The most incredible aspect was definitely the ocean explorations included with our stay. We were taken to fantastic, pristine underwater worlds teeming with diverse marine life and spectacular coral formations it was genuinely inspiring. Our lodging was exceptionally comfortable, meticulously maintained, and thoughtfully supplied with everything needed for a relaxing time. I particularly enjoyed the tranquil, spacious environment, which was a refreshing change from bustling tourist spots, and the warm, welcoming demeanor of the team members created a wonderfully laid back ambiance. There was also a wide array of engaging pursuits available, from shore activities to underwater adventures, ensuring constant enjoyment. The overall experience represented outstanding worth for an authentic island retreat.

The only minor point to note is that the ocean journey to the island can sometimes be a bit bumpy. While it's a small trade off for such an isolated paradise, it's worth being aware of.

We just checked out from Sutera @ Mantanani, and honestly, it's a true hidden gem. This resort offers exceptional value, a serene atmosphere, and absolutely fantastic experiences that completely exceeded our expectations. What I loved most were the complimentary boat snorkeling excursions. They took us to stunning, untouched coral reefs bursting with vibrant marine life, providing a simply breathtaking underwater spectacle. Our Deluxe Twin room was incredibly comfortable, spotlessly clean, and thoughtfully equipped with all the amenities we needed for a relaxing stay. The resort itself boasts a great variety of activities, from engaging beach sports to exciting diving opportunities at their recreation center, ensuring there’s always something enjoyable to do. The uncrowded atmosphere and the genuinely friendly staff created a wonderfully relaxed vibe, a refreshing change from the hustle and commercialism of more popular destinations. While the sea conditions on the way to the island can be a little uneven, the unparalleled beauty and peaceful experience once you arrive on Mantanani is unequivocally worth it. This truly is Sabah’s best-kept secret for an authentic island escape.

While the sea conditions on the way to the island can be a little uneven, the incredible experience once you arrive at Sutera @ Mantanani is absolutely worth it

A Hidden Gem That Deserves More Attention – Way Better Than Overrated Semporna! We just checked out from Sutera @ Mantanani, and honestly, I can’t believe more people don’t talk about this place! It’s a true hidden gem – completely underrated compared to the overhyped and overpriced Semporna trips. Unlike Semporna operators that charge excessively for every little thing, Sutera @ Mantanani includes a lot in their package, and the experience was far more relaxed and personal. The hotel provided free snorkeling trips, and we were brought out by boat to beautiful, untouched spots with amazing corals and colorful fishes – simply breathtaking! Our room package included 1 high tea, which was a nice surprise. Just note that different packages come with different inclusions – ours didn’t have dinner, but that was totally fine. We absolutely loved the room setup – cozy, clean, and the bed was super comfortable. There’s honestly so much more to do here than expected. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore marine life, or just enjoy a quieter, more authentic island escape, Mantanani is a great choice. Highly recommend it to anyone looking to skip the crowds and commercialized experience in Semporna. Sutera @ Mantanani is Sabah’s best-kept secret!

Location was absolutely stunning, secluded, peaceful, and surrounded by crystal clear waters. It felt like a private island escape. The beachfront views were unbeatable! The snorkelling experience was a highlight! Just a short boat ride from the shore, we saw coral reefs and plenty of tropical fish. Great for nature lovers. Everything felt peaceful and unhurried. No crowds, no stress, just beautiful scenery, good food and total relaxation. It’s the perfect place to disconnect.

The boat ride can be a bit bumpy, just something to be prepared for!

High ceiling chalet. Friendly staffs.

No Life guards. Swim at your own risk.

The room is beautiful. The bed was very comfortable. I was given a seaview room. It was heavenly. The view was just stunning. My friend had food poisoning while staying there (nor from their food). One staff, I forgot her name, but she wore glasses and is very fair, was very hepful. She was one of the reception people. She helped get medication for my friend. Very kind of her. Also, a reptile came into our room and their staff took the trouble to chase away the animal promptly.

The menu at the restaurant is rather limited for this type of quality resort. They don't even have pizza! The breakfast menu was also quite limited. No fresh juices. There were also stray dogs that goes everywhere. Even at the restaurants and lobby. This is not hygienic for a resort like this.

+ staying at an island like this was an amazing experience, also a beautiful view on Mt Kinabalu + Excellent staff + Restaurant was good, both a la carte and the breakfast + Comfortable big bed, spacious bedroom + Free boat return transfer

- Multiple bathrooms were shown on the pictures, we had one that looked less good and could really do with some renovation - Public toilets and showers were pretty old and dirty - There were some cows from the village walking on the resort, which I didn’t mind but they left poop and it wasn’t cleaned by the staff

Only stayed one night but puas hati gila! Our room was right on the beach — open the door, terus beach depan mata. Snorkelling was free, we kayaked, rode the ATV, and even flew a kite just for fun. The island was calm, peaceful, and the staff were super friendly. One night really not enough bah… confirm will come back again, next time stay longer!

Ocean view. Relaxed atmosphere. Lots of activities - attending the snorkelling session in the morning was fantastic, where you get taken off the island and get to explore the live colourful coral and shoals of fish. I’d read previous reviews about plastic littering the island but it was very clear the resort were doing as much as they could to reduce this and the staff were picking up the plastic whenever they saw it. The staff were great on the trips and in the resort, nothing was too much of an ask and they always went the extra mile.

Nothing.

We stayed in a premium chalet which was gorgeous, very spacious and secure. The location and beach were both amazing. There are a wide range of activities that you can engage in, such as snorkelling and kayaking which are both complimentary, among others that are either complimentary or come at a small surcharge. The food was very good in the restaurant, the staff were all super friendly and helpful! We didn't go for the full board, just breakfast and we were glad we did as the al a carte menu was really good and really affordable. Unless you are used to the local cuisine I'd recommend the same.

We got the land transfer organised by Sutera from KK, we were disappointed to have to wait another hour at the jetty to get the boat over. Time keeping in general could have been better for the transport, however, it's a small issue that didn't take away from our stay.