Berjaya Tioman Resort

One of the main highlights of this resort is its stunning stretch of beach and mountain backdrop. Several swimming pools surrounded by sundecks, water activities and sports facilities keep guests busy, but there's little in the immediate area, which may be an issue for those wanting to dine off-side. Modeled after a traditional Malay village, the property features a number of wooden open-air pavilions with peaked roofs, and one- and two-story wooden chalets, some of which are right on the beach. While winding paths connect all the facilities, a buggy is on hand should guests need it. The child-friendly hotel is primarily popular with couples and families on vacation from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. 

The resort is located on the western coast of Tioman Island, which is just off the east coast of Malaysia. Tekek Village Jetty, which is a few minutes' drive via a free shuttle bus from the resort, can be reached by a two-hour ferry ride from Tanjung Gemok or Mersing jetties on the eastern coast of Malaysia. While some guests have complained that getting to the resort is a hassle -- it takes around three-and-a-half hours by car from Kuala Lumpur to reach the jetty on the mainland -- others appreciate the adventure. There are a couple of restaurants within a 20-minute walk of the resort, and Tekek Village is a 25-minute walk away. As it is a steep uphill or downhill walk, however, some guests have complained that there's not a shuttle service. 

The resort offers 268 rooms housed in one- and two-story traditional Malay wooden bungalows set in the garden or right on the beach. While the rooms exude rustic charm, they are rather bland and low on decorations, with just framed photographs in the Junior Suites. Most have cream walls, wooden floors and furnishings, including two armchairs and a small table, and appealing terraces. Unfortunately, some are more contemporary than others, as certain units are showing wear, have dated decor, and experience maintenance issues such as poor water heaters. Standard amenities consist of air-conditioning, TVs with limited cable channels, mini-fridges, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Basic bathrooms have showers, toiletries, and hairdryers. Larger room types add safes, rattan couches, work desks, and bathtubs. 

The wide stretch of beach is a highlight here, offering a peaceful setting, wooden loungers, and umbrellas. Overlooking the ocean is the lovely main pool, which is surrounded by a furnished sundeck. Within this area are a hot tub, seasonal swim-up bar, and two children’s pools with slides bordered by an interesting rock formation. The second pool, meanwhile, is quieter, though it also comes with a whirlpool. Another hot tub is found by the spa. Albeit simple, the spa offers a range of treatments.

Two restaurants on-site serve Thai and Malaysian cuisines, plus there are two bars and a lounge. The primary eatery, Sri Nelayan, is set in a large wooden pavilion with a lofty peaked roof and intricate wooden carvings throughout. The all-day eatery provides Malaysian and international dishes buffet-style for breakfast and dinner, as well as a la carte options. Matahari Restaurant specializes in Thai dishes, but it's only open for dinner. The charming Beach Bar is housed in an open-air wooden pavilion with a terrace right above the golden sand. 

In terms of recreation, golf enthusiasts can practice their swing at the resort’s 18-hole golf course, which offers shoe and equipment rental. Other facilities include four tennis courts, a basketball court, large game room, playground, and a dive center for diving and snorkeling trips. Additional activities include kayaking, fishing, island hopping, glass-bottom boat trips, sunset cruises, and jungle trekking. A gym has a decent range of equipment, but it's old. A small store sells snacks, souvenirs, and beachwear. 

A range of meeting and event spaces are on-site. Wi-Fi is free but reportedly spotty.