What if you had a whole day to spend on a paradise island? Can you imagine what you would do all day? You may be picturing relaxing on the beach for the entire day. However, there are lots of other things to do that could make it even more special. Here’s what we suggest for a magical day in paradise on Gangga Island, North Sulawesi.

Wake up and enjoy your private verandah

The mornings on Gangga Island are a really special time. The birds start to sing outside your bungalow, and you may hear the staff at the resort rhythmically sweeping the paths.

Your private verandah is the ideal place to have a morning cup of coffee and watch the gentle waves roll up on the beach. There are also sitting platforms on the beach, in the shade of the trees, if you want to get closer to the water.

Have a leisurely breakfast

Breakfast is served in the restaurant in main building of Gangga Island Resort & Spa. Partly buffet style with a la carte options, you have plenty of choices to enjoy. Tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple are guest favorites.

It’s a pleasure to be able to take your time over breakfast instead of rushing out the door like so many of us do in the morning. Sitting at the tables overlooking the landscaped gardens and pool is a real luxury.

Go out for a snorkeling or diving session

Gangga Island is heaven for divers and snorkelers. Gangga Divers will take you out for a dive trip or an hour or so snorkeling if you prefer. There are some pretty amazing reefs just a few minutes from the coast that are wonderfully healthy and thriving. You can also see the fascinating bioreef project that is helping to stop erosion by growing new reef around the island.

Have a dip in the pool

A dip in the resort’s huge saltwater pool is a lovely way to wind down after a trip out on the boat. You may even slip into a gentle nap on one of the loungers before lunch.

Indulge in a spa treatment

We highly recommend an afternoon or evening spa treatment at the resort’s spa. Whether you want a massage, body scrub, or even a facial to clean the salt and sand off, this is one of the most relaxing things you can do on Gangga Island.

The spa is located next to the pool and faces out to the sea. A full-length window allows you to enjoy the beauty of the island and fall into the rhythm of the waves while the spa therapists take care of you. You will come out feeling like a new person, we promise. Afterwards you can head back to the pool where afternoon tea is served by the pool. The staff sometimes even play guitar and sing for your entertainment.

Have dinner and a drink

Complete your day in paradise with dinner in the restaurant and a drink in the bar. You might meet some like-minded people or just enjoy relaxing in the armchairs in the lounge area.

Things wind down pretty early on Gangga Island, so it is soon time to head back to your bungalow and enjoy the sound of the waves while you read a book or chat. Your 4-poster bed is waiting to welcome you to a comfortable sleep.

Just thinking about a day like this makes us calm. How about you? Does this kind of day in paradise appeal to you? Let us know in the comments box below.