Tup Kaek Sunset Beach Resort

Nestled into a jungle along beautiful Tubkaek Beach, this resort is laid-back and relaxing. Cushioned rattan sofas and chairs with colorful pillows beckon guests to hang out in the open-air lobby and enjoy the peaceful setting. Check-in takes place at a wooden reception desk topped by rattan light fixtures. Other common areas at the hotel -- and even many of the rooms -- share this rustic style. However, like most properties in this part of Thailand, it's all about being outdoors here. Lush vegetation and trees cover the property, which is shaded and calm. Even the beach has good shade for much of the day, and the stunning views of Krabi's iconic karst islands offshore are a delight. The resort draws mostly couples -- those views and the beach almost guarantee romance -- but families and groups pass through as well. 

This hotel is located on Tubkaek Beach, a remote strip of stunning sand in Thailand's Krabi province. The beach has beautiful sunset views -- hence the hotel's name -- and Krabi's karst islands sit in the waters offshore, making for great scenery. Other hotels and resorts, plus a couple of restaurants, are in the surrounding area -- most within a five- to 10-minute walk, but mostly it's a quiet, peaceful area away from any major action. As such, there's almost nothing to do nearby. The hotel has a tour desk on-site for guests who would like to explore the area. It's a 25-minute drive to the Ao Nang Pier for boats to the various Phang Nga Bay islands. Expect a 35-minute drive into Krabi town and 45-minute trip to Krabi's airport. Those wanting to take in some of the region's stunning natural scenery should head to Ao Thalene, where there are popular kayak trips between the stunning seaside cliffs -- it takes 45 minutes to reach by car from the hotel.

The resort offers standalone bungalows as well regular hotel rooms, which are in the Deluxe Building. Decor is modern and simple, with wood floors, furniture, and accents. Some of the furniture has a chunky, rustic look, and bamboo paneled ceilings do add a nice tropical vibe, though other details like pressboard wave accents above the beds in some rooms feel a bit dated and tacky. Other rooms have more handsome geometric wood-panel accents. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee makers, minibars, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and safes. Floor plans are generous, with even entry-level Deluxe Building rooms starting at 35 square meters (377 square feet). All have a balcony or terrace with views of the pool, sea, or garden. Some have direct pool access, and bungalows sit right off the beach. Bathrooms also are modern and are equipped with hairdryers and toiletries. Separate showers and bathtubs come standard with all rooms.

There are a number of features that help make a stay here a solid value, though spending more than a week here might get a little bit boring depending on what type of traveler you are. All meals are served in the open-air Sunset Restaurant by the beach, including a breakfast buffet with hot and cold options (for a fee). Breakfast gets mixed reviews. Guests can dine on the terrace under a high-pitched roof or out on the sand for lunch and dinner. The menu features Thai and international specialties, with an emphasis on seafood. The Red Leaf Bar, also by the beach, serves drinks and light fare for lunch and dinner. The resort has two outdoor pools. Pool access rooms step directly out to one, and these rooms have their own terraces with lounge chairs for sitting by the pool. The lagoon-style pool features peninsulas extending into the middle with palm trees and other lush vegetation. It's a lovely, shaded space with lounge chairs that invite poolside relaxation. It's not the place for serious swimming. The beach is wide and sandy, but keep in mind that tides mean there are times of day when swimming isn't ideal. Couples can arrange to have wedding ceremonies on the beach or in the garden. There is no spa at the hotel, which is a bit disappointing. Parking is free, as are kayaks for using in the ocean. Scooters can be rented through the hotel and there is a tour desk for any longer excursions. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.