Mantanani Island: Sabah’s Mermaid Lagoon

#kotakinabaluguide Located 90 minutes from Kota Belud, this crescent-shaped archipelago (3 islands) is famed for its Miami-blue waters, powder-white sandbars, and legendary dugong sightings that inspired its "Mermaid Island" nickname. Why It’s Special 🧜♀️ Dugong Habitat – Spot these shy "sea mermaids" while snorkeling (best March-October) 🐠 Underwater Galaxy – 20+ dive sites with ghost pipefish, mandarinfish & occasional whale sharks 🏝️ Deserted Beaches*– Walk the 1km sandbar connecting islands at low tide 📸 Instagram Legend – That iconic lone swing over turquoise waters 🌴 Best Time: Dry season (March-September)