Whether you have a year end trip coming up or you’re in the midst of planning next year’s vacation, East Malaysia is one of those not-too-near yet not-too-far places you should make a point to visit. From its clear blue waters and stunning mountains to diverse cultures and great seafood, this is a part of Malaysia that far too many West Malaysians have yet to discover. Check out HotelsCombined’s top seven choices!
1. Sutera Harbour Resort, Sabah
Nestled between the shores of the South China Sea that overlooks tropical islands and the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Sutera Harbour has a landscaped outdoor pool with sea views, a 27-hole golf course, a private beach and various recreational facilities. This 5-star resort has 956 guest rooms that are lavishly decorated with fabulous views of beautifully manicured gardens or the South China Sea set against a backdrop of the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. with fine timber furnishings and traditional handicraft artifacts, this is a favourite with families and couples as well as those in search of a relaxing, tropical holiday in Borneo.
2. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, Sabah
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa is the perfect tropical getaway retreat just a short drive from the city centre with easy access of five idyllic islands. Set amidst 25 acres of landscaped gardens overlooking a sweeping bay, this piece of heaven offers a poolside snack bar, water slides and a spa and wellness centre. Guests with children will appreciate the theme park quality water slides and for those want to sip a tropical cocktail while the sun goes down must try the sunset bar, located on a private island.
Features of this stunning resort include an eco-friendly championship golf course and the magnificent Spa at Dalit Bay. Animal lovers can also enjoy the Orangutan Education Centre where you’ll meet the icon of Sabah while helping the rangers look after the the baby Orang Utans in the resort’s care. Those looking for more adventures can take advantage of activities such as horse riding, vehicle safari and deep sea fishing. End your day at the resort’s three private, thatched gazebos or indulge in a relaxing spa session at Chi Spa that uses natural botanical and herbal products.
Gayana Eco Resort offers 52 over water tropical villas designed to enhance the soothing sounds of the surf below while capturing the amazing views of Mt. Kinabalu. The resort aims to protect and re-generate precious marine ecology and the on-site Marine Ecology Research Center passionately advocates the protection of giant clams and restoring natural coral reefs. Equipped with an infinity pool by Macac, the resort’s restaurant that serves Chinese cuisine and locally sourced seafood, this resort is a wonderful choice for those who want to learn more about marine life.
5. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa, Sabah
The secluded island hideaway is only a boat ride away from its sister resort, Gayana. With 48 timbered villas tucked comfortably on a tranquil and hidden bay framed by a crescent shaped white sand beach on one side and a century old jungle on the other, Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa is truly one of a kind. Each private villa is hand-crafted by local tradesmen, terraced into the hillside ensuring the best of both worlds – sea and forest. There’s a hilltop spa with exotic private spa pavilions that combine the best of both traditional asian and western treatments. The villas range from humble iron wood timbered houses just steps away from the beach to impressive three bedroom choices that feature extended wrap around balconies and private plunge pools. Fun fact: each of Bunga Raya’s 48 private villas is named after one of the many species of hibiscus flowers that can be seen about the grounds.
Resting along the coast of Malohom Bay is this natural sanctuary nestled in the hillside of an ancient rainforest with a stunning outline of Mount Kinabalu on the horizon. The 120 villas and two-bedroom suite is built using local materials and designed to blend harmoniously with the resort’s natural environment. With a myriad of activities to choose from, this walking resort (only minimal motorised vehicles are used to reduce its carbon footprint) has a 40-metre lap pool with floating cabanas fronting the beach and a wading pool for the little ones.
7. Damai Puri Resort & Spa, Sarawak
Damai Puri Resort & Spa has 207 guest rooms and suites with exceptional facilities such as five signature restaurants and bars, two freeform swimming pools on a secluded stretch of golden sand beach and rooms featuring spectacular views of either the South China Sea or rainforest-covered foothills of Mount Santubong. Those with a passion for water sports will be pleased to know that various leisure and recreational pastimes are offered at the resort. If you prefer to be on solid ground, you can visit the nearby national park or go jungle trekking and mountain climbing. All in all, this resort is an ideal getaway for adventure seekers!
HotelsCombined is a hotel metasearch engine that is based in Sydney, Australia. For more information, visit www.hotelscombined.my.
