On Gaya Island off Kota Kinabalu, Bunga Raya Island Resort is set between rainforest and a small beach on the South China Sea. Timber villas are raised among trees or closer to the shoreline, using pitched roofs, carved details and broad decks that look towards jungle or water. The resort includes a beach, pool, spa, restaurants, bars and access to snorkelling, kayaking and nature trails. Its appeal is rooted in the island setting, where forest rises behind the villas and the bay opens towards the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.