Khaolak Paradise Resort

Devoid of the colorful dragon statues and other hokey emblems at many Thai resorts, the resort has a chic, yet natural, look throughout. Many buildings are authentic wooden pagodas with thatched roofs that are open to the lush jungle encompassing the property. The entrance to the resort is an open hallway with a vaulted thatched roof held up by wooden pillars and lined with wooden benches and electric lantern lights. This leads to the reception desk and a small lounge area, while rooms and villas are accessed by stone slab walkways. The restaurant is also housed in an open structure with high ceilings. There is little decor -- think of this as jungle minimalism -- but a few of the simple wooden tables contain a small potted plant. The dining area stretches out to the beach and there are a few patio-style tables and chairs situated directly on the sand. The bar is on the opposite side of the restaurant, next to the tiled outdoor pool surrounded by a wide wooden deck, umbrellas, lounge chairs, and palm trees. The sandy beach is flanked by land and rock, creating a natural bay in which the waves are low and gentle. The resort is frequented by honeymooning couples and families from all over the world. In spite of its tranquil setting, the pool and breakfast can get crowded during busy months.

Situated on one of Khao Lak's beaches in the Phang Nga region on Thailand’s west coast, the hotel is directly across the street (coastal route No. 4) from Khaolak-Lumru National Park, meaning that the resort is entirely surrounded by jungle. The Khaolak Bayfront Resort is next door and farther down the beach is Khao Lak Sunset Resort, but there aren't many independent restaurants or services in the immediate area or within walking distance. The small town of Khao Lak, with its shops and restaurants, is a 15-minute drive away, and Ton Phing Waterfall is less than a 10-minute drive. Phuket International Airport is just over an hour’s drive away and the city of Phuket is about an hour and 45-minute drive away

There are just 38 rooms at this resort, including a few chic-but-simple Deluxe Rooms with king-size beds, immaculate wood floors and furniture, lotus-leaf sculptural wall art, plus modern comforts like a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a safe, and minibar. Deluxe Rooms are spacious and start at 45 square meters (484 square feet) and have balconies or terraces looking onto the grounds. Deluxe Room bathrooms have striking blue-green tilework with massive walk-in glass-cube showers, large vanities, and toiletries. 

Luxurious private Villas are scattered throughout the property as well, and some have direct beach access. They, too, feature wood floors plus a wall of windows that leads to a patio. Every inch of these room feels airy and perfectly suited for a beachside resort, with wooden ceiling fans, wood accent walls with intricately carved wall art, and stylish throw pillows. Each Villa also has a massive bathroom with double sinks and a rainfall shower. There are a pair of plush robes for guest use and many Villas include a hot tub.

Situated on Khao Lak’s beach and surrounded by rainforest, the Paradise Resort is smaller than other resorts in the area, with just one restaurant and one outdoor pool. The resort offers free parking, free Wi-Fi throughout, and an excellent buffet breakfast (fresh fruit, eggs, breads, coffee, yogurt, etc), included in most room prices. Breakfast can get crowded. The restaurant also has a poolside bar and serves fresh Thai and international fare for lunch and dinner. There is a full-service spa offering a variety of massages and beauty treatments. The front desk is open 24 hours. The hotel offers laundry and dry cleaning service upon request and can arrange tours and activities as well as airport transfers.