These alternative beach holidays from Hong Kong are what dreams (and memories) are made of...
Sometimes, when wanderlust strikes, you want to go further afield and discover wonderful locations like the North of Mauritius, and sometimes you just want a cheap and cheerful short trip from Hong Kong. If you think you’ve exhausted all the options for a beach holiday from Hong Kong, think again. These gems recommended by Lightfoot Travel may be hard to get to, but saying goodbye to their barefoot luxury will be even harder. Warning: tears are likely. (Pssstt… we’ve got the lowdown on public holidays in Hong Kong for 2020, so you can get work those days off !)
Wa Ale Island Resort, Myanmar
Flying into Bangkok and being driven over the border to Myanmar is just the beginning of the journey here, then guests embark on a three-hour sail on a snazzy private yacht, so no complaining allowed. Upon arrival at Wa Ale Island Resort, settle into a family-sized tented beach villa or a plush treetop villa surrounded by white sands, gin-clear waters and eco-chic credentials. See turtles and dolphins, go trekking in the jungle, and meet the locals at a Moken fishing village. The best bit? Stay here and a portion of profits goes back into the community.
The Brando, French Polynesia
French Polynesia is the getaway of dreams – and then some. Located in the South Pacific Ocean, halfway between California and Australia, you’ll need to touch down in New Zealand or Fiji before flying over to paradise. Slipping into some serious castaway luxe at The Brando, a resort located on Marlon Brando’s private atoll of Tetiaroa, should help you to overcome the long journey. Enjoy romantic sunset cruises, private helicopter flights over the islands, or simply soak up the region’s ‘mana’ from your overwater villa. Clinging onto a palm tree in an attempt to stay forever: optional.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Hawaii
It may take three flights (HK – Guam – Honolulu – Lanai) to get to Four Seasons Resort Lanai, but the thought of the tropical treat that awaits will be enough to get you through the journey. Upon landing in Honolulu, it’s just a short 30-minute domestic flight to Lanai, one of the less developed islands in Hawaii. Sprawling and exclusive, and low-key and lovely, all rooms come with private lanais and the grounds are dotted with waterfalls, gardens, streams and ponds. There’s also a spa, an 18-hole golf course, and a host of water sports available.
Soneva Kiri, Thailand
Before wiggling your toes into the sands at this Robinson Crusoe-esque resort, international guests are met on arrival at Bangkok’s airport and transferred to Soneva Kiri on an hour’s flight by the resort’s own airplane. Here, breezy beachfront and hillside villas await alongside a spa, four restaurants, an ice cream shop, a cheese room, a chocolatier, and tree pod dining. If you’re travelling with children, prepare to not see them ever again. Rather, they’ll be at The Den, a super-cool playground where kids can learn how to DJ, paint, build Lego, cook, and more.
Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia
Guests fly to Jakarta and join a connecting flight to Sorong in West Papua to reach the turquoise waters, secret lagoons, thick forest and white sand beaches that make up Raja Ampat. Experience it in style by sailing around this dreamy archipelago with Rascal Voyages. The ultimate in bareboat luxury yachts, they showcase swish infinity roof decks, night time cinemas, superb staff, and bespoke food and music menus. Add some sea kayaking, surfing and snorkelling, and don’t miss the perfectly pink sunsets. We won’t judge if you try to stowaway as your return flight to Hong Kong approaches.
