Cover An intimate wedding ceremony at Bawah Reserve in Indonesia's Anambas archipelago (Photo: Bawah Reserve)
An intimate wedding ceremony at Bawah Reserve in Indonesia's Anambas archipelago (Photo: Bawah Reserve)
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Say “I do” in the most luxurious and intimate way possible—on a private island rented out for your family and friends
As more couples opt for intimate weddings with a smaller guest list—micro weddings are officially a trend this year—they’re also looking to far-flung destinations that offer total privacy for your closest family and friends. And honestly, what's more exclusive and secluded than renting out your own private island resort?
We’ve rounded up some of Asia’s most luxurious private island properties on which to host your special day—from a floating marble palace that once featured in a James Bond film to a property on a remote archipelago in Indonesia, where eco-conscious couples can plan a zero-waste ceremony.
Amanpulo, Philippines
Surrounded by white sand beaches and azure waters, Amanpulo is the only resort on the private, uninhabited island of Pamalican in Palawan province, 360 kilometres southwest of Manila. The island is accessed exclusively by chartered plane. Offering total privacy, it’s no wonder celebrities including Mariah Carey, Tom Cruise and Beyoncé have visited, and fallen in love with, Amanpulo. Speaking of falling in love, the island getaway is a picturesque destination to gather your nearest and dearest for your nuptials.
The exclusive resort has 42 casitas and 18 villas, all of which are modelled after indigenous bahay kubo dwellings, featuring timber frames, thatched roofing and rustic island styling with an Aman touch. For families or groups of friends, the two- and four-bedroom villas have spacious living and dining pavilions with private pools.
Tatler tip: When you get a moment alone with your significant other, book a sunset session at the Kawayan Bar. This floating bamboo bar in the middle of the sea is the best place to catch the island’s gorgeous fiery sunsets.
Bawah Reserve, Indonesia
Give your wedding guests the ultimate “pinch-me” moment when they arrive—by private seaplane—at Bawah Reserve. The resort is set in the Anambas archipelago— one of Indonesia’s first marine conservation areas—and is made up of five jungle-covered islands spread across three lagoons, with just 36 luxurious bamboo villas.
Opt for a package that includes meals, activities and spa treatments, so you and your loved ones can relax and enjoy the islands. Spend your days hiking through the ancient rainforest, venturing into caves and snorkelling among colourful sea life, including turtles and schools of clownfish.
For your wedding day, select from a traditional Javanese Rijsttafel Wedding Dinner, served family style, or keep things casual with a barefoot barbecue on one of Bawah Reserve’s 13 gorgeous beaches. For eco-minded couples, Bawah Reserve recently introduced a zero-waste wedding concept, which includes decorations made from native flora and menus made entirely from locally sourced produce.
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
The name Song Saa translates to “The Sweethearts” in Khmer, referring to the two islands that make up this private resort in Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago— it could almost be nature’s way of recommending this spot for a romantic event.
Buy out the resort and house your loved ones in Song Saa’s 27 Robinson Crusoe-esque villas—if Crusoe’s hut had boasted ocean views and private pools, and was accessible only by private speedboat or helicopter. There are a few more activities too: morning yoga, going on an island safari, planting coconut trees or indulging in an evening treatment under a sky full of stars at the open-air spa.
As for the big day itself, the pristine beach sets a dreamy scene for a wedding ceremony, especially at sunset, before you celebrate at the overwater restaurant, Vista, which hovers over Song Saa’s reef and marine reserve. A traditional blessing by a Cambodian monk can be arranged upon request, where you’ll receive blessed red string bracelets as a token of your spiritual experience.
Taj Lake Palace, India
OK, so this one isn’t exactly an island; and with 65 rooms and 18 suites, your wedding will be more mid than mini. But a floating palace definitely offers the wow factor. Set in the middle of Udaipur’s serene Lake Pichola, Taj Lake Palace was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in the 18th century as a winter getaway and remained a royal residence for 200 years before it was transformed into a lavish hotel in 1963.
Since then, it has been a magnet for celebrity guests including Jackie Kennedy, Hillary Clinton, Angelina Jolie and members of the British royal family; perhaps most famously, the pristine white marble palace featured in the 1983 James Bond movie, Octopussy (1983). Dreamy and regal, this seemingly buoyant property retains its old-world glamour. Think sunset cruises on the lake, truly exquisite rooms and suites, and vintage car and speedboat transfers—we love a dramatic grand entrance.
When it comes to event venues, you’re spoilt for choice with beautifully manicured gardens, grand halls fit for royal banquets and the rooftop, with views over the lake.
Coco Marett is a writer and editor who grew up between Hong Kong and Melbourne. She currently heads the travel section for Tatler Asia, and manages the Tatler Travel account on Instagram. She is known for her features on unique, under-the-radar properties and destinations. She's also known for her in-depth interviews that paint a refreshingly candid portrait of influential figures across various industries —from artists to political figures, CEOs to celebrity chefs. Follow her on Instagram @cocomarett
