Unforgettable Shore Excursions That Explore Asia’s Natural Wonders

In addition to the myriad pleasures aboard the yacht, so many natural wonders await onshore.

With spacious suites, a fabulous spa and numerous fine dining restaurants, Luminara is the ultimate luxury base for exploring Asia’s incredible natural wonders. Get off the beaten path and trek to tumbling waterfalls along the Malay Peninsula or kayak around imposing karst cliffs in the cerulean waters off the coast of Koh Samui. Experience some of Borneo’s most pristine rainforest from a thrilling canopy walk or experience the unique tradition of sand bathing on the geothermal beaches in Kagoshima, Japan. Every port offers a unique glimpse of Asia’s wild side. Don’t miss these adventures.

This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site in northeast Vietnam is dotted with nearly 2,000 islands. Some feature sheer cliffs and rock arches. Others have endless white sand beaches and tranquil coves. The best way to experience the bay’s unique geological history is on a cruise aboard a traditional wooden junk boat. Sail past towering karst formations and stop to picnic on virgin beaches or explore the grottos and caves.

Discover the untouched natural beauty of the Bacuit Archipelago, a collection of limestone islands in the Philippines with secret lagoons and hidden beaches, on an island-hopping tour. A boat will whisk you to Miniloc Island to see the Big Lagoon, a natural swimming hole surrounded by jungle-covered karst walls. Next, snorkel the emerald waters off Cadlao Island and relax under the coconut trees of Paradise Beach. Finally, enjoy a picnic lunch on a pristine patch of white sand on tiny Bukal Island.

This archipelago of 99 islands off the coast of Malaysia was awarded Geopark status by UNESCO for its unique geology of caves, karsts, glacial dropstones and sea arches. On the main island, Pulau Langkawi, you can ogle lush rainforest and waterfalls on a cable car ride that takes you to the island’s second highest peak. Want a closer view? Take a day trip to Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall, a 295-foot cascade and series of rock pools tucked away in the middle of the jungle.

Perched on the edge of Kagoshima Bay, the onsen town of Ibusuki is renowned for suna-mushi or sand bathing, a tradition that dates to the Edo period in Japan. The dark sand on the geothermically heated beaches along these shores are believed to have healing properties, including improved circulation. After donning a yukata robe, an attendant will help cover you in the warm sand. Relax and listen to the lapping waves for 20 minutes then seal in the benefits with a traditional onsen bath.

The capital of Brunei is known for its grand palaces and gold-domed mosques, but it’s also home to some of the best primary rainforests in all of Borneo. One of the best examples is Ulu Temburong National Park, a nearly 125,000 acre protected rainforest rich with biodiversity, including some 400 types of butterflies. On a day trip you can hike to waterfalls or get a bird’s-eye view of the treetops from a thrilling canopy walk

Explore the Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of 42 karst islands with azure waters and jagged limestone cliffs, on a boat tour that visits some of Thailand’s most powdery sand beaches, secluded caves filled with magnificent stalactite and stalagmite mineral formations, and a hidden lake known as the Blue Lagoon. Keep an eye out for monkeys, dolphins and other wildlife as you island hop. The adventurous can kayak along the coast of Mae Koh Island, snorkel off the beach then hike to a viewpoint overlooking the Emerald Lagoon.

The incredible destinations of Hue and Hoi An, just an hour from Da Nang, are home to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone peaks named for the five elements — earth, fire, metal, wind and water. Steeped in mystery and lure, the ancient Cham considered these karsts a spiritual site and emperors from Hue regularly paid visits here. A day tour takes in the area’s temples, pagodas and network of caves. Huyen Khong, one of the largest caves, houses a giant stone Buddha and two shrines, while Hoa Nghiem Cave is watched over by a stone statue of Lady Buddha.

Explore Asia Voyages