Pimalai Resort & Spa

We visited Pimalai in June 2024. The hotel & service was outstanding. We stayed in the hillside ocean view private pool villa and it phenomenal. It was very private with unbelievable views of the ocean, sunset and stars. The food & cocktails in the hotel were amazing. We especially loved the slow cooked beef masaman. The staff were very friendly & made our stay even more special. We still talk about it to this day.

We stayed for 5 nights in low season- a mix of sunshine and rain as expected for the time of year. Rooms are pleasant and the staff are all very kind. My children enjoyed the kids club area and activities offered. The hotel restaurants were very good food, but we also walked along the beach to have lunch in the town a few times (at more of a thai price). Breakfast was good and the buggy service around the resort was helpful, especially with children. We personally wouldn’t choose to stay here again for two reasons- although there’s probably not much that can be done, the monkeys really scared us. One came running towards us baring its teeth and my 4 year old was extremely reluctant to leave the room again after that happened. I think guests should be given verbal warning on arrival of what to do if you see them - there is information in the written booklet in the room but a verbal warning should be given. The last major negative for us was the huge amount of litter on the beach. It was so beautiful but despite the hotels environmental claims (or perhaps greenwashing), there is no effort to clean this up, even from right outside the lifeguard/beach activity station. Big pieces of polystyrene, and literally bucketfuls of rubbish everywhere. More effort should be made to clean this up particularly considering there are 3-4 staff on duty with pretty much nothing to do given the small number of guests. Other hotels we have stayed at have offered litter bags and a free drink if you fill one- perhaps such an incentive would help keep the lovely beach here cleaner?

Pimalai Resort & Spa exceeded our expectations in almost every way – without exaggeration, this is one of the best resorts we’ve ever stayed at. * The highlights: 1. Flawless service & hospitality: From the moment we arrived (pier pick-up & airport drop-off included!), the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and taken care of. Everything runs like a well-oiled machine, but never feels impersonal – quite the opposite, actually. The warmth and attention to detail were exceptional. 2. Stunning setting: The resort is beautifully integrated into nature, with lush jungle all around and a private beach that feels truly exclusive. Whether you’re in the infinity pool, having breakfast with a sea view, or being driven up the hill by buggy – everything is picturesque. 3. Spacious, luxurious rooms: We stayed in a standard room, and it was already pure comfort. Clean, serene, and very tastefully designed. Great bed, great bathroom, great everything. 4. Perfect for winding down: Pimalai is the kind of place where you feel yourself relax within minutes. No loud crowds, no noise – just calm, class, and comfort. * Minor notes (if we have to name any): 1. The resort is very spread out and built into a hill – which is part of its charm – but it does mean you rely on buggies quite a bit. They’re fast and always available, but if you prefer walking everywhere, this might take some getting used to. 2. While food quality is very good, prices are quite high compared to local spots. Totally fair for the setting and service, but worth noting if you're planning a longer stay. 3. Main pool temporarily closed: During our stay, the main hilltop infinity pool was closed for renovations. Of course, this is understandable and necessary maintenance – and the beach pool was still fantastic – but it was a slight pity nonetheless. In short: if you're looking for understated luxury, genuine hospitality, and peaceful natural beauty – Pimalai is a near-perfect choice. We’d return in a heartbeat.

This is truly a first class hotel and our second visit was as memorable as our first visit. The hotel and grounds are kept immaculate. The staff polite, engaging and most helpfull. I have to give a special mention to Phen the manageress on reception who was wonderful in assisting with car hire, transfers and all general information when needed. She has the biggest smile that lights up your day. Thank you for all your help Phen. Also the new food and beverage manager ( sorry your name escapes me) was engaging and interested in our opinions and I’m sure he will be a great asset to team Pimali I’m sure this won’t be our last visit here. Thank you all for another memorable stay. PS if you get the chance it’s a must to have the Thai afternoon Tea for two a wonderful experience.

Wonderful resort. It’s one of first times that the website photos and reality were matching 1:1. Reality was even prettier. Super clean, nice and accommodating staff, diversity of restaurants, nice gym and beyond all, magical views. Highly recommend. For flights, use Phuket not Bangkok.