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A PLACE IN THE SUNASIA’S SECRET BEACHES

Asia is a favourite destination for sun-seekers out to quench their thirst for the sun-sea-sand

combo. Since the region is blessed with pristine beaches matching its tropical weather, the

visitors come in droves. However, unlike the Balis, Phukets and Boracays of the world, some

seaside locales somehow remain as secrets or are simply exclusive, enjoyed only by a chosen

few. Take your place in deserted stretches of beach set in unspoilt tropical locales and spend

days frolicking in precious privacy. Hidden from the crowds, these gloriously secluded Asian

destinations are your hideouts this season – a la Tom Hanks in Castaway but with room service.

WORDS BY SJ ROXAS

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EL NIDO, PHILIPPINESSure, Palawan has been on the travel radar for some time

now, making the rounds of best-beach lists. The naturally

rich province on the westernmost portion of the Philippines

is impossible to ignore, and El Nido, a municipality situated

on the northern tip of the main island, has some of the most

alluring sites with rock and limestone formations rising out

of aquamarine waters.

The nearest public airport is a six-hour drive away, making

the town a challenge to reach for some tourists. The long

land journey is not always a catch as it helps control the

number of visitors, leaving those who do venture to this

tropical haven with more freedom and privacy. This is also

one of the many reasons why it is best to entrust your

getaway to El Nido Resorts, which conveniently offers

assistance in booking direct flights between Manila and El

Nido through a partner airline. And with four eco-resorts

located in separate islands, every discerning wanderer

is spoilt for choice. Apulit offers absolute seclusion,

Pangulasian thrives on bespoke luxury and Miniloc charms

with its rustic, natural allure, while Lagen Island Resort

has everything in equal proportions, making it a fine choice

when immersing in varying island experiences both for kids

and adults.

Boasting an environment of calm, azure waters, ivory

beaches, lush forests and majestic limestone cliffs, El Nido

Lagen positions you in the middle of a natural wonderland

with nature’s best within your reach. Even the most

experienced divers will agree that the place is breathtakingly

beautiful from varying perspectives. Palawan is long known

for its world-class dive spots and the resort is certainly an

excellent base when finding out for yourself what the buzz

is about. Lagen is a PADI-approved resort, offering a full

line of diving equipment and services, giving you as much

convenience when inspecting the surrounding reefs.

Above the surf, Bacuit Bay is literally at your doorstep

through El Nido Lagen’s Water Cottages. Individually

standing on stilts, these magnificent accommodation units

line the sides of the secluded cove that the resort inhabits.

For the best views and utmost privacy, take the farthest

cottage from the shore on the north wing and open up to

a coastal vista that’s simply alluring at any time of the day.

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As a guest of El Nido Lagen, one of the many privileges is

exclusive access to the property’s beach clubs at Entalula

Island and Dibuluan Island, where water sports such as

Hobie Cat sailing and windsurfing are the highlights along

with sumptuous lunches and cocktails. But these spots are

only two of the countless reasons why you must venture

further afield.

El Nido is a gold mine of natural riches, so take any

opportunity to commune with its treasures including some

of its wild residents. What seems like a regular afternoon of

kayaking may lead to the discovery of obscured caves, while

a trek that winds through the forest and leads to a private

cove will most likely yield sightings of Palawan hornbills

and macaques that will surely amuse the little ones. Be

careful not to cause any harm to any of the local wildlife,

but do take notes of such encounters to participate in the

resort’s wildlife monitoring initiative. As El Nido Resorts is

a staunch advocate of the environment, nature protection

and conservation programmes are in place in Lagen and the

rest of the properties.There are 45 islands and islets in El Nido, so it’s best to

book the resort’s guided eco tours and leave it to the local

experts to show you around. After all, with the bounty of

attractions in the area, you’d want to maximise your trip

with a carefully curated itinerary. The breathtaking Big and

Small Lagoons are not to be missed for the clear, cerulean

waters and imposing limestone formations. Also make time

for the spectacular Secret Beach and Lagen Island’s Cove

Two, which are ideal sites for endless beachcombing.

Come sundown, a pre-arranged dinner at the nearby

Snake Island sandbar is a definite highlight of your El

Nido interlude. The elation upon seeing a dramatic scene

of candles illuminating a dinner set-up in the middle of a

deserted beach under a ceiling of stars is incomparable. Just

when you think the night’s spectacle is over, it gets better

on your way back to the resort. Observe the water carefully

and soon enough you’ll notice the tiny specs of light emitted

by bioluminescent planktons – a magical experience that’s

certainly one for the books.

From the cold towels and drinks upon arrival, to the time

the staff gather at the dock, singing and waving goodbye

until you’re out of sight, El Nido tirelessly delivers a kind

hospitality reminiscent of family and a rare type of luxury

that could only flourish in an unspoilt natural haven.

Previous page: Aerial view of El Nido Lagen Island Resort

This page:

Top to bottom: Tour at the Big Lagoon; Water Cottages; Sandbar Dinner

Opposite page:

Top to bottom: Aerial view of Batu Batu;

One of the villas’ private terrace overlooking the South China Sea

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PULAU TENGAH, MALAYSIAWhether you’re going away to reflect or to celebrate, nothing

is quite like the allure of the ocean. Imagine having an entire

stretch of beach all to yourself, giving you all the freedom to

relax or run about. Now, imagine there are eight beaches to

choose from – one for every day of the week plus another

extra for good measure. Wouldn’t that be the best dilemma to

contemplate or reason to celebrate?

Eight beaches. One island. Countless possibilities. Somewhere

in the South China Sea lies Pulau Tengah where Batu Batu, a

boutique island resort, offers all the island space and privacy you

could ever need. From the town of Mersing in Johor, Malaysia,

which is approximately 120 km from Singapore and about 350

km from Kuala Lumpur, a 20-minute speedboat ride takes you

to the barely inhabited island. White sand beaches dotted by

dramatic rock formations and verdant greenery greet every

visitor upon arrival, turning even the most cynical of travellers to

romantics almost instantly. Secluded, quiet and luxurious, Batu

Batu is like a secret that only a few beach-loving couples and

families from some parts of Europe, Australia, North America

and Asia are in on.

As remote as it is, this island resort delivers more than

just the basics when it comes to accommodations. Each of

the 20 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom villas comes

with a view of the sea and are equipped with thoughtful

conveniences including a standalone bathtub, rain shower,

solar hot water heaters and wireless Internet connection for

those special moments that just cannot wait to be shared.

The Two-Bedroom Poolside Villas and One-Bedroom Beach

Villas are best for families for the generous space and the

proximity to either the pool or the beach, but if you’re looking

for a more intimate retreat, stay in one of the Ocean Villas

tucked away from the rest of the resort. With spectacular

sea views – even from your four-poster bed – and nothing

but the sound of crashing waves filling the air, this space is

an absolute love nest.

Since Batu Batu is an advocate of responsible tourism and is

the only development on Pulau Tengah, the natural elements

of the place are well-preserved. In fact, the thriving wildlife

that co-inhabit the island serve as a natural attraction,

offering guests rare encounters with dolphins, reef sharks,

sea cows, otters and about a hundred species of birds. So

in between visits to the eight beaches around, fill your time

with jungle walks, snorkelling trips, diving adventures and

guided tours to neighbouring deserted islands. The more

you get lost in and around Batu Batu, the more amazing

experiences you’ll find.

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PULAU REDANG, MALAYSIATime is indeed the ultimate luxury, so during instances when

that strong urge to get away kicks in but you simply cannot

spare too many hours travelling, it's good to have a go-to

location that, while still accessible, is not overrun by tourists.

This is when Pulau Redang comes in, the largest among a

cluster of islands off the east coast of Malaysia. The most

coveted address on the island comes in the form of The

Taaras, a private beach residence far removed from crowds,

treading the thin line between exclusivity and accessibility.

By air, the island is less than an hour away from Kuala

Lumpur and Singapore, replacing buildings with palm

trees and highways with sandy beaches in no time.

You can also charter a private yacht or helicopter

for a journey that’s bound to be a highlight in itself.

Surrounded by the South China Sea, the island is a precious

gem floating amidst varying shades of blue. On one of its more

isolated areas, The Taaras is sprawled on a privileged spot

with a pristine bay right to its front. The resort structures are

tucked amidst rainforest greens, giving guests ample privacy.

There are 184 rooms and suites on offer, but the resort’s

five-bedroom Private Villa is the best bet for larger groups.

This splendid 3,000-sqm residence is a sanctuary of space

and exclusivity set on top of a cliff. Besides the breathtaking

panoramic sea views, the villa also offers outdoor and

indoor lounge areas, a 16-m infinity pool, a private gym

and a private security office as well as a personal butler.

Leaving no stones unturned, you can even arrange to have

a personal chef to whip up special dinners for your party.

More than the usual activities such as diving, kayaking and

jungle trekking, The Taaras also lets you try some more

unique adventures through pre-arranged packages. Try

the Robinson Crusoe experience and spend four hours in

secluded bliss. You and a loved one will be transported to

a deserted beach with nothing more than a picnic hamper,

snorkel gear and a kayak for two, allowing you to disconnect

from the world momentarily. You can also try a moonlit

cruise on the South China Sea, complete with wine and

canapes, should you prefer to revel under the stars. Even

meals tend to get adventurous as The Taaras offers dinners

in different settings. A feast at the resort garden, in a

traditional Asian cabana or right on the shore with waves

lapping on your ankles are some of the viable options you

can consider to make every precious minute of your escape

more worthwhile.

This page: Top to bottom: Diving at Redang Island; The Beach Brasserie

Opposite page: Top to bottom: Haad Tien’s private beachfront area; Castaway Beach Villa

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KOH TAO, THAILANDIts name alone, which means Turtle Island, is an indication

of the exotic natural wonders it offers. About 45 km north

of the more popular Koh Phangan and 70 km east of

mainland Thailand, Koh Tao is a tiny island accessible via

plane through Koh Samui, followed by a ferry ride. Unlike

its more prominent island contemporaries in Thailand, the

place is yet to be discovered by every tourist. But because

of its mesmerising coastal setting, it should only be a matter

of time until Koh Tao finds a spot on everyone’s bucket list.

Just because the island is unspoilt doesn’t mean it’s missing

the luxury factor. Indulgent massages and private pools are

just the beginning of the story at Haad Tien, a sprawling

45-ac boutique resort on the southern tip of Koh Tao.

Built on one of the most stunning parts of the island, the

private beachfront resort gives effortless access to idyllic

sunbathing stations and to the expanse of a blue, shallow

lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkelling. To hike up the

grandeur of your Koh Tao getaway, book the Haad Tien Pool

Villa and have a little piece of the island all to yourself –

complete with your own pool and unparalleled views of the

sea. Enjoying drinks while lounging on the day bed by the

pool in between dips and sunning sessions is, undoubtedly,

a great idea for a lazy afternoon.

Of course, no trip to this coastal marvel is complete without

sampling the thriving underwater sanctuary. Haad Tien’s Reef

Dive Centre has your explorations covered with programmes

ideal for beginners and experts alike. If you’d rather stay

close to the surface, have a snorkelling trip arranged instead

and request a packed lunch prepared by the resort chef.

Not only will this let you interact with local wildlife, but also

gives you a unique way to enjoy the resort’s gastronomic

offerings, which are made using produce from the property’s

own fruit and vegetable garden.

Tiny as it is, Koh Tao is packed with island pleasures yours

to soak in. The vibe is generally slow and relaxed, but if

you’re willing to venture far enough, you’d stumble on a few

artisan stores, notable restaurants and even some nightlife,

especially on Sairee Beach. Then again, there are eleven

coral beaches that call for endless basking, so there’s that

delightful dilemma to ponder.

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PULAU JOYO, INDONESIASometimes, when you want to get away from it all, you

really have to venture out and take the path less travelled.

It’s all about making the journey worth it and if it’s in Pulau

Joyo that you’re going to end up, then the rewards are well

worth the trip.

Although the island is in Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago,

Pulau Joyo is most accessible from Singapore, making it the

perfect refuge for the lion city’s residents when yearnings

for a holiday set in. It takes hopping from one island to

another to reach this sublime destination, starting with a

ferry ride from the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, which is

approximately ten minutes from the Changi Airport. After

about two hours, you’ll reach the Tanjung Pinang ferry

terminal where you will be welcomed by one of Pulau

Joyo’s staff. What follows is an hour or so drive to the

island resort’s private jetty, from which you’ll embark on a

25-minute speedboat transfer before finally setting foot on

the shores of this remote paradise.

The private island is surrounded by beaches and the best

part is there’s only a handful of other guests to share white

sand real estate with. Originally constructed as the private

residential property of a shipping family, the resort offers

only eight villas, ensuring enough peace and privacy for

everyone. All the accommodation units evoke vibes of rustic

luxury that flawlessly blend with the tropical setting. To

live close to the rich natural elements of the place without

compromising comfort, stay in one of the Driftwood Palaces

set right on the beach. Your stunning abode, constructed

using driftwood salvaged from the sea, comes exquisitely

furnished with rare furniture pieces and artwork collected

from the owners’ travels. Aside from an ensuite shower and

bathroom, the beach house is also equipped with a sizable

living area and terraces with sofas and sun loungers where

you can take in gorgeous sea views.

If not standing right on the beach, the resort structures are

nestled on the inner portions of the island, intertwining

with lush jungle paths that are ideal for nature walks in

the morning. Upon reaching the centre, you’ll find the

pool pavilion where drinks are enjoyed after a few laps.

Should you wish to explore outward, kayaking or sailing to

neighbouring islands is a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Have a picnic arranged at the nearby Pulau Binyoso, another

island owned by the same people behind Pulau Joyo. In

the evening, a wine-fuelled beach party, illuminated by a

bonfire, will add even more unforgettable moments to your

island escape.

This page: Left to right: Panorama of Pulau Joyo; Pool Pavilion

Opposite page: Top to bottom: Exterior of the beruga; View of the beach from one of the berugas

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EAST LOMBOK, INDONESIAWith no public transport routes available and not much

infrastructure around, this coastal spot on the Southeast tip

of East Lombok's Tanjung Ringgit Peninsula is just what you

need for a laid-back holiday by the beach. Well isolated

from Indonesia’s tourist hubs, it’s a true island jewel minus

the crowds. This unspoilt haven is Jeeva Beloam Beach

Camp, occupying a private cove facing the Timor Sea and

Alas Strait. Surrounded by a 55-ha forest conservation

project, the property is tucked between the thickness

of trees and the expanse of turquoise ocean waters.

Fishing from a cliff, kayaking, and biking around the island

are some of the popular activities, but because of the

serene atmosphere, merely getting up from one of the day

beds on the wooden sunning deck is a challenge. Don’t

let this pass up the chance to explore the place though.

Along with its commitment to care for the environment is

Jeeva Beloam’s support for the local community. In fact,

the fresh seafood and dairy products served in the resort

are supplied by local fishermen and farmers. When you’re

not sunbathing or feasting on scrumptious Indonesian

cuisine at the resort’s restaurant, an insightful tour to the

nearby village promises to be a highlight of your visit.

There are 11 beachfront berugas made with recycled wood

and alang alang grass. From afar, these may look simple, if

not homely, but God is in the details, as they say. Bamboo

and other natural materials are used to create furniture and

small fixtures that together create ruggedly beautiful living

spaces. Spanning 60 sqm each, the berugas are large with

layouts that take advantage of mountain and sea views.

Although these unconventional villas are inspired by the

traditional Sasak villages of Lombok’s indigenous people,

each comes with refinements such as coffee and tea making

facilities and air conditioning in the evening.

The area is so remote that it’s off the main power line, so the

beach camp relies on solar energy and back-up diesel fuel

generator. To get here, a two-hour land travel to Te Elong

Elong follows your arrival at Lombok International Airport.

Then a boat ride lasting for 30 minutes brings you to Pink

Beach, where a 10-minute drive to the resort commences.

That may sound overwhelming, but it’s nothing compared to

the rare, intoxicating beauty of Jeeva Beloam. Its remoteness

is both the price you pay and the reward you get.