Turtle Islands (Selingan/Libaran)

About Selingan Turtle Island

Lying 40 km off the coast of Sandakan, the Turtle Islands Marine Park is a designated conservation centre by the Sabah state government to protect the endangered green and hawksbill turtle species from harm. This 1,740-hectare marine park acts as a breeding ground for the turtles and a haven for laying their eggs and attracts travellers far and wide. Steering more towards conservation activities, a limited number of visitors are allowed at any one time for a controlled environment as to not disturb the natural going-ons of nature’s routine.

Among the three islands (Pulau Selingan, Pulau Bakungan Kecil & Pulau Gulisan) in the Marine Park, Pulau Selingan Island is the only island open to the public for a chance to be a part of the magical nesting experience. Park rangers will guide visitors to the nesting sites in the dark to ensure that they do not disturb the turtles. It is a slow sand digging process and burying ritual for the mother turtles. Visitors will be able to see how eggs are collected, mother turtles tagged and little hatchlings making a grand dash into the warm embrace of the Sulu Sea. During the day, you may choose to snorkel or swim in the crystal blue waters of the island or simply relax by the sandy beaches. An overnight stay is recommended for a rare glimpse of these turtles laying eggs. The Park offers basic accommodation in chalet style (25 rooms) for a small number of lucky visitors (about 50 visitors/day) staying overnight for a chance to witness turtles laying eggs.

Accommodation in Selingan Island

Selingan Turtle Island Chalet accommodation is basic but comfortable. There are a total of 25 twin-sharing guest rooms, built-in with air-conditioning, ceiling fans and ensuite bathrooms. The toilets are clean and well-kept. Facilities in Selingan Turtle Island Resort include a restaurant for your daily meals, a exhibition hall which showcases the information of the turtle hatching process, and a small shop selling drinks and other simple commodities. Due to the limited number of permit given per day, it is advisable to book in advance.

How to get to Selingan Turtle Island

Take a flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan. From the airport to the Sabah Parks Jetty is about 9 km away. It would take approximately an hour’s boat ride from the jetty along Jalan Buli Buli Sim to reach Selingan Island.

When is the best time to visit?

Green turtles and hawsbill turtles lay their eggs all year round, consistent with sightings reported by park rangers who have witnessed nesting and hatchlings everyday. The best time to visit the Turtle Island would typically be from July to October, when the weather and sea condition is more favourable.

Who is it for?

The Turtle Islands are perfect for island-seekers and wildlife enthusiasts who have always dreamt of witnessing the precious life cycle of a sea turtle! As these islands are meant for conservation of the sea turtles, the accommodation and necessities are at its bare minimum and if you seek comfort in that, the turtle islands are definitely going to be right up your alley!”