With only 21 chalets set on a natural private bay, Rimba Resort is that perfect escape where you really feel cut off from reality (don’t we all need that right now?!). With a relaxed family friendly vibe, kids can run freely around the resort, never being far away with lots of friendly staff on hand to help keep an eye.
Rooms and food at Rimba Resort
Beautifully rustic Kenyan style chalets sit a mere few steps from the beach. Think ‘glamping by the beach’! Nice huts that are open to the elements give you a real back to nature feel, however there are shutters for the doors and windows, so privacy isn’t an issue. In keeping with the eco-friendly philosophy they aren’t equipped with air-con and only a couple of the chalets have hot water. However, in Malaysia the water is never ‘cold’ by my standards. That coupled with the lower humidity and sea breeze blowing in the windows meant we didn’t miss our air-con either. Although basic, the accommodation is more than adequate and with the gorgeous surroundings I’d be very surprised if you spent that much time in it.
At the resort all meals are included in the package. There is a lovely selection of Western and Asian options at both breakfast and lunch; with dinner being either a set meal (all four courses of it for the grown-ups!) or a BBQ buffet. Dinner for the children can be served along with the adults at 8pm or at the earlier time of 6pm.
I must say it is the service here that really makes it for me. You are greeted in the water on arrival by the resort crew, who carry your bags from the boat to your chalet. From then onward nothing is too much trouble. For example, when the staff noticed our little one hadn’t eaten much of their dinner, a cheese sandwich and fruit soon appeared in dinner’s replacement. They were also happy to cater for any food preferences/allergies.
Caring about nature
My inner eco-warrior also can’t help but love the measures Rimba Resort has taken to be environmentally responsible. No disposable water bottles (my pet peeve) are sold on site, favouring filtered water served by the glass or in reusable water bottles instead. The resort also has its very own turtle hatchery and if you’re lucky, you may just be there for a nest hatch. Enquire about their kids conservation club that is available too, it was highly educational with fun games!
Things to do
While the kids head off to conservation club you can either grab a drink in the bar, enjoy a good book in a hammock or head to the resort spa for a pampering session. For family fun have a game of volley ball, head out on a kayak, grab a paddle board or swim out for some great snorkeling. Snorkel trips to the most beautiful remote islands, night snorkeling as well as a full range Padi courses are available. Having been there more than once, I can say wholeheartedly that I wouldn’t hesitate to trust my children with their great instructors.
How to…?
Rimba Resort is fairly easily accessed from KL, being only a 4.5 hour drive to the jetty at Tanjung Leman. Located on the island of Pulau Sibu, it is a short 20/30 minute boat trip away from the mainland. Being slightly closer and far less mainstream than some of the better known islands of the area, are key elements as to why Rimba is my resort of choice.
All travel options, transfers and info will be discussed and can be planned for you. It really is as simple as an email via their website with suggested dates and their staff will guide you through the rest.
With all the rustic charm and family fun of a camping trip, food and beverage standards of a hotel, service with that added personal touch and the chilled island vibe of a paradise get away, this ticks all the boxes for our family.
Despite being a bit more expensive than some neighbouring resorts, it is also that bit more special than most we’ve visited, so I never grudge a penny and keep going back! For us it is always the perfect chance to escape the city and leave the technology behind. You can read more on their homepage and check the Tripadvisor reviews here.
Sea breeze? Tick!
Relaxed vibe? Tick!
Good service? Tick!
Great food? Tick!
Kids activities? Tick… My kind of holiday!
Also do have a look at other getaways from KL.
