Are you looking for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to experience the tranquility and serenity of nature? Do you want to explore the rich and diverse marine life of the Coral Triangle? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should definitely visit Mantanani Islands, a hidden gem in the heart of Sabah, Malaysia.
Mantanani Islands are a group of three small islands located off the coast of Kota Belud, about 80 km north-west of Kota Kinabalu. The islands are named Mantanani Besar, Mantanani Kecil, and Lungisan. They are surrounded by crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush green forests. The islands are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered dugong, or sea cow, which is the island’s mascot.
Mantanani Islands offer a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you want to relax on the beach, snorkel or dive in the coral reefs, kayak or fish in the lagoon, hike or bike in the jungle, or enjoy the local culture and cuisine, you will find something to suit your taste and budget. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Mantanani Islands, from how to reach, when to visit, where to stay, and what to do. Read on and get ready to plan your dream vacation!
How to Reach Mantanani Islands
The easiest and fastest way to reach Mantanani Islands is by air. You can fly to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, or other major cities in Asia. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Kota Belud, which is about an hour and a half drive. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive yourself to Kota Belud, which will give you more flexibility and convenience.
Once you reach Kota Belud, you will need to take a boat to Mantanani Islands. The boat ride takes about an hour and costs around RM 70 per person for a round trip. You can book your boat ticket in advance through your accommodation provider or a local tour operator. The boat departs from the jetty at Kampung Kuala Abai, which is about 15 minutes drive from Kota Belud town. The boat schedule may vary depending on the weather and tide conditions, so it is advisable to check with your boat operator before your departure.
Some tips and recommendations on how to reach Mantanani Islands are:
1. The best time to travel by boat is in the morning, when the sea is calm and the visibility is good.
2. The boat ride can be bumpy and wet, so make sure you wear comfortable clothes, shoes, and a waterproof jacket. You may also want to bring some motion sickness pills if you are prone to seasickness.
3. The boat has limited space and weight capacity, so pack light and only bring the essentials. You can leave your extra luggage at the jetty or your hotel in Kota Belud.
4. The boat does not have a toilet, so make sure you use the restroom before you board.
5. The boat does not have a life jacket for every passenger, so if you are concerned about safety, you may want to bring your own.
When to Visit Mantanani Islands
Mantanani Islands have a tropical climate, with warm and humid weather throughout the year. The average temperature is around 28°C, and the average rainfall is around 250 mm per month. The islands have two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
The dry season runs from March to October, and is the best time to visit Mantanani Islands. The weather is sunny and dry, the sea is calm and clear, and the visibility is excellent. This is the ideal time for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities. The dry season is also the peak season for tourism, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
The wet season runs from November to February, and is the least favorable time to visit Mantanani Islands. The weather is rainy and windy, the sea is rough and murky, and the visibility is poor. This is the worst time for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities. The wet season is also the low season for tourism, so expect fewer crowds and lower prices.
Some advice and suggestions on when to visit Mantanani Islands are:
The best months to visit Mantanani Islands are April, May, June, and September, when the weather is optimal and the tourism is moderate.
The worst months to visit Mantanani Islands are December, January, and February, when the weather is unfavorable and the tourism is minimal.
The most popular months to visit Mantanani Islands are July, August, and October, when the weather is good and the tourism is high.
The most festive months to visit Mantanani Islands are March and November, when the islands celebrate the Harvest Festival and the Dugong Festival, respectively.
The most economical months to visit Mantanani Islands are November, December, January, and February, when the prices are low and the discounts are high.
What to Do in Mantanani Islands
Mantanani Islands have something for everyone, from relaxing on the beach to exploring the underwater world. Here are some of the activities and experiences that you can enjoy in Mantanani Islands:
Snorkeling:
Snorkeling is one of the most popular and accessible activities in Mantanani Islands. You can snorkel from the shore or join a boat trip to the nearby reefs. You will be amazed by the variety and abundance of marine life, such as corals, fish, turtles, rays, and even dugongs. Snorkeling equipment is available for rent or purchase at most resorts and tour operators. Snorkeling is suitable for all ages and skill levels, as long as you can swim and breathe through a snorkel.
Diving:
Diving is another must-do activity in Mantanani Islands. You can dive from the shore or join a boat trip to the deeper and more diverse sites. You will be impressed by the beauty and complexity of the underwater landscape, such as walls, slopes, pinnacles, and wrecks. You will also encounter some of the rare and exotic creatures, such as seahorses, nudibranchs, frogfish, and ghost pipefish. Diving equipment and courses are available for rent or enrolment at most resorts and dive centers. Diving is suitable for intermediate and advanced divers, as some of the sites have strong currents and low visibility.
Kayaking:
Kayaking is a fun and relaxing way to explore the lagoon and the mangroves of Mantanani Islands. You can kayak on your own or join a guided tour to learn more about the ecology and history of the islands. You will enjoy the scenic views and the peaceful atmosphere, as well as the chance to spot some of the wildlife, such as birds, monkeys, and crabs. Kayaking equipment and tours are available for rent or booking at most resorts and tour operators. Kayaking is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as long as you can paddle and balance on a kayak.
Fishing:
Fishing is a traditional and rewarding activity in Mantanani Islands. You can fish from the shore or join a boat trip to the more productive spots. You will have the opportunity to catch some of the local and seasonal fish, such as grouper, snapper, barracuda, and mackerel. You can also learn some of the fishing techniques and tips from the experienced and friendly fishermen. Fishing equipment and trips are available for rent or booking at most resorts and tour operators. Fishing is suitable for all ages and skill levels, as long as you have patience and luck.
Hiking:
Hiking is a great way to discover the natural and cultural heritage of Mantanani Islands. You can hike on your own or join a guided tour to visit some of the attractions and landmarks of the islands, such as the lighthouse, the cemetery, the village, and the school. You will appreciate the flora and fauna, the architecture and art, and the lifestyle and customs of the islands. Hiking equipment and tours are available for rent or booking at most resorts and tour operators. Hiking is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as long as you can walk and climb on uneven terrain.
Where to Stay in Mantanani Islands
Mantanani Islands have a limited but diverse range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. Here are some of the accommodation options that you can choose from in Mantanani Islands:
Resorts:
Resorts are the most comfortable and convenient option in Mantanani Islands. They offer spacious and cozy rooms, with amenities such as air-conditioning, hot water, and Wi-Fi. They also provide facilities such as restaurants, bars, pools, spas, and shops. They also organize activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Some of the resorts in Mantanani Islands are Mantanani Island Resort, Mari Mari Mantanani Resort, and Sutera @ Mantanani Island Resort & Spa.
Hotels:
Hotels are the most affordable and accessible option in Mantanani Islands. They offer basic and clean rooms, with amenities such as fans, cold water, and electricity. They also provide services such as meals, transfers, and tours. They also arrange activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Some of the hotels in Mantanani Islands are Mantanani Paradise Resort, Mantanani Garden Resort, and Mantanani Island Hotel.
Hostels:
Hostels are the most social and adventurous option in Mantanani Islands. They offer dormitory-style and private rooms, with shared facilities such as bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges. They also provide opportunities to meet and mingle with other travelers, locals, and volunteers. They also organize activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Some of the hostels in Mantanani Islands are Mantanani Backpackers Lodge, Mantanani Island Hostel, and Mantanani Island Volunteer House.
Homestays:
Homestays are the most authentic and immersive option in Mantanani Islands. They offer a chance to stay with a local family, in their traditional house, and experience their daily life. They also provide meals, transfers, and tours. They also introduce you to the culture, history, and customs of the islands. Some of the homestays in Mantanani Islands are Mantanani Homestay, Mantanani Village Homestay, and Mantanani Island Homestay.
Mantanani Islands are a hidden gem in the heart of Sabah, Malaysia. They are a perfect destination for travelers who love nature, adventure, and culture. They offer a range of activities and attractions, from relaxing on the beach to exploring the underwater world. They also have a variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. If you are looking for a tropical paradise that is off the beaten path, then you should definitely visit Mantanani Islands. You will not regret it!
If you are interested in booking your trip to Mantanani Islands, or want to learn more about the islands, you can visit our website or contact us. We are a trusted and experienced travel agency that specializes in Mantanani Islands. We can help you plan your itinerary, arrange your transportation, book your accommodation, and organize your activities. We can also provide you with expert advice, tips, and recommendations. We are here to make your dream vacation come true!
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