The secret to finding tranquillity on Phuket
Paradise can still be found on Thailand’s most popular island, you just need to know where to look.
By Melissa Mason
WHEN YOU THINK of Phuket, you probably think of Patong Beach, a backpacker party mecca filled with loud bars and counterfeit sneaker stores. It’s easy to dismiss Thailand’s most popular island for this reason when planning a luxury holiday — a great place to dance until 4am, not so great for recharging.
What you might not know is that Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, connecting via highway to the Phang Nga province in the north. One side is heavily developed, the other is still fairly rugged — dotted with luxury resorts immersed in wilderness. Even down its developed coast, you’ll discover places to stay that have eschewed the bright lights energy of Phuket’s well-known beaches and created oases from the thumping beats.
What this means is that there are plenty of ways to do Phuket without the overwhelm. From resorts in Phang Nga that might be just a short drive away from tourist attractions, but feel like another world, to villas so private you feel like a castaway, this is the Phuket you didn’t know about.
Related: The ultimate itinerary for a week-long Thailand holiday
Anantara Mai Khao
With its cluster of luxury villas, Anantara Mai Khao is a world within itself. Built around Mai Khao beach in Phuket’s north, all villas have their own plunge pool – so if you really want alone time, you can have it 24/7. With its winding plank pathways and tropical flora at every turn, it’s impossible not to fall into a deep, peaceful relaxation even when strolling to dinner.
Speaking of, there are three fine dining restaurants on the premises — our favourite being Sea.Fire.Salt, situated right on the beach with a focus on Himalayan salt-brick cooking techniques. Expect sizzling local fish presented on a block of hot salt, paired with creamy mash and crisp salad. Alternatively, head up a winding staircase that twists around an ancient banyan tree to Tree House for Japanese omakase among the leaves.
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Anantara Layan
If you’re after a sexier vibe for your holiday, Anantara Layan is where you’ll find it. Built into the hillside next to the dense Sirinat National Park, Layan is only 40 minutes away from Patong, so you can flit between solitude and entertainment as often as you like.
Layan is, in our opinion, for lovers. Pulsing chill-out beats are the undercurrent at its airy rooftop bar Beach House, where you can watch the sky change from orange to pink amid fire pits as you sink into pillowy lounges with a cocktail in hand (the mojitos are not to be missed). Dinner is served at Age, a steakhouse jutting out over hilly cliffs where you can watch the lights dance on the ocean as you peruse the extensive menu that offers practically every cut of meat you could want, and then some. Everything is dimly lit and dedicated to romance — you’ll leave more in love than ever.
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Amanpuri
The first resort from the ultra-exclusive Aman group, Amanpuri is balanced on its own private peninsula, overlooking the brilliant cerulean Andaman Sea. Made up of a small cluster of villas and pavilions, this is seclusion at its most elite – with such a limited number of guests, solitude is king at Amanpuri.
The private sandy beach and coconut palm-framed lagoon are where you’ll while away most of your days, hopping from one to the other at leisure. As the sun dips below the horizon, head to the famous Sunset Terrace for its incredible views over the ocean.
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Como Point Yamu
The east side of Phuket is less developed, and while its seclusion isn’t for everyone (getting across to popular spots like Patong Beach and Kata Noi Beach isn’t the easiest), if you want to feel like the only person among the trees, it’s where to be. Como Point Yamu sits overlooking Phang Nga Bay (made famous for its inclusion in the Bond film The Man With The Golden Gun) with a cliffside infinity pool and architecture inspired by the rolling waves.
Interiors are by renowned Italian designer Paola Navone, with nods to local aesthetics that stay true to the heritage of the area. The result? A tranquil, ocean-soaked experience that’s both modern and retains a local feel.
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The Naka Island
The beauty of Phuket is there are plentiful islands just a short boat ride away that offer a more low-key holiday experience for those looking to escape the crowds. The Naka Island is a luxury resort on one of these islands. Take a speedboat from the mainland and you’re there in minutes. You could easily spend your entire vacation at The Naka Island, sipping cocktails at one of the many bars and restaurants on site (including the waterfront Z Bar, a must for golden hour). There are also daily activities for fitness buffs, and a premier wellness spa to bliss out in.
Book your stay here.
Katathani Resort
Want to be close to the nightlife of Patong without staying amongst it? Katathani is a great choice. Situated just south on Kata Noi Beach, it’s a short ride to shopping, bars and clubs while still offering an oasis from the high-energy pace when you need it.
The sprawling resort isn’t for those looking for total solitude, but it is a great choice for anyone who still loves a long night on the dance floor (but doesn’t have the energy for the morning-after disco tunes by the pool).
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Six Senses Yao Noi
Phang Nga Bay is pretty spectacular, and staying in its vicinity will never be a regret. Six Senses Yao Noi is around as close as you can get. A 45 minute boat ride from Phuket, it may technically not be on the island but it’s close enough to allow you the best of both worlds.
A focus on sustainability and honouring the natural surroundings is paramount, and you’ll spot hornbills and other wildlife during your stay. If you can, book a villa – with thatched roofs and private plunge pools, they’re a true tropical oasis experience.
Book your stay here.
