A Perfect Honeymoon in Borneo: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

Last Updated on June 15, 2025 by Oliver

Hey guys, Carae here! When most people think about honeymoons, they go straight to the Maldives, Paris, or maybe Italy. Sure, it’s romantic, but also kind of predictable, right? If you’re after something more unique (and way more memorable), then a honeymoon in Borneo is definitely worth considering.

Oliver and I just got back from a 2-week Borneo trip together, and even though it wasn’t our actual honeymoon, it honestly felt like one. There were so many amazing adventures, stunning places to stay, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, it checked every box for what I’d personally want on a honeymoon.

So if you’re planning a honeymoon in Borneo, I put this guide together to give you everything you need to know: from the best places to stay to some seriously cool things to do as a couple. Let’s get into it!

Honeymoon in Borneo for Couples – My Experience

I had such a great time in Borneo, and I definitely think it’s 100% worth visiting, especially for a honeymoon. I spent most of my time there in East Borneo, around Sandakan, because I absolutely loved the orangutans. I stayed a while in Sepilok, then even longer on the Kinabatangan River. Both places have some incredible nature lodges, beautiful, unique, and upscale, perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic couples trip.

After that, I headed to Semporna, and honestly, it was some of the best scuba diving I’ve ever done. The coral is stunning, and the amount of marine life you can see is unreal.

If I could go again, I’d do it pretty much the same way: start in Sepilok, then do a Kinabatangan River cruise, head to Semporna for diving, and finish off with a few nights in one of Borneo’s amazing 5-star hotels like the Mulu Marriott Resort or the Shangri-La in Kota Kinabalu.

Why Borneo for a Honeymoon?

Borneo is just something completely different when it comes to honeymoon destinations. For one, there’s so much to do,like world-class scuba diving and snorkeling in Semporna, spotting wild orangutans in Sepilok, and floating down the Kinabatangan River on a sunset cruise. And the best part is, that you can do all of that while staying in gorgeous high-end resorts surrounded by nature.

What really stood out for me, though, was how affordable it all felt. I mean, you’re getting five-star luxury without the insane price tag of places like the Maldives or the Bahamas. So if you want a honeymoon that’s adventurous, romantic, and still kind to your budget, Borneo is honestly a fantastic choice.

Honeymoon in Borneo Packages

It really depends on what kind of honeymoon you’re after. If you’re all about relaxing in a dreamy resort for a week, there are plenty of incredible hotels in Borneo where you can do just that. But if you’re more into the idea of an adventurous honeymoon—think jungle, wildlife, and a bit of luxury thrown in—then I highly recommend looking into G Adventures.

G Adventures runs guided trips all over the world, and yes, they’ve got Borneo covered too. I’ve done one of their tours before, and honestly, they’re amazing. They sort everything out for you—accommodation, transport, tours, even meals—and it all still feels a bit elevated. You’re not stuck in some budget hotel either. On their Borneo trip, for example, you’ll stay at places like the Mulu Marriott, which is one of the nicest luxury hotels in Borneo.

So if you want a honeymoon package that mixes adventure with comfort and ease, G Adventures is definitely worth checking out.

Book Here: Honeymoon in Borneo Package

Where to Stay for a Borneo Honeymoon 2025

This one really depends on what kind of trip you’re planning. You can totally stay put in one beautiful resort for a week, enjoy the views, and enjoy nature and luxury. But if you’re up for a bit of adventure, I’d definitely suggest moving around a little.

Around Kota Kinabalu, you’ve got some gorgeous islands and beaches that are perfect for a romantic escape. Sepilok is a must if you’re into wildlife, the orangutan rehabilitation center there is incredible (I just went, and wow, it blew me away). And then there’s Semporna, home to some of the best scuba diving in the world.

1. Mulu Marriott Resort – Gunung Mulu National Park

This is for sure the best Borneo luxury hotel!

If you’re looking for something that feels truly special, I think the Mulu Marriott Resort is one of the best 5-star options in Borneo. It’s a rainforest lodge-style resort set right by the river, surrounded by nothing but jungle and nature.

They’ve got a beautiful swimming pool, a really good restaurant, and offer loads of activities like jungle treks and cave expeditions in the nearby national park. The rooms are super spacious, with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and warm wooden interiors that still feel upscale.

To me, this is the perfect spot if you want something luxurious without missing out on what makes Borneo special, wild nature, peace, and a real sense of escape.

Book Here: Mulu Marriott Resort

2. Gaya Island Resort

This is my favorite luxury hotel in Borneo!

If you’re after a more tropical island vibe without going too far off the grid, Gaya Island Resort is a fantastic honeymoon location. It’s located on a stunning island just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, with overwater villas, jungle views, and direct access to the sea. You’ll find amazing snorkeling, a peaceful spa, and some beautiful luxury and nature.

Many people might not know that Borneo has some incredible beaches too, but the Gaya Island Resort really shows you that beaches in Borneo are amazing.

Book Here: Gaya Island Resort

3. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru – Kota Kinabalu

If you’re looking for beachfront luxury without feeling too over-the-top, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is an amazing hotel for a honeymoon in Borneo. It’s just a short drive from the city center and airport, but it feels like a peaceful escape. Especially if you happen to arrive at the airport in Kota Kinabalu, this is the perfect hotel for your first couple of nights in Borneo.

The resort sits right on the water, with stunning sunset views and a private beach. There’s a beautiful infinity pool, a spa that’s perfect for a couples massage, and a really romantic sunset bar right on the edge of the ocean. You’ll also have access to island-hopping tours, snorkeling, and other little adventures right from the resort.

It’s luxury for sure, but it’s also super comfortable and laid-back, which is why I think it’s great for a honeymoon in Borneo.

Book Here: Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu

4. Sepilok Nature Lodge – Sepilok

This one’s a totally different vibe, but it’s honestly one of my favorite stays in Borneo. Sepilok Nature Lodge is located in the rainforest just a few minutes’ walk from the orangutan and sun bear sanctuaries. It’s quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by nature.

The rooms are simple but really charming, with private verandas that overlook the gardens or jungle. The lodge also has a lovely little lakeside restaurant where you can watch the wildlife while you eat breakfast. It’s not “luxury” in the traditional sense, but it’s one of those places where the setting makes it feel really special.

If you’re a couple who loves nature and want something more intimate and low-key, this is the perfect romantic rainforest stay.

Book Here: Sepilok Nature Lodge

Best Things to Do in Borneo Malaysia

• Hike Mount Kinabalu
  This one’s definitely a bit more niche, it’s a two-day hike and pretty pricey, but if you’re into hiking, it’s an amazing challenge with epic views.
  
• Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Semporna
  Semporna has some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. Seriously. The coral is stunning, the water’s crystal clear, and it’s just all-round incredible.
  
• Kinabatangan River Cruise
  This was hands down the highlight of my Borneo trip. You’ll spot wild orangutans, elephants, proboscis monkeys, it’s like a real-life jungle safari by boat.
  
• Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary
  Watching orangutans up close while also learning about conservation efforts was such a powerful experience. I loved it.
  
• Island Hopping around Kota Kinabalu
  The islands here are gorgeous, white sand, turquoise water, and great for a chill beach day or a bit of snorkeling. Super easy to do as a day trip too.

FAQs About a Honeymoon in Borneo

Is Borneo a good honeymoon destination?

Definitely, but it’s not your typical honeymoon spot. It’s a little more rugged, a bit more adventurous, and honestly, way more exciting than just lying on a beach in the Maldives for two weeks.

Where is Borneo?

Borneo is the third-largest island in the world, located in Southeast Asia. It’s shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Most honeymoon trips focus on Malaysian Borneo, specifically the state of Sabah, this is where you’ll find places like Kota Kinabalu, Sepilok, and Semporna.

Is there luxury accommodation in Borneo?

Yes, and surprisingly it’s not insanely expensive either. You’ll find some amazing 5-star resorts like the Mulu Marriott, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, and Sepilok Nature Lodge, that are incredible.

What is the best honeymoon in Borneo?

In my opinion, the best honeymoon Borneo has to offer includes a bit of both, wildlife and luxury. I’d definitely recommend spotting orangutans in Sepilok and doing a Kinabatangan River cruise, then ending the trip with a few days in one of the beautiful luxury resorts around Kota Kinabalu.

Final Thoughts on a Borneo Honeymoon Resorts

I think Borneo can be an amazing honeymoon destination, if you know what kind of trip you’re after. I’d definitely put it in the “adventure honeymoon” category. It’s kind of like going on safari in Africa… it’s all about the experience, not just the fancy hotel room.

Some people love the idea of just chilling in an overwater bungalow for two weeks and fair enough, but others (like me) want something a bit more active and unique.

Personally, I’d spend a few days exploring East Borneo, visit the orangutans in Sepilok, do a Kinabatangan River cruise, explore the Borneo rainforest and then finish off the trip with a luxury stay at the Mulu Marriott or the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu. That sounds like a dream honeymoon to me and if you do it like that, you will have the best honeymoon in Borneo.

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