The Surin

The star attraction at The Surin is its location on postcard-perfect Pansea, the same beach as the Amanpuri (for a fraction of the price tag).

• Location on scenic Pansea Beach
• Beach restaurant
• Top most level villas on stilts (for the best views)
• Beach Deluxe Suites (to roll out of bed onto the sand)

The star attraction at The Surin is its location, on postcard-perfect Pansea Beach. While the resort may not be as iconic and sprawling as its esteemed neighbor, Amanpuri, it shares not only this stunning beach but also the same architect, Ed Tuttle who recently completed a full, refreshing renovation of all public areas and the 103 rooms and villas. These white-washed, Cape Cod inspired accommodations cling to the jungle covered hillside and are linked by myriad raised wooden walkways and stone steps. Some villas stand thirty feet off the ground on stilts, high up in the tree canopy, and the views of the bay below are exhilarating. Others sit right on the sand, with less privacy to be sure, but instant ocean access.

By day the overhanging palm trees cast long, dappled shadows on the thatched roofs. At night, the paths sparkle with hundreds of little lights to guide you back up the stairs, and when you get to the top, you’ll find delicious little homemade biscuits or chocolate truffles awaiting you as if to say “Well done.” The dramatic black-tiled hexagonal swimming pool, down by the beach, is a great antidote to the multitude of turquoise plunge pools across the island. However, at school holiday time, it is to be avoided entirely by those averse to children.

There’s a spa, of course, an Andaman Sea facing gym, tennis courts and a water-sports center, but frankly, most people will be happiest horizontal on the beach. The Lomtalay restaurant with its soaring ceilings, fiery curries and tinkling Thai music makes for a lovely evening. There are two other, more low-key restaurants including the Beach Restaurant serving exceptional freshly caught seafood and Thai cooking classes as well, so you can perfect your spring rolls.

Rightly a favorite of those who love Pansea Beach but not Amanpuri’s considerable prices, this collection of quaint cottages also works for those who don’t mind the hillside hike between beach and breakfast, for those appreciate good reliable service and for those who value great beach over sprawling resort acreage.