Where Barefoot Luxury Comes Naturally

Since opening Soneva Fushi in 1995, Soneva has helped define barefoot luxury with a simple belief: true indulgence comes with the freedom to leave the unnecessary behind. Now, its newest retreat, Soneva Secret, takes that philosophy further with “Bare Luxury,” a considered approach centered on what matters most: connection, wellbeing and the natural world. Tucked into the remote Makunudhoo Atoll, the resort has just 13 overwater and beach havens, with retractable roofs for stargazing and dedicated Barefoot Guardians who personalize every stay. For an even more secluded stay, choose a Sea Loft, accessible only by boat.

Perched directly on the sand along Southern California’s coast, Surf & Sand Laguna Beach offers a relaxed coastal escape where ocean views take center stage. Every room and suite opens onto a private balcony with the Pacific in view, while the beach is just steps away for impromptu barefoot walks along the shore. Even Aquaterra Spa comes with a coastal backdrop, with a couples’ treatment room overlooking the water and therapies drawing inspiration from the natural landscape.

Cascading down a hillside into the sheltered waters of Labrelotte Bay, Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences brings a Mediterranean sensibility to St Lucia’s Caribbean coast. Whitewashed villas and oceanfront suites open onto expansive terraces, some with private plunge pools and sweeping sea views. Spend the day stretched out on the white-sand beach or take to the bay for complimentary kayaking, windsurfing, snorkeling and paddleboarding. Seven restaurants, six pools and a Serene Spa round out this relaxed island escape.

Built from reclaimed timber and local driftwood, Song Saa Private Island blends seamlessly into twin islets in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago. Guided by a philosophy of sensitive luxury, the resort features 24 thatch-roofed villas with private plunge pools, open-air showers and direct access to a protected marine reserve. Time slows down across the islands, whether you’re gliding through mangroves by kayak or sitting down to Khmer cuisine prepared with fresh, ethically sourced ingredients.

On its own private island in the Raa Atoll, Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa makes the most of its natural setting, with villas that blur the line between indoor living and the surrounding landscape. Overwater villas open directly onto the turquoise lagoon, while beachfront villas offer direct access to the powdery white sand. The all-inclusive offering takes care of every detail, leaving you free to fill your days with lagoon excursions, beachside dining and sunset cocktails on the sand—shoes optional.

Spread across six private islands within a protected marine conservation area, Bawah Reserve puts you in no rush to be anywhere. Overwater bungalows and bamboo suites built by hand sit tucked between turquoise lagoons, 13 sugary-white beaches and untouched jungle. Spend your days moving effortlessly between open-air spa treatments, guided forest hikes, paddleboarding across calm waters or escaping to a secluded beach for a castaway picnic on the sand. Get a closer look in our Bawah Reserve Travel Diary by our travel partner Jyo Shankar.

Set between the Caribbean Sea and 200 acres of jungle, Palmaïa The House of AïA takes a more soulful approach to Riviera Maya luxury. Elevated walkways wind through tropical foliage, leading to oceanfront suites with private terraces steps from the water. Nourish your mind and body through daily sound baths, jungle yoga and plant-based fine dining crafted from regional produce. Private freshwater cenotes hidden within the resort grounds and quiet beachfront lounging create an unpretentious sanctuary focused on holistic healing.

Rooted in Fijian tradition, Likuliku Lagoon Resort stands as the country’s first adults-only retreat to offer authentic overwater bures. These thatched-roof sanctuaries perch above a protected marine sanctuary, with private decks overlooking the lagoon. Slip into the water straight from your bure, venture out by boat to explore the surrounding reefs or indulge in a traditional Fijian massage. Here, life moves to the rhythm of the tides, with little need for shoes or schedules.

In the laid-back Bahian fishing village of Trancoso, UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa gives traditional homes around the historic Quadrado a second life. Designer Wilbert Das worked with local artisans to restore the historic casas using reclaimed materials, making each of the 11 hideaways one of a kind. Regional healing traditions shape the spa treatments, while shaded garden lounges invite a slower pace. When it’s time to eat, head to the beach club for fresh seafood served right on the sand.

Shoes are optional at Amanpulo, set on the private island of Pamalican in the Philippines, where sandy paths wind through tropical greenery towards secluded beaches. Inspired by traditional Filipino bahay kubo dwellings, the casitas sit beside the beach or among the island’s tropical greenery. Private golf carts and bicycles make it easy to get around, whether you’re heading to a tennis match beneath the palms or setting off on a cruise across the lagoon. Evenings offer their own kind of variety, transitioning seamlessly from fine dining pavilions to barefoot seafood barbecues on the sand at sunset.