Guests pass though a guarded entrance to arrive at a large, traditionally-styled portico fronted by a trio of fountains and playful-looking signage announcing they’ve arrived at Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa. After checking in at the smart, traditionally-styled, typically lofty reception area, visitors are separated depending on which section of the hotel they'll be staying in. The Horizon Wing has been designed specifically for families with kids and includes a couple of swimming pools and plenty of child-friendly facilities. The Club Wing is open only to adults and is focused on couples looking for a secluded and tranquil hideaway with a touch of luxury. Both wings are set in well-tended tropical gardens full of exotic plants and palm trees and linked by a network of footpaths. 

The resort is situated on a slightly elevated and not particularly interesting area toward the south of the popular Phuket resort of Karon. The start of the swath of white sands and turquoise sea that makes up Karon Beach is just over five minutes away by foot. Although there's not much in the immediate area, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. The neighboring resorts of Patong to the north and Kata Beach to the south are easily accessible as well, and the hotel provide a free shuttle service to Patong. The area's capital, Phuket City, is about 25 minutes northeast by car while Phuket International Airport is almost an hours' drive to the north. Flights to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport take an hour and 15 minutes, in addition to boarding time.

The hotel has 160 rooms made of up three categories -- Club (adult-only), Deluxe, and Superior -- all of which have similar, modern takes on traditional Thai decor with crisp white walls and dark wood furnishings. Rooms are generally spacious and all open onto furnished balconies with views over the pool or gardens. In-room amenities include air-conditioning, large minibars, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and DVD players. Bathrooms are plain, modern, and clean with walk-in showers or shower/tub combos. Soap comes from wall-mounted dispensers. Specialized Honeymoon Suites have Andaman Sea views with private balconies. 

The Horizon Karon’s two wings are each centered around their own pool complexes, both with swim-up bars and plenty of sun loungers (though the adult pool has a bit too much shade from overhanging trees). While Club Wing guests have access to all of the hotel's facilities, the Club section’s pool, breakfast area, and hot tub are exclusively for their use. Horizon Wing guests can take advantage of a Family Plan which includes a free kids' club, restaurant discounts, and children staying for free. The hotel's on-site spa provides the usual range of massage and beauty treatments while a game room offers various forms of entertainment, from snooker to PlayStation games. Four different restaurants provide a wide range of eating and drinking options as well as room and poolside service.