Review / Is Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas the hottest new destination in Thailand? A 20-minute boat ride from Krabi, the luxury hotel features unspoilt views of Phang Nga Bay and sprawling penthouses

Jan 27 , 2024

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas is a tranquil escape from nearby cities like Phuket and Krabi. Photos: Anantara

Phuket has no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts, with crowd favourites like Rosewood Phuket and Six Senses Yao Noi being among the top contenders.

But even the most seasoned travellers of Thailand are always looking for the next big thing, and after being cooped up at home for three years during the pandemic, many of us have been booking shiny new stays – without, of course, neglecting our old-time favourites.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas is a new addition to Phuket’s luxury hotels

A recent addition to the region’s hospitality offerings is the Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, a Thai-owned property that has emerged as a tranquil escape from the vibrant city life of downtown Phuket.

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Nestled in the serene embrace of Koh Yao Yai, this hidden gem boasts unblemished beaches, verdant jungles, breathtaking sunsets and an array of marine wonders. Spanning almost 11 hectares, the resort is situated on what was once a coconut palm plantation, now offering guests splendid vistas of both lush jungle landscapes and captivating sea views.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas sits on a lush island in the middle of Phang Nga Bay

Following a 3.5-hour direct flight from Hong Kong to Phuket Airport, I was whisked away on a 20-minute car ride. This was followed by a scenic 45-minute boat journey from Phuket. The resort is also conveniently a mere 20-minute boat ride away from Krabi, adding to its accessibility from multiple points along the coastline.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai gives off luxe vibes upon arrival

Anantara Koh Yao Yai, which opened in 2023, offers a collection of 148 suites, villas and penthouses, each exquisitely designed with a blend of modern classic aesthetics infused with Thai heritage and allure.

With these views, the resort’s Sea View Pool Penthouse is worth splurging on

During our stay, we experienced the epitome of luxury in the stunning 3,938 sq ft Sea View Pool Penthouse.

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The luxurious accommodation even boasts a private infinity pool

This lavish accommodation spans two stories, boasting an upper deck equipped with an infinity pool and an inviting outdoor sundeck, providing an indulgent retreat with mesmerising views of the sea.

There are also family-friendly suites with direct access to the pool with water slides

Families visiting Anantara Koh Yao Yai can take advantage of the family-friendly accommodation provided by the inviting Family Pool Access Suites. These suites cater specifically to children, featuring bunk beds, cosy sunbeds and direct access to the pool equipped with oh-so-entertaining water slides. For those seeking a more tranquil escape, the Wellness Lagoon Pool Villas offer serene seclusion amid calming landscapes with lagoon vistas – ideal for couples, too.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai offers a variety of cuisines for its guests

When it comes to dining options at Anantara Koh Yao Yai, while the variety of food and beverage outlets might not be extensive, they certainly cover all the bases you’d wish for, from savoury Asian dishes to comforting Western favourites.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai is the perfect relaxing getaway

Craving some delectable sushi or perhaps a perfectly dry-aged steak? Head over to the Beach Resort for a satisfying meal. For those longing for the authentic flavours of Thailand, Pakarang serves up tantalising Thai dishes.

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For a truly extraordinary dining experience, don’t miss the dedicated omakase venue. And when it’s time to relax and unwind, the swim-up Pool Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks while soaking up the tropical atmosphere.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai’s spa boasts an array of massages

The spa at Anantara Koh Yao Yai is home to the Anantara signature massage, a must-experience treatment, that proves to be particularly delightful after a long flight. It also offers sound therapies.

While these facilities are enough to keep you busy at the property itself, Anantara Koh Yao Yai offers more than just its on-site amenities.

There are lots of excursion options available at Anantara Koh Yao Yai

With the help of the property and your dedicated butler, arrange excursions like the Hong Island half-day trip or the unique Side Car experience, uncovering hidden spots with a stunning sunset finale.

Other tours include visits to a rubber plantation, tie-dye classes, island-hopping, mountain climbing and scuba diving.

Asia travel

Thailand has no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts, with hits like Rosewood Phuket and Six Senses Yao Noi being among the top contenders – one of the region’s latest additions comes from Anantara
Located on Koh Yao Yai, this gorgeous gem is a great holiday spot for both couples and families, with suites that cater to children and a spa that offers sound baths alongside the massages