Opened in 2015, Bandara Villas Phuket is a low-key luxury property set along peaceful Ao Yon Beach. Its somewhat secluded location and chic villas with private pools and open bathrooms make this is a great pick for couples. The resort cascades down a hill, allowing for Andaman Sea views from all rooms and common areas. Both an elevator and stairs are available. The design throughout is sleek and modern, utilizing lots of whitewashed architecture, pops of blue fabric, and light wood and wicker furniture. Most guests tend to stick to their private pool, though there’s another public pool set next to the beach.

This is a fabulous option for travelers wanting a relaxed, beachfront getaway. Couples or families wanting a larger resort with more to do on-site should consider Banyan Tree Phuket, which has multiple pools, an 18-hole golf course, and free-to-borrow bikes.

Bandara Villas Phuket is located on Ao Yon Beach, which sits within the Cape Panwa peninsula on the southeastern coast of Phuket. The property overlooks a pearl farm in the water, and a naval base in the distance. The location is a bit isolated, as there’s little within easy walking distance and tourist hotspots such as Patong require around a 45-minute drive. Phuket traffic is notoriously bad, and drives to Phuket International Airport can take between one and two hours. Phuket Zoo is about a 25-minute drive, while the Big Buddha is roughly 45 minutes away by car.

The 33 villas here are divided between 20 Panoramic Pool Villas, 10 Panoramic Duplex Pool Villas, 2 Panoramic Two Bedroom Pool Villas, and 1 Ao Yon Pool Villa. The biggest perk is that all villas have private plunge pools with stunning sea views. Electric partitions separate the pools from sitting areas with either chairs or loungers. The villas are spacious, chic, and modern, done up in whitewashed architecture, tile floors, and pops of blue in throw pillows, closet curtains, and free-to-use beach bags.

Standard amenities include sitting areas, desks, flat-screen TVs, free minibars (with soda, juice, and beer), tea- and coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, and open closets with bathrobes and safes. Duplex villas have top-floor living spaces and lower-level bedrooms. All have open-plan bathrooms with showers and separate bathtubs – some next to the windows – plus upscale toiletries and hairdryers.

Although not extensive, Bandara Villas Phuket has a solid number of features. Top facilities are located on the lowest level, where there are a communal pool and pretty beachfront. Ao Yon beach is fairly narrow, but it’s lovely and peaceful. On a raised level are umbrella-shaded loungers, plus there are several more on the adjacent pool deck. The pool is a decent size, especially given that most guests use the one in their villa.

Also overlooking the beach is a small fitness center with some cardio and strength-training machines. For spa treatments, staff can arrange massages and other wellness therapies at the nearby Shine Spa. Free golf cart transportation is provided there, just a minute away.

The main restaurant, Sumpao, has indoor seating and limited outdoor seating. It’s open all day, serving free breakfasts of cold buffet items and made-to-order hot dishes (both local and international fare), plus Thai and international fare for lunch and dinner. There’s also a poolside bar serving drinks and snacks throughout the day and night, with happy hour specials. Free afternoon tea is provided in a lounge space, accompanied by cookies and fruit. Room service is also available 24/7.