Permai Rainforest Resort

Deep in the Borneo jungle, with only the neighboring cultural village and a food court in walking distance, this rainforest hotel is designed for total nature immersion. The 44 acres (17.8 hectares) of lush vegetation form a veritable eco-paradise here, and a private white-sand beach fronts the South China Sea (there's also a public one nearby). Much like the stream-fed jungle pool though, there are no loungers or umbrellas here. The teak-wood lobby and cafe area are rustic, as are tree house and cabin rooms, which are all spread amid lush greenery. Wooden or bridged walkways divide up exotic foliage, and exotic birds, lizards, and tree-swinging monkeys make for quirky company. 

Prepare for more-challenging bugs, mosquitoes, or snakes though, and uneven terrain isn't for the mobility-impaired. Couples, families, or team-bonding conference groups come here for the retreat setting and nature-centric activities. These range from evening mangrove or firefly walks, to more-challenging ropes courses. Nearby trails also lead to beautiful waterfalls. Bare-bones accommodation and simple (but mostly included) food aren't always top-quality, but the experience is unique.

Despite the secluded feel and unspoiled beach, the property isn't entirely isolated. The single-lane highway reaching it is uneven (tractors often transport luggage here), but it leads to the Sarawak Cultural Village and Damai Center (both are a nine-minute walk away). The village exhibits local culture, while the Damai Center has a food court, bar, and entertainment. Santubong National Park is a 15-minute walk away, with others reachable by boat from the resort or Damai. Exotic flora and fauna here are exquisite, and dolphin-spotting boat trips are especially popular. Kuching's town is a 32-minute drive away. Kuching International Airport is just under an hour away by car. Airport transfers are available for a fee.

Spread across the resort, basic rooms come in two-person tree houses, or one- or two-story cabins (the latter sleep six to 10). Twenty feet (six meters) above ground, and reached by steep staircases, wooden tree houses have charming slanted roofs, canopy-level loft bedrooms, and small verandas, some of which offer sea views. Ground-level cabins with teak-wood or brick facades add on straightforward living areas consisting of wooden couches with bold print fabric and coffee tables. The pops of red or blue in bed throws, and wood-paneling in some units is cozy, but the overall look is rustic. Unfortunately, some wear and tear is evident, and some guests have reported maintenance issues. It's worth asking for one of the units renovated in 2017.

No phones, TVs, safes, hairdryers, or AC (except in a few tree houses) are offered. Ceiling fans and mosquito nets add comforts though, as do mini-fridges with free soda, bottled water, and. Compact bathrooms have basic showers with handheld showerheads. Towels and soap are provided. Note, ants and other bugs are to be expected.

Features here make the most of the rainforest environment and beaches. The Feeding Tree cafe has cushioned lounging areas and thatched decor with rustic charm, and a sheltered indoor area has basic dining furniture under lanterns, and an outdoor terrace with sea views. All rates include breakfast and dinner, with morning buffets offering Asian and Western options, and local or international dishes for dinner. Lunch fare is also available for a fee. Unfortunately, food is reportedly average, and the restaurant doesn't serve alcohol.

The freshwater pool is atmospheric, surrounded by greenery and below the canopy. It can get busy, however, and it's a bit shady. Activities -- all for a fee -- are plentiful, with the list including nature walks, hikes, kayaking, paddle-boarding, zip-lining, and challenging ropes courses, plus boat trips that explore nearby national parks and aim to spot swimming dolphins. A conference hall and three meeting rooms are available. The lobby's store sells snacks and essentials. Pets aren't permitted. Parking and Wi-Fi (available only in the lobby and cafe) are free.