Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach

The 2016-opened Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach provides a relaxing oceanfront getaway with some options for recreation -- both for kids and adults. Its setting near the airport is convenient but not too close to cause noise disturbances, and guests can walk to restaurants and bars along the beach during low tide. The downside of this is that the ocean is at low tide for a good part of the day, pushing the water line far back from the resort. Because of this, guests split their time lounging on a beachfront chair or taking a dip in the well-sized outdoor pool, which snakes around the resort and can be accessed directly from some rooms. Like most Marriott properties in Phuket, the design here is contemporary and elegant, but subdued in terms of local flair. Lily ponds, open-air Thai-style structures, and a gong at the entrance are atmospheric.
A kids' club and daily schedule of activities such as yoga, lead painting, and Thai dessert making provide some entertainment, but overall, the hotel is quiet and best suited to those looking to relax. For a bit more activity, consider the JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa or Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort.

The Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa sits on a quiet stretch of Nai Yang Beach, adjacent to a large forested area. The secluded location means beach vendors are largely absent, though guests can walk to restaurants and bars along the sand during low tide. A huge perk is that Phuket International Airport is a quick 10-minute drive away, yet airplane noise is not really an issue. On the downside, there are limited dining and shopping options in the immediate surrounds, and the bustling area of Patong is a 45-minute drive away.

Several room categories are available here, but all units are largely decorated in the same sophisticated but uninspired design. Expect wood furniture, furniture, and wall panels, neutral fabrics, and little more than a tropical wall hanging and vibrant throw pillow for decoration. All rooms have furnished balconies or terraces, and swim-up rooms offer direct access to the pool. Other upgrades include beach views or private plunge pools (villas only). Bathrooms are a highlight, with sleek showers and separate mosaic-tiled bathtubs, plus hairdryers and a full range of toiletries. Large closets house robes, slippers, beach bags, ironing equipment, and electronic safes. Also standard are seating areas, dining tables, flat-screen TVs, minibars, coffee- and tea-making facilities, desks, and free Wi-Fi.
Suites have living spaces with sofas, while villas have impressive outdoor terraces with plunge pools.

Unlike many Phuket resorts, this Marriott offers umbrella-shaded lounge chairs directly next to the ocean. Unfortunately, the long low tides mean that the ocean is often far from the resort. Because of this, most guests wanting to take a dip head to the main pool, which faves the ocean. There's a separate kiddy pool and the water snakes around the resort, in front of room buildings. The surrounding deck is lined with loungers, but they're limited in number and guests may struggle to find one in their preferred sun or shade. Colorful bean bags on a grassy lawn between the beach and pool provide more lounge space. Water sports are available at the beach during high tide.
The full-service Quan Spa is upscale, offering an extensive menu of treatments such as couples' massages, mani/pedis, body scrubs, and kid-specific therapies. A 24-hour fitness center has modern cardio and strength-training equipment. The kids' club provides games and toys, plus a packed schedule of activities such as necklace making and bag painting (many require a fee). Yoga, Thai boxing lessons, and bike rentals are also available for a fee.
Wi-Fi and parking are both free.

There are a few well-regarded dining options on-site with reasonable prices. The main eatery is Andaman Kitchen, which serves extensive buffet breakfasts with international and Asian fare, and Thai specialties for lunch and dinner. It offers both indoor seating and outdoor terrace seating. Big Fish is open for lunch and dinner with an emphasis on seafood. Indoor and outdoor seating face the ocean. Across a terrace is the Big Fish Bar, which serves cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as casual eats such as burgers and pizza throughout the day. The Lounge is a casual all-day spot for coffee, sandwiches, and cocktails.
Room service is available 24/7.