeymoon ideas.:)
Laura (There Goes Laura) 16/09/2017 (17:20)
I’ll have to admit that I am not much of a resort traveler. However, this place looks incredible! If I do ever find myself wanting a beautiful resort getaway, this tops the list. Thanks for sharing!
Lana 16/09/2017 (17:52)
We do usually go for boutiquey hotels, however the orangutan sanctuary at the time persuaded us to stay here. Thanks for the comment 🙂
Joanna 16/09/2017 (15:27)
The resort looks absolutely fantastic! I love your room, with the big rose bath overlooking the jungle. I see that the resort has something for the entire family: spa for the mother, golf for the father and a pool for children. That’s great!
Lana 16/09/2017 (16:02)
This resort is great not only for couples but for families too. I love that it has the Garden wing catered for families and the Ocean wing for those who want a bit more luxury. Thanks for the comment.:)
amit 16/09/2017 (03:02)
The resort looks stunning, although on the opposite side of my budget haha I love that it’s in the reserve. A friend of mine spent time with working in the orangutans in Borneo and says it’s one of the most fulfilling things she’s ever done. I haven’t visited Borneo yet but defo need to at some point
Lana 16/09/2017 (13:36)
That would be amazing to work in an orangutan sanctuary! I hope you get the chance to visit Borneo 🙂
Bee 15/09/2017 (14:32)
well, you have tempted me to book a stay here. it looks awesome and even better there are orangutans and a tropical forest. It looks like a great place to stay and the food is a major bonus.
Lana 15/09/2017 (15:12)
Beach, sunshine, forest …what more could you want! haha! 😉
Claire 15/09/2017 (14:09)
Your pictures are insanely beautiful! This place looks like paradise on earth! I’ve never been to Malaysia but clearly need to add it to my list!
Lana 15/09/2017 (14:18)
It’s amazing you must visit Malaysia! Thanks for the lovely comment! 🙂
Indu 15/09/2017 (13:36)
Impressive blog post. Stunning panoramic views. You clicked great pics. Loved all.
Lana 15/09/2017 (13:47)
The views are fab especially if you do the canopy walk and the Nature Reserve. Thanks for the comment! 🙂
Medha 15/09/2017 (05:16)
Looks like an amazing find! Your pictures are lovely, everything seems to be great from the lush green surroundings to the room with the jacuzzi and the lovely view, the swimming pool, the restaurants, etc. I’m sure you loved your stay here!
Lana 15/09/2017 (09:48)
Thanks! So glad we stayed here – so relaxed! 🙂
Theresa 15/09/2017 (00:07)
It looks like you had a great time and your photos are super! I too would want a room with a tub on the balcony with a view.
Lana 15/09/2017 (00:28)
Yes we did and thank you we’re so pleased you liked the post. I know that tub sounds fantastic…
Petya Miteva 14/09/2017 (21:55)
Very nice place to be! Cool photos and your content is very well organized and structured. With less you say enough!
Keep it cool. Good luck!
Lana 14/09/2017 (22:06)
Thanks a lot really means so much to us! Glad you enjoyed the post 🙂
Ambuj Saxena 14/09/2017 (21:42)
Rasa Ria resort looks amazing! It is a typical blissful holiday destination! Glad to see your pictures and your gleaming faces in them!
Lana 14/09/2017 (21:46)
Awww thanks! Yeah we don’t usually add pics with us in the posts! 😉
Mario Mechteridis 14/09/2017 (20:46)
Interesting read – as a matter of fact, my next trip was almost about to be to Borneo, yet, we decided to visit Lombok & Flores instead. But there are lots of more trips to come – I’d love to see some Orangutan in the wilderness 🙂 .
Lana 14/09/2017 (21:01)
I would love to go to Lombok and Flores! Can’t wait to read about your trip. 🙂
Yesh 14/09/2017 (19:39)
This resort looks amazing – being set amidst nature definitely makes it a unique one, especially since you can get nature views and ocean views! Makes me want to pack up and get my luxury on! 🙂
Lana 14/09/2017 (19:42)
Ha ha! Yes pack up and luxe it up! 😉
lexie 14/09/2017 (20:38)
The Resort looks stunning, with 499 rooms thats a lot. I’m looking forward for the Exclusive use of the swimming pool and jacuzzi pool that’s really something that hôtels doesn’t offer often. and the Separate garden and courtyard entrance that’s like a staycation feeling. I would probably book here.
Lana 14/09/2017 (20:42)
Thanks for the comment! The resort is really spread out and we stayed in the Garden Wing. It didn’t feel crowded at all 🙂
TH 14/09/2017 (20:17)
Looks wonderful! I love your photos – which camera do you use? 🙂
Lana 14/09/2017 (20:28)
Thanks! I just used my phone for the pics 🙂
Cath 14/09/2017 (18:24)
Beautiful photos and helpful information in this post. Would love to see the Orangutan in the wilderness
Lana 14/09/2017 (18:35)
Thanks! Seeing the orangutans swinging from tree to tree is amazing 🙂
Madison Taylor 14/09/2017 (17:26)
Super cute pictures!! I love jungle life, its so natural and photogenic!
Lana 14/09/2017 (17:29)
I love how the hotel is nestled in the lush rainforest! 🙂
Claudia 14/09/2017 (15:50)
This hotel looks amazing! Hope you enjoyed yourself
Lana 14/09/2017 (15:56)
Oh trust me we did he he! Hotel was really good – so relaxing 🙂
Polly 14/09/2017 (15:49)
Wow what a unique place to stay! Somewhere you definitely won’t forget in a hurry. What a beautiful resort! Very jealous over here!
Lana 14/09/2017 (15:55)
Thanks Polly! Definitely a memorable stay! 🙂
Jasmin Matin 13/09/2017 (14:53)
Great post and incredible photos!! I’ve wanted to visit Borneo for ages and this lovely post has given me a serious case of wanderlust!! The Shangri-La resort is stunning. I want a room with a bath tub on the balcony!!
Jasmin xx
Lana 13/09/2017 (15:03)
Thanks for the lovely comment! I hope you get to visit Borneo soon! The room with the tub is amazing! I need to go back just to sit in the tub haha! 🙂