There is much to do when you visit this private coral island—stroll along the white sandy beach and you’ll be pampered with stunning views of the South China Sea or, put on snorkels and admire natural coral reefs.

Only two resorts are available including Rawa Island Resort, a beachfront resort comprising wooden chalets on stilts. Stay at the Waterfront Bungalow which stretches out across the water and boasts uninterrupted sea views and a private balcony. Its Dive Centre takes you out to sea where you’ll get to explore the island’s diverse marine life. A range of dive courses are available here including beginner courses, speciality courses and night diving.

Disconnect with the world and head to this 15-hectare private island for the weekend. Just a two-and-a-half hour ferry from Singapore, this island is dotted with white sandy beaches and coral reefs; a rainforest with native Banyans; and a diverse population of local birds. There’s plenty of things to do while you’re here, from kayaking and fishing to ziplining and rock climbing.

On the island, pool villas are made from driftwood and comprise lavish bedrooms, bathrooms and balconies that overlook the ocean. Downstairs, the open-air lounge features daybeds, sun lounges and a tranquil space for massages.

Take a short one-and-a-half hour flight from Singapore and you’ll arrive in Krabi, a southern Thailand town known for its scenic views, beaches and islands. Here its beaches are surrounded by stunning blue waters. Those looking for an adventure can also hike to the Tiger Cave Temple or check out the Krabi elephant sanctuary. But, if you’re not one for sweating, book a relaxing Thai massage session at a spa. Foodies will enjoy taking a trip to one of its many night markets lined with souvenir stalls and street food.

Indonesia is always a good idea when you are looking for a quick but beautiful getaway. However, with everyone heading to Bali over the holidays, why not try something different and explore another island in Indonesia that is just, if not more, gorgeous?

Lombok is an island in Indonesia that is well known for its pristine beaches and surfing spots that easily rival those of Bali. It boasts the majestic Mount Rinjani which is a massive volcano that towers over the island and is perfect if you love hiking (though considering it is the second-highest mountain in Indonesia, we do recommend proceeding with caution).

The island is just a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Singapore and you can fly directly to the island through Lombok International Airport.

Tatler Tip:

If you are visiting Lombok, book a stay at the Oberoi Beach Resort, a five-star property which is located on Medana beach. The resort has a private jetty which makes snorkelling and water sports very accessible. It also has a gorgeous infinity pool and stunning views of the sunrise and sunset.

Did you know that Vietnam boasts some of the most gorgeous islands you can find near Singapore? Phu Quoc is arguably one of the most accessible and versatile with a variety of activities that you can do on its pristine beaches, forests and more. 

With luxury hotels such as JW Marriot and Regent Phu Quoc, you can expect stunning suites and villas which will give you panoramic views of the ocean, a plethora of restaurants that specialise in local and international fare and more. 

Tatler Tip:

In June this year, Vietnam Airlines launched a direct flight from Singapore to the island of Phu Quoc so you now no longer need to fly into Ho Chi Minh City first and hop onto another plane to the island.

Thailand is rich with islands that are well worth the visit but many don’t actually know about Koh Yao Noi which is about an hour’s boat ride from either Phuket or Krabi. Surrounded by turquoise waters and Phang Nga Bay, you can expect to enjoy water sports, visit local fish farms, explore coconut and rubber tree plantations and more. 

For a weekend getaway, we highly recommend the Six Senses Yao Noi which boasts luxurious villas complete with private pools, top-notch spas and a plethora of activities such as freewheeling, bike trails and more. The best part? It is not a place many tourists have heard of so you can really enjoy the peace and serenity without the crowds (no gatekeeping here).

Here’s another hidden spot in Vietnam that you likely have not heard of yet. Ke Ga Bay is a beautiful beach destination located about four and a half hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. While it is certainly a distance, you will be rewarded with luxury and seclusion in an area that tourists are fairly unfamiliar with. Here, we highly recommend a stay at Azerai Ke Ga Bay, a lush oceanfront retreat that is set amongst 4.5 hectares of verdant gardens and a sweeping five-kilometre white sand beach.

Spacious pavilions, rotating seasonal menus and a spa with an extensive menu of therapeutic massages, body scrubs, wraps, hair treatments and facials are just some of the things you can expect here.

Tatler Tip:

Considering that travelling to Ke Ga Bay itself is a little longer than usual for a weekend getaway, we would highly recommend maximising your break and going for a longer trip here by adding a couple of extra days to your vacation. After all, we need to start clearing our annual leave days.

Kota Kinabalu is the state capital of Sabah, Malaysia and is a two-and-a-half-hour flight away from Singapore. While the area has many gorgeous beaches, it also offers gorgeous nature and wildlife, heritage spots, food and more. 

One place you have to visit while there though is the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a state park located in Gaya Bay (three kilometres offshore from Kota Kinabalu). The park comprises five islands and their surrounding reefs. People typically love to come to this part to dive because of how beautiful the corals are.

With many luxurious hotels in the area, it may be hard to choose just one place to stay on a visit there but we highlight recommend the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru which is set along the beach and which boasts stunning views of the South China Sea. As the winner of many international awards, the hotel is perfect for snorkelling, rainforest treks and more. 

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