Paradise KohYao

Opened in 2010, Paradise KohYao offers a restful and relaxing escape for those wanting a quiet break to unwind. It's not always the case that a resort lives up to its own name, but that actually happens here. The property has a natural and tranquil feel from the moment guests arrive in the open-air lobby. Its chic decor matches that of the guest rooms, with a traditional thatched roof and furniture made from bamboo and untreated timber. There's a computer station and a small library in the lobby which guests are welcome to use. Comfortable chairs overlook the pool and there are driftwood sculptures and fresh flowers placed around the room. Throughout the resort are glimpses of Phang Nga Bay -- a stunning collection of karst islands in tranquil turquoise waters. Guests are primarily European, and mainly consist of couples and honeymooners, although some families stay here too. 

Paradise KohYao is set on the northern tip of Koh Yao Noi (meaning Little Long Island). It’s an unspoiled, peaceful island with little tourism and a sleepy pace of life. Visitors will find little to do or visit here, other than completely relax and unwind. The property is located on a cliff with tropical forest on one side, and the sea on the other. Many points throughout the resort have fantastic views over the islands in Phang Nga Bay, and the hotel also has its own private beach. Keep in mind that tides in this part of Thailand can be extreme, and at low tide the sea is unswimmable with large expanses of exposed underwater flats. It’s quiet and secluded and there’s plenty of shade provided by the coconut palms and other native trees. Those wanting to explore the island's laid-back charms will want to rent a moped to zip around. From Phuket, the resort can be reached via a 50-minute boat ride and a 15-minute drive; it takes a bit longer to reach the airport in Krabi. 

The 69 rooms and villas at the resort are either set on the beach, in the garden, or on the hillside overlooking the bay. Decor includes contemporary furnishings with hints of Asian-styling. The rooms have a cool and fresh, almost shabby-chic feel, with a pale blue-and-white color scheme, whitewashed timber furniture and use of natural materials like driftwood and bamboo. Expect to see tile or hardwood floors, and most rooms have gauzy canopies over the beds. They're all equipped with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, safes, minibars, CD/DVD players and music systems, electric kettles, and high-end coffeemakers. The open-air living areas make for a nice extension of the sleeping area. Free mineral water, fruit, and flowers are also provided. Higher category rooms have a hot tub or private plunge pool, and the Villas have private pools and bars. Some also have kitchens. The Hilltop Villa, in particular, has excellent views of the islands in Phang Nga Bay. The bathrooms have a semi-outdoor shower, plus indoor vanities with vessel sinks -- hairdryers and bathrobes are also provided. 

Despite its relatively small size, there are a number of quality features at this resort, which is helpful as there's not much to see or do in the immediate area.The hotel’s main restaurant is the Seafood Terrace. It's open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and serves Thai and Western cuisine. It’s set right on the beachfront and surrounded by shady trees. The other restaurant, Al Fresco, is just open for dinner and has a Mediterranean menu including a range of pasta dishes plus authentic gelato. It’s also set right on the beach. There are two bars on-site, the Beach Club pool bar and the Sundowners beach bar. Treatments are available at the outdoor spa, and there’s a lovely pool right next to the beach. The beach has lounge chairs and even a rope swing strung between palm trees. The hotel puts on entertainment two evenings a week, such as theme nights and barbecues. There are a wide range of activities available on-site for guests staying at the property, from diving and cycling to table tennis and painting. Wi-Fi is free throughout the resort.