Three uninhabited islands make up the Mantanani Island, located northwest of Kota Belud and about an hour’s drive from Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah. These islands are about a 55-minute speedboat ride from the mainland Kuala Abai Jetty. Due to the presence of seahorses, imperial shrimps, blue-ringed octopuses, pink-eyed gobbles, and numerous other species of marine life, the three islands of Mantanani Besar, Mantanani Kecil, and Lungisan have become very well-known for muck diving.
Some beautiful bird species you can expect to see on the island include pigeons, sunbirds, and Mantanani scops owls. Those who don’t want to participate in watersports will find many other activities on the island. Throw in a 2.5-kilometre-long white sandy beach and a super laid-back island vibe, and you’ve got yourself an epic tropical gem to explore. So, here are the top 10 most exciting things to do in Mantanani Islands in 2023.
What Is The Best Way To Get To The Mantanani Island?
The best place to land is in Kota Kinabalu if you want to travel directly to the Mantanani Islands after arriving in Sabah. The journey from Kota Kinabalu to Mantanani Besar Island takes approximately 3 hours, including van and speedboat transfers.
Which Island Should I Visit?
Mantanani Besar Island (also known as Mantanani Island) is the largest island in the group. This is the only inhabited island of the three, and thus the one where you will spend the night. Mantanani Kecil and Lungisan are the other two islands. Both of these smaller islands have no accommodation.
10 Best Things To Do In Mantanani Island 2023
1. Snorkelling In Turquoise Waters
The Mantanani Islands are stunning above and below the water, making them more than just a scuba diving destination. Dive into the crystal clear waters of Mantanani Island and marvel at the abundance of fascinating aquatic life swimming there. Floating through the water, you will see numerous fish species and other sea life.
Address: Sabah
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2. Kayaking Around Lungisan Island
Grab a kayak and head into the calm, clear waters to see the amazing marine life. Anyone with no prior experience can enjoy this activity. Rent a kayak from one of the island’s resorts and paddle around the coast. If you’re on the west coast, you might even be able to paddle around nearby Lungisan Island. The calm waters are ideal for kayaking; no prior experience is required.
Address: P975+3V, Besar, 89150 Kampong Mantanani, Sabah
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jskmantanani/
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Refer Info On Website3. Fishing Like A Local Fisherman
The fishing activities are sure to excite both experienced anglers and novices. Enjoy a tranquil afternoon of fishing from a remote island, or learn to fish like the locals. Catching a fish while standing on the gorgeous shoreline of Mantanani Island with your family and friends can be a fantastic experience.
Address: Sabah
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4. Go To Beach Cycling
Several local groups organise island trekking for those who want to explore the surrounding villages and culture. You can join them on a cycling adventure. On wheels, explore Mantanani’s hidden forest and fascinating villages. When you first step onto the sand, you instinctively want to shift your weight to the front.
Don’t, because this will only slow you down and, in rare cases, cause you to flip over. Instead, sit on your seat and lean slightly to the rear to stay on top of your bike to give your back tire some extra traction. Standing up on your bike will immediately bury your wheels, and all you will gain is a faster pulse.
Address: P975+3V, Besar, 89150 Kampong Mantanani, Sabah
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Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jskmantanani/
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View website5. Join A Beach Soccer
Show off your football skills and participate in one of everyone’s favourite beach activities. You are welcome to enjoy a round of this favourite game or organise an impromptu tournament on the beach of Mantanani Island as an excellent way to burn calories and have fun with friends.
Beach soccer is ideal for any football player looking to improve their skill and control while developing leg and core strength. Because of the difficult conditions on the beach, players must expend more energy in each training session, which aids in their strength and endurance.
Address: Sabah
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6. Jumping On Trampoline
If you enjoy adrenaline or want your children to enjoy this fun activity in the middle of the sea, here is the perfect destination for you! Jump on our trampoline in the open ocean or on the beautiful sandy white beach of Mantanani Island to round out your fun experience.
Trampoline jumping can be an exciting way to break up your regular exercise routine while improving your physical fitness. These low-impact exercises can help you gain strength, heart health, and overall stability.
Address: Pulau Mantanani Besar, Kampong Mantanani, Sabah, Kota Belud, 89150, Sabah
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suteraatmantanani/
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View website7. Play Beach Volleyball
Spend a relaxing day in the sun on Mantanani Island. What more fantastic way to spend a pleasant afternoon after a day of refreshing swimming than playing volleyball on Mantanani’s stunning beach? Feel free to compete in thrilling matches against family and friends or to meet new people by competing with them.
Address: Sabah
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8. Go For A Sunset Walk
The sunset on the island is breathtaking. The sky changes beautiful orange, red, and yellow colours, making this the most romantic time of day. Allow them to take you to the most romantic spot on the island, where the sensational evening light streaks across the horizon before dipping behind the ocean, allowing the moon to glow for that romantic ending to your day. At sunset, the western side of the island offers spectacular orange skies.
Address: Sabah
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9. Playing On The Inflatable Water Park
Prepare to jump, slide, and have fun with our mini inflatable seawater park. Making unforgettable memories with loved ones is enjoyable for people of all ages. Try water football, volleyball, water polo, or basketball. Remember that if you’re not first, you’re last. It is available at JSK Mantanani Island Resort.
Address: P975+3V, Besar, 89150 Kampong Mantanani, Sabah
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Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jskmantanani/
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View website10. Mesmerising The Blue Plankton
On a rare magical night, you might witness one of the world’s most enthralling natural phenomena, bioluminescence or Blue Plankton. These incredible visual effects bordering on the supernatural will undoubtedly be one of the most surreal and magical moments ever. The season is from March to the end of July.
Address: Pulau Mantanani Besar, Kampong Mantanani, Sabah, Kota Belud, 89150, Sabah
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Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suteraatmantanani/
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