The Surin Phuket

There are plenty of high-end resorts all up and down the Phuket coast, but the Surin is one of the more stylish choices for relaxing along one of Phuket's most beautiful beaches. Of course, plenty of people come to Phuket looking for wild nightlife, and those craving the tawdry side of island life will want to look elsewhere, as this resort feels secluded and peaceful. This beachfront property is built around a giant central
pavilion which is open to the elements and delivers impressive Andaman Sea
views. The look is a luxe blend of Thai minimalism and vintage aesthetics -- sleek granite floors and tables are set in a spartan lobby where gorgeous hardwood accents loom over wicker-panel chairs and wide lounge beds. The hotel goes the extra mile in looking after its guests and provides touches like local snacks and fresh fruit on arrival, and even
umbrellas, mosquito repellent, and after-sun lotion. The picturesque location
means the property is a popular wedding venue, and many couples and
honeymooners flock here for a romantic retreat. It does attract some families as well and offers babysitting services, cribs, high chairs, a children’s check-in
gift, and kids' menus in the restaurants. Keep in mind that the resort is set on a hillside and climbs to certain rooms are steep, with many stairs -- guests with mobility issues will want to check ahead.

Surrounded by lush forests and coconut palms on the Andaman Sea, the hotel is in
a quiet and unspoiled part of Phuket. Situated north of the Surin Beach
headland on the island's west coast, the property shares Pansea Beach with one
other luxury resort. Pansea Beach is one of the best beaches on the island and
has picture-perfect soft white sand, and remains fairly quiet, even during high
season. Surin Beach is a five-minute walk away, and there are a number of cool
beach clubs, trendy boutiques, and tin-hut Thai restaurants just a few minutes
stroll from the property as well. It's worth renting a car for travelers wishing to visit the livelier parts of the island. Patong’s vibrant nightlife is a 30-minute drive
from the hotel, and Phuket town is also 30 minutes away by car. Phuket International
Airport will take 40 minutes to reach by road.

Rooms at the Surin consist of elegant one- and two-bedroom hillside cottages and beachside suites. They have a minimalistic Thai style that's created by a combination of fresh
white walls with whitewashed wooden beams, pitched ceilings, and cool gray granite floors. There are artful touches, like decorative headboard padding that's been built into the wall panels and handsome hardwood accents employed in smart and sparing ways (like around the tub in the Beach Deluxe Suite that we visited). Furniture has clean lines and sharp, muted jewel tones offset the white linens on the beds. All rooms are spacious -- the smallest unit has 34 square meters of space (366 square feet) -- and have air-conditioning, terraces, coffeemakers, minibars,
free Wi-Fi, work desks, iPod docks, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. They also
have 'his and her' dressing areas, closets, and vanities, and many rooms have day beds. Cottages have garden
views and a partial sea view, and the suites have direct beach access and
spacious verandahs. The large bathrooms feature locally produced organic bath products with walk-in showers,
but only the Beach Suites have bath tubs. Cottages are linked by jungle
walkways that can be fairly steep and won't be ideal for those with
mobility issues.

The obvious star of the show at this resort is the stunning beach that dips into the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. There are a few beach lounge chairs and umbrellas, and the beach is wide enough to feel uncrowded. The focus of the property is the large, black-tiled hexagonal swimming pool, and there’s also a separate children’s pool. The terrace has plenty of places for guests to relax throughout the day. There are three restaurants and two bars at The Surin.
Breakfast is included in the room rate and is served at the Sunset Cafe,
overlooking the pool and peaceful gardens, where light snacks and refreshments
are available all day. The Beach Restaurant specializes in freshly caught local
fish, while the Lomtalay restaurant offers elegant Thai cuisine and live
classical music. The Sunset Bar and the Beach Bar both have a good cocktail
menu and are popular for after dinner drinks. The hotel has a well-priced spa on-site, with a fitness center
attached, plus tennis courts and the option of yoga and meditation sessions on
the beach. Non-motorized water sports can also be booked. There’s a gift shop
on-site selling clothing, jewelry, and trinkets, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Parking is free too. The hotel can help arrange tour bookings and excursions, and airport transfers are available for a fee.