Opened in 2014, the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort offers a more secluded setting than its sister hotel Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas. The 81-room property is beautiful, from the tree-lined paths to the water features surrounding the lower lobby to the colorfully painted elephant statue. Guests are welcomed with the striking of a gong, followed by fresh fruit juice and a flower bracelet, and top-notch service continues from there. The resort is essentially divided into two areas separated by a road: the lower level includes the beachfront, adjacent pool, and restaurants, while the upper level houses the spa, a more secluded pool, and the fitness center. Rooms and pool villas are scattered across both sides. There’s a good amount here to keep both kids and adults occupied, but be aware that the property’s lovely beach is affected by low tide, resulting in the sea line starting far from the resort.

Although the atmosphere here is peaceful, couples wanting a more romantic resort should consider the adults-only Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort & Spa. Meanwhile, families may prefer the less pricey JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, which has a swim-up bar, small waterslides, and a fun kids’ club.

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort sits along Layan Beach on the northwestern coast of Phuket. It’s a fairly secluded area, removed from the main tourist spot of Patong by about 40 minutes. There are largely only hotels in the immediate vicinity, and no restaurants, bar, or shops are within easy walking distance. Travelers planning to leave the resort should expect to take a pricey taxi. Phuket International Airport is around 25 minutes away by car.

The 77 rooms here span several categories, though all are spacious and done in a contemporary, elegant Thai style. Dark-wood furniture, mostly neutral-tone fabrics with some pops of purple, gold, or red in throw pillows, and some attractive wall hangings decorate spaces. All rooms have furnished outdoor spaces, some of which have direct beach access, bathtubs, or private pools with adjacent loungers. The entry-level Premium Rooms measure 56 square meters (602 square feet), while the top-category Two Bedroom Anantara Pool Villa is a whopping 485 square meters (5,220 square feet).

Swish bathrooms are a highlight, equipped with bathtubs and separate showers, bath salts with scents such as lavender and lemongrass, hairdryers, and quality toiletries. Bathrobes and slippers are also provided. Standard amenities include minibars, Nespresso machines, free Wi-Fi, smartphones, desks, sitting areas, and flat-screen TVs.

Dining options are top-notch though limited at the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, particularly as there’s no restaurants within easy walking distance. The main restaurant is Dee Plee, a fine-dining Thai eatery that’s open all day and has both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the beach. The free breakfast buffet is served here and it’s exceptional, offering various stations of hot and cold fare, including lots of healthy items, plus made-to-order dishes. Breeze is a casual poolside spot open from morning until midnight, offering local and international. Set directly on the beach is The Mojito Factory, which serves tasty cocktails and is a particularly popular spot during the beautiful sunsets.

Room service is available 24/7. Spice Spoons is the Thai cooking classes on offer, and guests can also arrange romantic private dining.

The top feature at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is the long, wide, and peaceful Layan Beach, set against the Andaman Sea. Umbrella-shaded loungers are set up along the sand, as are some fun bean bag chairs. On the downside, like many parts of Thailand, this area is affected by low tides, which can push the water line far from the resort for hours. For those that don’t want to walk out to reach the sea, there are a couple of pleasant pools. The Beach Pool has an infinity edge and overlooks the ocean, and cushioned loungers line the deck. The other option is the Spa Pool, which has a more secluded location but less scenic views.

The nearby Anantara Spa is excellent, providing a large range of wellness treatments such as massages, facials, body scrubs, hair and nail services, and traditional Thai therapies. A steam room and relaxation area are also here. Treatments specifically for men and children are on offer. A small, modern fitness center overlooks the Spa Pool and has cardio and strength-training equipment. Water sports such as kayaking are available, and there’s even a Muay Thai stadium. The Chang Club is for kids aged 4 to 11, where activities such as batik painting are organized.

Wedding and events are available, and couples can opt for a ceremony along the beach or in the cliffside wedding chapel. Wi-Fi is free throughout.