On the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, this boutique resort pays tribute to Malay tradition, with its contemporary take on indigenous architecture and a philosophy based on the concept of Sucimurni, which emphasizes purity of body and spirit. As for the main reason Tanjong Jara made this list, its Water Sports Centre (complete with dive master and PADI dive instructor) is just a short speedboat ride from Tenggol Island, home to untouched coral gardens and rare marine life. The reef is in near perfect condition, and more than twenty dive spots showcase its diversity, from the spectacular Amazing Grace, filled with turtles and stingrays, to Moonraker, boasting hard coral structures up to ten meters tall.