Amanpulo: an island wellness retreat in the Philippines

North of Palawan, the private island of Pamalican stands like a pristine jewel in the middle of the Sulu Sea. Accessible only by private plane from Manila, this confidential paradise is part of theCuyo archipelago. Its turquoise lagoon, seven square kilometers of coral reefs and white sand beaches fringed by jungle create a setting of striking beauty. Time slows down to the rhythm of the tides and the winds… A rare and precious sense of isolation.

Total isolation on the beach (Photo: Amanpulo)

A private island in the heart of the Sulu Sea

Set on the private island of Pamalican, in the heart of the Cuyo archipelago north of Palawan, Amanpulo overlooks the Sulu Sea and its translucent lagoon surrounded by coral reefs. Accessible only by private plane from Manila. The arrival itself is a highlight: an hour-long flight over scattered islands and turquoise lagoons, before landing on the private airstrip that crosses the island. On arrival, an electric buggy takes each guest directly to their Casita or Villa, in an unspoilt island setting where sand replaces roads.

Private flight to the island (Photo: Amanpulo)

Amanpulo was conceived from the outset as a low-density retreat integrated into the landscape. Its sober architecture, inspired by natural materials, fades into the background against a backdrop of jungle and pristine beaches. The island is also a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles , and Amanpulo actively supports the preservation of this fragile ecosystem as well as community life on neighboring islands, notably through the Andres Soriano Foundation on Manamoc.

Oceanfront casitas and villas

Amanpulo offers two types of accommodation. The Casitas, inspired by local architecture, are hidden in the canopy or spread out facing the ocean. With their wooden terraces, shaded hammocks and paths leading directly to the beach, they invite you to live barefoot, close to nature.

The more spacious Villas open onto large private pools, alfresco dining areas and sun-drenched relaxation areas. A private chef and butler accompany each stay, while an electric buggy is available for exploring the island in total freedom.

The spirit of Aman is in every detail: understated luxury, designed as a natural extension of the landscape.

Casitas (Photo: Amanpulo)

Well-being, the soul of Amanpulo

Nestled at the top of the island, the Aman spa overlooks the Sulu Sea from the north hill, in a setting where nature and silence form the ideal backdrop for regeneration. The wellness experience here is one of total immersion, combining Filipino traditions, holistic approaches and contemporary expertise.

Six light-filled treatment suites, a soothing relaxation lounge and a healing garden overlooking the ocean. Facilities complete the picture: hammam, cold pool, Pilates studio equipped with Reformer, yoga pavilion and state-of-the-art fitness center.

Filipino heritage and world rituals

Hilot massage, rooted in local traditions, uses heat, freshness, banana leaves and coconut oil to restore energy flow. The Seven Seas Massage combines techniques of traditional healers from around the world, warm bamboo and Himalayan stones. As for the Pag-asa treatment, it combines healing and solidarity, as part of the profits go to support the Andres Soriano Foundation.

Outdoor massage (Photo: Amanpulo)

Uniting body and mind

The practice of yoga and meditation takes center stage. Whether solo or in group classes, in the yoga pavilion facing the ocean or in the heart of the healing garden, these sessions strengthen the body-mind connection. Complementary disciplines, such as Pilates or fitness, are supervised by expert instructors, to tailor the experience to each individual’s pace and needs.

Under the guidance ofElmer Munar, resident practitioner and certified trainer, each guest benefits from personalized follow-up. His approaches combine mobility, strengthening, yoga and manual techniques inspired by Thai massage, for deep, transformative work.

Yoga class facing the ocean (Photo: Amanpulo)

Well-being beyond your stay

Finally, Amanpulo extends this philosophy through the Aman Skincare collection, Sva supplements and Aman Fine Fragrance, bringing the spirit of the spa home. An extension of skincare that echoes Aman’s promise to accompany its guests on the path to lasting well-being.

From vegetable garden to plate

At Amanpulo, gastronomy is rooted in its environment. An organic farm supplies the kitchens with herbs, fruit and vegetables every day. Chefs combine locally caught fish and seafood to create balanced, refined menus.

Several restaurants dot the island: the Japanese-flavored Lagoon Club, the Beach Club, which celebrates Mediterranean cuisine, and the Picnic Grove, ideal for an Italian lunch in the shade of the trees. The Clubhouse Restaurant offers an elegant fusion of Filipino specialties and international influences.

The chef prepares a plate (Photo: Amanpulo)

For a more intimate experience, you can organize a private dinner on a deserted beach, a barbecue under the stars, or a picnic on the Kawayan Bar, a floating bamboo raft. Every meal becomes a sensory voyage, between land, sea and tradition.

Sunset dinner overlooking the sea (Photo: Amanpulo)

Between adventure and contemplation

Amanpulo may be a sanctuary of tranquility, but it’s also a great place to experiment. Sea lovers can explore the pristine coral reefs through the PADI center, try their hand at kitesurfing when the winds are right, or take a private cruise to discover the neighboring islands.

Land-based activities include tennis, cycling, jungle obstacle courses and telescope stargazing. The island is also a nesting site for sea turtles, offering the rare privilege of witnessing the hatching and first journey of the babies to the ocean.

And when night falls, an evening on the beach, around a fire or in a tipi open to the sky, becomes a suspended moment, where the horizon merges with the milky way.

Book your stay in Amanpulo

Take advantage of our expertise in wellness breaks and contact us for a personalized quote for Amanpulo.

Rates : From about 1500 USD per night.

Call us for the USA: +1 (646) 980 6652 or for the UK: +44 20 4577 3258 to discuss your holiday plans.

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