Borneo Beach Villas, Kota Kinabalu

We had a beach front villa that was right on the beach with a fantastic view and you could hear the waves day and night. The water was warm and the gentle waves were fun to play in. The little villa pool was also fun for the kids, but we spent most of our time at the beach. The staff was very helpful and attentive. The AC worked really well, but the villa could use a few updates and there was a fish smell from the previous renter that they could not remove. We burned insect coils which helped and the staff really tried to remove the smell and were sympathetic. The pictures on their website are accurate. The location is challenging if you want to go to town. We spent a lot of time sitting in traffic. But you are on the route out of town for tours out to Mantanini island for snorkeling and the Rieverbug--rafting and MariMari cultural tour. Which were all fun!!

What a shame! The Borneo Beach Villas, which looks like it was originally an extension to the 'adjacent' Nexus Resort, has really high quality accommodation, but poor facilities and service. There were just too many things that didn't quite come up to scratch to rate this place any higher, which is a real shame, because there is the basis of a fantastic resort there. Firstly, check-in was OK, the two bedroom apartment was great for a family of four in terms of space and comfort, you really won't be disappointed. However, having highlighted the steam room and jacuzzi bath, I was disappointed to find the kitchen area was not well stocked. Missing cutlery, glasses, bowls, etc. meant it was less than useful. We requested those items, but it to two days for them to arrive (not good). Some people may upgrade to the villas, which will offer you a private puddle, but most are set back from the sea (see aerial maps for layout). The beach itself, certainly next to Blocks 5, 6 & 7 (NE-ern most), was closed (red flagged) for the entire duration of our stay, and according to Borneo Villas this was due to sea state, but looks like the absence of a beach due to coastal erosion is probably the issue. On-site catering is really limited both interns of quality and choice. The Nexus Resort is a short drive away, and the courtesy shuttle may even take you there (TBC). The Salut Seafood restaurant, a 15 minutes drive away a real gem and I can't recommend this place highly enough.

Love lazy days on the beach but one should know that you're quite isolated in the paradise...

Everything in the villas in good during our stay except in the early morning no electricity.. breakfast buffet is nice too