After a week of buzzing around Manila, we boarded a quick 1.5-hour Philippine Airlines flight to Siargao, excited for the next chapter of our first-ever trip to the Philippines. We had heard whispers about Nay Palad Hideaway—how it wasn’t just a resort, but a feeling, a pace, a mood. What we found exceeded every expectation.
Nay Palad is tucked away on the southeastern tip of Siargao, one of the Philippines’ most pristine islands. Between the crashing Pacific waves on one side and six square kilometers of ancient mangrove forest on the other, the resort feels like it exists in its own little universe. And from the moment we arrived, kicked off our shoes, and stepped into the barefoot luxury of Nay Palad Hideaway, we understood why this place is so special.
Nay Palad doesn’t just welcome you—it envelops you. Each detail is thought through with a level of care that made us feel instantly like family. The design is equal parts dreamscape and thoughtful architecture, from the floating loungers and treehouse lounges to the pool pagoda surrounded by swaying palms. Every space invites you to let go.
We had daily massages in open-air treatment rooms, island-hopped to jewel-like uninhabited beaches on a private boat, and enjoyed food that was both healthy and indulgent. Meals were fresh, vibrant, and exactly what we craved—even when we didn’t know what that was. The staff somehow always did. It wasn’t just service; it was intuition.
One evening, we had dinner in the treehouse. Another night, we watched a movie by the pool, stars overhead, with cocktails in hand. Whether we wanted quiet solitude or full adventure, Nay Palad made it happen without a schedule, without any pressure. It’s a place where you write your own story every day—and they somehow always know the perfect chapter to suggest next.
For travelers dreaming of an alternative to the crowded beaches of Thailand, Nay Palad is a White Lotus-worthy swap. It has all the magic—lush landscapes, crystal-clear water, incredible hospitality—but none of the crowds. This isn’t a destination that feels overdone. It’s a hidden gem that still feels wildly undiscovered.
Nay Palad was a reset button. We left barefoot, glowing, already planning when to return.
But if you are curious about learning more about Thailand as well, read about our trips to Phuket and Koh Samui.
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