The hype
Travelers love the massive pools and quiet atmosphere, but often complain about the walk to the beach and worn-out towels.
The Palmery Resort
$40-70/ night
Book this if You want a pool-centric sanctuary on a budget and don't mind a 15-minute walk to the beach.
Why People Love It
- Direct pool access rooms are a steal at this price point
- Quiet 'oasis' vibe tucked away from the main road chaos
- Free shuttle service to both Kata and Karon beaches
Quick Take: It’s a solid 4-star value play in Kata (not Rawai), but bring bug spray and lower your expectations for the gym.
Reviewed by @marwin_says: I booked this pool access room at The Palmery hoping for sun, but the rain was actually better. Sliding open those doors and listening to the storm while lounging in bed was the most relaxing part of my whole Phuket trip. Highly recommend for a quiet escape.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Pool Access' rooms are the main draw, but if you get a room in the back block, your 'view' is a concrete wall and your room is a mosquito den.
- You plan to spend 50% of your time in the pool
- You want a quiet sleep environment away from bar music
- You are renting a scooter (makes the location perfect)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is consistent, though some guests report missed spots and dust in corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally clean, but grout can show age and mildew due to humidity.
- Maintenance: Aging gracefully but showing wear—peeling paint on pool decks and occasional AC drips.
- Linens & towels: Functional but often described as 'graying' or 'worn' rather than crisp white.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh; some ground floor rooms have a lingering damp/musty smell.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud air conditioning units
- Neighbors in the pool (for pool access rooms)
- Thin walls between connecting rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is in Kata, about 1km north of the actual Rawai border.
- 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are a convenient 2-minute walk away.
- The free beach shuttle runs on a schedule (usually every 2 hours), not on demand.
What to pack
- Strong DEET mosquito repellent (essential for pool access rooms)
- Earplugs (for the AC noise)
- Slip-on shoes for easy pool-to-room transitions
Room Genie
Best picks
- Pool Access Suite (75sqm) for the best value-to-luxury ratio
- Deluxe Pool View on upper floors for fewer bugs and more privacy
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor rooms facing the back wall (dark and damp)
- Rooms near the lobby if you want total seclusion
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking a Pool Access room and kindly request a unit on the 'sunny side' facing the main pool, NOT the back wall. High floor preferred if booking a standard room to avoid mosquitoes.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is this hotel actually in Rawai?
No. Despite some listings, it is located on Khoktanod Road in Kata. Rawai is a 10-15 minute drive south.
Is the pool water cold?
No, the pools are unheated but stay warm due to the tropical weather. Some shaded pools can feel refreshing/cool.
Do I need a scooter?
It helps. Walking to Kata Beach takes 15 minutes, and a scooter opens up Nai Harn and Rawai easily.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, but check your rate. It's a buffet with an egg station, rated 'decent' but not gourmet.
Are the rooms dated?
Slightly. Guests report 'tired' furniture and worn linens, but the modern layout (especially pool access) compensates.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Yes, there are plenty of local Thai eateries, massage shops, and convenience stores within a 5-minute walk.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Blue Latan' restaurant is okay, but the street food stalls near the 7-Eleven offer better, cheaper local food.
- ✨
If the main pool is crowded, check the secondary pools between the buildings—they are often empty.
- ✨
Ask for a room away from the housekeeping closet to avoid morning cart noise.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'fitness center' is just a small room with a few aging machines—don't plan a serious training camp here.
💡The 'mountain view' often includes power lines and neighboring roofs.
💡You will see geckos in the hallways and sometimes in the room—it's the tropics.
💡The walk to the beach involves crossing a busy road and navigating narrow sidewalks.
💡WiFi can be spotty in the corner rooms of the furthest buildings.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Palmery Resort is located and what's nearby.