Nay Palad Hideaway Siargao

The island of Siargao is often referred to as the surfing capital of the Philippines — but it’s got more to recommend it than just some memorable breaks. Ringed by coral reef and clear waters, and covered with powdery white beaches and mangrove forest, the setting is as gorgeous as any you could wish for. Nay Palad Hideaway, on Siargao’s southern coast, is the sort of low-key, sustainably built resort where you can kick off your flip-flops and go barefoot.

You’ll spot the resort from afar, thanks to a wooden pagoda that rises up out of a tiny islet just offshore. Step into the reception pavilion, airy and geometric, built with local materials carved indigenous wood to woven coconut leaves. Pop by the cool circular bar for rum cocktails, or recover from the trip in a dreamy sunken lounge ensconced in white drapery and illuminated by the glow of bamboo lamps. Splash into the infinity pool, or climb into a ‘NESTREST’ — a futuristic hybrid of a hammock and a chaise longue that hangs, pod-like, from coconut trees — and enjoy the view of the sea. Or just retreat to your private villa and face-plant onto the king-sized bed.

These villas, it should be said, are really something to write home about. Each is generously sized — freestanding, set a good distance from the neighbors, with its own private porch and tropical gardens planted with orchids and spider lilies — and features various cushion-lined spaces that invite you to take a load off. And in true modern style, the bathroom might be the most impressive space. Large and opulent, with a luxurious high-pressure shower suspended over a sumptuous stone floor, it’s the bathroom of your dreams. Good thing the designers provided benches made of hand-carved local wood: they knew you’d want to spend extra time in here.

An epic surf break, Cloud 9, is within easy distance; even if you don’t brave the water, you can look down at the ocean from the three-story wooden watchtower. You could also explore the island by motorbike. Or you could loll about the Hideaway, feasting on organic fruit salads and dozing. Yoga, on-site massages, water sports... all of the above and more are covered under the resort's highly inclusive activity roster. Don’t be surprised if you blow through that book — you know, the one you’ve been trying to read for the past six months — in the first two days. The resort's got you covered: it has its own library, conveniently located next to the cocktail bar.