Nestled in the heart of Phang Nga Bay, Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable escape to one of Thailand’s less-traveled islands. With its stunning eco-luxury design, breathtaking views, and serene ambiance, this resort has become a favorite for travelers seeking tranquility, romance, and a touch of Thai charm. Having explored Thailand’s vibrant landscapes and luxurious retreats for a decade, this review dives into why Santhiya Koh Yao Yai is a must-visit destination, blending personal insights with practical tips to help you plan your dream getaway.
A Slice of Paradise in Koh Yao Yai
Koh Yao Yai, located just a short 20-minute speedboat ride from Phuket, is one of Thailand’s quieter islands, far from the hustle and bustle of more touristy spots like Phuket or Krabi. The island’s laid-back vibe, combined with its unspoiled beaches and lush greenery, makes it the perfect backdrop for Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa. The resort sits on the southwest coast in Loh Pared, boasting a private stretch of white sandy beach and panoramic views of the Andaman Sea’s emerald waters and limestone karsts. This idyllic setting is ideal for couples, honeymooners, families, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat.
What sets Santhiya apart is its commitment to eco-luxury. The resort seamlessly blends into the natural surroundings with its 56 teakwood pool villas and 170 deluxe rooms, most of which offer sweeping sea views. The use of traditional Thai craftsmanship, from intricately carved teak furniture to pagoda-style roofs, creates an authentic and elegant atmosphere that feels both luxurious and grounded in local culture.
Arrival and First Impressions
Getting to Santhiya Koh Yao Yai is an adventure in itself. The resort offers a convenient speedboat transfer from Ao Po Grand Marina in Phuket, which takes just 20 minutes and feels like a thrilling start to your island escape. For those arriving at Phuket or Krabi airports, the resort can arrange a combined taxi and speedboat transfer, making the journey seamless. The cost is around 950 THB one-way from the marina or 1250 THB from Phuket Airport, with discounts sometimes available.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a warm Thai welcome at the resort’s pier, complete with refreshing drinks and cold towels. The check-in process is efficient, often starting at the marina’s resort office, and the staff’s friendliness immediately sets a relaxed tone. The open-air reception area, adorned with teak wood carvings and fresh flowers, offers a glimpse of the resort’s attention to detail and commitment to creating a tranquil environment. However, some guests have noted that the spa staff can be a bit pushy with their sales pitch during check-in, so be prepared to politely decline if you’re not interested.
Rooms and Villas: A Blend of Luxury and Tradition
The accommodations at Santhiya Koh Yao Yai are nothing short of spectacular. The resort offers a range of options, from Supreme Deluxe Sea View rooms to private Ocean View Pool Villas, each designed with traditional Thai aesthetics. The rooms, starting at a spacious 60 square meters, feature hand-carved teak furniture, rich fabrics in warm tones, and modern amenities like air conditioning, minibars, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The large balconies, especially in sea-view rooms, offer stunning vistas of Phang Nga Bay, perfect for sipping morning coffee or watching the sunset.
The Ocean View Pool Villas are the crown jewel, ideal for honeymooners or those seeking ultimate privacy. Each villa comes with a private infinity pool filled with purified seawater, a spacious terrace with a sunken bathtub, and panoramic views that make you feel like you’re floating above the Andaman Sea. Guests rave about the little touches, like daily fruit baskets, complimentary slippers, and turndown service, which add to the luxurious experience. However, some have mentioned minor maintenance issues in certain rooms, so it’s worth requesting a recently renovated unit when booking.
One small drawback is that the resort’s sprawling layout, spread across a hillside, means some rooms are a bit far from the main facilities. Thankfully, Santhiya provides a 24/7 shuttle service with charming wooden songthaews (small trucks) to ferry guests around. For those with mobility issues, electric buggies are available, but the hilly terrain may still pose a challenge.
Dining: A Culinary Journey with a View
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai boasts six restaurants, offering everything from Thai street food to Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The breakfast buffet, served at either the beachside Chantara Restaurant or the hillside Saaitara Restaurant, is a highlight. With a wide selection of Western and Asian dishes, fresh eggs cooked to order, and traditional Thai options, it caters to all tastes. The views from Saaitara, overlooking Phang Nga Bay, make it a favorite spot for morning meals.
For lunch and dinner, guests can choose from fine dining at Chantara, which serves Thai and Western cuisine with Andaman Sea views, or the romantic Jetinn Teppan at Pier, where surf-and-turf dishes are prepared over the water. The Titan Grill offers casual grilled fare, while By The Sea Restaurant and Bar is perfect for snacks and cocktails by the beach. The Saaitara Restaurant’s Thai vegetarian dishes are a standout, with travelers praising their authenticity and flavor.
That said, dining at the resort can be pricey, with some guests noting that food and drinks are marked up significantly compared to local eateries. For budget-conscious travelers, a short walk to the nearby village offers affordable restaurants like Isaan Fine 1 and Khantok Thai Cuisine, where you can enjoy delicious Thai meals at a fraction of the cost. Supporting these local businesses also aligns with ethical travel practices, giving back to the community.
Facilities and Activities: Something for Everyone
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai is packed with facilities to keep guests entertained. The resort’s waterfall pool is a showstopper, complete with a children’s pool and massaging water jets. The smaller infinity pool, closer to the sea-view rooms, is quieter and offers breathtaking views of Phang Nga Bay. Guests must sign in and out for towels, which some find inconvenient, but the pools themselves are a major draw.
The private beach is another highlight, with clean white sand and clear waters, though tidal fluctuations can make swimming challenging at low tide. Complimentary activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, yoga, and Muay Thai classes add to the fun, while the spa offers indulgent treatments in open-air pavilions. The spa is on the pricier side, but promotions like buy-one-get-one-free deals make it more accessible.
For those eager to explore, the resort can arrange boat trips, diving excursions, or island tours. Koh Yao Yai’s relaxed pace and natural beauty make it perfect for cycling or motorbike rentals, available through the resort. Snorkeling under the pier is a surprising treat, with chances to spot squid or even monkeys at the beach’s edge.
What Makes Santhiya Special?
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai stands out for its balance of luxury and authenticity. The resort’s eco-friendly design, from seawater pools to sustainable toiletries, reflects a commitment to the environment without sacrificing comfort. The staff’s friendliness and attention to detail—think personalized touches like flowers on the bed for honeymooners—create a warm, welcoming vibe.
However, it’s not without flaws. Some guests report occasional service delays, and the resort’s remote location may not suit those craving nightlife or easy access to attractions. The hilly layout and pricey on-site dining are also worth considering when planning your stay.
Who Should Stay Here?
This resort is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, honeymooners craving privacy, or families looking for a serene retreat with kid-friendly amenities like a kids’ club and children’s pool. Solo travelers and those who value tranquility over party scenes will also feel at home. However, if you’re after vibrant nightlife or have mobility issues, you might want to explore other options, like the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort, which offers more nearby amenities.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
- Book Early: Secure your preferred room, especially Ocean View Pool Villas, by booking a few months in advance. Check platforms like Agoda or Booking.com for deals.
- Request a Sea-View Room: Blocks with direct sea views (avoid Block 7 for the best sunset vistas) offer the most memorable experience.
- Explore Local Dining: Save on meals by visiting nearby restaurants in the village, just a short walk away.
- Pack for the Terrain: Bring comfortable shoes for the hilly resort, and respect local customs by dressing modestly outside the property.
- Check Transfer Costs: Factor in the speedboat transfer fees (around $20 per person each way) when budgeting.
Final Thoughts
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa is a tropical haven that delivers on its promise of eco-luxury and serenity. From its stunning Thai-inspired design to its private beach and world-class facilities, it’s a destination that feels both indulgent and authentic. While it may not be the cheapest option, the value for a five-star experience is hard to beat, especially compared to similar resorts worldwide. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, unwinding with family, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Santhiya Koh Yao Yai is a slice of paradise that will leave you longing to return.
