Phulay Bay, part of the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is undeniably among the absolute top in Thailand. Awarded three Michelin keys, this is a haven where luxury, exclusivity and tranquility converge. After the hustle and bustle of Bangkok where we stayed at Sindhorn Kempinski, it was time to relax.
With just 54 pavilions and villas, the resort feels intimate and discreet—ideal for travelers seeking serene privacy. During our stay, we saw a surprising number of gay couples, reaffirming that this is a place where everyone feels welcome and welcome, seamlessly combining high-end service with a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
The Andaman Sea views, lush gardens, and refined architecture create a backdrop where luxury becomes almost a given.
Arrival at the resort
Our experience begins at Krabi Airport, where we’re picked up by the resort. The fifty-minute drive is comfortable and smooth. As soon as we arrive at Phulay Bay, it feels like stepping into another world. We stand between two serene purple walls—a subtle nod to the color of the Thai royal family—after which a staff member guides us through a water garden. Three strikes on the traditional gong officially welcome us, followed by a refreshing iced tea and an orchid bracelet.
There’s no traditional reception; check-in takes place entirely at the villa. Our butler drives us in a buggy around the expansive grounds, shows us the resort’s key spots, and then takes us to our villa, where the luxury experience truly begins.
Villa #5 – privacy with sea view
The beach villa where we stayed is an oasis of tranquility with complete privacy and a view of the sea. The high wooden gate leading to the garden immediately creates a sense of exclusivity. In the garden is an organically shaped plunge pool—shallow, yet wonderfully refreshing and perfect for relaxing with a book in the water.
Inside, a refined blend of Thai and Arabic influences awaits. Purple walls evoke regal elegance, while the soft arches in the window frames suggest a Middle Eastern touch. The spacious bedroom features an exceptionally comfortable sofa and thoughtful welcome snacks.
The ensuite bathroom is enormous, with double sinks, a large shower with a powerful jet, and a separate toilet. The sink is a bit lower than usual, but its high basin gives it a luxurious feel.
The bed is wonderful and—despite stories about oversized models—normally sized in this villa, but perfect for taller guests. The minibar is partly complimentary: soft drinks are included, while alcoholic beverages are charged separately.
Phulay Bay feels like a place where you automatically relax. The villas are designed for privacy, tranquility, and comfort—exactly what luxury travelers and gay couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle are looking for. In terms of quality, the villas are comparable to the Four Seasons Chiang Mai.
Restaurants & bars – Fine dining in a tropical setting
The resort’s culinary offerings are surprisingly diverse and high-quality. Our favorite is the Thai restaurant Sri Trang, where the authentic flavors of the region come to life. The Tom Kha Kai is creamy and perfectly seasoned with fresh coconut, while the shrimp curry is a dish you’ll come back for. The atmosphere is intimate and refined, the service warm and genuine.
The international restaurant Jampoon offers a more casual setting with dishes like pasta, burgers, and international classics. The Rossini burger is a decadent must-try, generously topped with duck liver. The bar above the restaurant can sometimes create some background noise; not distracting, but less suitable for those seeking a truly intimate dinner. However, the terrace offers a truly romantic setting.
Refreshing cocktails, mocktails and excellent snacks await you at the pool bar — ideal for a luxurious, relaxing afternoon by the water.
Spa & Gym – Perfect massages and functional gym
The spa is spacious and offers a wide range of treatments, but it’s starting to feel a bit dated. Some areas are visibly in need of maintenance, especially around the steam room. However, the massages are exceptionally good; our Thai massage was undoubtedly among the best we’ve experienced in Thailand. The vitality pool is wonderfully powerful and ideal for loosening tense muscles.
The gym is large, fully equipped and functional, although it lacks the warm decor you would expect in a resort of this level.
Swimming Pool – The heart of the resort
The central pool is one of Phulay Bay’s absolute highlights. It’s large, deep enough for swimming, and deep enough for adults to stand anywhere. It’s surrounded by elegantly designed terraces. The cabanas are without a doubt our favorite spot: spacious, soft, shaded, and designed for sinking into for hours.
The pool service is excellent. Staff bring water as soon as you arrive, subtly check if you need anything, and occasionally treat you to small ice creams or snacks. Luxury feels effortless and natural here—just as it should be.
Activities – Exclusive trip to Hong Island
One of the most beautiful amenities is the complimentary excursion to Hong Island. Guests can register and are then transported by longtail boat to this paradise island off the coast. The journey alone is spectacular, and the island is exactly what you’d expect from a luxury resort experience in Krabi: turquoise water, soft beaches, and an almost spiritual tranquility. The boat is not fully booked; if more guests want more, more longtail boats are deployed, ensuring exclusivity here as well.
Breakfast – One of the best breakfasts in Thailand
Breakfast is a gourmet treat. Besides a lavish buffet, there’s an extensive à la carte menu, ranging from classic dishes to luxury options like omelets with fresh lobster or crab (depending on the day). The terrace overlooks the gardens and the sea, and inside, everything is sleek and elegant.
The coffee deserves a special mention: strong, perfectly brewed and without a doubt the best breakfast coffee we had in Thailand.
Overall – One of Thailand’s finest luxury resorts
Phulay Bay is an impressive resort. The villas are stylish, spacious, and intimate. The service is phenomenal—almost every staff member addresses you by name, a personal touch that makes all the difference in luxury hospitality.
While the resort could use some improvement in some areas, the overall experience remains exceptionally strong. This is a place geared towards travelers seeking luxury and tranquility, who value personal attention, and who enjoy being immersed in a warm, welcoming, and inclusive resort.
For luxury couples, honeymooners, and gay travelers, this is a destination you’ll want to experience at least once in your lifetime.
Scores
- Ambience: 10.0
- Room: 9.8
- Price: 9.5
- Service: 9.9
- Cleaning: 9.2
- Overall: 9.7
Impression
