Mantanani Islands is a group of three isolated islands northwest of Kota Belud (06-42.8N / 116-18.3E), or about an hour's drive from the state capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. Although only approximately an hour's boat-ride by speedboat from the mainland, the islands are a reminder of an earlier and simpler place and era. Time slows down here amidst the crystal clear blue waters lapping on white sandy beaches.

Until recently, the islands were only known to a few locals. The surrounding waters offer splendid fishing and scuba diving adventures.

Sailfish and marlin are the main quarry of sport fishermen in these waters. Scuba divers come here for the underwater wrecks, which still hold plenty of the secrets from the day they first settled on the sea floor.

These wrecks are now home to a menagerie of marine creatures and an unrivaled marine photo studio. For the novice scuba diver, the coral reefs of these islands offer some of the best scuba diving this side of Sabah.  The largest island houses the only dive resort, 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 house.

Three wrecks have been discovered which still hold plenty of secrets and are now home to a menagerie of marine creatures such as Lionfish, Scorpion fish, octopus, glassfish and the coral reefs surrounding the islands have plenty to offer, both the novice and experienced diver. Many species of rays can be found. Marbled stingray. Blue spotted ray and large schools of eagle rays.