Hotels

Layalina Hotel
We loved this tiny beachfront boutique hotel, especially the split-level suites with very private rooftop terraces for romantic sunset views over white sand and blue sea. Décor is simple, Thai and chic, with fluffy white duvets and honey-toned wood furniture. This is a place that is ideal for honeymooners, simply dripping in intimacy and sophistication. Room rates include a one-hour couple’s massage at the on-site spa. The only downside is that the pool is ridiculously small – but that turquoise ocean is only steps away.
Hat Kamala
75-75/1 Moo 3
tel: 0 7638 5942

Mom Tri's Villa Royale
Tucked away in a secluded Kata Noi location with the grandest of views, Villa Royale opened in 2006 to nearly instant acclaim. The romantic place with fabulous food offers beautiful rooms straight out of the pages of Architectural Digest. Guiltless pleasures include an attached spa and a saltwater pool, if you prefer a tamer version of the real thing – which is just steps away..
12 Th Kata Noi
Hat Kata
tel: 0 7633 3568

Twinpalms Phuket
This is the Audrey Hepburn of Phuket’s hotels – it’s classic yet completely contemporary and oozes effortless class. There’s a pervasive feeling of space with minimalist, artsy swimming pools everywhere that are fringed by delicate white frangipani. Even the simplest rooms are extra spacious and have oversized bathrooms, sublimely comfortable beds and a supreme sense of calm. It’s a few minutes’ walk to the beach. Expats from all over Phuket can be found eating the island’s most popular brunch here on Sundays.
106/46 Mu 3, Surin Beach Rd
Thalang
Hat Surin
tel: 0 7631 6500

Mövenpick
Grab a secluded villa and choose from a private plunge pool or outdoor rainforest shower; alternatively chill in the cubelike rooms with huge floor-to-ceiling glass windows (in some cases covering two entire walls) in the swank ultramodern white hotel. Besides a prime location across the street from a pretty stretch of the beach, the Mövenpick offers artistic décor, top-end linen, a big pool with swim-up bar, a spa, and an alfresco restaurant and bar with a giant selection of wood-fired pizzas.
Hat Karon
509 Th Patak West
tel: 0 7639 6139

Baan Yin Dee
On a hill overlooking town, this is Patong's premier boutique getaway. It's small but perfectly put together: spacious rooms with balconies, design magazine styling and a trickle of beautiful young things hanging out around the pool. If you're partying all night, this is the place to repair your soul and there's a fabulous restaurant for a fine culinary treat.
7/5 Th Muean Ngen
S of Hat Patong
tel: 0 7629 4104