Rayavadee

Set on the tip of the stunning Phra Nang Peninsula and only accessible by boat, Rayavadee offers spacious rooms and a family-friendly atmosphere. The property offers access to two of Krabi’s best beaches and a wealth of day-trips.

• Morning walks down the beautiful Rai Ley and Phra Nang beaches
• The spacious Family Pavilion with two bedrooms and a large private pool
• Watching the sunset over a cocktail at The Grotto Restaurant, set inside a nook of a limestone cliff

Set on the stunning Phra Nang Peninsula, Rayavadee is surrounded by the Andaman Sea on three sides with direct access to two of the most beautiful beaches in mainland Krabi. The peninsula is only accessible by boat, as the limestone cliffs that surround the beaches are impassable by car. In addition to creating a dramatic backdrop, the cliffs act as a natural barrier, granting Rayavadee guests special access to the spectacular Rai Ley and Phra Nang beaches once the day-trip boats depart.

The 102 accommodations are scattered amongst coconut trees and tropical gardens in 98 two-story pavilions and four private villas designed with the natural beauty of a southern Thai village in mind. With entry-level pavilions starting at 900 square feet, the rooms are spacious and airy with oversized windows, comfortable beds and unique design touches that provide an authentically Thai sense of place. For families looking to spread out, the Family Pavilion with a pool is the room to get, with 1,800 square feet of space and dining area and large pool enclosed in a private garden.

The winding pathways that run through the property provide shade in the hot sun and make for a serene walking or running path. Monkeys, lizards and tropical hornbills, among other creatures, can be spotted in the lush gardens. The facilities are spread over 26 acres so even at full capacity, the property feels calm and peaceful.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Rai Ley and Phra Nang beaches. Since Rayavadee first opened its doors in 1994, the peninsula has become a popular day-trip from nearby Ao Nang and Krabi Town. The public longtail boats that start arriving at 10:00am and continue until 4:00pm can bring in substantial crowds, especially over holiday periods. As with all of Thailand, the beaches are public and resorts are not permitted to set up umbrellas and lounge chairs on the beach. As an alternative, Rayavadee has built a sandy platform a step up from Rai Ley beach and just off the resort’s expansive swimming pool. Here, guests have access to lounge chairs with umbrellas and beach service, making it simple to walk down for a swim in the sea and return to the privacy of the resort.

The other facilities on property include a large spa, tennis and squash courts, a full gym and four restaurants. Our favorite, The Grotto, features tables set in the nook of a limestone cliff and views out to the beach at sunset.

Families who are looking for spacious, stylish private villas with access to beautiful beaches and active day-trips. Those looking for a more private beach experience would be happier elsewhere.