Stay: Phuket Hideaways - A Collection of Incredible Resorts on the Andaman Sea
Special places, just off the tourist path.
Phuket Island, Thailand
Phuket is a lush, mountainous island in the Andaman Sea, featuring some of Thailand’s most popular beach resorts. Make no mistake, this is a tourist destination, and accommodations range from some of the world’s very best hotels to backpacker hostels and everything in between. But for those just venturing to isolate in a resort for a bit of relaxation, it’s within easy reach of Bangkok or Singapore.
Amanpuri
84 rooms, from $1,500 usd
This is where it all started: the original Aman resort that put the now-iconic design and service-focused brand on the hospitality map. Think: Thai pavilions and villas, set against a backdrop of palms, pools, and the Andaman Sea. A sandy beach is shared with the neighboring Surin Resort, but there is an Instagrammable 27 meter long infinity pool, 4 restaurants, bar, and extensive spa and gym, plus sunset cruises, cycling, and tours of the old town. Rooms are spacious and open air, hidden in the lush landscapes for privacy on a private peninsula. All is designed to turn you into an “Aman-junkie” for life. Guests love the property and rate it very highly, despite it having been around since 1988. They note it is large for a typical Aman, which means it is more lively than others. Bathrooms were recently renovated. Some recommend splurging on the sea view, others note a few problems with insects in the rooms (typical of tropical countries), and night noise from parties across the bay.
Thalang District, Phuket Island
Naka Island
90 rooms, from $280 usd
Arriving to this semi-private island off the east coast of Phuket creates a sense of luxury that few other hotels there can provide. A 10-minute speedboat ride (after a 20-minute cab from the airport) welcomes you to this well-manicured resort, which offers 3 restaurants, bar, spa, gym, and private beach. Rooms are scattered across the landscape in private casitas, some with their own pools. Guests give it very good reviews, some noting the food, while a majority of them praise the service provided, often complimenting the staff by name. A member of Marriott Bonvoy's Luxury Collection.
Naka Yai Island, Pa Klok, Phuket
Keemala
38 rooms, from $590 usd
Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, this property is not on the beach, but rather is a collection of fantastical pavilions nestled in the forest. It’s a design lover’s dream and an Instagram darling given its focus on unique aesthetics. Private pools with a view are provided with every room, as well as complimentary minibar and outdoor shower. There’s a (single) restaurant that is supplied by the onsite garden, plus diners often choose a more romantic setting for their nightly meal in the resort garden. Plus, a holistic spa and gym. Reviewers call it “magical,” and not only rave about the setting, but also the service, often calling out the helpful and professional staff by name. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and of American Express Fine Hotels.
Photo Source: hotel websites
Every publication will feature one unique restaurant, hotel, activity, or other travel discovery that stood out in our research. Some of these are established institutions that deserve repeat merit, while others are hidden gems that are often off the radar of most. Our commentary is meant to be brief, summarizing the scale and offerings of a place, as well as the best and worst of relevant reviews found across the web – allowing our clients to quickly discern if this a good fit for them.
