The Best Resorts in Thailand

From your bed at Como Point Yamu, you can catch panoramic views of the aquamarine Andaman Sea and outcrop of cliffs in Phuket’s Phang Nga Bay. This hotel in Thailand exudes scents of luxury – from the fragrant blended massage oils in the spa to the fresh-caught lobster, cooked by a Michelin-starred chef. Try some yoga before taking a dip in the serene infinity pool.

From your private plunge pool, you can catch sweeping views of Koh Phangan’s silken sands. The room’s dark wooden floors and crisp white walls lead out to balconies, surrounded by rainforest, which gives this Thailand luxury resort its secluded feel. Phangan ceviche and freshly-plucked mangos are served from the resort’s hidden beachfront restaurant. Finish the day with a lemongrass-infused caipirinha, taken at the luxurious poolside bar.

The industrial style of The Cabin Beach Resort’s interior softens at the windows, where verdant leaves frame a view of the private white beach. It’s situated on the cusp of the world-famous Kohn Phangan full moon party scene. But don’t worry – the tranquil pools and onsite spa offer respite for any weary socialite. Rosemary-infused cocktails can be delivered to the edge of the lapping ocean, where rope swings sway in the gentle island breeze.

Rooms at Bo Phut Resort & Spa look quintessentially Thai, with their dark polished wood, bright white marble and delicate crimson touches. Lotus strewn pools reflect high gabled roofs and slanting eaves. Dip into a private plunge bath at the forest-shrouded spa, before tucking into a traditional cream-laden curry at Sala Thai restaurant. Golfers will appreciate that Samui’s only international golf course, Santiburi Samui Country Club, is just a 15-minute ride away.

This boutique resort is dominated by the enormous figure of the Giant Rain Tree. Over 100 years old, the story tells that it was planted by the first of Chiang Mai’s rainforest conservationists. The resort’s eco heritage is reflected in its ethos. Each room is filled with dark, ornate furniture, hand-hewn in traditional styles by local artisans. The restaurants offer panoramic views over the dense northern forests, immersing you in the land they are committed to preserving.

For nearly a century, Thai royalty have found blissful refuge at the Thailand beach resort of Hua Hin. The characteristic, lotus strewn lagoons at Anantara create a setting fit for a king. Modelled on a traditional Thai village, rooms and suites include balconies and terrazzo bathtubs as standard. Upgrade to a suite and you’ll gain access to the exclusive Lagoon Pool and Bar with morning yoga classes and sunset cocktails.

Set on the scenic island of Koh Samui, the Four Seasons features a private beach, luxurious rooms and a pool with a view of the sea. Reserve yourself an oceanfront massage or head down to the Rum Vault, Asia’s largest rum library with hundreds to sample. In the mood for something more active? Try yoga or Muay Thai kick-boxing at the gym. There are also childcare options to help give parents a well-deserved break.

Krabi is arguably the most beautiful of all the Thai provinces, and Phulay Bay encapsulates all of that beauty within its hotel. From its stunning infinity pool, you are treated to a classic Krabi vista, overlooking the sea and mountains. The architecture and design of the hotel is beautiful, combining Thai themes with striking features, such as its stone wall fountain. Stay at this Thailand beach hotel to take advantage of the oceanfront cabanas and enjoy your time in paradise in a state of luxurious bliss.

Koh Kood is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. With its unique decor and environmentally friendly design, Soneva Kiri resort goes all the way in matching that beauty. It’s the definition of a luxury hotel; gorgeous, modern rooms and villas are situated between the lush green rainforest and the white sands of the beach. The pool has an unbeatable bay view, and the treetop dining offers Mediterranean lamb souvlaki and barbecued squid alongside a rum cocktail.

Located right on Phuket’s gorgeous Surin beach is the Twinpalms resort. If the pristine beach with turquoise water isn’t enough, you can enjoy a palm-tree lined outdoor pool, dotted with loungers. For the ultimate in luxury, book the penthouse suite with a rooftop terrace or take advantage of the limousine service. The rooms are minimal and clean, staff are caring and attentive and, with three restaurants and a full-service spa onsite, it should be on anyone’s list if you’re looking for a luxury beach resort in Thailand.

For privacy away from the crowds, book one of 28 pool villas in Hua Hin, Thailand’s original beach resort area. With the beach just a short walk away, a restaurant and bar onsite, plus a full spa service, the only problem you’ll have is finding a reason to leave. 24-hour butler service only adds to the appeal. Choose between one-, two- or three-bedroom villas, complete with rain showers and spa baths.

Found on the outskirts of the Krabi National Marine Park, Rayavadee is one of the most pristine and private of accommodation options in southern Thailand. The suites here on the Phranang Peninsula are nothing short of extravagant; luxurious Thai-style bungalows are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows offering impeccable views. Make sure you reserve a table for the sunset barbecue in The Grotto, a candlelit cave right on the beach. The resort has multiple international rewards under its belt, so be sure to stay at least one night at Rayavaadee to see what the hype is about.

Nothing says elegance like a swim-up villa and hotel with a private pool in Thailand, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at the Banyan Tree Samui. The hotel has several first-class amenities; from its many on-site bars and restaurants, to its spa service and indoor and outdoor pools, you’ll struggle to find a better equipped hotel in Koh Samui. With gorgeous rooms that feature stunning views of the bay, there’s little wonder that so many people save to enjoy a night in paradise here.