Location & Landscape
Bawah Reserve is located in Indonesia’s remote Anambas Archipelago, halfway between Singapore and Borneo. The private reserve encompasses six islands, three protected lagoons, 13 beaches, and approximately 100 hectares of primary forest. Turquoise waters, coral reefs, mangroves, white-sand beaches, and densely forested hills create an exceptionally secluded tropical setting.
Wildlife Experience
The protected marine environment supports colorful reef fish, rays, corals, and green and hawksbill sea turtles, which nest on the reserve’s beaches. Guests may encounter bumphead parrotfish, clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and other marine species while snorkeling or diving. Guided conservation experiences provide insight into coral restoration, reef monitoring, turtle protection, and the surrounding island ecosystems.
Accommodation
The reserve features 36 environmentally conscious suites, bungalows, and villas positioned among tropical gardens, beside the beach, or directly over the lagoons. Options range from one-bedroom tented suites and overwater bungalows to two-, three-, and four-bedroom villas with private pools. Interiors include canopy beds, locally crafted furnishings, spacious verandas, copper bathtubs, and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces.
Design & Atmosphere
Bawah Reserve combines traditional Indonesian craftsmanship with relaxed island elegance. Accommodations were constructed with minimal clearing, using locally sourced natural materials and without heavy machinery. Recycled copper, native stone, bamboo, canvas, and reclaimed wood appear throughout the resort. The atmosphere is private and unhurried, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, wellbeing, and immersion in nature.
Activities & Experiences
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, catamaran sailing, island hiking, tennis, stargazing, and castaway picnics. The reserve also offers daily movement classes, spa treatments, Indonesian cooking, batik workshops, permaculture garden tours, sunset cruises, private dining, and conservation activities. Quiet beaches and secluded spa pavilions provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
Access
From Singapore, guests are transferred to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and accompanied on a 30-minute ferry ride to Batam. After clearing Indonesian immigration, they continue by road to Hang Nadim Airport for a private 75-minute seaplane flight directly into Bawah Reserve’s lagoon. Because of the morning departure schedule, an overnight stay in Singapore or Batam is recommended before traveling to the reserve.
