Marie Secluded and romantic private islands have become a haven for couples (and even non-couples) who value their privacy. Compared to other beach resorts, private resorts allow most people to leave their worries behind even for a short period.
Many of these secluded resorts cater to honeymooners and lovebirds who want a healthy dose of alone time. Hence, these private resorts offer amenities that only serve to make the entire vacation experience one-of-a-kind. Of course, it goes without saying that the main patrons of these secluded resorts are the rich and privileged since these resorts charge hefty tabs.
In the Philippines, there is a private resort located in the island of Palawan. This private resort is called Amanpulo.
Amanpulo is an island paradise that offers a piece of heaven on earth. Just imagine yourself waking up in the mornings and being greeted by azure waters and being bathed in the lovely warmth of the sun. The pristine beaches of this island resort feature lush greens and tropical flora and fauna that remain untouched by urban development. The city council of Palawan has made sure that the private resort remains secluded to ensure the privacy of its clientele, which is mostly made up of celebrities (both local and foreign), politicians, and other wealthy and important bigwigs.
This remote island offers a remarkable feast for the senses. Guests are sure to enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean especially during sunset, when the waters bask in the glow of the setting sun. You can only reach Amanpulo via chartered flights from Manila. A roundtrip package for one person costs about $400. Guests will be flown directly to Pamalican, Palawan, right at the island’s very own private airstrip.
Island accommodation consists of 40 separate lodges referred to as ‘casitas’. These casitas are scattered all over the island, twenty-nine of which are on the beachfront. The casitas comfortably sit on white sand, with their own colorful private pathway leading down to the beach. The other four casitas are located on higher ground, specifically among the treetops. The remaining seven casitas are on the hillside and offer a magnificent view of the sea and the whole island.
All accommodations are fully air-conditioned and fully furnished. The caramel-colored interiors of the casitas and even the bamboo-themed furniture inside each one are made out of indigenous materials that are all found in and around the island of Palawan. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows give guests a perfect view of the astonishing scenery outside.
The resort offers 24-hour private dining for guests. Nevertheless, they can savor a wide selection of delectable Asian and Continental dishes at the restaurant located at the main building of the resort known as The Clubhouse. The lobby and bar are located here, too. Other amenities in The Clubhouse are a library, an art gallery, a boutique, and the beach club where guests can avail of equipment for various water sports. There’s also a fully-equipped gym and tennis court for guests to enjoy.
While on the island resort, guests can indulge themselves in various activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and sailing. Guests may also choose to go island hopping or go on a foot tour of Pamalican itself. If guests don’t want to exert much energy but still want to tour the nearby areas, they can use the golf carts assigned for each casita.
After a long day of activities, you can end your day with a nice massage or aromatherapy treatment right in the privacy of your rented casita. Otherwise, you can visit the Spa Casita or the Garden or Beach Sala to get that much needed pampering.
Indeed, the tropical paradise that is Amanpulo can give you an unforgettable experience beyond what you can imagine.
Amanpulo is part of my bucketlist but then again, we also have Caramoan. I’ve heard really good reviews about this resort.
Amanpulo sounds like little patch of heaven!! Wish I were some big shot!! Sigh!!!!! But thanks for sharing this very interesting and informative post!
I want to go here! Beautiful place!
Hi Marie Thanks for sharing this. It is really informative and gets the travel juices flowing. It looks amazing and has been added to the list. The photographs are really mind blowing. I have heard the diving in the Philippines is amazing. Is that your experience? Thanks again Positively Keith
Hi Keith, I have done diving in a different island but also in Palawan, same cluster of islands as Amanpulo, but as mentioned, it is an activity to opt for in Amanpulo. Yes, palawan waters are very clear, and fish plus turtles would be happy to swim with you. 🙂
My brother married a girl from the Philippines and has gone there a bunch of times. He has shown me pics of Boracay and I have wanted to travel there since. Amanpulo is now on my list as well?
You mention that this location is only for the rich and famous. Do you know how much it costs to visit? And if it’s so expensive, do you know of any tips, sales, or loopholes to help common folk like us enjoy it?
I can’t be sure about sales, sorry I can’t help on that area. The island has a private airstrip, which probably compensates to the steep prices, also the fact that there are very few people going on vacation there…the staff would make you feel as though it is your home at that moment. Double rooms would be around around 1,100 for 3 nights, as for the fare from Manila to the island, I’m not entirely sure now but probably 300-400$. Add up the flight from your city to Manila if you plan to go. I’ve featured Boracay next to that article, btw.
If you would like to visit, I suggest other Palawan islands, not as expensive as Amanpulo, but you can also have a piece of paradise in any of them: Dimakya island, Coron, El Nido, and Puerto Princessa to name a few.
The Philippines! that sounds amazing! and a private resort? count me in. I wish it was a little closer from where I live but honestly, this sounds like heaven on Earth. I love privacy and quiet time. This sounds like the perfect place to go on for romantic couple celebrations (anniversary, honeymoon, Valentine’s day, etc).
The casitas you describe sound heavenly as well. The daily massages, the 24-hour private dining, the activities around the beach. How come I had not heard about his place before?! Can’t wait to put it on my list of places to visit in the next 2-3 years.
Hi Liliana! I think, since it’s a private resort, very few people want to advertise it, to now commercialize the place…it often happens that when a beach is beautiful, tourists flock. Just my guess…I don’t think Amanpulo advertises their resort as much. Yes, list it down, it will be worth it. 🙂
Sounds like a future vacation spot. When I used to take the bus to work, I would talk to a guy who married a woman from the Philippines, but he never mentioned Amanpulo. Of course I have to ask, how affordable is it to stay on the island? I know you mentioned that the rich visit the island, but is there anywhere on the island where it would be worth it for someone on a budget? Thanks for providing this information.
Hi. I guess the best option for lower rates is to book within June to October – for low season rates. Also because they have the 3-night stay option on these months compared to the 5-7 nights.
For example accommodations in Treetop Casita, for a 3-night stay would be:
High season: $1,200 versus Low season: $950
Hope this helps.