Jamahkiri Resort & Spa

The Jamahkiri has a secluded vibe, and draws couples as well as some families. The huge swimming pool is a popular hangout spot, with plenty of folks chilling on the sun loungers, and most guests also spend plenty of time at the thatched-roof restaurant. (It's essentially a requirement, since there are no other dining options within walking distance -- though it is possible to take the free shuttle boat to the beach and eateries at nearby Haad Tien.) With many big, stunning rock formations amid the lush tropical landscaping, Jamahkiri truly looks like a slice of paradise. The resort comprises a series of white, thatched-roof buildings built into the hillside, and only a few elements strike an inauthentic note, like the faux tree trunks holding up the roof in the lobby. The atmosphere is definitely casual here, and beachwear, shorts, and sundresses are the norm. But then, one needs to be in a relaxed mindset in order to continually negotiate all the steep steps found throughout the property.

The Jamahkiri sits almost alone, occupying a hillside in southern Koh Tao overlooking beautiful Shark Bay. Getting here involves driving over a steep mountain road that is unpaved in places. While the secluded spot is very peaceful, the resort unfortunately does not have a beach (other than some created sand patches they've installed by the water) and one needs to take a shuttle boat over to beautiful Haad Tien, the neighboring beach, for some real sand.

While some of the rooms do look a bit worn, they are still pleasant, all featuring wood floors, bathtubs, rain showers, and plenty of space. The bedding incorporates traditional Thai silks into the accent pillows and runners, and attractive, authentic carvings can be found on some of the furniture and wall art. Best of all, each room type has a balcony or terrace overlooking the sea. Additional amenities include satellite TVs and DVD players, air-conditioning, stocked minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms all have tubs -- Deluxe Rooms have separate tubs and rain showers, while Deluxe Pavilion Rooms have whirlpool tubs or showers (not both). The big duplex Family Suite Pavilions have two bedrooms and room for two additional beds.

Overall rooms are a bit plain for the price. Unlike at Aminjirah -- another secluded resort with great views -- none of the rooms have private plunge pools. Some may also prefer the rustic-luxe, beach hut feel of the rooms at Haad Tien, some of which are right on the sand. 

The Jamahkiri is one of the few resorts on Koh Tao that has full resort facilities. The swimming pool here is large, with plenty of sun loungers and great views of the sea below. There is a small fitness center inside the pampering spa, and there is also a Dive Center for those wanting PADI courses or other sea-based activities. There is no beach proper here, but there is an artificially created area with sand down by the water.

The popular restaurant at the Jamahkiri resembles a safari lounge, and the thatched-roof dining area looks out over beautiful Haad Tien Beach. During high season, the resort also opens a grill restaurant along with a rooftop lounge.