Pimalai Resort and Spa

Overview

The Pimalai Resort & Spa combines true barefoot luxury with remote jungle surroundings and a long stretch of quiet Koh Lanta beach. An independent Thai-owned resort that’s elegant but unpretentious—big on privacy, service, and low-key sophistication.

  • Rooms
  • 144 (including villas)
  • Periods of closure
  • Open year-round
  • Food + Drink
  • Three restaurants including a beachfront Thai spot, modern Mediterranean, and hillside Italian with sunset views.
  • Vibes
  • Jungle Luxe

The Highs

  • Nice beach with no crowds, no vendors
  • One of the best spas in southern Thailand
  • Arrival by private boat feels special
  • Private villas with pools have some of the best views in Thailand

Stuff You Should Know

The Pimalai is spread out and built into a hillside, so expect some uphill walking if you opt for the upper part of the resort (or call - and wait - for a buggy). It's far from the buzz of Phuket and Krabi, but that’s kind of the point.

Food is solid overall—not destination dining, but you won’t go hungry. May be too big to qualify as “boutique,” but doesn't feel crowded. Best if you want space, quiet, and a well-run resort without big-box flash. Rooms are well-maintained and tasteful with some design misfires here and there. Lots of repeat guests.

  • Swimming Pool
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Bicycles Available
  • Wi-Fi
  • Family Friendly
  • Pet Friendly
  • Electric Car Charging
  • Beach Access
  • Hiking Trails
  • Accessible
  • Sustainable
  • Adults Only
  • Age Restriction
  • Rewards/Points Programs
  • None

Swank Guide Extras

Swank Guide Extras

Fancy the VIP treatment? Book with us, and we’ll make it happen. Early check-in, late check-out? Sorted. Free breakfast? Of course. F+B voucher? We’ll work on it. Room upgrade? Probably.

It’s all about who you know, and with our FORA partnership, you’re always in the inner circle. We’ll confirm what perks we’ve arranged before you ever pay.

Location

  • Koh Lanta, Thailand – Kantiang Bay

Planes, Trains + TukTuks

Remote southern tip of Koh Lanta, set between jungle hills and the sea. Quiet, peaceful, and far from nightlife—this is a place to unplug.

  • Nearest international airport
  • Krabi International Airport (KBV)
  • Distance from airport
  • 43 miles / 70 km (plus ferry)
  • Journey time
  • 2–3 hours (car + ferry + resort boat)

Room

Rate advice Approximate rates by room type and season

  Low Season High Season Shoulder Season
Most basic room
(Hillside Cottage)
$300/night $650/night $450/night
Mid-priced room
(One Bedroom Deluxe Cottage)
$400/night $750/night $550/night
Most expensive room
(Two Bedroom Superior Cottage)
$600/night $1100/night $800/night

Rates are approximate and for guidance only. To get prices for your trip dates, book with us.

Amenities In our room

  • Air Conditioning
  • Coffee Machine
  • Microwave
  • Mini-Bar
  • Room Service
  • TV
  • Top-Scoring Pillows*

*Top-scoring pillows are pillows we've rated 8 (or higher) out of 10 for comfort.

Food and drink

Food + Drink On-site surprises

Decent food, even better views

The resort’s three restaurants offer good variety without trying too hard. Rak Talay is the beachside Thai go-to with casual vibes and decent local fare. The upper poolside Italian is a bit more elevated with big sunset views. The beachside restaurant was our favorite in terms of vibe. The hilltop bar also comes with great views and often live music, while the beach bar is more laid back, but also wonderful. Don’t expect Bangkok-level cuisine, but everything is fresh, service is warm, and the views help elevate the whole experience.

 

Activities

Activities How to kick back in style

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Photos

Photos Resort images

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