Cover Sunset at Sutera@Mantanani Island Spa & Resort

Two intimate, picturesque island resorts in Sabah await holiday seekers looking for pristine aquamarine waters teeming with life, tranquil beachfront chalets, and a hearty dose of sun and sea

Sabah is famed for its idyllic sunsets, breathtaking islands, and world-famous dive sites. To experience oceanic nature in all its glory in a secluded setting, holidaymakers who value peace and privacy should consider staying at a premium resort on one of the state’s more intimate islands.

See also: Plan A Staycation At One Of These Beautiful Island Resorts In Malaysia

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges, Manukan Island

Tatler Asia
Above An aerial of Sutera Sanctuary Lodges on Manukan Island

Located just 15 minutes by boat off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges on Manukan Island lives up to its name. Premium villas and suites overlooking the pristine South China Sea waters are the main draws, with three sizeable lodgings to opt for.

Couples who desire a commanding view of the Tatler surrounding waters will love the 880 sq ft Hillside Villas with an outdoor patio, perfect for lazing and enjoying a sundowner. To get up close and personal with nature, there’s the 456 sq ft Beach Suite with quick access to sand and sea, also tailored for those seeking a romantic rendezvous.

Tatler Asia
Above Beach Suite at Sutera Sanctuary Lodges

Bigger groups can look forward to the sizeable 1,512 sq ft Manukan Villa. This villa features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a pantry, shared toilet, and a living area for up to six people to bask in the island’s bounties.

When not soaking up the sun, travellers can participate in the resort’s extensive list of water activities, with diving, snorkelling and parasailing being popular choices. Sutera Sanctuary Lodges also has two restaurants—one specialising in barbecued seafood and the other in western Asian—to satisfy that ravenous appetite after a day of beach fun.

Specially for Tatler readers
Use promo code Tatler15 to get 15 per cent discount for online bookings on its official website.

Sutera@Mantanani Island Spa & Resort, Mantanani Island

Tatler Asia
Above The premium chalet at Sutera@Mantanani Island Spa & Resort

This gem of a resort spa on Mantanani Island is a scuba divers paradise, boasting underwater visibility of up to 40 metres and access to over 16 different dive sites home to a rich cast of aquatic life. Other popular recreational activities at the resort include ATV rides, kayaking, kite flying, seaside fishing, and long sunset walks.

When not exploring the sea, travellers can pamper themselves at the resort’s signature spa, Bali-Bali Massage that, as its name suggests, focuses on delivering holistic and relaxing Balinese treatments. Expect blissful body massages and wellness
treatments that marry traditional techniques with scientific research to mend the body and mind. 

Sun seekers with a penchant for beachside luxury will find solace at either the premium or beach chalets, both lovingly built with tropical hardwood by local islanders. Expansive bay windows deliver access to sweeping views of the beach and sea that’s mere metres away. The chalet’s lofty architectural design also helps trap the ocean breeze to keep guests cool during the day. Each chalet also comes with its own private balcony for further seclusion, with the option to opt for full board meals at the resort’s restaurant and bar, giving you the chance to fully indulge in your precious time off.

Specially for Tatler readers:
From as low as RM700 nett for a minimum two-night stay, guests can enjoy a complimentary steamboat dinner for two, return sea transfers and a 20 per cent discount off massage treatments at Bali-Bali Massage. Book now here and use promo code TTR22.

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