• The Quill Volcano – This extinct volcano is a hiker’s dream. Climb through lush rainforest to reach its rim and even descend into the crater for an otherworldly forest experience.
• Statia National Marine Park – The entire coastline is a protected marine park with coral reefs, walls, and wrecks. It’s one of the Caribbean’s most underrated dive destinations.
• Oranjestad Historic Lower Town – Wander cobbled lanes past 18th-century warehouses, ruins, and sea walls. This area once made Statia one of the Caribbean’s busiest ports.
• Fort Oranje – Built in the 1600s, this Dutch fort still overlooks the harbor. Cannon-lined walls and scenic views make it perfect for sunset strolls.
• Gallows Bay – Known for its coral reef diving and snorkeling, it's also a place of poignant history, tied to slave trade and early European expansion.
• Berkeley Plantation Ruins – These ruins offer insight into colonial plantation life and the island’s role in global trade. A spot of quiet reflection and history.
• White Wall Trail – A dramatic coastal hike that leads to sweeping views of the ocean and cliffs. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
• Godet House Museum – A small but impactful museum telling the story of Statia through exhibits on slavery, archaeology, and maritime trade.
• Statia’s Botanical Garden – Managed by STENAPA, the garden showcases native and medicinal plants, and offers shaded trails with birdwatching spots.
• Statia Dive Sites (Blue Bead Hole & Charles Brown wreck) – These are world-class diving spots. The Charles Brown is a deep wreck, while Blue Bead Hole is famous for ancient glass beads tied to local legend.

• Rent a car or pickup — taxis are few, and walking in the heat can be tough on long roads.
• There are no chain hotels — instead, find charming guesthouses and eco-lodges.
• The Statia Blue Bead is considered lucky — if you find one while diving, you're said to return.
• Internet can be slow — embrace the digital detox, especially in nature.
• Pack bug spray for hikes, especially around The Quill’s base.
• Don’t miss local “Statian” food — try goat stew, Johnny cakes, and saltfish.
• Oranjestad's shops may close midday — plan errands and eating early.
• Learn a few phrases in Dutch or Statian English — locals appreciate the effort.
• Water is precious — conservation is part of island culture.
• Join a community event or church service for a taste of local life.

• Statia Carnival (July) – A colorful celebration of music, dance, and Caribbean pride. Expect road parades, soca competitions, and nighttime revelry.
• Statia Day (November 16) – Commemorates the island’s recognition of the U.S. in 1776. Parades, speeches, fireworks, and national pride fill the streets.
• Emancipation Day (July 1) – Marked with cultural events, educational activities, and performances honoring the end of slavery.
• Sea & Learn (October) – A unique eco-festival featuring guest scientists, educational workshops, and guided nature excursions for all ages.

What is Lankayan Island known for?
Lankayan is known for its world-class diving, sea turtle conservation, and tranquil, eco-conscious atmosphere. As part of a protected marine reserve, the island is home to vibrant coral reefs, whale sharks, and over 30 dive sites.

Is the island a good destination for families?
Yes, especially for families who love nature and marine adventures. The island is safe, car-free, and peaceful, with shallow water areas perfect for kids, though older children will enjoy it most if they can snorkel or dive.

Is the island safe for tourists?
Extremely safe. The island is remote, monitored by marine authorities, and staffed by professionals who prioritize guest well-being. There’s virtually no crime on the island.

Do you need a visa to visit?
Malaysia grants visa-free entry for up to 90 days to citizens of many countries, including those from the EU, UK, US, Canada, and Australia. Always check current visa regulations based on your nationality.

What’s the best way to get to the island?
Fly to Sandakan Airport (SDK), then take a land transfer to Sandakan Yacht Club, where a 90-minute speedboat arranged by the resort will take you directly to Lankayan Island.

Should I rent a car on the island?
No — the island is car-free with no roads. Everything is connected by sand paths and wooden boardwalks, and you’ll get around barefoot or in flip-flops.

Is the island wheelchair accessible?
Partially. Some walkways and common areas are accessible, and the staff is helpful, but not all accommodations or beaches may suit all mobility needs. It's best to confirm accessibility directly with the resort in advance.

What are the island’s most famous landmarks?
The Lankayan House Reef is a top attraction, along with the turtle hatchery, jetty sunset viewpoint, and vibrant coral gardens around the island. Divers especially love the artificial reef structures and small wrecks offshore.

What are the best beaches on the island?
Every beach on Lankayan is pristine. As a tiny coral island, it’s ringed with soft white sands and turquoise lagoons perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

What’s unique about Lankayan’s wildlife?
Lankayan lies in the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area (SIMCA), so wildlife is abundant and protected. You’ll find nesting sea turtles, reef sharks, seahorses, manta rays, nudibranchs, and even whale sharks during peak months. On land, monitor lizards, hermit crabs, and birds roam freely.

What traditional foods should you try?
Meals are served buffet-style with Malaysian, Chinese, and Western fusion. Try Sabahan seafood, rendang (spicy beef stew), roti canai, pineapple curry, and banana fritters for dessert.

Can you drink tap water?
No, tap water isn’t drinkable, but the resort provides filtered and refillable drinking water. Bottled water is also available if preferred.

What’s the nightlife like?
Nightlife is minimal and nature-focused. Expect peaceful evenings under the stars, night snorkeling, turtle hatchling releases, or simply sipping a cocktail on your deck listening to the ocean.

How can I stay connected to the internet?
Wi-Fi is available in the resort’s lounge area, but connectivity is limited. Most visitors embrace the digital detox and disconnect for a more immersive nature experience.

What souvenirs should you bring home?
There are no shops on the island, but you can find souvenirs like handcrafted turtle carvings, bead jewelry, and eco-merch in Sandakan before or after your island stay. Your best souvenir, though, will be the memories and photos.

• George Washington – Though never visited, he acknowledged Statia’s early recognition of American independence.
• Johan Heyliger – Dutch governor of Statia during the 1776 salute to the U.S. ship.
• President Franklin D. Roosevelt – The island’s airport is named after him; he commemorated Statia’s role in American history.
• Michael Ferrier – Prominent Statian-born Dutch politician and economist.
• Earl Merkman – A community activist and popular local leader in Oranjestad.
• Alida Francis – Government commissioner and key figure in promoting Statia’s autonomy and development.
• Henriquez de Pina – Former commissioner and historian preserving Statia’s cultural heritage.
• Ivy Chrichlow – Cultural ambassador known for promoting Statian folk music and oral history.
• Glenn Schmidt – Legendary dive master and early advocate of Statia’s marine park.
• Tara La Fontaine – Local artist blending Caribbean and Dutch influences in painting and pottery.