This 40-acre hillside hideawayset within a rain forest of bamboo and banana treeshas 24 (soon to be 33) waterfront villas, all with commanding Andaman Sea views from the bed, the sunken bath, and each villa's infinity pool. Several public spaces, including the spa, remained unfinished during our visit, but most guests will find their desires met within their nearly 2,600-square-foot personal oasis, thanks to wireless Internet access, a flat-screen TV, and a generously stocked (and free-of-charge) minibarcritical, since room service operates on Thai time. Worth the wait are the sweet yellow-bean dumplings with sesame seeds and the delicately spiced banana-blossom salad with chicken and shrimp. Daybeds are scattered like seashells along the beach and in the shade near the 150-foot-long main pool.
When to go: November through March, for the least rain and the most comfortable temperatures.
Which room to book: Nos. 203 and 204, situated above the treeline, for the most panoramic views
Amenities:
Bar/lounge,
Beach,
Gym,
Pool,
Spa,
24-hour Room Service