Mala Island Resort

We stayed Monday to Friday in 3A, and since October is low season we were the only guests on the island. It wasn't a good time for whales. The rooms are basic and showing their age, but clean, comfortable, and have fantastic views. We're wildlife and photography geeks, so we were in our element. At low tide you can walk around the island, but bring water shoes or sandals for the coral. There’s also snorkeling, swimming, a land track around the island, or just relaxing with a book on a recliner under a tree. Neisha and 'Olivia and the kids were lovely. It felt more like staying with family, especially playing Uno together in the evenings. 'Olivia is a wonderful cook, and I definitely recommend her ota ika/Tongan raw fish. This was one of my most relaxing holidays. Starlink internet is excellent in the main building and reaches the little beach. In the rooms, my eSim worked well enough. You'll need to get into the water when boarding and getting off the boat, so wear shorts and sandals. The paths are crushed coral, so you'll want something on your feet walking to your room. They rely on rainwater, and supplies can run low at certain times of year. On our last day, the water actually ran out. There’s plenty of bottled drinking water, which could also be used to wash if needed, and seawater may be available to flush the toilet. I felt sorry for the guest due to arrive after us. I'd return, but bring my own snorkel gear and underwater camera.

The owners were lovely, but the resort felt rundown and like it was falling apart. The paths to the bungalows were so muddy that every walk left our feet and shoes covered in mud. We had to take the boat over in pouring rain, and the one they sent had no cover, so we and our luggage arrived completely drenched. There wasn't a choice of food at the restaurant, just whatever they had, and the selection was very limited. We never saw the prices and only realized afterward how expensive it was. For two people, one night with dinner, breakfast, and the return boat ride cost $600 TOP. We felt that was far too much for the quality of the stay, food, and transport. Wouldn't recommend it.

I looked after the island for two months while the owner was away on holiday. Had an awesome time, catching gts and bonito from the beach, and yellow fins just 300 Mt's offshore.

The coral reefs right off the beach are awesome.