A relaxed, dependable choice for a few days unwinding at leisure. Situated on a jungle-covered isle, the property hugs a pristine section of beach in a remote spot on the west coast. With an atmosphere and ambience to match the very highest quality eco-resorts, it's all very romantic and quite stilling, particularly if you have come from the bustle of Singapore or KL.
A diverse array of rooms pepper the jungle-clad hillsides and beach, some offering really lovely views of the South China Sea. Wooden walkways expertly link the rooms to the resort's facilities and sands below. Private plunge pools are available in some of the rooms, while others make use of the beachside pool. The real party piece is Mandi Mandi: a purpose built overwater pavilion that extends 100 metres from the shore. Drinks and dining can be enjoyed here and it's almost impossible to imagine anything more perfect.
On the quiet west coast of Tioman Island, accessed via a boat from the mainland, this castaway resort is the essential tropical island hideaway.
Diving & boat trips
Jungle trekking & sunset viewpoint
Adults-only resort
Relaxing spa
We had a fabulous time at Japamala, and time by the beach was a lovely addition to our itinerary.
Discover what to expect from staying at Japamala Resort
For those looking for relaxation, great food and an exotic, exciting location, Japamala Resort checks those boxes with a heavy, thick pencil. Although many resorts offer something similar, Japamala Resort delivers with aplomb and something a little bit extra. It’s especially excellent for couples, as it’s an adults-only resort, and the Mandi Mandi overwater bar and restaurant can’t fail to move anybody. Thanks to its location, it’s perfect for an itinerary combining Singapore with Malaysia: a Japamala sandwich!
The resort has a relationship with a local dive centre, allowing guests to access some fantastic diving opportunities. If you prefer snorkelling, then head into the shallow waters just off the hotel beach. Take the hotel’s own boat out into the bay, or walk 30 minutes through the jungle to the nearby village. Otherwise, use your time at the resort to kick back, chill out, eat well and take yourself off grid for a while.
The resort has been built as much as possible with local materials, and you can see how naturally camouflaged some of the chalets are against the hillside. Perhaps most impressive is the hotel’s claim not to have moved a single rock or cut down any trees in the resort’s creation, as evidenced by the sometimes precipitous and roundabout route of the wooden walkways.