The private island’s motto “barefoot luxury” means you’ll feel the powdery white sand between your toes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Imagine discovering that an island is available for purchase, gathering a group of friends, embarking on a journey to the uninhabited destination, and finalizing a transaction to secure your very own paradise!
Transforming this dream into actuality is precisely what Australian expatriate Andrew Dixon and his group accomplished nearly a decade ago. Initially, they retained the island for their personal enjoyment, inviting family and friends for camping holidays to appreciate the island’s distinctive charm: fine white sand beaches, captivating white granite boulders, shimmering rock pools, palm trees, coconuts, and remarkable wildlife.
After a few years, they generously decided it was appropriate to open their small slice of paradise to other residents of Singapore seeking a weekend escape, with the journey taking only 2.5 hours by ferry, car, and boat from the city.
Presently, Nikoi Island – derived from the local Hokkien word for “Papaya” – is recognized as one of the 10 most stunning beaches in South East Asia and has evolved into a sought-after destination for travelers from around the world.
The Design
The 15 beach houses on the private island are meticulously crafted from eco-sustainable driftwood, producing enchanting beach accommodations that can only be characterized as “rustic luxe.” These alluring structures are elevated on stilts, featuring balconies and beautiful alang alang grass roofs, while incorporating modern conveniences such as wifi. They come equipped with luxurious master beds adorned with romantic mosquito nets and built-in day beds. Due to the open-air design, air conditioning is not provided – nor is it necessary – as the pleasant evening sea breeze provides adequate cooling. Nevertheless, ceiling fans are available above the beds for those requiring additional comfort.
Barefoot Luxury
The private island’s philosophy of “barefoot luxury” ensures that you will experience the fine white sand between your toes throughout the day. The two outdoor dining areas are situated over swept sand floors, featuring naturally stylish bamboo roofs amid the palm trees and ocean. The optimal sunset view can be enjoyed from the island’s primary bar, positioned between both restaurants, facing Bintan Island.
A walk to the opposite side of the island reveals a secondary and more exclusive bar, integrated into the cliff and featuring a swimming pool. The panoramic views of the white granite boulders in this area are both stunning and distinctive. Furthermore, visitors are surrounded by a lush and captivating rainforest.
The Private Island’s Staff
A significant number of the staff have been with the island since its inception and demonstrate unwavering loyalty to the Nikoi family. Their enthusiastic smiles resonate throughout the day, reflecting their genuine passion for their work. It is noteworthy that they adhere to a five-day workweek (unlike most employees in Indonesia who work six days), rotating five days on the island followed by two days off. They have also been entrusted with individual projects, such as turtle research and conservation, testing methodologies to combat mosquitoes (which seems to be effective, as none were encountered during our stay, a welcome relief given the current Zika concerns), and formulating their own condiment and tea recipes using local fruits.
Our Nikoi Experience
Typically, locating a secluded island paradise necessitates an exhausting international flight and lengthy transfers; however, the straightforward combination of ferry, car, and boat travel was refreshing and exceptionally accommodating. Upon your arrival, a courteous Nikoi Island liaison greets you at the ferry terminal and manages your passport processing at immigration while you enjoy a cold beverage in the terminal lounge. This seamless experience significantly enhances the overall journey.
The most enjoyable aspect of being on the island is the lack of decision-making required! You do not need to deliberate for hours regarding meal selections, as the accomplished chefs create three-course menus based on your dietary restrictions. Our greatest challenge was accommodating a three-course lunch following breakfast while simultaneously remaining active enough in the afternoon to generate an appetite for dinner! However, as soon as the enticing aromas from the kitchen waft through the air as you sip on a sunset cocktail, your stomach begins to anticipate yet another delightful sampling of local island delicacies.
Nikoi Island also provides a variety of activities, including rock climbing, snorkeling, sailing dinghies, kayaking, and windsurfing. There is a luxury spa boasting stunning ocean views and a Scallywags kids club for younger visitors. Additionally, do not miss the opportunity for photographs at one of the three ocean swings!
This account of Nikoi Island was authored by @kelly_beckwith & @phineloves, co-founders of @theasia.collective
