What it is

A lush all-villa retreat edging a lagoon, with a waterside spa, five bars and restaurants (one in the Michelin Guide), and a beachfront pool.

What it isn't

Blah. Activities here run the gamut, and range from dive certification and yacht charters to private cooking lessons with their Thai chefs.

What we think

The words “guest room” are not even in the lexicon at Anantara Mai Khao-Phuket Villas, where each and every guest room option is either a (yep) villa or pavilion. The starting option, Pool Villas, are a staggering 2,001-square-feet and equipped with a mosaic-lined outdoor private pool, al fresco rain shower, and architecture that nods to the region’s traditional vernacular. For even more space—and style—we love the Two Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson, which has slightly more colorful interiors, a 4,186 square foot floor plan (it sleeps six!), and has insider access to Mai Khao Beach.

You're here because

The lagoon-side spa is everything you’ve been dreaming about, with hot volcanic stone massages, white orchid facials and green tea scrubs.

The Moment

The omakase experience is stepped up a notch—literally—at Tree House, where the entire dining room is lofted around a banyan tree. You’re not sure if you’ve ever had sushi this fresh, but you’re sure the view is helping: verdant, lush palms and tropical treetops spanning in every direction.

Restaurants & Bars

La Sala - Italian and Thai

Sea.Fire.Salt - Seafood Barbecue

The Tree House - Tapas Style

Dining by design - Your own style romantic dinner

The Tasting Room - Wine Cellar

Infinity - Cocktails and light snacks

Location

A mere 15 minutes drive from Phuket International Airport, but it feels worlds away.