Phuket may have earned its reputation as Thailand’s tropical tourism hotspot thanks to its sun, sea and sand, but what keeps travelers coming back is everything beyond the beach, including some of the region’s most luxurious accommodations. From ultra-exclusive properties that attract A-list celebrities to one-of-a-kind boutique resorts, these MICHELIN-Key hotels take vacations to the next level. Head here for all the MICHELIN Keys in Thailand.
Andara Resort & Villas
One MICHELIN KeyThe stretch of hillside above Kamala Beach is known as the “Millionaires’ Mile” and this lavish property certainly lives up to the name. Expansive suites range from one to four bedrooms with living and dining areas, sea views and private pools, while three- to six-bedroom freestanding villas boast pools, butlers and even private chefs. Along with a gym, spa, infinity pool and beach club, the resort also offers the unexpected luxury of two private yachts with crew available for charter.
Keemala
Three MICHELIN KeysLocated slightly inland from Kamala Beach, this striking jungle resort offers 38 freestanding pool villas in four designs, each imagined as “luxury tribal” dwellings. Some feature tent-like domed roofs and oval-shaped soaking tubs perched high above the greenery. Others span two levels and feature suspended furniture, while some resemble thatched-roof huts. The boldest are the futuristic “Bird’s Nest Villas” made from woven wood and glass, with sweeping views of both the forest and the sea. On-site amenities, including a spa, swimming pool and restaurant, are just as Instagram-worthy.
COMO Point Yamu
One MICHELIN KeyPerched atop a cliff at the end of Cape Yamu, on the less-traveled eastern side of Phuket, this resort is an architectural and design showpiece, with visually stimulating interiors courtesy of famed Italian designer Paola Navone. The stylish rooms, suites and villas — 106 in total — come in a variety of sizes and configurations, all offering commanding views of scenic Phang Nga Bay. Guests never wishing to leave this isolated slice of paradise can divide their time between the multiple restaurants and lounges, the Shambhala wellness facilities and the massive 100-meter-long swimming pool.
Trisara
One MICHELIN KeySecluded and sophisticated, this high-end hillside resort features pavilion-style structures overlooking the Andaman Sea. Each suite and villa comes with its own infinity pool, discreetly tucked into lush tropical foliage. A long saltwater pool runs parallel to the private beach, while the nearby waterfront spa offers a standout “six-hand massage” performed by three trained therapists. Gourmands will be pleased to know that Trisara is home to three MICHELIN-recognized restaurants: PRU, awarded both One MICHELIN Star and a Green Star; Jampa, a Green Star establishment; and The Thai Library, a MICHELIN-selected eatery.
InterContinental Phuket Resort
Two MICHELIN KeysThis 221-room landmark property, which opened in 2020, is a sensory delight. Architecturally, its masterstroke is the ornate Thai temple-inspired central pavilion, a striking all-white structure that houses fine-dining, fermentation-focused restaurant Hom, one of eight food and drink outlets. For relaxation, guests can enjoy five swimming pools and a sumptuous spa. The bulk of the property is built on the inland side of the coastal road, with an exclusive underground passageway that leads guests directly to Kamala Beach.
The Nai Harn Phuket
One MICHELIN KeyNai Harn Beach is located on Phuket’s southernmost tip, and once you see its idyllic, crescent-shaped bay, you’ll never want to leave. The Nai Harn Phuket — which began life as the Royal Phuket Yacht Club, the island’s first five-star hotel — offers 120 rooms and suites that cascade down a hillside overlooking the beach, with sun-drenched terraces measuring up to 40 sqm. The culinary options include Prime, an intimate 14-seat dining experience with panoramic views. And should you need help selecting wine, Frank Grassmann, the genial GM, makes terrific recommendations.
The Pavilions, Phuket
One MICHELIN KeyThe Pavilions features 93 private villas with private pools, sun decks and modern comforts like freestanding baths and rain showers. Perfectly designed for relaxation and privacy, the resort offers in-villa dining, personalized spa treatments and exclusive experiences such as yoga and Thai cooking lessons. For those seeking to explore, complimentary chauffeurs are available to nearby beaches and shopping areas, offering the best of both relaxation and adventure.
Rosewood Phuket
Two MICHELIN KeysThis resort boasts a stunning location along a 600-meter beachfront at Emerald Bay. With 71 freestanding pavilions and villas, each featuring plunge pools or full-size swimming pools, relaxation by the water is guaranteed. The resort’s design embraces an understated contemporary aesthetic, where premium furnishings crafted from natural materials blend seamlessly with calming neutral tones. The wellness center offers rejuvenating classes and treatments, while the excellent Rosewood Explorers’ Kids Club allows parents some valuable downtime. Among the dining options is Ta Khai restaurant, a MICHELIN-selected filming location for The White Lotus Season 3, now reportedly “always full.”
The Racha
One MICHELIN KeyBelow the southern tip of Phuket lies Ko Racha Yai, a pristine, remote island that’s home to The Racha, a luxurious complex of 70 modernist villas built on a secluded cove overlooking a white sand beach. The gleaming white accommodations are elegantly furnished with contemporary decor and private terraces to enjoy sunset views over the bay. The property’s main attractions include a palatial spa, a bar and two restaurants, while the dive center offers guests the chance to explore the offshore coral reefs.
Amanpuri
Three MICHELIN KeysOver three decades ago, a former coconut plantation on Phuket’s west coast was transformed into Amanpuri, the very first Aman resort in the world. The design remains captivating, incorporating traditional Thai architectural elements from the Ayutthaya period to create a timeless, luxurious and private hideaway. The hillside resort features 40 beautifully decorated pavilions and 44 extravagant pool villas that range from two to nine bedrooms. The property’s centerpiece is a 27-meter pool tiled in midnight blue, while nearby, a dramatic, wide stone staircase leads down to a secluded private beach.
The Slate
One MICHELIN KeyThe distinctive design of this boutique hotel, created by interior designer Bill Bensley, draws inspiration from metal to craft a bold, unforgettable aesthetic. The property offers six room types, ranging from suites to villas, and a variety of dining and drinking options, including an unforgettable entrance to the Thai restaurant. For beach lovers, Nai Yang Beach is just moments away. “We aim to connect our guests to the soul of the island,” explains owner Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong. “We hope they return home carrying a piece of our culture in their hearts, not just another cookie-cutter memory."
Hero image: The Racha
