Amari Phuket

Tucked against a lush hillside overlooking the Andaman Sea, the Amari comprises a series of modern concrete and wood three-story buildings. Manicured lawns and tropical gardens complement ocean views throughout the grounds, while interior common areas are airy and peaceful, with a natural, earthy aesthetic. The lobby, a strikingly vast space with pale tile floors and wood ceilings, features a large chandelier made from a cluster of woven, circular lamps perched above simple wood chairs with bright yellow cushions. High ceilings and exterior hallways linked by stairways allow for plenty of opportunities to take in sweeping views of the water. The pool areas offer stunning ocean views from simply elegant decks dotted with beige lounge chairs beneath red umbrellas. Guests include a mix of youngish couples and some families with children, many of whom take advantage of the adorable kids' club featuring colorful carpeting, lots of windows, and loads of toys. 

The Amari Phuket sits at the Andaman Sea's southern end, on a quiet stretch of protected beach away from the action. The hotel provides a shuttle service to Patong city (for a fee), which is about a 15-minute drive or half-hour walk away. Guests will need a vehicle to reach most places, including the nightlife on Bangla Road, which is about a 10-minute drive away. Popular attractions, including Wat Chalong and Phromthep Cape, are about 35- to 40- minutes away by car. Phuket is about an hour away. 

Guest rooms are decorated with similar natural colors and pale wood furnishings as found in common areas of the hotel. Some guests find the wood furniture uncomfortable. Beds are accented with colorful throws, but otherwise the rooms are mainly decorated in white, brown, and dark gray. Each room has a kettle, a minibar, a flat-screen TV with a DVD player, and a balcony. Bathrooms have wood floors and large walk-in showers. Wi-Fi is free in rooms and throughout the property. 

The hotel's private beach is in a protected area with few waves. A jetty perched over the water is available for dining in the evenings, and there are also two restaurants serving Italian and international cuisine, a poolside bar, and an additional bar with panoramic bay views. A jungle footpath originates at the property, and guests can book scuba diving excursions through the hotel. There are two pools on the property with ocean views, though the lounge chairs tend to get claimed quickly. The hotel's spa offers an array of facials, massages, and body treatments and offers a lovely outdoor hot tub. Wi-Fi is free, as is a buffet breakfast with a variety of hot and cold dishes. Guests staying in the Ocean Wing of the hotel get access to The Clubhouse, which features a lounge with a daily happy hour, a private gym, and an infinity pool looking out over the ocean.