Viva la villa vida. Say that 10 times, fast. To live the villa life. Even better, if it comes with a breathtaking view of a glittering, turquoise sea. Wouldn’t that be lovely? Not to everybody, but we’re sure we have a few of you nodding along vigorously. Collectively, we love traveling to relax and going on beach holidays. There’s just something about being near the ocean, and letting the sound of the waves wash over your worries and fears (at least for the moment). Sometimes, all we need is a breather, right? Just to take a step back and see the bigger picture; put things into perspective. Here’s a few idyllic seaside villas in Malaysia you can do just that.
Hibiscus Beach Retreat, Sabah
Take a trip to the beautiful island of Borneo to take in its incredible sea views from the private and luxurious Hibiscus Beach Retreat. As you can see, the villa has a spectacular seascape you’ll be able to enjoy from the comfort of your bed. Take advantage of the private balcony to get on with your reading while enjoying the sea breeze, or just relax with a beer in hand. Priced from RM595 per night for two persons, this would make a lovely couples retreat.
Website: Hibiscus Beach Retreat
Alang’s Rawa, Johor
All the way down to the southern tip of Peninsula Malaysia, Alang’s Rawa makes for a dreamy seaside escapade. It is a collection of Little A-Frames, Beach Houses, and Jungle Side Rooms. The photo above shows two Little A-Frames that are on the beach itself. We love the choice of white and blues that invoke a Santorini feel. Alang’s Rawa is located on the private Rawa Island, and is suitable for private retreats. Their room rates are sold as full board packages that include all meals and boat transfers to and from the island. Prices start from RM600 per person in a Jungle Side Room for four persons.
Website: Alang’s Rawa
Bayu Lestari Island Resort, Johor
Another island in Johor that boasts beautiful seaside villas is Pulau Besar. The Bayu Lestari Island Resort offers several room types, starting from the Exclusive Villa for three persons and ranging to the Executive Suite Sea View that’s pictured above. The resort has a family-friendly ambience, perfect for that family trip you’ve been meaning to take. There is a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but guests can also request for a barbecue which will incur additional charges. The resort has its own private beach to ensure maximum privacy. There are also activities like snorkelling, beach volleyball, jungle trekking, and island hopping to fill your vacation time with.
Website: Bayu Lestari Island Resort
Pangkor Laut Resort, Perak
While it’s not a standalone, super private villa per se, Pangkor Laut Resort’s Beach Villa room type is a luxurious floating villa dream come true. You can’t beat the view, since the beach villa is literally above the sea, in the middle of the beautiful blue surrounds. There are seven dining and drinking venues to choose from, and you can also request for a private dinner arrangement. The resort also has its own spa called Spa Village, if that’s your cup of tea.
Website: Pangkor Laut Resort
Tanjong Jara Resort, Terengganu
Tanjong Jara Resort offers an idyllic and luxurious seafront stay at their Anjung Seafront Rooms. Waking up with a view like that will probably make you want to stay there forever. Exclusive and posh, the resort has three gorgeous restaurants as well as private dining options to suit your taste. Budding divers can also go through a PADI certification course here, while other activity options include traditional handicraft classes, Sucimurni exercises, and visiting the Kenyir Elephant Village.
Website: Tanjong Jara Resort
The Ocean Residence, Langkawi
Just a 45 minute flight from KL is one of our standfast favourite islands, Langkawi. The Ocean Residence is a family-run boutique hotel that’s just under 10 minutes by car from Kuah town. What’s notable about this place is their huge swimming pools. They have two – the LongHouse Pool is a 60 metre long lap pool for the active, while the Main Pool is suitable for families with children, besides having a gorgeous view of the ocean.
Website: The Ocean Residence
The Kasturi, Pahang
Located at Chendor Beach, The Kasturi is backed by the rainforest of Tanjong Geliga and faces a spectacular view of the South China Sea. A very special feature of the resort is their very own Rimbun Dahan Turtle Hatchery, established in 2014. They purchase turtle eggs that local boys legally dig up during the hatching season and transfer the eggs to the hatchery until they hatch. The baby turtles are then released to the sea within 24 hours. Guests can also explore their spa packages, go bird-watching, join a gamelan class, or stargaze on the beach. Each chalet has its own swimming pool.
Website: The Kasturi