Pimalai Resort and Spa, Koh Lanta: An Exquisite Thai Escape Reviewed
Discovering Koh Lanta: Thailand’s Best Kept Secret
As part of our journey soaking up the magical cultures and flavours of Southeast Asia, we pressed pause for an extended seven week stay on the island of Koh Lanta, Thailand. Nestled in the south west of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta offers a peaceful alternative to the country’s more bustling islands. Easily accessed via a scenic car ferry from Krabi, Koh Lanta is renowned for its lush tropical landscapes, friendly community, and a laid back vibe that’s worlds apart from the party scenes of Phi Phi or Phuket.
Main pool area, Hillside Estate
While the north of Koh Lanta offers lively markets and bustling beaches, it’s the southern tip where the natural beauty truly flourishes - and where you’ll find Pimalai Resort and Spa, spanning 100 acres of rainforest and wrapping around the powdery white sands of Ba Kan Tiang Beach. The nearby Mu Ko Lanta National Park is a haven for wildlife and coastal trails, making this the perfect base for island explorers and luxury seekers alike.
Grand Arrival: Seamless Transfers and a Warm Thai Welcome
One of Pimalai Resort and Spa’s many luxuries is its inclusive transfer service allowing guests to step off the plane in Krabi and glide straight to the resort by minivan or speedboat from Phuket, making arrival at this secluded paradise effortless. At check in, we were greeted in the elegant open air reception by gracious staff, a chilled welcome drink, fragrant cold towel and a delicate ‘phuang malai’ garland—freshly threaded flowers signifying Thai hospitality and used as a symbol of welcome.
Every guest is personally welcomed by a dedicated team member who sits down to talk through the resort facilities and answer any questions. These small touches, combined with the seamless airport transfers, immediately set the tone for a stay defined by relaxation, care, and exceptional service.
Setting the Scene: Award Winning Luxury Amid Island Wilderness
Pimalai Resort and Spa is a proud member of Luxury Small Hotels of the World and a regular recipient of travel accolades, consistently wowing guests with its tranquil luxury and environmental sensitivity. The resort is divided into two distinct sections: the Beachside Estate, home to suites and pavilions a few steps from the Andaman Sea, and the Hillside Estate, where private villas are dotted high above the treetops for the most breathtaking views.
Traditional southern Thai design influences everything, from the rich teak wood interiors and high vaulted ceilings to the burnished red roofs nestling against jungle green. The thoughtful layout means every accommodation, whether on the sand or hillside, maintains privacy, perfect for couples, families or friends dreaming of space to unwind.
The Hillside Ocean View Private Pool Villa: A Sanctuary in the Sky
Our indulgent two night escape was set high on the hillside, in a spectacular Ocean View Two Bedroom Private Pool Villa. Transported by electric buggy (easy to call at any time via the Pimalai app), we entered a breathtaking sanctuary enveloped by tropical forest, its private pool perfectly positioned with views over Ba Kan Tiang Beach below. It felt like a secret hideaway.
Our two bedroom villa offered the ultimate in space and seclusion. At its heart, a shimmering 22sqm private pool, flanked by wide sundecks and comfy loungers. The villa’s design cleverly frames the sea and forest, with full length windows everywhere ensuring you never miss a dramatic sunset.
The main building has a spacious living room, modern kitchen, and bathroom; on the opposite side, the bedrooms feel almost like private suites. The master bedroom is vast, centred around a four poster bed that gazes out to endless ocean - a scene straight from a honeymoon dream. Luxurious details - a comfy sofa at the end of the bed, workspace, and a deck with loungers - make this a special space.
The bathroom continues the wow factor: a deep bathtub sits before a picture window, perfect for sunset soaks. Double vanity sinks, a rain shower, and dressing room complete the sanctuary feel. Downstairs, the second bedroom is equally elegant - though reached via an outdoor staircase, a detail that’s worth bearing in mind for families with younger children. This is quite common in South East Asia, so something to look out for. For some guests, the Beachside suites may offer a more convenient layout.
A host of amenities - air conditioning, ceiling fans, complimentary water, a coffee machine, mini bar, fully equipped kitchen with glassware ensures every creature comfort is met. Dine privately in your villa, with set up provided on request, and enjoy housekeeping and turndown service twice daily. The kids were especially thrilled to discover Pimalai teddy bears and cookies waiting for them on the first night - moments like these elevate a stay from excellent to unforgettable.
Beach Bliss and Active Living
Pimalai’s dazzling stretch of Ba Kan Tiang Beach isn’t exclusive to the hotel, but feels wonderfully private. The beach is really big with plenty of space and sun loungers for guests. Attentive staff deliver drinks, snacks, and constant top ups of ice cold water throughout the day. Children will find plenty of free toys for sandcastle sessions, and older kids (and adults) can enjoy body boards, paddle boards, or just enjot the safe, shallow water.
There are also large communal pools if you prefer. One located in the Hillside Estate with those sweeping sea views and the other in the Beachside Estate, set just back from the beach. There are plenty of comfy loungers to relax around both.
For those who prefer to keep active, Pimalai is a fitness lovers paradise: a state of the art gym with every machine and free weight you could need, including a full size Muay Thai boxing ring for lessons with professionals. Elsewhere, a picturesque lake is circled by a running track, and there are tennis courts, pickleball, basketball, and complimentary bikes to borrow. Group yoga and fitness sessions are held regularly too.
Dining Delights: From Beachfront Barbecues to Fine Dining
The resort’s collection of restaurants and bars offer gourmet variety with a strong sense of place. Rak Talay Beach Bar & Restaurant delivers breezy, barefoot dining with spectacular sunset views. The freshly caught seafood, spicy curries, and authentic Thai food are not to be missed, nor is their popular Surf & Turf BBQ buffet and daily happy hour specials, a real holiday treat.
For a gourmet experience, head up to Seven Seas Restaurant in the Hillside Estate. Often lauded among the best fine dining restaurants in Koh Lanta, Seven Seas offers refined dishes, an impressive wine list, and attentive service - all accompanied by sweeping sea vistas. If you’re after a culinary show, don’t miss the theatrical spaghetti carbonara, tossed tableside in a flaming wheel of parmesan. Tasting menus with expertly paired wines provide the perfect excuse to linger for hours.
We ate at both of these restaurants and would highly recommend both for different reasons. We loved Rak Talay Beach Bar & Restaurant for the lovely casual beach bar vibes and sunset views. Seven Seas Restaurant felt like a real treat, the food was amazing and the views were equally stunning.
Spice N' Rice restaurant served traditional Thai cuisine, their regular Thai night buffet is really popular and offers an authentic Thai dining experience.
Breakfasts at Pimalai are a delight: a blend of à la carte and buffet, with fresh juices and smoothies, tropical fruits, pastries, healthy options and Thai classics, all enjoyed with sunrise sparkling across the bay.
Island Adventures: Beyond the Resort
Koh Lanta’s magic extends far beyond Pimalai. Local excursions offer a kaleidoscope of experiences:
- Mu Ko Lanta National Park: Just a short drive away, this untouched preserve is home to scenic hiking trails, hidden beaches, and a charming lighthouse with breathtaking views, right at the very Southern tip of Koh Lanta.
- Beaches: There are lots of lovely beaches to explore on Koh Lanta. This is Ao Nui Bay which is close to Pimalai and a nice spot for a swim. A word of warning - watch out for the monkeys and dont bring any food with you!
- Island Hopping Boat Trips: Discover crystal clear snorkelling at Koh Rok or Koh Haa, or take a private longtail boat to neighbouring islets for a taste of castaway seclusion.
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Shark Guardian Snorkelling Trip: From Koh Lanta, you will find plenty of snorkelling and diving excursions, but this one is something special. Operated by Shark Guardian, a UK charity dedicated to shark and marine conservation worldwide, this experience allows you to enjoy the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands while contributing to an important cause.
You will explore carefully selected shark snorkelling sites with a professional shark diving researcher, giving you the chance to observe these incredible creatures respectfully in their natural environment. Before you enter the water, you will join an engaging briefing where you can learn how to spot different species, understand their behaviour and discover simple ways you can help protect sharks and our oceans.
- Lanta Old Town: Wander through this historic fishing village with its wooden stilt houses, colourful shops, and welcoming waterfront restaurants. It’s a chance to connect with Lanta’s heritage and sample delicious local cuisine.
- Cookery Classes & Market Tours: Dive into Southern Thai flavours with a hands on lesson, most will also include a trip to a local market, an experience in itself!
Thoughtful Service and Lasting Memories
It’s the extras at Pimalai Resort and Spa that linger in the memory. The attentive, genuinely warm service, seamless tech touches (the app is fantastic for menus, buggy bookings and more), and the resort’s commitment to sustainability and the local environment empower guests to relax, reconnect, and cherish every moment.
Why Pimalai Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta Should Be Your Next Thai Retreat
For UK travellers seeking a slice of Thai island paradise, Pimalai Resort and Spa stands as a glowing example of refined, eco-sensitive luxury that never feels stuffy or impersonal. Whether you’re escaping as a couple, celebrating with family, or marking a special occasion, this haven on Koh Lanta delivers space, beauty, and peace in abundance.
If you’re dreaming of soft beaches, jungle adventures, world class Thai dining and the kind of service that anticipates every need, Pimalai deserves the top spot on your travel wish list.
If you would like to include a stay at Pimalai Resort & Spa as part of a wider Thailand itinerary, please get in touch and we can start planning the trip around it. I have travelled extensively through Thailand and can recommend the islands, cities and hidden corners you really will not want to miss.
Click the link below to contact me and start designing your Thailand escape.
