What is the best way for a family with children from Manukan Island to the airport?

For families, the most comfortable option is ferry + private transfer or ferry + Grab. Private transfers cost 60–90 MYR (~13–19 USD) and include child seats upon request. Avoid the airport bus if you have lots of luggage or young children.

How to Get from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport | Train, Bus, Taxi & Tips

Q: Is there a direct ferry from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

No, there is no direct ferry from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport. You must first take a ferry from Manukan Island to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal (15–20 min), then travel by taxi, Grab, or airport bus to the airport (15–25 min).

Q: What is the cheapest way from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

The cheapest option is ferry (35–45 MYR / ~7.50–9.50 USD) + Airport Bus (5–10 MYR / ~1–2 USD), totalling approximately 40–55 MYR (~8.50–11.50 USD) per person. The bus departs from nearby bus stops in Kota Kinabalu city centre.

Q: How long does it take from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

The total journey takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour under normal conditions: ferry 15–20 min (Manukan → Jesselton Point), plus land transfer 15–25 min (Jesselton Point → Airport), plus waiting time for the ferry departure.

Q: Can I use Grab from Jesselton Point to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

Yes, Grab is widely available at Jesselton Point. A ride to Kota Kinabalu Airport typically costs 30–40 MYR (~6.50–8.50 USD) and takes 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Grab is often cheaper than a standard taxi.

Q: Is there a train from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

No, there is no train service that connects Manukan Island or Jesselton Point to Kota Kinabalu Airport. The Sabah State Railway line runs from Tanjung Aru to Beaufort and Tenom, not to the airport. Stick with ferry + taxi, bus, or private transfer.

Q: How much does a private transfer from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport cost?

A private transfer from Jesselton Point (after arriving from Manukan Island) to Kota Kinabalu Airport costs approximately 60–90 MYR (~13–19 USD) for a standard car, depending on the provider and time of day. Some operators offer island-to-airport packages.

Q: Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance from Manukan Island?

For the return trip from Manukan Island to Jesselton Point, you can buy tickets at the island's jetty kiosk just before departure. However, during peak season (May–September & public holidays), it is wise to confirm your return time with the operator in the morning to secure your preferred slot.

Quick Answer

Best way: Ferry from Manukan Island to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal (15–20 min, 35–45 MYR / ~7.50–9.50 USD) + Grab or taxi to Kota Kinabalu Airport (15–25 min, 30–40 MYR / ~6.50–8.50 USD). Total time: ≈ 45–60 min | Total cost: ≈ 65–85 MYR (~14–18 USD) per person.

Fastest option: Ferry + Grab (door-to-door ~50 min).
Cheapest option: Ferry + Airport Bus (~40–55 MYR / 8.50–11.50 USD, but requires a short walk to the bus stop).

🚢 Ferry from Manukan Island to Jesselton Point (Mandatory First Leg)

Every journey from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport begins with a ferry ride across the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. This is the only way to leave the island — no bridges, no private vehicles.

Key details:

Route: Manukan Island Jetty → Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal (Kota Kinabalu city centre)
Duration: 15–20 minutes
Ticket price: 35–45 MYR per person one-way (~7.50–9.50 USD)
Operators: Sutera Harbour Marina, Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal counters
Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, typically 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last return ferry around 4:30–5:00 PM)

                        💡 Pro tip: Buy your return ticket at Jesselton Point in the morning before departing to Manukan. This guarantees your seat and often gives a small discount compared to buying on the island.
                    

⛴️

Manukan Island Jetty
← 15–20 min →
Jesselton Point

Photo: Sabah Parks

Ferry Operator Comparison

Operator	One-Way Fare (MYR)	Est. (USD)	Frequency	Notes
Sutera Harbour Marina	40 MYR	~8.50 USD	Every 30 min	Also offers island-hopping packages
Jesselton Point Ferry Counter	35–45 MYR	~7.50–9.50 USD	Every 30–60 min	Most common; multiple kiosks
Private speedboat (charter)	150–250 MYR	~32–53 USD	On demand	For groups or early/late hours

* Prices are indicative as of 2025. Always confirm at the counter. Source: Sabah Parks official site & Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.

Ferry Schedule & Practical Tips

First ferry to island: ~7:30 AM | Last ferry from island: ~4:30–5:00 PM (season dependent).
Returning from Manukan, arrive at the jetty at least 15 minutes before departure.
Ferries can be cancelled during monsoon season (Nov–Feb) due to rough seas — check with operator.
Luggage: Standard ferries allow backpacks and small suitcases; large luggage may incur a small fee (~5–10 MYR).
If you have an early flight (before 10 AM), confirm the first ferry departure time the day before — some operators start at 7:00 AM, but 7:30 AM is more common.

                ⚠️ Important: The ferry only takes you to Jesselton Point in the city centre. From there you need a separate transfer to the airport. Plan for at least 45–60 minutes total from island to airport terminal.
            

🚕 Taxi & Grab from Jesselton Point to Kota Kinabalu Airport (Fast & Convenient)

Once you step off the ferry at Jesselton Point, the most efficient way to reach Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI) is by taxi or Grab. This is the recommended option for most travellers — balancing speed, cost, and convenience.

30–40 MYR Grab / Taxi fare ≈ 6.50–8.50 USD

15–25 min Travel time ≈ 12 km via Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens

⭐ Best overall Speed + Cost balance

Grab vs Taxi – What’s the difference?

Feature	Grab (Ride-hailing)	Airport Taxi (Coupon)
Price	30–38 MYR (~6.50–8 USD)	40–50 MYR (~8.50–10.50 USD)
Booking	Via Grab app (need data/WiFi)	At Jesselton Point taxi counter
Payment	Cash or GrabPay	Cash only (fixed coupon)
Availability	Usually within 3–8 min	Immediate at counter
Luggage space	Standard car boot	Standard car boot
Child seat	Not standard (can request GrabFamily)	Not available

Source: Grab Malaysia official site & Kota Kinabalu Airport guide.

Step-by-Step: Ferry to Grab/Taxi to Airport

Alight ferry at Jesselton Point Jetty (ground floor).
Walk out to the main road (Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens) – about 2 minutes.
For Grab: Open app, set pickup to “Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal”. Fare is displayed upfront.
For taxi: Go to the official taxi counter inside the terminal building, pay for a coupon, and hand it to the driver.
Ride to Kota Kinabalu Airport (Terminal 1 for international & most domestic; Terminal 2 for AirAsia & some budget flights).

                ✅ Why we recommend this: Fast (15–25 min), affordable (30–40 MYR), and available from early morning until late evening. If your flight is before 8 AM, pre-book a Grab the night before or use the taxi counter.
            

🚌 Airport Bus from City Centre to Kota Kinabalu Airport (Cheapest Option)

If you’re travelling on a tight budget, the airport bus is the most economical way to get from Kota Kinabalu city centre to the airport. Note that you’ll need to walk about 10–12 minutes from Jesselton Point to the nearest bus stop.

5–10 MYR Bus fare per person ≈ 1–2 USD

30–40 min Bus travel time + 10 min walk from jetty

💰 Cheapest Total ~40–55 MYR incl. ferry

Bus Route Information

Bus No.	Route	Frequency	Fare (MYR)	Est. (USD)
Bus 5A / 5B	City Centre → Airport (Terminal 1 & 2)	Every 20–30 min, 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM	5 MYR	~1 USD
Airport Liner (direct)	Jalan Gaya → Airport (limited stops)	Hourly, 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM	10 MYR	~2 USD
City Bus 7	City Centre → Putatan (passes near airport)	Every 45 min	6 MYR	~1.30 USD

Source: Sabah State Transportation Department & Malaysian Ministry of Transport.

How to Catch the Bus from Jesselton Point

Exit Jesselton Point terminal and walk south along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens for about 8–10 minutes to the “City Centre” bus stop (near Wisma Sabah).
Look for Bus 5A or 5B with “Airport” displayed on the front.
Flag the bus down — they stop on request.
Pay the driver in cash (exact change appreciated).
The bus will stop at Terminal 1 (international/main) and Terminal 2 (AirAsia).

                ⚠️ Limitations: The bus is not ideal if you have heavy luggage, are travelling with small children, or have a very early (before 7 AM) or late (after 9 PM) flight. Also, the walk from the jetty to the bus stop can be hot and humid.
            

Night Bus Options

After 9:00 PM, city buses become infrequent or stop. If you have a late-night flight, your only practical options are Grab or taxi. There is no overnight bus service to Kota Kinabalu Airport from the city centre.

🚗 Private Transfer from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport (Premium Comfort)

For travellers seeking maximum comfort, convenience, and door-to-door service, a private transfer is the premium choice. Some operators offer an island-to-airport package that includes ferry coordination.

60–90 MYR Private car (Jesselton Pt → Airport) ≈ 13–19 USD

90–150 MYR Island-to-airport package (incl. ferry) ≈ 19–32 USD

⭐ Best for Families, groups, business travellers

Private Transfer Providers (Kota Kinabalu)

Provider	Route	Price (MYR)	Est. (USD)	Notes
Borneo Transfers	Jesselton Point → Airport	70 MYR	~15 USD	Pre-book online, child seats available
KK Airport Shuttle	Island-to-airport (ferry + car)	130 MYR	~28 USD	Meet & greet at Manukan jetty
Hotel concierge service	Jesselton Point → Airport	80–100 MYR	~17–21 USD	Arrange through your hotel
Local tour operator (e.g. Amazing Borneo)	Island-to-airport package	140–160 MYR	~30–34 USD	Includes ferry escort & luggage handling

Sources: Borneo Transfers & Amazing Borneo Tours.

When to Choose a Private Transfer

Early morning flights (before 8 AM): Ferries may not run early enough; a private transfer can coordinate an early boat.
Late evening flights (after 8 PM): Buses stop running; taxis are available but private transfer gives fixed price.
Families with young children: Child seats can be arranged, and you don't need to handle luggage on public transport.
Groups of 4+: Per-person cost becomes comparable to Grab, with more space.
Business travellers: Reliable, professional, and stress-free.

                ✅ Best for: Travellers who value time, comfort, and predictability. If your budget allows, it’s the most relaxing way to end your island stay.
            

🚆 Train (Sabah State Railway) – Not Direct, but Useful Background

Can you take a train from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport? No — there is no direct train service connecting either Manukan Island or Jesselton Point to the airport. However, the Sabah State Railway (Keretapi Negeri Sabah) is a scenic option for travellers planning to explore inland Sabah.

Sabah State Railway – Overview

Route	Distance	Duration	Fare (MYR)	Est. (USD)
Tanjung Aru → Beaufort	~90 km	1 hr 45 min	15–20 MYR	~3–4 USD
Beaufort → Tenom	~50 km	1 hr 15 min	10–15 MYR	~2–3 USD
Tanjung Aru → Tenom (full line)	~140 km	3–4 hr	25–35 MYR	~5–7.50 USD

Source: Sabah State Railway Department.

Why the Train Doesn’t Work for This Route

The nearest station to Jesselton Point is Tanjung Aru Station (~3 km / 10 min by taxi).
The railway line runs south to Beaufort and Tenom, not to the airport (which is also south, but the line bypasses the airport).
There is no station at Kota Kinabalu Airport. No rail connection exists or is planned.

Bottom line: Skip the train for airport transfers. Stick with ferry + taxi, bus, or private transfer.

                🗺️ When the train IS useful: If you’re staying in Sabah after your flight and want to visit Beaufort (Padas River rafting) or Tenom (tea plantations), the train offers a scenic, budget-friendly day trip from Kota Kinabalu.
            

✈️ Flight – Not Applicable for This Route (But Know Your Airport)

Can you fly from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport? No — the distance is only ~12 km (7.5 miles) as the crow flies. There are no commercial or charter flights between the island and the airport. However, here’s what you need to know about Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI) for your onward journey.

Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI) – Key Facts

Feature	Terminal 1	Terminal 2
Used by	International flights & most domestic (Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, Firefly)	AirAsia (domestic & some international)
Distance from city	~8 km (15–25 min by car)	~7 km (15–20 min by car)
Facilities	Full-service: lounges, restaurants, duty-free, ATMs	Basic: cafeteria, small shops, ATMs
Grab drop-off	Departure hall (Level 1)	Drop-off zone at entrance

Source: Kota Kinabalu Airport official guide.

From Manukan Island to Your Flight – Realistic Timeline

Recommended minimum connection time: 3 hours from island departure to flight departure (domestic) / 4 hours (international).
Example: If your flight is at 2:00 PM → leave Manukan by 10:30–11:00 AM ferry → arrive Jesselton Point ~11:20 AM → reach airport by ~11:45 AM → check-in & security.
Early flights: First ferry ~7:30 AM → arrive airport ~8:15–8:30 AM → suitable for 10:00 AM+ flights.
Late flights (after 9 PM): Last ferry usually departs Manukan around 4:30–5:00 PM → you’ll arrive at the airport by ~5:30 PM → plenty of time for a 9 PM+ flight.

                ✈️ Note: If you’re connecting to an international flight, always factor in extra time for check-in, immigration, and security. BKI Terminal 1 can be busy during peak hours (10 AM–2 PM & 6 PM–10 PM).
            

💰 Cost & Time Comparison – All Transport Options from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport

Quick-glance table to help you decide based on budget, schedule, and comfort level.

Option	Total Time	Total Cost (MYR)	Total Cost (USD)	Transfers	Best For
⭐ Ferry + Grab	45–55 min	65–85 MYR	~14–18 USD	1 (ferry → car)	Most travellers – best balance
Ferry + Airport Bus	55–70 min	40–55 MYR	~8.50–11.50 USD	2 (ferry → walk → bus)	Budget travellers, light luggage
🚗 Ferry + Private Transfer	45–55 min	95–135 MYR	~20–29 USD	1 (ferry → car)	Families, groups, comfort seekers
Ferry + Taxi (coupon)	45–55 min	75–95 MYR	~16–20 USD	1 (ferry → taxi)	Convenience without app
Private speedboat whole journey	30–40 min	200–350 MYR	~43–75 USD	0 (direct island → airport jetty)	VIP, extreme early/late, groups of 6+

                💡 Verdict: Ferry + Grab is the optimal choice for 90% of travellers. It’s fast, affordable, and reliable. Choose Ferry + Bus if you’re on a shoestring budget. Choose Private Transfer if you value comfort and have bulky luggage.
            

Where to Book Your Ferry + Transfer

Ferry tickets: Buy at Jesselton Point counters (ground floor) or at Manukan Island jetty for return.
Grab: Download the app in advance. Data coverage at Jesselton Point is good (4G/5G).
Private transfer: Pre-book via Borneo Transfers or through your hotel concierge.
Airport bus: Pay cash to the driver (exact change recommended).

🧳 Traveler Tips & Experience – Get from Manukan Island to Airport Like a Pro

Real-world advice from seasoned travellers to make your island-to-airport day smooth and stress-free.

🗺️ 1. Luggage – Use Takkyubin (Luggage Forwarding) if Possible

If you’re staying in Kota Kinabalu before your flight, consider using Takkyubin (luggage delivery service) available at major hotels. Your luggage can be sent directly to the airport for pickup. Cost: ~30–50 MYR per bag. This frees you to travel light on the ferry.

⏰ 2. Ferry Timing – Aim to Leave Manukan 3–4 Hours Before Your Flight

For domestic flights, leave Manukan at least 3 hours before departure. For international flights, leave 4 hours before. This buffer accounts for ferry wait times, traffic, and airport queues.

🚦 3. Traffic in Kota Kinabalu – Know the Peak Hours

Traffic between the city centre and the airport can be heavy during 7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM. If your ferry arrives during these windows, add 10–15 minutes to your land transfer time.

🌧️ 4. Monsoon Season (Nov–Feb) – Seas Can Be Rough

Ferry schedules may be disrupted during the northeast monsoon. Always check the sea condition forecast with the ferry operator. If rough seas are predicted, consider taking an earlier ferry to avoid cancellations.

🏪 5. Last-Minute Souvenirs – Shop at Jesselton Point

There are small souvenir kiosks and convenience stores at Jesselton Point. If you forgot to buy gifts, grab them here before heading to the airport. Airport prices are 20–30% higher.

📱 6. Grab vs Taxi – Which One to Choose?

Grab is cheaper and shows the fare upfront. However, if your phone has no signal or battery, the taxi counter at Jesselton Point is a reliable backup. Taxi coupons cost ~40–50 MYR to the airport.

🧳

Packing smart
Travel light on the ferry

🌧️

Monsoon alert
Nov–Feb: check ferry status

                🔥 Pro tip from experienced travellers: If you have a morning flight before 10 AM, consider staying overnight in Kota Kinabalu city (not on the island) to eliminate the risk of missing the first ferry. Many hotels offer airport shuttle services for 15–25 MYR.
            

❓ FAQs: Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport

Is there a direct ferry from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

No, there is no direct ferry. You must first take a ferry from Manukan Island to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal (15–20 min), then travel by taxi, Grab, or airport bus to the airport (15–25 min).

What is the cheapest way from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

The cheapest option is ferry (35–45 MYR / ~7.50–9.50 USD) + Airport Bus (5–10 MYR / ~1–2 USD), totalling approximately 40–55 MYR (~8.50–11.50 USD) per person. The bus departs from near Wisma Sabah, a 10-minute walk from the jetty.

How long does it take from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

The total journey takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour: ferry 15–20 min + land transfer 15–25 min + waiting time for ferry departure (usually 5–15 min).

Can I use Grab from Jesselton Point to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

Yes, Grab is widely available. A ride to the airport typically costs 30–40 MYR (~6.50–8.50 USD) and takes 15–25 minutes. Grab is usually cheaper than a standard taxi.

Is there a train from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport?

No. The Sabah State Railway runs from Tanjung Aru to Beaufort and Tenom, not to the airport. No train station exists at BKI. Stick with ferry + road transfer.

What is the best way for a family with children?

For families, the most comfortable option is ferry + private transfer or ferry + Grab. Private transfers cost 60–90 MYR (~13–19 USD) and can include child seats. Avoid the airport bus if you have lots of luggage or young children.

How much does a private transfer cost?

A private transfer from Jesselton Point to Kota Kinabalu Airport costs approximately 60–90 MYR (~13–19 USD) for a standard car. Island-to-airport packages (including ferry coordination) range from 90–150 MYR (~19–32 USD).

Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance from Manukan Island?

For the return trip, you can buy tickets at the Manukan Island jetty kiosk just before departure. However, during peak season (May–September & public holidays), confirm your return time with the operator in the morning to secure your preferred slot.

How to Get from Manukan Island to Kota Kinabalu Airport