Fifty-two stunning villas stuffed with modern amenities and island-chic touches make up posh Gayana. The Bakau (mangrove) Villa overlooks a tangled, flooded forest, while the Palm Villa's deceptive simplicity masks steps that lead into the warm heart of Tunku Abdul Rahman's protected waters. Minimum two-night stay mid-July through August.
While here check out its inspiring on-site Marine Ecology Research Centre (MERC), which restores and rehabilitates different forms of marine wildlife. It has had great success in propagating giant clams.