The rainforested, mountainous island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea is one of the jewels in Thailand’s crown, drawing vast numbers of tourists each year. Picture postcard beaches, mainly dotted along the clear waters of the island’s western shore, along with numerous high-end seaside resorts, spas, restaurants, bars and nightclubs have all made it a destination with a truly global reputation, while old shophouses and busy markets offer an authentic taste of national customs and culture.
When it comes to accommodation on the island of Phuket, visitors are spoiled for choice, with everything from budget guest houses through to the very pinnacle of luxury. For those keen to push the boat out and find something with a dash of opulence, there are a large number of 5-star and luxury hotels here. We’ve picked out 5 of the best.
Mövenpick Resort and Spa Karon Beach Phuket
FROM $109/ NIGHT
Located just steps away from the pristine sands of Karon Beach, this expansive 5-star Phuket resort is a veritable tropical paradise, ideal for escaping the bustle of the island’s busier areas. Swimming fans are spoiled for choice here, with four outdoor swimming pools and the region’s turquoise ocean waters at your fingertips. Other notable hotel amenities include impressive seven restaurants and bars serving international cuisine and exotic drinks, a gymnasium, and a lavish spa. Ideal for the occasional rainy day, a games lounge with snooker and table tennis tables and a Play Zone with DVD player and games consoles will ensure your kids never get bored. Guest rooms at the hotel feature modern and tasteful Thai-themed décor, satellite TV, a minibar, a private bathroom and a balcony with picturesque sea or garden vistas. Patong Beach is a 15-minute drive away.
Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach
FROM $166/ NIGHT
Ideal for those keen to be close to one of Phuket’s sandy shores, this 5-star hotel offers direct access to Naiton Beach from its position on the headland overlooking the Andaman Sea. Amenities include a spa centre, two outdoor pools, a separate kids’ pool and a gym, and there are also three bars, two restaurants and a bakery. Guest rooms are stylishly furnished and come with a balcony, a flat-screen cable/satellite TV, an iPod docking station, a seating area, a coffee machine, a minibar and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. The iconic Big Buddha statue and Royal Phuket Marina are both a 30-minute drive away.
Baan Phu Prana Boutique Villa
FROM $125/ NIGHT
Nestled on a hill above Surin Beach and offering stunning views of the ocean, this hotel is well located for enjoying all that the island has to offer. Among the hotel’s amenities are a sumptuous rooftop pool, a state-of-the-art spa, a gymnasium and a tennis court. Diving and snorkelling can be arranged at the nearby beach and you can also organise hire cars through the hotel. Continental breakfasts are served each morning in the hotel’s dining room. Guest rooms boast a flat-screen TV, polished wooden flooring, and a private bathroom, and some also feature scenic sea views. Phuket Town and Patong Beach are around a 25-minute drive away.
Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort
FROM $111/ NIGHT
A dramatic hillside setting, an outdoor infinity pool and pool bar, a grill restaurant, a fitness centre and a dedicated kids’ club are just some of the features that make this one of Phuket’s best upscale hotels. The air-conditioned guest rooms are no less impressive, with free WiFi, a 40-inch flat-screen cable TV, a minibar an electric kettle, a private bathroom, and a balcony affording superb views among their amenities. The hotel also has a tour desk and laundry service. Local places of interest include the Phuket FantaSea theme park and the hotel also runs a free daily shuttle service to Kamala Beach. Phuket Airport is about 18.5 miles away.
Avista Grande Phuket Karon
FROM $134/ NIGHT
Situated directly on Karon Beach, you can virtually feel the tide touch your toes from the borders of this 5-star Phuket hotel. Amenities include a charming terrace area, an on-site restaurant, an outdoor pool, 24-hour front desk, a billiards table and darts board, and a well-equipped business centre. There’s also a dedicated tour desk where you can arrange excursions on the island and beyond. Guest rooms come with a desk and a private bathroom and some also have a seating area. Continental and buffet breakfasts are served each morning. A number of well-known attractions, including Karon Night Market, Karon Temple Wat Suvarnkir, and Mali Waterfront are all within walking distance or a quick drive away.