Escape to paradise: 6 stunning private islands in Asia

Looking to truly get away? Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat or a family adventure, these exclusive stays will transport you to your own private paradise. 

Discover six stunning island escapes in Asia, curated specially for Cathay Diamond members.

Naka Island, Thailand 

Who says private islands must be hard to reach? The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa , is just a 10-minute speedboat ride from Phuket. This haven in the middle of the Andaman Sea is the only resort on Naka Yai Island, with plenty of activities and dining options to satisfy the whole family. Explore lush mangrove forests by kayak, ride a mountain bike through a rubber tree plantation, or learn about the many bird species that inhabit the island. For maximum comfort, book the Royal Horizon two-bedroom villa, which features a private pool with a floating deck where you can while away the hours on a lounger while gazing out to sea.  

How to get there: there is speedboat service from Ao Po Grand Marina, which is 25 minutes by car from Phuket International Airport. 

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

Surrounded by emerald waters off the coast of southern Cambodia, Song Saa is the epitome of barefoot luxury. Timber walkways connect rustic, thatch-roofed villas to spacious water decks. Rise with the sun in villas high up in the rainforest canopy or dive right into the ocean from your floating terrace. When you’re ready for refreshments, tuck into colourful platters at the overwater Vista Bar and Restaurant. The island also has plenty of hidden coves and gardens where you can enjoy a private dinner – perfect for proposals and anniversary celebrations. 

How to get there: take a 45-minute speedboat ride from Sihanoukville Port. The resort also operates a private helicopter service, with the journey from Phnom Penh taking just over an hour.

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature at Bawah Reserve , located in the remote Anambas archipelago. With a focus on sustainability, the resort has a range of tented suites, bungalows and villas that are well integrated into the lush jungle environment. Set sail in a catamaran over a turquoise lagoon or enjoy a picnic on a quiet white-sand beach. For an ultra-exclusive stay, book the Elang Private Residence. Originally built for the resort’s owner, this complex of six lodges on a nearby island is complete with a private beach, personalised dining and butler service.

How to get there: fly to Batam from Jakarta or Singapore, then take the resort’s private seaplane. Bawah Reserve offers door-to-door transport for those travelling from Singapore.

Cempedak Private Island, Indonesia

Experience total tranquility at this adults-only resort off the coast of Bintan. The villas at Cempedak are crafted from bamboo, with high vaulted ceilings in the airy bedrooms. Book ahead to visit the spa, which is perched atop the majestic granite boulders that line the island’s eastern shore, and offers a range of holistic treatments for you to enjoy while listening to the sound of lapping waves below. For adventurous travellers, the island has plenty of exciting activities, from exploring verdant forest trails to scaling natural rock formations and paddle-boarding in the bay. 

How to get there: the resort can arrange transfers from Singapore, which involve a one-hour ferry ride from Singapore’s Tanah Merah ferry terminal to Bintan, followed by a one-hour car journey to the pier and a 30-minute speedboat ride to the resort. Travellers can also fly to Bintan from Jakarta.

Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia 

The villas at Pangkor Laut Resort encapsulate the understated elegance of Malay architecture, with pitched roofs and carved wood accents. Soak in a flower-filled tub while gazing out at the sea or indulge in a three-hour treatment at the resort’s expansive Spa Village. Pangkor Laut also boasts six dining establishments, including the seafood-themed Fisherman’s Cove and the popular Uncle Lim’s Kitchen, serving authentic Hock Chew and Nyonya fare. Looking for an even more luxurious experience? Stay at The Estates in the quiet northern part of the island. Its private beachfront and hilltop homes come with pools and pavilions as well as butler and chauffeur service. 

How to get there: the resort can arrange car transfers from the airports at Kuala Lumpur, Subang and Ipoh to Marina Island Pangkor, followed by a speedboat journey to the resort. Helicopter transfers are also available. 

Amanpulo, Philippines 

Situated on the pristine shores of Pamalican Island in the remote Cuyo Archipelago, Amanpulo feels magically cut off from the rest of the world. The charming casitas are equipped with hammocks and wooden decks for afternoons in the sun, while the luxe villas come with private chefs, butlers and club cars. Book an appointment with the resident wellness specialist for a custom nutrition and exercise programme, then take advantage of the calm, clear waters around Amanpulo and go scuba diving or kite surfing. Four dining spots serve up delectable Filipino, Mediterranean and Japanese dishes, prepared with freshly caught seafood and island-grown vegetables. 

How to get there: head to the Amanpulo Lounge at Manila airport and take a 90-minute flight on the resort’s private seaplane.  

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