The exterior of the By The Sea hotel lacks charm, but the outdoor front desk on a cozy porch sets a better first impression. The hotel is set in an area of lush vegetation, and on a private stretch of a stunning white sand beach, which adds to the calm and tranquil feel of the property. The hotel may be too quiet to suit the party crowd, and is not ideal for business travelers due to the isolated location and poor Wi-Fi, so it mainly attracts couples and families looking for a peaceful place to unwind. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and unstuffy. 

By The Sea is in Cape Panwa, the quietest part of Phuket. It’s a remote and peaceful oasis away from the crowds and is a good spot to take in the natural beauty of the island. The beach is fairly narrow but the sea in this part is calm and clean, with stunning turquoise water. There are great views of Chalong Bay. There’s not much to do nearby -- a few small restaurants are within walking distance, and there are some water sports on offer at the hotel. There is a taxi stand a short walk from the hotel for those who want to get out and about, and the hotel’s shuttle is on hand too. The property is around an hour's drive from Phuket airport, a seven-minute drive to Phuket Aquarium, a 12-minute drive from Phuket town, 20 minutes from Phuket Zoo, and 45 minutes from lively Patong Beach. 

Rooms at By The Sea are some of the largest in all the hotels on Phuket. Superior rooms have one bedroom, while Deluxe rooms have two. They all have large balconies with stunning views, which get better the higher up you go. The rooms have a separate dining area and sitting area and Thai-style furnishings and decor throughout. Some rooms have small signs of wear and tear on the furniture, but overall they’re in good shape. Every room has air-conditioning, a minibar, safe, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and bathrobes and slippers. The kitchen area has a full-size fridge, electric kettle, and dishwasher. Bathrooms are large and have a separate bath and shower. The hotel provides thoughtful touches such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, as well as free mineral water, and a beach bag in every room with towels and flip flops so guests are ready to hit the beach. Connecting rooms are available for those who need them. Wi-Fi is free throughout, but the signal can be spotty. 

There’s a fairly small, but well-kept, outdoor swimming pool here plus a separate children’s pool. Most guests tend to head for the beach, so the pool is usually quiet and there are ample sun loungers to choose from. Breakfast isn’t included in the room rate but is available at the hotel’s restaurant and offers a good variety including cereals, fruit, and cooked options. For lunch and dinner, the restaurant serves a range of food including noodle dishes, pizza, and curries. It’s pretty reasonably priced, but there are cheaper options available nearby. Room service can be ordered during limited hours. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, but the signal can be spotty in the rooms and is strongest in the lobby. Activities on offer at the hotel include kayaking, snorkeling, and mountain biking. There’s a free local shuttle, free car parking, and free bike hire. Guests can also use the spacious fitness center, computer room, and laundry room.