BAWAH
A Slice of Heaven and an Invitation to Disconnect
Nestled in the remote Anambas Archipelago, just off the coast of Indonesia, the Bawah Reserve stands as an exclusive sanctuary where pristine nature and unparalleled luxury converge. Accessible only by a private seaplane from Singapore, this eco-resort offers an intimate escape on a collection of six idyllic islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush, untouched forests. With just 36 luxurious villas, each perched either over the water or nestled on the beach, guests are promised a peaceful retreat, seamlessly blending the comforts with the tranquility of the natural world.
Bawah Reserve is not just a destination - it’s a testament to sustainable luxury. With a profound commitment to environmental conservation, the resort has been designed to have minimal impact on its surroundings, embracing eco-friendly architecture and practices. The surrounding waters are part of a protected marine reserve, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life flourish. Whether you’re diving into crystal-clear lagoons, kayaking through tranquil bays, or simply enjoying the panoramic views from your private plunge pool, every experience here is steeped in the beauty of the natural world.
For those seeking serenity, the resort’s wellness offerings - including yoga and bespoke spa treatments - provide the perfect complement to the surrounding serenity. However, it’s the rare combination of privacy, exclusivity, and immersion in one of Southeast Asia’s most biodiverse and untouched ecosystems that makes the Bawah Reserve truly exceptional. Designed for the discerning traveler, this eco-conscious paradise invites you to not just escape but to connect - with nature, with self, and with a way of travel that honors the planet.
Days 1, 2 - Singapore
Since Bawah Reserve is located about 300 kilometers (186 miles) northeast of Singapore, and is only accessible via a 45-minute flight from Singapore on a private seaplane, we definitely suggest planning a few days in the city before or after your stay.
Singapore is a city-state that defies expectation - restful yet vibrant, intimate yet impossibly cosmopolitan, futuristic yet rooted in heritage. Visiting Singapore feels like stepping into a world where cultures converge effortlessly: Chinese temples stand beside Indian spice shops; gleaming skyscrapers frame colonial architecture; hawker centres bustle just minutes from serene seaside promenades. It is a place where every corner reveals a meticulous balance between innovation and tradition, offering travelers an experience both vibrant and thoughtfully curated. What makes Singapore particularly compelling is its remarkable ability to harmonize urban sophistication with lush, restorative greenery.
As you might have understood, Singapore has a lot to offer - art, culture, nature, cuisine, and more. Below is a list of things we suggest you do for a short stay in the city.
Begin your day early at the Gardens by the Bay before the crowds arrive - with its towering Supertrees and ethereal Cloud Forest, these gardens showcase the city’s commitment to weaving nature into modern life. They’re an outstanding example of contemporary urban architecture and an unmissable staple of Singapore.
From here, head to the historic heart of Singapore at Kampong Glam, where the golden dome of the Sultan Mosque is. Wander through the narrow lanes of Haji Lane, where traditional fabric shops share space with minimalist cafés and curated boutiques. Pause for a nice coffee at % Artisanal.
For lunch, go to one of the famous and unmissable food halls (or hawker centers, as they’re called in Singapore) - here, food is a cultural expression, a shared pride, and a true celebration of diversity. The ones we recommend the most are Lau Pa Sat and Maxwell Food Center.
Continue to the National Gallery Singapore, housed in the beautifully restored former Supreme Court and City Hall. Here, Southeast Asian art takes centre stage in bright, contemporary galleries.
As dusk settles, make your way to Marina Bay Sands and admire the architectural drama of the skyline reflected in the still water from a rooftop bar above the bay.
For dinner, don’t miss the peking duck at Forbidden Duck and end your day with a nice cocktail at Sago House - ranked 15th in Asia’s 50 best bars 2024.
Where to stay in Singapore:
The Warehouse Hotel - A boutique hotel housed in a meticulously restored 19th Century warehouse with stylish modern design and an amazing cocktail bar you should try even if you’re not a guest.
Raffles - A true national monument since 1887, referred to as the Grand Dame of Singapore. If you want to go classic, this is it.
Days 3-8 - Bawah Reserve
It’s finally time to reach Neverland, and this is how you’ll do it! A hybrid plane that can land both on land and on water.
Be ready for one of the most spectacular plane rides of your entire life!
And if the view from the seaplane wasn’t enough, this is what welcomes you upon arrival. It’s official, you just landed in paradise!
Bawah Reserve - a 36 villas resort - is located on one of the six islands of this extraordinary, yet small archipelago. On a second island, called Elang, there’s a residence which you can book entirely for you and your friends - it can host up to 20 people! The other four islands are completely wild, and you can visit them any time you’d like - they’re easily reachable with the kayak.
Life on the island of Bawah Reserve unfolds with peace and serenity - Start your day with a sunrise walk on the beach, a pilates or yoga class facing the water, or a first dip in the warm waters.
Enjoy the amazing breakfast served facing the astonishing landscape - where lush greens meet different shades of blue.
After it, mornings may be spent gliding across crystal-clear waters in a kayak, snorkeling or diving, or simply sunbathing on an almost desert beach.
Several options of lunch are served at the restaurant by the beach - enjoy local, seasonal ingredients. All of this while barefoot, of course.
Afternoons have many options - from a leisurely hike through the island’s forested interior to a guided permaculture tour through the organic and ecological gardens, to a barefoot tennis match on one of the most incredible grass tennis courts you’ll see in your life!
But here’s the most incredible perk while staying at Bawah: a daily 60-minute complimentary bespoke massage included in the rate that you can plan according to your preferences.
Evenings on Bawah settle into a meditative calm. Golden hour brings the islands aglow, painting the sky with shimmering shades reflected across the lagoons. Guests gather for sunset cocktails by the shore, or sail on a small wood boat to privately enjoy this nature’s masterpiece, while sipping a glass of champagne.
After sunset, it’s time for a candlelit dinner beneath a sky full of stars, untouched by urban light.
In this remote pocket of the Anambas, Bawah Reserve offers not just an escape, but a rare invitation to inhabit a quieter, more elemental way of being, where beauty is unfiltered and every moment feels just perfect.
Our practical suggestions for you
How long: 5-7 days
Season: Best between April and October
How to travel through the country: All connections are from and to Singapore. Be sure to be there on the day of departure and there’s nothing else you’ll have to think about - Bawah will entirely take care of you!
Practical advice:
Pack lightly: there’s not much you’ll need on the island and the laundry service is one of the most efficient we’ve ever experienced. Moreover, you’re not allowed to bring more than a carryon per person, since the seaplane is very small.
Bring comfortable and closed shoes as you don’t want to miss a nice walk in the lush forest inside the island.
Consider booking you flights with an insurance or last minute changing option - Since the only way to get to and out of Bawah is their small seaplane, which can only fly if the weather and wind conditions are optimal, it may happen you’re not able to leave the island when you’re supposed to (as it happened to us).
Don’t bother booking spa treatments in advance - there’s a 60-minutes complimentary massage per person per day.
