Serenely nestled between lush rainforest and the sparkling South China Sea, One&Only Desaru Coast is the tropical hideaway of your Instagram dreams. Sleek suites boasting private plunge pools, an excellent beach club (with delicious food from respected chef Andrew Walsh) and a picture-perfect infinity pool jutting out into the jungle-framed ocean are just a few of the stunning backdrops from which you have to choose for your next post.
The 128-acre retreat marks One&Only’s first foray into Asia, and the resulting resort was worth the wait. Mindfully built into the existing jungle, 45 suites and a sumptuous spa take a slight backseat design-wise to the 300-plus-year-old banyan trees that provide a verdant canopy of welcome shade across the property. Not that design is an afterthought here — far from it. Mindful, minimalist décor with just the right touch of Malaysian flair creates the air of barefoot luxury your next vacation needs.
- One&Only Desaru Coast makes quite the first impression. En route to your suite post-check-in, you’re greeted by a crystal-clear infinity pool lined by symmetrical rows of loungers dramatically stretching out into the South China Sea through a small break in the dense jungle canopy.
- The Mediterranean meets Malaysia at chic field-to-fork restaurant Ambara. The dining room specializes in European plates enhanced with ingredients grown closer to home, like herbs from the onsite chef’s garden, honey from the rainforest and seafood caught just steps from your table.
- Asia’s first Chenot-branded spa also melds the best of East and West with traditional Chinese therapies enhanced with cutting-edge technology for a holistic approach to wellness.
- Those seeking a more adventurous vacation should opt for one of One&Only Desaru Coast’s expert-led excursions. Head deep into the jungle to spot dusky leaf monkeys and oriental pied hornbills with a resident naturalist, scale the jungle’s tallest trees with an arborist or sail out to one of the world’s top deep-sea-fishing spots with a local guide.
- For the ultimate beach escape, check into the Malaysian resort’s oceanview Villa One. Set apart from the rest of the property, the secluded four-bedroom retreat boasts its own 88-foot pool and spa suite, as well as a private chef and butler to attend to your every need.
- Designed by late Australian architect Kerry Hill, 45 sleek suites are at once both modern and traditional with clean lines, neutral tones and natural building materials.
- The suites’ simple layout is inspired by traditional Malaysian kampung (“village”) dwellings, with a bathroom and bedroom connected by a terrace. Though these accommodations are decidedly more luxurious thanks to their own private pools.
- Local touches offer a sense of place in these otherwise minimalist accommodations. Look for Malaysian artworks, like floral songket fabrics and vibrant batik prints, plus locally made ceramics and glassware.
- To make the most of One&Only Desaru Coast’s oceanside locale, check into an aptly named Ocean Suite. These chic retreats provide unobstructed ocean views and some include direct access to the beach. Rainforest Suites abut the jungle for a more private stay.
