Located south of Phuket on Thailand’s Andaman coast, the coastal province of Krabi has some of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking scenery. Towering limestone cliffs covered in verdant forest are dotted all over the area, resulting in some fantastic vistas as you lie on the golden sandy beaches. Krabi boasts an enormous range of accommodation options for every pocket, whether you are considering a stay in the swanky Klong Muang area, around the popular Railay Beach or the scenic Ao Nang. There are dozens of luxurious hotels and resorts to choose from in Krabi, which boast world-class amenities such as spas, decadent dining options and private beach access.
Rayavadee
Surrounded by the lush flora and fauna of Krabi Marine National Park, Rayavadee is set within easy walking distance of three stunning sandy beaches. Guests are greeted each morning by the sound of monkeys as they open the doors of their private villa and step out onto the terrace. The most lavish villas feature steps down to a private swimming pool and there is no need for guests to move a muscle as they can enjoy delicious dishes from the Railay Terrace restaurant right on their patio. The largest villas also come complete with hot tubs and very stylish living areas, while taking a stroll through the garden is the perfect way to work up an appetite before retiring to the terrace to enjoy a few sunset cocktails and a wide range of tasty treats.
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Providing guests with uninterrupted views of Phang Nga Bay from their large rooms and suites, the Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a popular place to stay among luxury lovers who value their privacy. There are several impressive outdoor pools to wallow in here, which boast infinity edges to make the most of the spectacular bay vistas. The Reserve and Royal pool villas are especially enchanting and feature silk screens and furnishings that are sure to make guests feel like royalty. Dining here is a lavish experience and lovers of fresh seafood dishes can unwind on the terrace at the Lae Lay restaurant, while couples can enjoy a candlelit suppler right on the sand.
Centara Grand Beach Krabi
Set on the edge of Pai Plong Bay, Centara Grand Beach Krabi treats guests to exclusive access to 350 metres of pristine golden sand. Here, guests can spend the day unwinding on one of the huge sun loungers while a selection of drinks and snacks are brought right to them. The backdrop of the hotel is formed by a rugged limestone cliff that is covered with tropical plants, helping to reinforce the feeling of exclusivity and seclusion. The resort features 192 rooms for guests to choose from, which are arranged in eight different categories. Even the smallest room type covers a more than satisfactory 72 square metres, while the Villa Royal provides guests with 399 square metres of space to unwind in.
Amari Vogue Krabi
With four large swimming pools and three excellent restaurants to enjoy, guests at the Amari Vogue Krabi are treated to a taste of the finer things in life. This huge complex is set on the edge of the white sands of the picturesque Tubkaak beach and guests are provided with private beach access as well as their choice of fully padded sun loungers. Each of the 57 guestrooms boasts a large balcony that overlooks the garden and pools, while there are also spacious bathrooms set with especially deep tubs. The spa suites are especially decadent and provide ocean views.
Nakamanda Resort and Spa
Tucked away in a tranquil bay just a short stroll from Klong Muang Beach, Nakamanda Resort and Spa boasts traditional Thai architecture that is embellished with modern and luxurious touches. There are three different types of villas for guests to choose from here, and each provides a luxurious sanctuary that is fully loaded with a wide range of creature comforts. Guests who enjoy messing about in the water are sure to appreciate the Jacuzzi Villa and Pool Villa, where there will be treated to either an outdoor Jacuzzi or plunge pool that is set in a private tropical garden. The Nakamanda Resort and Spa is a popular option for couples who want to spend their honeymoon unwinding in a tropical setting while enjoying plenty of pampering.
Rawi Warin Resort and Spa
Built in 2005, this luxurious resort is set on a hilltop that commands stunning views across Klong Tob Bay. While there are 185 guestrooms and eleven spacious suites to choose from, the enormous luxury villas are worth splashing out on. These private villas come complete with their own swimming pools and patio areas, which command striking vistas of the bay. Guests can also take their pick from a wide range of spa treatments, while lovers of fine dining will not be disappointed.
The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort
Sheltered by the lush Hang Nak Mountain (from which a fresh water supply runs to the property) and a spectacular beach, this romantic resort offers bedrooms and villas with signature outdoor sunken bathtubs. Architect A49 was behind the interior design which echoes the vernacular of Southern Thailand. Cocoon-like wooden treatment rooms make therapies at L’escape Spa something quite out of the ordinary and there are two refined restaurants; Di Mare and The Arundina, both right beside the sea and serving dishes made using produce from the resort’s own organic garden.
The ShellSea Krabi
This village-like resort is perched on Fossil Shell Beach. Choose from Ocean, Garden or Sea View Pool Access Rooms; Garden Pool, Sea View Pool or Grand Pool Villas — the latter are multi-aspect with two bedrooms, living areas and a private pool. Single and couples suites with jacuzzi bathtubs are available in the Otium Spa. There’s a programme of activities for all ages, as well as loaner bicycles and kayaks. And there are three venues for eating and drinking; the Azure Bar open-air lounge, the all-day Cerulean Restaurant and Fin Bar.
Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort
Bang Tao Beach is the setting for this resort, where 70% of the rooms, suites and pool villas overlook the Andaman Ocean. La Trattoria is the Italian fine dining venue, with Benjarong serving Thai cuisine beside the lagoon and the Horizon Lounge offering pastries, afternoon tea and cocktails. Laguna Café has a show kitchen for international all-day dining and a breakfast buffet and Casuarina Beach Restaurant & Bar is a tranquil spot for a romantic sunset meal. A huge freeform pool, spa and activities (such as energy healing, SUP tours and surf camps) are provided.
Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
Home to what is widely regarded as the country’s finest nine-hole golf course with a challenging course of hills, lakes and streams, this French colonial-inspired resort meets Khlong Muang Beach and the foot of Naga Head Mountain. All of the 276 rooms and suites at the Sofitel have their own balcony or terrace. There’s a So SPA with L’Occitane, glass-bottomed kayaks, fat-tyre bicycles and the largest freeform swimming pool in Thailand (with a swim-up bar) onsite. Begin the day with a buffet breakfast at Maya Restaurant, tuck into pizza and pasta at Venezia Restaurant (accompanied by the brand’s exclusive “Voyage du Vin” wines) at lunchtime and enjoy a Thai a la carte dinner at White Lotus Restaurant.
