Rayavadee Krabi – Thailand
Spread over 26 acres of tropical rainforest on the edge of Krabi Marine National Park, and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and karsts, Rayavadee enjoys one of the most private and exclusive locations in Krabi. And it is only accessible by boat. A walk through the gardens and grounds will reveal a myriad of indigenous plants, and ponds full of tropical fish. And up above, keep an eye out for the exotic birdlife and monkeys – you’ll certainly hear them. Along the way you’ll be greeted by some of the friendliest staff around.
The draw here is very much the beaches – guests have three from which to choose – all of them with soft white sand, turquoise waters and dramatic pinnacle views. Mix this with luxurious pavilions just a short walk from the water and mouthwatering food in dreamy locations. It really is picture postcard perfect.
At A Glance
Luxury Family Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its spectacular setting where jungle meets ocean — a hidden world of luxury tucked beneath Krabi’s dramatic cliffs, with barefoot days unfolding between white sands, turquoise waters and the calls of the rainforest.Style:
Thai jungle luxury.Location:
On the Phra Nang Peninsula in Krabi Marine National Park – a 20 minute drive from the airport (or a two hour drive from Phuket), followed by 20 minutes by boat.Rooms:
Two-storey pavilions and villas, some with pools, dotted throughout the grounds, and a short stroll to the beach.Swimming:
A freeform infinity pool by the beach, and the still waters of the Andaman Sea.Children:
An ideal resort for families, with daily organised activities for children between four and 12.Accessibility:
There are no facilities for guests with limited mobility.Price:
Available on requestrooms
Dotted amongst the coconut palms and tropical gardens, the two-storey pavilions (living area below and bedroom on top) and a handful of luxury villas are just a stroll to Railay and Phra Nang beaches. Designed with a nod to the surrounding landscape, they are airy and spacious, decorated with handcrafted furniture and richly coloured fabrics. Some come with a large terrace, others with a private pool, some are ideal honeymoon retreats, and others are large enough for a family. For beachside luxury, some of the villas are hard to beat. And they come with a personal butler.
food
The resort serves an excellent mix of Asian and western cuisine, with the emphasis very much on local and seasonal produce, and beachside dining. Breakfast is at Raya Dining Restaurant, with its phenomenal international choices, as well as Raitalay Terrace for Asian cuisine. Krua Phranang is right on the beach, serving classic Thai dishes with memorable views of the limestone cliffs and islands. Equally atmospheric is The Grotto, set in a cave with tables in the sand. Next to the beach and pool, Raitalay Terrace, serves a menu full of delicious international dishes and a very fine cocktail list.
activities
Head out on a longtail boat and explore the beauty of the Andaman sea, coastline and the limestone karsts. Hop overboard for some snorkeling, or pitch up on a beach for a picnic. Off the beach there are plenty of water-based activities. Kayak or paddle board through the mangroves or go in search of a hidden lagoon. And when there’s a breeze, it’s the perfect moment for windsurfing. For divers, there’s a very good choice of dive sites too.
If you’re after a bit of exercise, the resort has tennis and squash courts, a climbing wall and a fitness centre. Locally, there’s much to explore. A visit to the morning market in Krabi is a must, as is the climb to the summit of the Tiger Cave Temple – a mere 1000 steps. Rayavadee offers classes in traditional Thai crafts such as fruit carving and making flower garlands. For the gourmands amongst you, a cookery session will introduce you to some Thai culinary secrets. And when you need something a bit more relaxing, then wander over to the very sumptuous Spa for a facial or a body wrap.
family
Each day brings a different activity for the resort’s younger guests. From eco art and craft sessions to learning Thai, from tennis to learning how to climb a coconut tree or batik painting, they are fun and imaginative. The pavilions and villas offer ideal family accommodation, and the beaches promise hours of safe play.
sustainability
The resort was built with a profound respect for the surrounding environment – one rich. No tree was felled to ensure the protection of the native flora and fauna. Its sustainable policies ensure efficient energy, water and waste management, as well as working closely with the local community in organizing regular beach cleans, mangrove planting and marine life monitoring. The resort is also committed to the wellbeing of its staff and the wider community with its own charitable organisation funding projects.
Location
Rayavadee Krabi
On the Phra Nang Peninsula in Krabi Marine National Park – a 20 minute drive from the airport (or a two hour drive from Phuket), then a boat transfer.
