Mantanani Islands is a group of three isolated islands located northwest of Kota Belud, about an hour’s drive from the state capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. These islands are approximately 45 minutes boat-ride by speedboat from the mainland (depending on sea conditions).

The islands boast of crystal clear blue waters filled with a myriad of marine life and white sandy beaches fringed by coconut palm trees making it an excellent destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, or island hopping.

One of the main reasons that the Mantanani Islands have recently attracted many visitors, local and tourists alike are because of a special creature called ‘dugong’ or sea cow that resides around the island. Dugong sightings are not guaranteed as these mammals are very shy and will distance themselves, especially at the sight of crowds. In addition, dugongs’ population is on the brink of extinction so you have to be extremely lucky to be able to spot one!