One&Only Desaru Coast

This luxurious resort offers a tranquil escape, distinguished by its stunning architecture and the unique feature of private pools accompanying each suite, providing an exclusive and serene atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families looking for diverse activities, and luxury travelers who appreciate a quiet and exclusive environment. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional service, the beautiful grounds, and the high quality of the breakfast offerings. To make the most of your stay, consider utilizing the efficient WhatsApp concierge service for any requests and be aware of the distinct room layouts, which feature separate bathroom areas accessible via a sheltered passage.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort boasts an impressive array of facilities designed for relaxation and activity. The main pool is a significant highlight, praised for its beauty, size, and warm, inviting water, often described as a serene oasis built near the beach. Each suite also features a private plunge pool, though some guests noted issues with water clarity or cleanliness. The Club One Sports Center is a delightful surprise, offering a wide range of sports facilities including tennis, Padel, and basketball, making it a daily ritual for many. The spa provides a beautiful and tranquil setting for unwinding, complemented by a spacious and well-equipped fitness center that includes a yoga room with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and even a cold plunge. Complimentary activities like high tea and nature walks are also available, enriching the guest experience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be spacious and well-equipped, with comfortable beds and a pillow menu contributing to a restful stay. The interior design is often lauded as stunning. However, feedback on cleanliness and room condition is notably mixed. While some reviews praise the impeccable cleanliness and efficient twice-daily housekeeping, a significant number of guests reported issues such as stained linens, lizard droppings, cockroaches, and even a rat in one instance, leading to concerns about pests. There were also reports of flooding toilets and uncleaned in-suite pools. The unique bathroom layout, separated from the bedroom by a plunge pool, is a recurring point of discussion, with some finding it charming and others inconvenient, especially during the night.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast experience consistently receives high praise, described as lovely with a wide variety of options, including Asian, European, and healthy choices, along with impressive natural coconut yogurt and fresh fruit selections. The Ambara restaurant offers a diverse breakfast buffet with changing daily selections, including local favorites like Roti Canai. While the Hoshi Japanese restaurant is commended for its very good omakase and fresh ingredients, feedback on the Ember Beach Club and general food quality is mixed. Some guests found the food delicious, highlighting dishes like beef tartare, while others reported undercooked items, forgotten orders, and overall average taste that did not justify the price. Instances of poor hygiene, such as plastic in food and pubic hair on dishes, were also reported at Ambara, alongside slow service.

Location & Accessibility
The resort is situated in a secluded location, offering a peaceful and calm natural setting amidst lush greenery, which many guests appreciate for its beauty and tranquility. However, this seclusion means it is far inside and not easily accessible for venturing out at night or visiting local shops without a car. The beach conditions receive mixed reviews; while some found the sand clean and the views stunning, many noted the sea was rough, rocky, and unsuitable for swimming, with signs indicating danger. Some guests also reported the beach being dirty or unkempt. Buggy service is available for transport around the expansive property, with some guests praising the drivers' helpfulness and efficiency, while others experienced significant delays or unaccommodating staff responses regarding its use.

Staff & Service
The staff at the resort consistently receive overwhelming praise for their friendly, attentive, and impeccable hospitality. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness, warmth, and accommodating nature, noting that many staff members remember names and offer personalized recommendations, creating a truly special and welcoming atmosphere. The check-in process is generally smooth, with staff assisting with early arrivals and late check-outs. However, some guests reported issues with internal communication, delayed responses to WhatsApp requests, and instances where housekeeping did not clean rooms as expected. Despite these isolated concerns, the overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication to providing excellent and personalized service is a standout feature, making guests feel valued and at home.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain hidden costs, including a destination fee and charges for transfers, which some found surprising or inconsistent. The resort's wildlife management practices are a notable point, with reports of security using slingshots to deter monkeys, which some guests found concerning despite the aim of ensuring guest safety. The unique architecture by Kerry Hill is frequently admired for its design and integration with nature. The resort is also known for hosting special events, such as the Dior pop-up, which attracted many visitors. The Kids Only Club and various family-friendly activities are highly appreciated by guests traveling with children, providing engaging options for younger visitors.