5 of the finest private islands near Singapore

Always top of BLLNR's list is the sublime Batu Batu. A privately-owned island in Malaysia, this little slice of heaven has eight picture-perfect white sand beaches. Being a protected marina park due to the islands rich flora and fauna, Batu Batu aims to work as peacefully and sustainably with the surrounding environment, so you are guaranteed no noisy jet ski's in terms of beach activities but nice (not to mention healthy) paddle boards and canoes. There's also an onsite conservation team if you want to learn more about the island including its leatherback turtles. Consisting of just 20 one and two bedroom villas each decorated in a luxuriously contemporary fashion, the limited capacity means optimum privacy as you sit back, enjoy the first-class service, relax in the stunning spa and chow down on top notch food.

If you are looking for the ultimate in privacy, then Ariara Island is for you. Sleeping just 18 people in a selection of villas and suites, the island in the Philippines is designed for private hire. Managed by the owner's personal staff, this 125 acre private haven has over 600m of glistening white sand, stunning infinity pool, 100's of coral reefs just begging to be explored not to mention the contemporary, chic accommodation to rest your head. Of course that's not all with the island boasting a private speed boat ideal for waterskiing, on site jet skis and of course, full scuba diving equipment to explore those coral reefs.

There are sometimes when you just need to really, really get away from it all and for those times, there's Telunas Island. Just three hours away from Singapore, this tranquil slice of heaven is a no distractions zone with no wifi, TV's or ringing phones, meaning the moment you step foot on this exclusive island, you can relax and enjoy your surroundings. That's not to say there's not plenty to do either as the island offers a beautiful spa, paddle boards for the beach, natural jogging path and an observatory to take in one of the clearest night skies you will ever see.

Just a quick trip from Singapore, in Indonesia is Palau Pangkil. Literally meaning 'small island' in Indonesian, the island offers 13 double rooms, each decorated from salvaged materials. Hiring the whole island means you get full use of the island butlers, kayaks, bar, fresh water pool and snorkeling equipment, making it the ultimate hire for a whole family holiday. But if that's not enough, the island owners also own a neighbouring island, Palau Mulbai, which although a lot smaller than Palau Pangkil, is completely deserted guaranteeing ultimate privacy.

It seems the Philippines is where to go for private islands as yet another Philippines destination makes our list. Just five kilometres long and 500 metres wide, Amanpulo is made up of just 40 luxury villas, with each one coming with a private buggy so you can explore the lush surroundings as you desire. Hosting a wide range of activities ranging from shopping (there are three shops on the island), library for books and DVD's, full spa, tennis courts, water sports hub and even dive centre, one thing is guaranteed at Amanpulo, you are sure never to get bored.

Source POPPY SKINNER, Asiaone