PULAU MANTANANI

Pulau Mantanani or Mantanani Islands is a group of three islands northwest of Kota Belud, or about 80 km north (an hours drive) from Kota Kinabalu. Isolated and until recently, relatively unknown, and surrounded by crystal clear blue waters lapping on white sandy beaches, they offer excellent scuba diving adventures. The coral reefs surrounding the islands have plenty to offer for both novice and experienced divers as there are more than 20 dive sites, each ready to reveal deep secrets of a world home to a host
of exotic marine life.

The Mantanani Resort, The largest island houses the only dive resort, the Mantanani Resort, which is situated at the western end on the edge of a white sandy bay. Nestled amongst the tall coconut palms are beach cabins scattered around the main plantation styled resort. These large and comfortable cabins come with attached bathrooms and air conditioning. The resort also offers activities like: Snorkelling, bird watching, kayaking, "kampung" walks, bottom fishing.

The Dugongs, Among the underwater attraction are the resident dugongs (sea cows) of whom Nicky’ the dugong is creating waves and making friends with all divers / snorkellers visiting Mantanani Island. The resident dugong has been spotted almost daily by divers diving near the island. This young male dugong is about 7 feet in length and gets his name from the small cut or "nick" in his left tail. All the guests were strongly urged by the trained divers of Scuba Paradise to keep their distance from the playful dugong.