The hype
Families love the pool and activities, but everyone complains about the non-swimmable beach and the reliance on golf carts.
Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort (Sha Plus+)
$150-270/ night
Book this if You want a massive pool and a killer kids' club in a quiet area, and don't mind taking a shuttle to reach a swimmable beach.
Why People Love It
- The largest oceanfront infinity pool in Phuket (it's genuinely huge)
- Casa Boho offers legitimate Latin vibes and sunset views that beat the tourist traps
- Marine Biological Center keeps kids entertained with actual science, not just cartoons
Quick Take: A polished hillside compound that trades direct beach access for a massive pool and killer views—bring your walking shoes or patience for the buggy.
Reviewed by @appleungpao: I spent my entire trip floating in this infinity pool. The cabanas are huge and private, and starting the day feeding the koi fish was such a peaceful ritual. If you need a total reset, this is the spot.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'ocean view' in lower-tier rooms is often blocked by trees or other buildings—you need to book high up for the money shot.
- You prefer a massive pool over ocean swimming
- You are traveling with kids who need structured, educational entertainment
- You want a quiet base away from the Patong chaos but close enough to visit
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.2
- Housekeeping: Generally efficient and daily. Some reports of missed dust in high corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but watch for mildew in grout due to high humidity.
- Maintenance: Exterior paint looks a bit tired/peeling in spots; wood decks show wear.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, though pool towels can sometimes feel over-bleached/worn.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh (lemongrass); some lower rooms can smell musty if AC is off.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Buggy station operations (beeping, engines)
- Main road traffic for lower buildings
- Thin connecting doors in some family suites
Before you book
Good to know
- Download the 'Grab' and 'Bolt' apps before arrival; local taxis can be pricey mafia-style
- The free shuttle to Kamala Beach runs on a schedule (11am, 1pm, 2pm)—plan your beach time accordingly
- Breakfast is excellent but costs ~766 THB ($22) per person if not included in your rate
What to pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (Marine Center is serious about this)
- Slip-on shoes for constant pool/beach transitions
- Motion sickness bands if you get queasy on steep buggy rides
Room Genie
Best picks
- Hilltop Ocean View Suite for actual unobstructed views and privacy
- Terrace Rooms if you want a massive outdoor private space (but check for humidity)
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the lobby/buggy station (noise central)
- Standard 'Ocean View' rooms on lower floors (often view of a tree or wall)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room in a high-elevation building, strictly away from the buggy station and main road. Please ensure the 'ocean view' is unobstructed by vegetation.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Can I swim in the ocean right in front of the hotel?
No. It is rocky, shallow, and tidal. You must take the shuttle or walk 15-20 mins to the main Kamala Beach.
Is there a resort fee?
No explicit daily 'resort fee', but expect a 10% service charge and 7% tax added to everything.
How much is a taxi to Patong?
Expect to pay 400-600 THB ($12-18) one way via local taxi; Bolt/Grab can be cheaper (200-300 THB) but harder to find.
Is the hill really that bad?
Yes. It is steep. Unless you are fit and enjoy sweating, you will be waiting for the golf cart.
Does the hotel have a club lounge?
Yes, the Regency Club. It has its own infinity pool and is highly rated for sunset drinks, making the upgrade worth it.
Is it good for couples?
Yes, if you book the adults-only areas or hang out at Casa Boho. The main pool is very family-centric.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Regency Club' has its own private infinity pool—upgrade if you want to escape the kids.
- ✨
Walk 5 minutes south along the road to find 'Smile Bar' for cheap, authentic Thai food right on the sand.
- ✨
Request a room in the 14xx or 15xx block for the best balance of view and accessibility.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Ocean View' often means 'Ocean Glimpse' through dense foliage in lower blocks.
💡The humidity in the hillside rooms can lead to a musty smell; keep the AC running.
💡You can spot monitor lizards on the property—they are harmless but startling.
💡The 'private plunge pools' in some rooms are often in the shade and too cold to use.
💡Happy hour at the pool bar is the most cost-effective way to drink; otherwise, prices are NYC-level.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort (Sha Plus+) is located and what's nearby.