Shaz Resort Pulau Tinggi

Shaz Resort sits on its own 850 m beach at Kampung Penaga. It has 83 rooms, of which it says 56 are in use, for up to 140 guests. Its own price list starts at about RM190 a night for a standard room; check the rate when you book.

There is a pool and a children’s pool, a playground, a 24-hour front desk and a sea-view restaurant serving a local buffet. The restaurant is halal and no alcohol is sold. The resort sells snorkelling and island-hopping trips, a guided jungle trek to a waterfall, fishing trips and camping. An agent’s 2D1N package from RM520 per person includes the return boat, breakfast and dinner, but not the conservation charge.

The catch is the boat and the upkeep. Room-only bookings do not include the transfer and the resort does not publish a fare; guests have reported paying much more for a boat outside the resort’s schedule, in cash. Guest reviews are mixed to poor, often citing worn, unclean rooms and a pool that was not always working. Deposits are non-refundable, and there is no refund or reschedule within 7 days of arrival. Official check-in is 3 pm and check-out noon; booking sites show other times, so confirm with the resort.