Mantanani Island Getaway by TYH Borneo Tours
Nestled off the northwest coast of Sabah, Borneo, Mantanani Island is a hidden gem offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking scenery. Often overshadowed by more famous destinations like Sipadan, this tropical paradise remains relatively untouched—perfect for travellers seeking serenity, adventure, and natural beauty.
At TYH Borneo Tours, we create unforgettable Mantanani Island experiences, from snorkelling among coral reefs to exploring underwater shipwrecks. Whether you’re a diving enthusiast, beach lover, or a photographer chasing stunning views, Mantanani has something for everyone.
Why Mantanani Island Should Be Your Next Getaway
1. Pristine Beaches & Unspoiled Nature
Mantanani Island is a group of three islands—Mantanani Besar (Big Mantanani), Mantanani Kecil (Small Mantanani), and Lungisan Island. What makes them special?
Powdery white sand beaches with almost no crowds
Turquoise waters so clear you can see marine life from the surface
Lush coconut palms swaying along the shore
Unlike commercialised beach destinations, Mantanani retains its raw charm, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle.
2. World-Class Snorkelling Spots
The waters around Mantanani are teeming with marine biodiversity, offering some of the best snorkelling in Sabah:
Coral Gardens – Hard and soft corals, clownfish, and parrotfish
Sea Turtle Encounters – Green and Hawksbill turtles are spotted frequently
Underwater Shipwrecks – A WWII wreck attracting schools of fish
Our snorkelling packages include guided trips with experienced instructors, ensuring you explore the best spots safely.
3. Exciting Scuba Diving Adventures
For certified divers, Mantanani offers exceptional underwater adventures:
Mantanani Wreck – A sunken fishing boat turned artificial reef with barracudas, batfish, and moray eels
Deep Coral Reefs – Sites like “Coral Paradise” with stunning coral walls
Muck Diving – Spot rare critters like frogfish, seahorses, and nudibranchs
Beginners can also try Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) with our professional instructors.
4. Breathtaking Views & Photography Hotspots
Beyond its underwater beauty, Mantanani offers picture-perfect landscapes:
360° Island Views – Climb Mantanani Kecil’s small hill for panoramic sea vistas
Stunning Sunsets – West-facing beaches offer golden-hour magic
Drone-Worthy Scenes – White sand, turquoise water, and lush palms create a dreamlike contrast
5. Unique Cultural Experience with the Bajau Laut (Sea Gypsies)
Mantanani is home to the Bajau Laut, a seafaring community with deep traditions:
Visit a traditional stilt village over the water
Learn their fishing and boat-making techniques
Support local crafts by purchasing handmade souvenirs
This cultural connection enriches your island adventure with authenticity and meaning.
Best Time to Visit Mantanani Island
Dry Season (March–October) – Calm seas, clear waters, and optimal snorkelling/diving
Monsoon Season (November–February) – Rough seas may limit boat trips
TYH Borneo Tours ensures safe, enjoyable trips year-round with weather updates before departure.
How to Get to Mantanani Island
From Kota Kinabalu → 1.5-hour drive to Kuala Abai Jetty → 45-minute speedboat ride to Mantanani.
Private transfers can be arranged through TYH Borneo Tours for a smooth journey.
Why Choose TYH Borneo Tours for Your Mantanani Trip?
✅ Expert Local Guides – Skilled in marine life and safety
✅ All-Inclusive Packages – Snorkelling, diving, meals, and transport covered
✅ Eco-Friendly Practices – Promoting responsible tourism to protect Mantanani’s beauty
✅ Customizable Itineraries – Private tours, photography trips, and family-friendly options
