If you wondered where that Dior beach club was or where Robinson Crusoe meets the most luxurious place you’ve ever stayed is located, chances are, it’s in Asia. So, we did a deep dive into the hotels that are worth it to make your goals list in life.
The Resort: NIHI Sumba
Location: Sumba, Indonesia
Nestled between rice paddy fields, the award-winning NIHI Sumba is one of the most luxurious beach resorts in Asia that also looks to change your life. With 27 villas, the beachfront escape speaks unspoiled, pristine paradise, and is the first step in that life-changing experience. From horseback riding (more on that later) to enjoying the open-air sea breeze from your villa, NIHI is about the simplicity yet luxury of life.
All meals are included in your stay, and prepared from the onsite garden and fresh catches of the day. So essentially you’ll eat to your heart’s content. Aside from the private pools and outdoor showers, you can find your zen during daily yoga practices or at the Spa Safari™ NihiOka. What makes this stay extra special are their perfect surf waves, privacy, and horses. Yes, you read that right – the onsite stable means horse riding on the estate and galloping through the tropics during sunset.
The Resort: Six Senses Uluwatu
The Location: Bali, Indonesia
True to the DNA of the resorts, the Six Senses Uluwatu stays loyal to the sustainability of the land and its culture by employing locals. It also uses sustainability funds to support its people. The dramatic landscape is spread across the edge of a cliffside overlooking the Indian Ocean. By setting alone, it’s one of the top beach resorts in Asia. You can lounge by the three infinity poolsides, enjoy the spa amenities, and pick from four restaurants and bars. You’ll get an eclectic taste of Indian, Chinese, and authentic Indonesian cuisine, where the food is one of the highlights of the experience. There is something for everyone in the family here, with a Guest Experience Maker (GEM) helping customize your stay from outdoor cinema viewings to intimate chef-side dinners.
The Resort: Bawah Reserve
The Location: Anambas Archipelago
A Bawah stay is unique in that the reserve is broken up between six islands, which is just part of why it’s one of the best beach resorts in Asia. The remote stay means two things: 1) pristine natural surroundings and 2) an epic private seaplane ride to get in. Your options include a tented suite, over-the-water bungalow, jungle treehouse, or villa. No matter your choice, the open-air concept, the big copper tubs, and the full meal inclusion are hard to beat. The six islands allow for an infinite amount of activities; ok, maybe not infinite, but close enough. You can do anything from island hikes to dance classes between meals at their four Indonesian/Mediterranean fusion restaurant bars. A stay like this one places you in a state of constant discovery, you’ll definitely get your wanderlust fix.
The Resort: Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The Location: Krabi, Thailand
A spectacular view is inevitable at one of the top beach resorts in Asia, surrounded by limestone mountains, rainforests, and waterfalls. Knowing this, the Ritz has optimized its architecture to bring in the natural beauty from high ceilings, and exaggerated archways, to outdoor bathing. Cultural elements are also felt throughout. Thai lanterns and artworks are strewn from each corner and Thai silk robes are provided for lounging in your spacious villa. And what’s a 5-star luxury stay without a butler? Or in Thai -Ton Hong. Your butler will help set up all excursions whether that is deciding between the five bars and restaurants or wanting to hike the Dragon Crest over meditation with local monks. They’ll help you maximize your stay stress-free, so you’ll be able to squeeze in that chocolate body wrap between outings.
The Resort: One&Only Desaru Coast
Location: Malaysia
This luxury getaway is all about the ultimate dip. Let us explain. Beachfront to the South China Sea, the suites also have a large private plunge pool and soaking tubs. Of course, there’s also the signature 56-meter infinity pool and an array of water sports. In fact, one of the top ten deep-sea fishing spots is available. One & Only Desaru Coast also offers guidance in the ancient martial art Silat Melayu and tennis lessons from a player ranked among the top 5 Malaysian singles players.
As for food, Ambara serves woodfire breads, and mezze platters and Hoshi serves Omekase by a Japanese master chef. Go to Essential for Malaysian Cravings and enjoy an Asian BBQ prepared by a Michelin-starred chef at the beach club. One&Only is like joining an exclusive tropical pool party.
Amanpulo
Pamalican Island, Philippines
This is one of the top beach resorts in Asia, where if you make it here, you know you’ve done something right in life. Another private island accessible only by charter flight, Amanpulo has the most home away from home feel of the lot. The lush forest greens encompass every casita and villa so that not only do you feel like you have your own place but your own slice of land too. Opt for a villa with a chef and butler and never leave the premises. Upon request you can have anything made private including dinners on the beach, floating bar service, yoga and snorkeling classes, you name it.
However, if you did want to venture off with the rest of the guests, you can. Some stand-out excursions include watching Green and Hawksbill Turtles move from nest to ocean in the moonlight and a treasure hunt for gold pearls – a national jewel. The dive center is another must, with PADI courses and night dives to keep an eye on your new turtle friends.
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