The Alila brand has always stood for understated luxury with a soulful twist. Now, it makes its island debut in Greater China with the opening of Alila Dong’ao Island Zhuhai – a sleek, all-suite sanctuary perched on a clifftop in the South China Sea, just under an hour by ferry from mainland Zhuhai.
Tucked away on the southwestern edge of the island, the resort is surrounded by emerald hills and endless ocean views, showcasing a remote-yet-accessible escape designed for those who want to unplug without giving up on comfort. It’s where seekers of seclusion can reconnect with the self, nature, and culture.
Where Nature Meets Next-Level Design
Designed by acclaimed interior designer Ju Bin, the property blends seamlessly with its rugged surroundings, reflecting both the raw beauty of the island and the heritage of Lingnan culture.
Guests arrive at a “stone circle” drop-off inspired by natural rock formations, before stepping through a water courtyard and into a dramatic, open-air lobby where sea and sky are the main focal point. A wave-shaped canopy floats above like a tribute to the ocean, while winding paths lead through jungle-like greenery, setting the tone for a stay that’s as grounding as it is glamorous.
All-Suite Accommodation
With just 104 suites, every guest at Alila Dong’ao Island gets plenty of space to breathe. Starting at a generous 925 square feet, each suite is bathed in natural light, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows – and most come with a balcony, a tea room, or even a private pool.
The interiors are cool, contemporary, and quietly luxurious, with thoughtful nods to local artistry. Those seeking something extra special may opt for the two top-floor rooftop suites that offer 270-degree views and individually styled interiors – one elegant and classic, the other bold and fashion-forward.
Island Bites with a Local Twist
Food at Alila Dong’ao Island showcases Cantonese flavours made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, including produce from the resort’s own organic vegetable garden and delicious bounty from the ocean. SEASALT is the property’s relaxed, all-day dining space where you’ll find the freshest seafood and nourishing breakfasts in a breezy indoor-outdoor setting.
For something more refined, HOITONG leans into traditional Cantonese cuisine, where you can watch the skilled chefs work their magic in an open kitchen as you sip on tea or wine. Finally, CHUN Bar is where you’ll want to be come late afternoon – cocktail in hand, gazing out to sea. The signature sundown ritual, marked by the gentle ring of a singing bowl, signals the start of golden hour on the island.
A Wellness Retreat in the Truest Sense
If your idea of bliss includes spa days and cliffside swims, you’re in for a treat. Spa Alila is a peaceful, low-lit haven offering everything from sauna and hammam experiences to Himalayan salt therapy and bespoke body treatments. One highlight is the Moonlight Stone massage, which uses warming moonstones to soothe muscles and restore energy flow.
There’s also a fully equipped fitness studio, a dedicated yoga room, and an infinity pool that extends nearly 50 feet over the cliff’s edge, giving swimmers the illusion of floating right above the sea.
Celebrations, Island-Style
Planning a destination wedding, retreat, or special celebration? Alila Dong’ao Island has over 5,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. Think sea-facing ballrooms, a sprawling ocean-view lawn, and sun-drenched terraces that are made for unforgettable moments.
To mark the resort’s opening, guests who book through Hyatt.com can enjoy complimentary daily wellness sessions, from sunrise yoga to moonlit meditations. Plus, World of Hyatt members can earn 500 Bonus Points for each qualifying night from April 15 to July 31, 2025 with no registration required. Additional participating hotels and their offer stay periods can be found at worldofhyatt.com/newhotelbonus.
For bookings and more information, head to this website.
Images courtesy of Alila
