The first luxury resort on one of the 16 emerald jungle-covered islands off of the sleepy southeast coast of Vietnam features 50 sea-facing wooden villas with decks, loungers, and infinity pools. Inside, pillowy beds confer panoramic views of the surrounding islands and rocky outcrops, and the polished concrete bathtub is roomy enough for two.

The spa is a must, especially the three-and-a-half-hour Vietnam Journey, which incorporates a body polish of yogurt and indigenous hat bang almonds, a honey-and-white-clay mask, a stretching massage, and a traditional herbal hair wash. The hotel’s local delicacies include Miss Lan’s summer rolls stuffed with fresh shrimp and organic vegetables from the surrounding gardens. Learn how to make your own by taking the local market tour that ends with deep bowls of pho noodle soup and Vietnamese coffee, or explore the neighboring islands in Con Dao’s protected marine reserve by speedboat, stopping at Bai Cahn Island green and hawksbill turtle sanctuary.

Dat Doc Beach, 84-64/383-1222; www.luxuryprivatetravel.com; villas from US$698