Where do you want to go?
Why the East Coast Islands
Scattered across the warm waters of the South China Sea, Malaysia's East Coast Islands offer some of the country's most beautiful coastal landscapes, where white-sand beaches, coral reefs and swaying palms create the classic image of a tropical island paradise. Less developed than many of Southeast Asia's better-known beach destinations, they retain a sense of tranquillity that is increasingly difficult to find.
Islands such as Lang Tengah, Redang, Perhentian, Tioman and Pangkor Laut each possess their own character, yet all share clear waters, exceptional marine life and a strong connection to the natural environment. Snorkelling and diving reveal colourful reefs teeming with fish, turtles and other marine species, whilst secluded beaches and hidden bays provide countless opportunities to unwind.
What sets the region apart is its simplicity. Days revolve around the sea, whether spent exploring reefs, sailing between islands or simply enjoying the rhythm of island life. Luxury resorts, private island retreats and elegant beachfront hideaways provide memorable places to stay, creating a collection of destinations that showcase some of the most rewarding island experiences in Asia.
Signature Collection
Curated Journeys
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Stays you will love
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort, a luxurious five-star haven off the coast of Terengganu, Malaysia, invites guests to a contemporary barefoot luxury experience amid powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and enveloping tropical rainforest, where warm Asian hospitality weaves a magical tapestry for those drawn to nature's gentle embrace. Each spacious room unfolds with modern décor, air conditioning, and a soothing fan, complemented by a tea or coffee maker and minibar for quiet moments, all opening to a private balcony that captures the sea's endless whisper or rainforest's soft rustle. Asean All Day Dining celebrates local and international flavours through vibrant curries and fresh salads in a welcoming glow, while MareNero fuses Italian pastas with Sri Lankan spices and North Indian tandoori delights for evenings that linger on the palate. The Cove tempts with light beach-friendly snacks, craft cocktails, premium wines, and cool refreshers on its expansive chill-out deck right along the private beachfront, where toes meet sand under swaying palms. The swimming pool shimmers invitingly against the horizon, the fully equipped fitness centre sustains subtle energy, and the spa's relaxing body treatments and massages draw from nature's essence to ease the soul, all tended by the 24-hour front desk's thoughtful currency exchange and guidance. A 45 km drive from Sultan Mahmud Airport followed by a 1.5-hour ferry from Shahbandar Jetty, The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort opens Terengganu's spectacular seas and untouched shores with serene simplicity.
From £120 per night
Tanjong Jara Resort
Tanjong Jara Resort, a distinguished member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, graces the pristine East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Terengganu, offering a serene retreat inspired by 17th-century Malay palaces, where golden sands, turquoise seas, and timeless traditions create a haven of traditional luxury. Furnished with rich local timber and vibrant fabrics, each spacious room opens to views of the South China Sea or lush landscaped gardens, blending comfortable bedding, a writing desk, powered safe, day bed, and a generous en-suite bathroom with an oversized bathtub, separate shower, and dual vanity units, all extending to an outdoor verandah for quiet moments under swaying palms. Di Atas Sungei crafts breakfast and dinner with authentic Malaysian flavours, from fragrant rendang to delicate kuih, served above a meandering river, while Nelayan offers Asian and Western lunches and seafood-focused dinners kissed by coastal breezes, showcasing the region's freshest catches. Teratai Terrace, nestled by the pool, presents crisp salads and local desserts at lunch and steaming steamboat dinners, with its bar pouring cocktails and fine wines from noon until late. Nelayan's bar complements with evening cocktails until 11 pm, inviting relaxed toasts under starlit skies. Two outdoor pools—one free-form near Teratai Terrace and another by the beach—offer towels and deck chairs with refreshing drinks at hand, while the Spa Village Tanjong Jara revives Malay healing traditions through herbal treatments by resident healers. Two tennis courts near the spa, with rackets for hire, add a playful spark, and the library beckons for tranquil reading amid the resort's calm. A 15-minute drive from Desa Golf Club, Dungun, and an hour from Kuala Terengganu Airport, Tanjong Jara Resort weaves Terengganu's coastal splendor and cultural heritage into an effortless escape along Malaysia's East Coast.
From £110 per night
Stays you will love
Tanjong Jara Resort
Tanjong Jara Resort, a distinguished member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, graces the pristine East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Terengganu, offering a serene retreat inspired by 17th-century Malay palaces, where golden sands, turquoise seas, and timeless traditions create a haven of traditional luxury. Furnished with rich local timber and vibrant fabrics, each spacious room opens to views of the South China Sea or lush landscaped gardens, blending comfortable bedding, a writing desk, powered safe, day bed, and a generous en-suite bathroom with an oversized bathtub, separate shower, and dual vanity units, all extending to an outdoor verandah for quiet moments under swaying palms. Di Atas Sungei crafts breakfast and dinner with authentic Malaysian flavours, from fragrant rendang to delicate kuih, served above a meandering river, while Nelayan offers Asian and Western lunches and seafood-focused dinners kissed by coastal breezes, showcasing the region's freshest catches. Teratai Terrace, nestled by the pool, presents crisp salads and local desserts at lunch and steaming steamboat dinners, with its bar pouring cocktails and fine wines from noon until late. Nelayan's bar complements with evening cocktails until 11 pm, inviting relaxed toasts under starlit skies. Two outdoor pools—one free-form near Teratai Terrace and another by the beach—offer towels and deck chairs with refreshing drinks at hand, while the Spa Village Tanjong Jara revives Malay healing traditions through herbal treatments by resident healers. Two tennis courts near the spa, with rackets for hire, add a playful spark, and the library beckons for tranquil reading amid the resort's calm. A 15-minute drive from Desa Golf Club, Dungun, and an hour from Kuala Terengganu Airport, Tanjong Jara Resort weaves Terengganu's coastal splendor and cultural heritage into an effortless escape along Malaysia's East Coast.
From £110 per night
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort, a luxurious five-star haven off the coast of Terengganu, Malaysia, invites guests to a contemporary barefoot luxury experience amid powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and enveloping tropical rainforest, where warm Asian hospitality weaves a magical tapestry for those drawn to nature's gentle embrace. Each spacious room unfolds with modern décor, air conditioning, and a soothing fan, complemented by a tea or coffee maker and minibar for quiet moments, all opening to a private balcony that captures the sea's endless whisper or rainforest's soft rustle. Asean All Day Dining celebrates local and international flavours through vibrant curries and fresh salads in a welcoming glow, while MareNero fuses Italian pastas with Sri Lankan spices and North Indian tandoori delights for evenings that linger on the palate. The Cove tempts with light beach-friendly snacks, craft cocktails, premium wines, and cool refreshers on its expansive chill-out deck right along the private beachfront, where toes meet sand under swaying palms. The swimming pool shimmers invitingly against the horizon, the fully equipped fitness centre sustains subtle energy, and the spa's relaxing body treatments and massages draw from nature's essence to ease the soul, all tended by the 24-hour front desk's thoughtful currency exchange and guidance. A 45 km drive from Sultan Mahmud Airport followed by a 1.5-hour ferry from Shahbandar Jetty, The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort opens Terengganu's spectacular seas and untouched shores with serene simplicity.
From £120 per night
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Experiences
- Borneo
- Cambodia
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- All Asia
- Anguilla
- Antigua
- Bahamas
- Cayman Islands
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
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- Jamaica
- Puerto Rico
- St Barths
- St Kitts & Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Martin
- Turks & Caicos
- US Virgin Islands
- All Caribbean