Only a short drive from the Kota Kinabalu Airport, Langkah Syabas Beach Resort is a family-friendly getaway, writes Olivia Miwil
MY 15-month-old daughter, who has just learnt to walk, loves the sound her feet make on the wooden floor of our chalet at Langkah Syabas Beach Resort.
All this walking makes her tired and sleepy. After a sound nap, we reward her with a stroll outside. She enjoys running on the lawn where two sheep belonging to the resort owner, graze.
Then we head for the beach along a trail that is shaded by palm trees and tropical plants. We get even more excited to see her reaction when her toes touch the sand.
From the edge of the South China Sea, we move to one of two swimming pools where she enjoys the lukewarm water (with minimal chlorination) in a wading pool.
CHILD-FRIENDLY LODGE
My daughter makes me realise the importance of choosing the right lodging for our holidays and child-friendly accommodation will always be the choice for families with young children.
Langkah Syabas Beach Resort, a 15-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, is one of
the affordable places in the Sabah capital.
Not only is it child-friendly but it is also safe and clean.
On arrival, we are welcomed with chilled lime juice while check-in takes only 10 minutes, though it’s a busy weekend.
The walk from the reception to our chalet gives an instant good impression that the resort is well-kept, with employees diligently cleaning the garden and pools. Our chalet, overlooking a pool and the beach, is naturally fragranced by pandan leaves planted around it. Dried pandan leaves are placed in the wardrobe and drawers, as well as on the tables inside the room.
Priced at RM200++ per night, it has basic amenities such as a mini fridge, coffee-making facility and safe deposit box. Although telecommunications is weak in the area, patrons stay connected with WiFi.
HEALTHY MEALS
The Balcony Restaurant and Salut Bar on the first floor of the administration building, are open all day.
Watch the sun slowly making its daily cycle from the restaurant balcony. It is also a nice place for star gazing while listening to the sounds of the ocean.
We love the breakfast buffet, not only for its variety but also for its quality. There are healthy choices for our toddler such as low-salt butter sandwiches, baked German sausages and unsweetened pancakes.
On Sundays, the roast buffet lunch is a treat with roast beef, lamb and chicken, as well as in-house-made cheese.
There is a library of about 500 books of different genres at the restaurant located above the lobby. I read a few books to my daughter on a cosy sofa.
Other activities include horse rides, a two-hour sunset cruise on Saturdays, night fishing and a tour to nearby places of attraction.
FAST FACTS
HOTEL
Langkah Syabas Beach Resort, Jalan Papar Baru, Kampung Laut Kinarut, Kinarut, Sabah. Tel: 088-752 000. Website: www.langkahsyabas.com.my
GETTING THERE
Just a 15-minute drive away from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
Tranquil, family-oriented resort overlooking the South China Sea.
FIRST IMPRESSION
Clean.
ROOMS
Chalets: Standard, Superior, Deluxe, Family
Rooms: Deluxe Seaview.
F&B OUTLETS
Balcony Restaurant and Salut Bar.
OVERALL SERVICE
Attentive workers, good food and attractive in-house activities.
PLACES WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE
The beach and a convenience store at a petrol station.
RATES
RM230-RM400.