Turtle Island

Northeast of Sabah lie the Turtle Islands of Pulau Selingan, Pulau Gulisan and Pulau Bakkungan Kecil. Located approximately 40 km from Sandakan, these islands are famed for the Green and Hawksbill turtles, which are found in the surrounding seas and come ashore to nest on the beaches all year round. The Turtle Islands were gazetted a National Park in 1977 to protect the turtles from extinction.

The surrounding sea also supports an abundant coral garden. Add to this, pristine waters and unspoilt beaches, the islands are ideally suited for diving, swimming and picnicking.

Accommodation is available only at Pulau Selingan. Picnic tables with seats and barbecue stands are also provided but visitors should bring their own food. Permission to visit the Park must be obtained from the Ranger-in-charge at the Sabah Parks.

How To Get There
Fly to Sandakan from Kota Kinabalu. At Sandakan, board a launch at the Yacht Club and cruise over to the islands in around three hours. For overnight excursions, charter a speedboat.

NOTE:

All divers are required to show proof of diver training from an internationally recognized Diver Training Agency. Failure to do so, may cause the diver to undergo a diving course. Thus, log books and certificate cards are required.