The Elements Krabi Resort

The plain, modest exterior of the upscale Elements Krabi Resort can be misleading. The simple, white concrete buildings framed by well-tended shrubbery and palm trees give way to airy, contemporary interiors. Colorful stained-glass windows on folding doors brighten the open-air lobby, where dangling light fixtures and low-lying cream furniture feel fresh and inviting. This property suits leisure travelers -- couples and families -- who prefer a low-key, remote vacation. There are no restaurants or entertainment in the area, but the property has its own karaoke lounge with comfy sofas and a flat-screen TV, as well as a game room with a pool table and small library filled with reading material for guests. Guests can also make use of the free shuttle to the (somewhat) livelier Ao Nang area. 

A bumpy, unpaved road leads to the hotel, which is located in a quiet and removed part of Nong Thale with easy access to the beach -- but keep in mind that this part of Thailand is subject to extreme tidal fluctuations and when the tide recedes, the shore is muddy. Aside from a mini-market and gift shop in the lobby, there’s not much within walking distance of the hotel. Other upscale and luxury resorts are just five minutes away by car, as are more restaurants, a 7-Eleven, and a few shops. A twice-daily, free shuttle makes the 25-minute trip to Ao Nang, with its sandy shores, water-sports shops, and restaurants. It’s a 40-minute drive to Krabi town. The commute to Krabi Airport takes 45 minutes, and the hotel can arrange transportation for a fee.

The style in rooms is contemporary, with designs inspired by earth’s elements: dark wooden furniture, earth-tone textiles, pops of color (green, red, or blue) and glass doors that lead to balconies or patios with lovely wood designs and pool views. Some terraces have private pool access. Deluxe Rooms -- when compared to Superior Rooms -- offer more space and sitting areas. Premier Villas have two levels, stylish furnishings, and larger bathrooms with big walk-in rainfall showers. Suites are decorated with stained-glass touches, custom furniture, and vaulted wooden ceilings. They also have living rooms, kitchenettes, whirlpool tubs on terraces, and partial beach views. Standard bathrooms have separate stall showers and bathtubs beside bedroom-facing windows; some also have whirlpool tubs. Accessible rooms are available. All rooms include free Wi-Fi, safes, ironing facilities, hairdryers, minibars, coffeemakers, slippers and bathrobes, beach bags, flip-flops, and daily maid service. 

A nice alternative to the beach across the road is the resort’s blue-tiled lagoon pool with whirlpool jets, submerged stools at the Splash swim-up bar, and a man-made pool shore suitable for families with children. Tropical foliage and lounge chairs surround the pool. Inside the hotel is a stylish Thai-style spa with eight treatment rooms, a solarium, and modern gym with cardio machines and free weights. A sauna and steam room are in the locker room. For families, the kids’ club provides toys and activities in a small playroom.

Dining is a casual experience in the Sea-breeze restaurant, which seats 80 in a thatched-roof pavilion with a Western and Thai buffet that includes vegetarian options and a crepe station. Breakfast is not included with room rates. Magma Bar serves light dishes, cocktails, beers, coffee, and smoothies. Gatherings can be accommodated in the Andaman meeting room, which can be split into three separate spaces and overlooking a large lawn. A soundproofed karaoke room is also available to keep everyone entertained, and the hotel has its own mini-mart and game room with a billiard table. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.