The hype
Families are obsessed with the facilities, while couples often find it too noisy and 'kindergarten-like' around the main areas.
Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas
$350-650/ night
Book this if You want a 'Dubai-meets-Thailand' polished luxury resort with the best kids' club in the region, and you don't mind being boat-bound to the property.
Why People Love It
- Massive, world-class kids' club with slides and a ball pit rain shower
- Sea View Pool Penthouses offer incredible sunrise views over limestone karsts
- Pristine, manicured grounds that feel safer and more 'resort-y' than rustic island bungalows
Quick Take: A stunning, hyper-polished resort that feels a bit like a gilded cage—perfect for families who want luxury on rails, but isolating for travelers who want to wander into a local village for a $2 pad thai.
Reviewed by @alexandra_gonova: My stay at Anantara Koh Yao Yai was pure magic. From lounging in the infinity pool overlooking the islands to the incredible suite interiors, everything screamed luxury. The sunset cocktails were the perfect end to every day. Highly recommend for a splurge!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Food prices are eye-watering (think $15 burgers and $12 cocktails), and service can be slow during peak breakfast hours.
- You have active kids under 12—the club and water slides are top-tier
- You prefer air-conditioned, modern luxury over rustic bamboo huts
- You want a 'fly and flop' vacation where you never leave the property
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Twice daily service, generally impeccable.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless. Deep soaking tubs are a highlight.
- Maintenance: Mostly new, though some lobby furniture is showing early wear.
- Linens & towels: High thread count (300+), crisp and fresh.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of jasmine and lemongrass; rooms are neutral/fresh.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Screaming kids at the main pool/slides during the day
- Thin walls in connecting family suites
- Boat engine noise if you are in a beachfront villa near the jetty
Before you book
Good to know
- Boat transfers are NOT always included in the room rate—expect to pay ~1,200 THB per person each way for the shared speedboat.
- The resort operates on 'island time'—service at the Pakarang restaurant can be sluggish during rush hour.
- There is a 7-Eleven at a road junction nearby, but it's a taxi ride, not a quick walk.
What to pack
- Mosquito repellent (sandflies and mosquitoes can be active at dusk)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (expensive to buy on-site)
- Inflatable pool floaties (though the hotel has some, bringing your own saves rental fees)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Sea View Pool Penthouse (upper floors) for privacy and insane sunrise views
- Beachfront Pool Villas for direct sand access (but less privacy from beach walkers)
Rooms to avoid
- Lagoon Pool Villas (some guests report they feel enclosed with less impressive views)
- Family Suites near the main pool if you plan to nap during the day
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love a room on a higher floor away from the main family pool noise. If possible, a corner unit with an unobstructed view of the limestone karsts would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach swimmable?
Only at high tide. At low tide, the water recedes significantly, revealing rocky mudflats that are great for crab-spotting but bad for swimming.
How much is the boat transfer?
Approx. 1,200 THB ($35 USD) per person, per way for the shared speedboat from Laem Sai Pier (Phuket) or Thalane Pier (Krabi).
Are there local restaurants nearby?
Yes, places like Emm Restaurant and Chill Chill @ Pai exist, but they require a taxi or scooter ride. You cannot easily walk to them.
Is it adults-only?
No. It is very family-centric. There is an adults-only pool, but the general vibe is 'luxury family resort'.
What is the deposit policy?
Standard credit card hold upon check-in, usually around 3,000-5,000 THB per night for incidentals.
Can I fly a drone?
Generally restricted on resort grounds to protect guest privacy, but you can fly it on the public beach areas away from the villas.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Ghost Crabs' on the beach are a protected species and fun to watch at low tide—bring a flashlight for a night walk.
- ✨
Book your spa treatments in advance; the hydro pool is popular and slots fill up.
- ✨
If you want a cheaper meal, rent a scooter (approx. 300 THB/day) and head to the local village—don't rely on hotel taxis which charge a premium.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'ceremonial bong' hit at check-in is actually a traditional Thai gong ritual, not drug-related (despite the funny name).
💡The lobby furniture (leather sofas) is already showing wear and tear despite the resort being new.
💡You can see 'Bird's Nest Island' (Koh Rang Nok) directly from the resort—it's a private concession for harvesting swiftlet nests.
💡The 'Family Sea View Suites' often have only a partial sea view due to their location in the back blocks.
💡Water refill stations are available, but the room water comes in glass bottles you can't take to the pool.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas is located and what's nearby.