If you’re planning to pop the question, you’ll have researched the best luxury nature resorts in Sabah, eco resorts in Sarawak, or island getaways in Sabah. In case you’re just getting started, here are the five recommendations to get down on bended-knee.
Kinabalu Park: Say ‘yes’ among the mountains
With the majestic Mount Kinabalu as your backdrop and the misty, cool mountain air, Kinabalu Park is an enchanting and Insta-friendly setting for an unforgettable marriage proposal.
Go on a morning stroll on one of the many trails. Surrounded by wafts of wild orchids and pine and serenaded by the morning song of local birds, it’s as if you have the whole UNESCO nature park to yourselves.
Or maybe you prefer a quiet evening stroll beneath a canopy of stars. After the life-changing question, walk back to your luxury Kinabalu Park accommodation where a candlelit dinner awaits in front of your roaring fire.
Niah Cave: Let history witness your love
This next one comes with a live nature show. Check in to the Niah Cave nature retreat, where the Painted Suites draw inspiration from 1,200-year-old artwork found on the nearby cave walls and just a short walk to the Great Cave (Gua Niah Besar) where your unforgettable proposal backdrop awaits.
Once home to humans 40,000 years ago, the Great Cave becomes a stage for the Great Exchange at dusk: when thousands of bats stream out as swiftlets return to roost. Sit together as the sky ignites with a Bornean sunset, and when the cave bursts into life with wings and echoes, that’s your moment. Let the ancient limestone walls bear witness as you ask the question that begins your forever.
Mount Kinabalu: Where love meets the clouds
This one is for nature and fitness lovers only, not for the faint of heart. Training together for your Sabah trekking experience is a great way to bond. And on that special day that you summit Low’s Peak together, 4,095 metres above sea level, you will literally be above the clouds. You will be surrounded by a breathtaking panorama that serves endless views. As the sun peeks out at the break of dawn, the skies fill with the most amazing colours. This is your moment.
Make your way back down to the Mount Kinabalu Resort by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges for a restful night at the Rajah Lodge. Cosy up by the fire or rejuvenate the aching muscles with a soak in your private jacuzzi.
Manukan Island: Islands in a stream
Stay at one of the most luxurious Sabah island resorts, Manukan Island Resort where every premium villa overlooks the calming South China Sea. It’s the perfect island getaway that sets the mood from the moment your feet touch the fine white sand.
At dusk, lead your partner on the path to Sunset Point. When you get there, look out to the horizon and be treated to a moving painting of pinks, purples and orange across the sky. The gentle ocean breeze and crashing waves—proposing here is pure tropic magic.
After the heartfelt “Yes”, continue the festivities with a private candlelit dinner on the beach. A beautifully set table awaits under a blanket of stars.
Amazing Love: Sail away with me to another world
It’s all in the name. Proposing aboard this 48ft private luxury yacht is the epitome of romance and exclusivity. Time it perfectly and book your private charter for golden hour. Once onboard, you and your partner will be treated to a fully-stocked bar and a curated spread to enjoy.
Glide across crystal-clear waters, framed by lush tropical islands. As the sun melts into gold and amber hues, take in the view from the catamaran’s sundeck—just the two of you, miles from anyone else. It’s the perfect moment to drop to one knee. The crew will be discreetly on hand to capture the cinematic scene with a few sneaky snapshots. After the sun has disappeared behind the horizon, end the night with celebratory champagne under the stars.
