What it is

A sustainably-bend adventure resort bordering Krabi Marine National Park, with 94 two-story pavilions and 7 villas, plus a Thai spa.

What it isn't

Tasteless. All four restaurants on the property will have you salivating, and not just from the food. They’re arguably the most photogenic eateries in the country (don’t miss the Grotto, tucked into an actual limestone cliff edging Phranang Beach).

What we think

This is Thailand as you’ve dreamt it to be. Set under palm trees in leafy gardens, the two-story guest pavilions are circular, and tricked out with rounded barrel ceilings, bamboo walls, polished wood floors and neutral-on-neutral furnishings. (Bonus: you won’t feel out of touch here, thanks to WiFi, DVD players and flatscreen satellite TVs). Of course, don’t be surprised if you don’t spend much time in your room. This is an adventure resort through and through, with activities ranging from beach picnics to Thai cooking classes to hiking to Tiger Cave Temple, where you’ll climb 1,000 steps to reach the gilded Buddha.

You're here because

You’d hate to eat poorly on vacation, and Rayavadee’s restaurants are truly top-notch Thai. Sitting next to an infinity pool at Rai Talay Terrace while kicking back yellowfin tuna rolls and tandoori fish tikka? That’s your idea of heaven.

The Moment

It’s true what they say, you know that now. Thai spas really do beat all other spas. Today, you feel practically reborn, thanks to treatments like a Southern Thai Herbal Scrub and Detoxifying Massage. Tomorrow, you’ll come back for a floral bath—literally, an oil-infused hot water soak dotted with fresh-picked tropical flowers. As if you could get any more relaxed.

Restaurants & Bars

- Raya Dinning

- Krua Phranang

- Raitalay Terrace

- The Grotto

Location

Set inside Krabi Marine National Park close right on the beach, a 20-minute drive from Krabi Airport or two hours from Phuket.