1511 Coconut Grove

The staff were kind and helpful, and the beach bar is a nice place to spend time away from the generator noise. The cabin was across the road with a lovely sea view, and at first the garden and outdoor dining area looked inviting. We stayed three nights, but the price didn’t feel justified. At 5pm, a generator serving the huge resort next door starts up in the garden, only about five metres away. It’s enormous and deafening until 11pm, then starts again from 7am to 11am. During those hours, you’re better off away from the room and garden, or out exploring the island for better food. I don’t know if it runs every day, but it was on during the busy Vesak weekend. The room needs work too. The AC only blew warm air, the bathroom wasn’t very clean, and the water heater couldn’t get above 30°C, so there were no hot showers or cool nights. The staff did their best with the disturbance from next door. Still, it wasn’t worth the price.

Tioman is a beautiful island, and the beach at the hotel is exceptional. I spent four nights here with my fiancé, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you want something beyond a hostel. The hotel is overpriced for what it offers. Our room was small, the bathroom was very old and needs renovating, and the food was just okay, though the fish was good. The hotel kept suggesting we put bills on the room, so I didn’t see the prices as we went. At checkout I was shocked by the food prices, especially the fish, which was extremely expensive for an island full of fish. I also sent out a dress for laundry and it was damaged, so I can’t wear it now. Some staff members didn’t seem honest. I should have paid each bill as I went and kept my laundry elsewhere.

The easiest thing to love here is the path straight to the beach. The view was beautiful when we arrived, and the staff made us feel welcome right away. The place is bright and picturesque, with generously sized rooms. We liked having both air conditioning and manual fans, and the beds were clean and comfortable. My daughter stayed in the Tower room and was amazed by its private rooftop. The restaurant had great food options, and the local staff were warm and genuinely hospitable. It’s a stay we’ll remember for a long time.

The location is superb if you want uncrowded beaches but still like having different places to eat and drink nearby. The new beachfront bar is one of the best I’ve had a drink at, and I’ve been to quite a few. Everything was great, especially the friendly staff who went out of their way to help.