Sea Sun Sand Resort & Spa

The Sea Sun Sand Resort & Spa is a city hotel with a touch of the jungle in the landscaping and the garden areas, which adds exotic flair. The street out front is busy and loud, but, once inside, the street noise falls away, and the sound of waterfalls takes over. The interesting use of space and creative Thai touches make the hotel seem bigger than it is. Outdoor hallways become something far more when bordered by a wall of potted plants. The long, narrow lobby feels special because of the abundance of glass and sunshine, not to mention the cool glass elevators. There are sunbeds submerged in pools’ shallow ends, and some guest room terraces drop off, right into the swimming pool. This is an adult resort with interesting restaurants and modern decor, although children are welcome. The quiet, relaxed atmosphere in the restaurants and common areas, however, isn’t conducive to children running around. The free shuttle to Patong Beach and other nearby attractions makes the resort a convenient choice with plenty of Thai flavor.

The Sea Sun Sand Resort & Spa is located in central Patong, on a busy street crammed with bars and restaurants, emanating noise and pollution. Patong Beach, one of Phuket’s most popular, is just across the road, however, and it is a one mile walk to the one-of-a-kind Sphinx Theater, Jungceylon Shopping Center, and the nightlife scene on Bangla Night Street. The resort operates a free shuttle to many of these attractions. Phuket International Airport is a 45-minute drive from the resort.

Rooms at the Sea Sun Sand Resort have a subtly hip vibe, with large platform beds lit from below by funky blue lights, and mod headboards. All rooms have furnished private balconies; most have lovely beach or hill views. Bathrooms are modern, with separate tubs and rainfall showers, and cool glass walls with blinds for privacy. Some rooms offer direct pool access; others have private outdoor hot tubs. Amenities include minibars, coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and safes, but no irons. Block C rooms are prime, with splendid views; Block D rooms are poorly ventilated with unpleasant odors. Adjoining rooms are available.

The Sun Sea Sand Resort features two lovely swimming pools, one with a central sunning platform, one long and narrow, with submerged lounges. Sarocha Spa is exotic, decorated with fresh orchids, lotus paintings, Thai sculptures, and relaxed wicker sofas. Eastern and Western therapies and beauty treatments are available. Hot and Spicy Restaurant serves Thai cuisine in an authentic environment, with low tables and silk floor cushions, and photos of old Phuket on the walls. The 254 Sandy Bar is homey, and serves coffee and sandwiches, in addition to alcohol. Sea View serves an international menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Free Wi-Fi is available.