When it comes to seeking a serene escape from bustling city life, our thoughts often wander to idyllic island getaways like the Maldives. Actually, any of the secluded islands near Singapore with sandy beaches and clear blue waters would do the trick. Here’s one for you to consider – Pangkor Laut Resort on Pangkor Laut Island.
This small private island is located off the West coast of Malaysia, just off the larger Pangkor Island. Accessible via a 1-hour flight from Singapore to Ipoh followed by a 1.5-hour car ride, it’s a sanctuary where you can soak up all the natural wonders it has to offer – from waking up to breathtaking sea views to private dining experiences on the beach.
Image credit: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
Although it is an ulu island, the 5-star luxury resort has all the amenities, dining options, and activities that you need for a rejuvenating getaway. The resort offers a variety of accommodation types to suit your needs and help you achieve #vacationgoals.
Garden villa.
Image credit: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
Families can opt for the range of charming villas, each catering to different preferences.
The Garden Villa (from $261/night) is nestled amidst lush greenery, providing a serene atmosphere and easy access to the main facilities. For breathtaking sea views, the Beach Villa (from $259/night) is an ideal choice. And for those torn between the allure of the greens and the sea, the Hill Villa (from $328/night) offers the best of both worlds.
Image credit: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
For a truly immersive island experience, consider staying in one of the private villas (from $462/night) perched on stilts . Here, you’ll feel like you’re in your own little world, with a balcony where you can bask on the loungers and relish the sound of crashing waves and a therapeutic sea view.
You’ll have a personal butler and a private chauffeur-driven car when you stay in the estate.
Image credit: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
If you’re going to level-up your vacation, plan for a stay in 1 of the 9 estates (from $2,034/night) on the island .
Not only do they provide unrivaled privacy, but you can also take your pick based on your desired features – whether you prefer the convenience of an outdoor hot spa just steps away from your bed, or the excitement of engaging in a larger-than-life game of chess on a giant chessboard.
Foodies can rest assured that staying on an island doesn’t mean having to miss out on Malaysia’s delectable delicacies.
Image adapted from: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
Within the resort, you’ll find 6 restaurants offering a variety of dining options – from seafood delicacies to Nyonya dishes. You can indulge in a range of culinary delights making use of quality ingredients. Some restaurants even have child-free policies, perfect for those who are seeking a romantic date night.
Dinner on the beach as the sun sets? Yes, please!
Image credit: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
For a romantic meal with bae, you can request for a private dining experience. Picture enjoying a 5-course feast either on the beach, amidst the rocks, in the chef’s private dining room, or even in a pavilion by the beach. No matter the venue, you’ll be treated to a tantalising dinner with a view.
Recharge your batteries by immersing yourself in nature during your time on the island. The wide range of activities available are designed to allow you to bask in the great outdoors.
Kickstart your day with a revitalising yoga sesh on the beach before treating yourself to a pampering spa treatment at the Spa Village.
Image adapted from: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
Adventurous souls can embark on a guided jungle trek and explore the nearby rainforest, engage in fishing excursions, or go kayaking and paddleboarding on the island’s calm waters.
Image credit: @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
If you crave a change of scenery, chartered experiences are available too. Witness the breathtaking sunset on a cruise, or set sail on a yacht to explore the Straits of Malacca and nearby islands. You could even request for the yacht to stop in the middle of the sea for you to take a quick, refreshing swim.
To get to Pangkor Laut Resort, you can hop onto a flight to Ipoh. Once you’ve landed, it’s a 1.5-hour drive to Marina Island Pangkor followed by a 15-minute ferry ride to the resort. The car transfer from the airport can be arranged by the resort from RM400 (~S$116.23). Thereafter, the ferry ride is complimentary, courtesy of the resort.
If you’re in search of an island getaway, Pangkor Laut Resort deserves a spot on your list. With its close proximity to Singapore, you can save precious vacation time that would otherwise be spent on long flights. In fact, with the extra time on your hands, you can even consider extending your paradise vacation for a few more nights.
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Cover image adapted from: @binsu.travel & @pangkorlautresort via Instagram
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