A long standing luxury resort has some of the most prime real estate in Thailand. Perched on a peninsula adjacent to two beautiful beaches, Rayavadee is not to be missed. Only accessible by boat, but we made the trek. Here’s an honest review after we lounged, taste-tested and decided it is #ladyofleisureapproved.
RAYAVADEE: KRABI, THAILAND
On arrival, you enter Rayavadee from the beach primarily used for transportation (don’t try to lounge here, just move along). After check-in, the real magic begins to unfold as you walk the meandering tropical pathway to your villa. The one-bedroom villas are 2 stories, with the bedroom feeling like a treehouse, or something straight out of Robinson Crusoe (a luxe version, of course). Some of them are currently being upgraded, so the experience will be even more magical in the future. A quick change into your swimsuit, then onto the pool!
The extra large infinity pool is adjacent to the larger of the two beaches at Rayavadee, Railay Beach. Magnificent is a fitting word to describe the poolside view. There are rock formations that shoot straight up in the sky, towering over palm trees surrounding the pool. The staff will jump to set you up with with towels and a fruit infused carafe of water at your lounger. However, they do not make the rounds often, so you will have to flag them down to ask for food or beverage. Once asked, they are very accommodating.
Food and beverage: The poolside cocktails tend to be sweet in Thailand and most of Southeast Asia, so plan accordingly. If you want another one of those welcome drinks with the yogurt and lime, you can request one poolside – I recommend adding gin. The poolside dining menu is all over the place, and should be updated to include some Thai classics. Who is eating pasta poolside?? Instead, I recommend the Nasi Goreng at Raitalay Terrace (next to the pool and beach). Bonus: there are lots of monkeys in the trees around the pool. Endless entertainment. The babies are so cute! We were warned there are nice monkeys and naughty monkeys, so maybe it’s best to eat the restaurant after all.
The best view of the beach can found at the infinity edge, as most of the loungers are tucked discreetly out of view from the beach. This seems purposeful, given Railay Beach is very popular, with longtail boats roaring in and out of the bay transporting tourists from nearby destinations. Note: these boats’ engines are extremely loud. There is no avoiding it, but it does somewhat diminish the zen nature of the environment. Thai beaches are public, and this just happens to be one of the most beautiful places to visit. Rayavadee is not responsible and can’t do anything about it, but hopefully one day, Thailand will enhance these beach experiences by requiring cleaner and quieter engines.
As for the rest of the resort, the Thai restaurant called Krua Phranang is located at Phranang beach and is a superb place for dinner. I discovered a new favorite curry here, called Chu Chee. Get it. You will not be disappointed. The cave restaurant, Grotto, is photographed more, but if you like Thai food, don’t miss Krua Phranang. The private boat tour to Phi Phi island is extra special. Also, there is a little backpacker town just down the beach with lots of bars, restaurants, and cheap massages. Daily massage? Yes, please. Explore this – it’s a fun place to go out and you’ll find some gems.
Another luxury experience, another beautiful beach (or two). I recommend Rayavadee. It’s the kind of place you don’t forget.
