We’ve curated a list of the best eco-friendly hotels in Thailand so you can plan your next planet-conscious holiday

Sustainable travel is front of mind for many travellers right now, as we all try to lessen our impact on the planet. From the world’s most sustainable hotels to eco-friendly hotels in Bali and Sri Lanka, we know where to stay if you care deeply about the planet. These Thailand properties, in the most entrancing of locations, offer their own version of luxury-meets-nature – and minimise your eco-holiday footprint. Take a look at our complete guide to the best eco-friendly hotels in Thailand.

The best eco-friendly hotels in Thailand for your next vacation

1. The Hideout | Koh Yao Noi, Phang Nga region

Phang Nga Bay on Thailand’s lower west coast is home to glam Phuket in the west and busy Krabi to the east. Sitting quietly in the heart of Phang Nga Bay are two islands – Yao Noi and Yao Yai. Yao Noi, though smaller, has a select number of low-key developments from local run guest houses to discreet five-star boltholes. And thankfully, the local community is certain; there will be no rush towards development here.

Only a 30-minute speedboat ride from Phuket, The Hideout (pictured above) has claimed the southwest tip of Koh Yao Noi as its own. Set amid an old cashew-nut plantation, it’s an opportunity to take a break in a serene natural setting, away from the world. The Hideout features four stunning open-air treehouse suites with the solar-filtered saltwater Infinity Pool and restaurant at the resort’s centre. All built from locally sourced or recycled materials.

The Hideout is an electricity-free operation, apart from a handful of solar panels to power the pool and emergency lighting, meaning wifi free as well. This is truly an opportunity to disconnect and recharge. There are no walls or windows in each of the two-level suites, so you can catch the island breeze and use it as natural air-conditioning while taking in the unparalleled open-air panoramic view of jungle, bay, and nearby islands.

Enjoy authentic, organic, and locally-sourced gourmet meal. At the end of your day, retire to your king-sized mosquito net shrouded bed with the quiet jungle symphony as your soundtrack. Leave your toiletries at home, and use The Hideout’s made in-house biodegradable products. Positively luxurious, and as a bonus, won’t interrupt the four-tier water recycling system.

The Hideout is off-grid eco-conscious luxury tucked away from the world and well worth discovering.

Find out more about The Hideout Koh Yao Noi

2. Keemala | Phuket

Tucked away in the forests of the western side of Phuket and overlooking Kamala Beach and the Andaman Sea, Keemala is a retreat from everyday life in an enchanting evergreen wonderland. An all-pool villa haven, the property offers 38 cottages and villas embracing four fictional ancient tribes’ cultural philosophy and is undoubtedly one of the best design hotels in Phuket.

This plays out in the distinctive design and experiences of four accommodation types. Bird’s Nest Pool Villas, with their striking woven tangle exterior, sit highest on the mountainside and, at 185 sq-m, have an abundance of space to relax. The two-story Tree Pool Villas of the We-ha (Sky) appear to be suspended high in the trees. Tent Pool Villas of the nomadic Khon-Jorn feature a full canvas exterior though no lack of lux creature comforts. Clay Pool Cottages of the Pa-Ta-Pea”(Earth) clan are nestled alongside a natural stream and shaded by a tropical canopy and come in one- and two-bedroom configurations.

Keemala’s ecological design ensured that the sites’ natural contours, soil, trees and natural water sources were kept or utilised with minimal damage during construction. Glass is used to let in as much natural light as possible and reduce electric lighting needs. At the same time, each villa has its own water treatment plant ensuring released water can be safely used for irrigations or similar resort needs. The organic gardens onsite provide over half of the kitchens needs. Keemala’s Towards Zero Food Waste initiative sees excess product going to a local charity and waste composted back to the herb, vegetable and fruit gardens.

Phuket’s exciting attractions are all close by, though Keemala’s offerings may have you staying in more than not. From sunrise yoga and guided meditation, healing spa treatments designed to invigorate, rejuvenate and pamper, Thai cooking classes, and the pure organic gastronomy of its restaurants.

Read our full review on Keemala.

Find out more about Keemala Phuket

3. Soneva Kiri | Koh Kood

Koh Kood, Thailand’s fourth-largest island, is an unspoiled slice of tropical heaven and closer to Cambodia than Thai capital Bangkok. Boasting some of the country’s best beaches is a reason in itself to visit. Soneva Kiri, an expansive jungle-luxe resort sitting across an entire peninsula on the island’s northwest, is another compelling reason.

Thirty-four ultra spacious one- to six-bedroom villas offer an unrivalled blend of luxury and environmentally-friendly design. Even the smallest one-bedroom Beach Pool Villa, at a whopping 400 sq-m, encompasses a vast wraparound swimming pool, outdoor bathroom with a choice of showers and bath, walk-in dressing room, and private garden. To complete the luxe-Robinson Crusoe desert island feel, simply step off your sustainably harvested timber deck onto your own section of beach. All villas come with their personal barefoot butler to ensure all your holiday needs are totally cared for.

Enjoy resort inclusions like daily yoga and meditation, non-motorised water activities, regular movie screenings at Cinema Paradiso, and for younger guests, access to the Children’s Den and Eco Den. Oh, and for the young and not-so, access to the resort’s totally indulgent home-made chocolate and ice-cream parlours.

To delve into the resort’s best practices in eco-sustainability, take a tour of the Eco-Centro Waste-to-Wealth centre and organic gardens. Keen to protect the surrounding environment, Soneva Kiri has worked hard to reduce its carbon footprint and maintain the area’s natural beauty. The hotel has launched coral restoration projects to help local marine life flourish, banned imported bottled water, and raised USD 5.5million through a carbon levy to help thousands of people in need.

Serene and secluded, this is barefoot luxury at its best and one you may not want to leave.

Find out more about Soneva Kiri

4. Phu Chaisai Mountain Resort & Spa | Chiang Rai

Conceived and created 20 years ago by Thailand’s leading interior designer M.L. Sudavdee Kriangkrai, on land long held by her family, Phu Chaisai’s motto is Live with nature, not above nature. This 800-acre organic estate sits in the mountains of northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle. Built over three hillsides and surrounded by native bamboo forest, thirty-three red-clay cottages overlook rolling mountains. Native bamboo is the leading interior design element with local hill-tribe textiles adding authentic touches. It’s disarmingly unpretentious and back to basics.

No televisions or alarm clocks here. You are encouraged to unplug—literally—from technology and embrace the wellness only the natural environment provides. Relax by the hillside infinity pool, rejuvenate in the Spa and Meditation centre, explore the surrounding forest along marked hiking trails or on horseback, wander the Chamomile, Chrysanthemum and Oolong tea plantations, or check out the essential oil, vegetable gardens and fruit orchards. Food miles on the ingredients used in Phu Chaisai’s kitchen and restaurant are near non-existent.

Owner M.L. Sudavdee, or Mom Da, as she is known locally, has worked closely with the local Hill Tribes to ensure all benefit. Be it the many micro-dams built to guarantee year-round water supply for the resort, farm and surrounding communities or sourcing of produce, like the organically grown and custom roasted Arabica coffee from a neighbouring farm that’s served at breakfast. Visit the resort’s Cooking School to learn about and experience authentic Northern Thai, Burmese and Akha regional cuisines.

This slow-paced jungle retreat where eco-conscious living and traditional crafts play leading roles is northern Thailand in its purest form.

Find out more about Phu Chaisai

5. 137 Pillars House | Chiang Mai

137 Pillars House in its original form dates back to the turn of the 20th century. It was one of four grand teak houses that were headquarters and residence of a British company with one of Thailand’s first teak forest logging and export permits. Lovingly restored, this teak homestead is now the centrepiece of the 30-suite luxurious boutique 137 Pillars House opened in March 2012.

Located a few minutes’ walk from the historical Wat Gate Temple, Ping River, and trendy boutique shopping area, all 137 Pillars House’s exquisitely appointed spacious suites come with butler service. Expect all the mod-cons plus ultra-comfortable four-poster beds, stunning bathrooms with free-standing Victorian bathtubs, and separate indoor and outdoor showers. Each suite’s vintage tiled verandahs overlook the expansive gardens and lawn and feature large daybeds and signature 137 Pillars rocking chairs.

Be sure to take a dip in the highly photogenic 25-metre lap pool with its 2-3 story high green (vine-covered) wall.
Environmentally, the hotel has eliminated single-use plastics, expanded its purchasing policy to more sustainable suppliers, and maximised its recycling efforts. Energy-efficient systems for air con, lighting, and swimming pools incorporate innovative technology. 137 Pillars House has partnered with WarmHeart Environment to create charcoal from organic waste and maintains a non-toxic mosquito control program. The properties ever-expanding vegetable and herb garden produces more and more for the restaurant and bar’s delicious offerings.

An ideal location and retreat when visiting Chiang Mai. A cocoon of luxury that also honours a chapter of the city’s colourful history.

Don’t miss our full guide to the best boutique hotels in Chiang Mai.

Find out more about 137 Pillars House

6. Six Senses | Koh Samui

Located on a secluded and quiet headland on the northeast tip of Koh Samui (Samui Island), Six Senses Samui with its Gulf of Thailand outlook houses 66 spacious villas, 59 of which have private infinity pools. All come with Guest Experience Maker (Butler) service.

Built from local wood and bamboo and retaining an abundance of the local forest enhanced with tropical gardens, each villa offers complete privacy. Lux island-rustic-chic is how we describe the decor of these romantic bamboo villas with floor-to-ceiling glass on all sides framing spellbinding ocean views. Open the expansive windows to welcome fresh sea breezes. You can just hang around your own pool and sun deck or venture out to explore the resort’s beach, dining and entertainment options. Perhaps take in the stunning sunsets from the top of the resort main infinity pool, or sip cocktails perched atop the headland Drinks on the Rocks expansive open-air deck.

Six Senses Spa and wellness programs are tailored to the individual. No matter which treatment room you choose, air conditioned or sea breeze Salas, you are guaranteed spectacular views across the rock-fringed bay and ocean. Yoga, Reiki, Pilates, Astrology, Palmistry and meditation sessions are also available.

Internationally recognised for its green credential, Six Senses Samui guests are enthusiastically invited to share the responsibility of carbon footprint reduction by producing their own bottled water on site. Farm on the Hill is the latest sustainable initiative that converts waste into wealth (valuable by-products) through composting and recycling. The farm’s organic vegetables, herbs, and fresh eggs feed the resort’s restaurants. Guests of all ages can also assist in feeding and care of goats and other farm animals. Examples of other environmental projects include creating bio charcoal and bio-diesel, wastewater recycling, and partnering with UNICEF and Restaurants against Hunger.

Eco-friendly tropical island luxury all the family will love, this property all features in our guide to the best wellness retreats in Koh Samui.

Find out more about Six Senses Samui

7. The Tongsai Bay | Koh Samui

The Tongsai Bay was Koh Samui’s first five-star green hotel, opening in 1987. The founder was careful to ensure construction happened without losing a single tree so that the suites blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Many cottages have individual features as they have been built around things rather than over them, whether it be trees, boulders or other topographical quirks.

The property is situated on the island’s northeast coast, encompassing 28.5 acres of lush green natural landscape wrapped around a headland and hillside. All overlooking the bay and private beach.

With a total of 83 guestrooms, accommodation options include beachfront suites overlooking the main freeform pool. Across the hillside, hidden amongst mature palms, are Cottage Suites, five of which come with plunge pools. Eight Tongsai Pool Villas (180 m²) and expansive Seafront Pool and Grand Villas complete the offering. Besides its restaurants and bars, guests can enjoy free non-motorised water sports or perhaps a tennis game. Prana Spa is all about holistic treatments.

The Tongsai Bay’s total mandate is built along environmental lines, as demonstrated in its top-to-bottom eco dedication. Thanks to the natural eco-system management, over 170 kinds of flora thrive on Tongsai ground, and animals like the Slow Loris plus 66 different species of birds call the resort home. Comprehensive recycling and waste management programs are embedded into the resorts systems, as is eco-friendly cleaning product. As it is single-use plastic-free, guests can access free fresh drinking water wherever they are within the property. Organic produce from the resort’s farm makes its way to all restaurants and bar operations.

The second generation of this family-run resort is now continuing the eco legacy.

Find out more about The Tongsai Bay

8. The Pavilions Anana | Krabi

At The Pavilions Anana, you are surrounded by greenery and the famous limestone cliffs of Krabi. Their 59 guestrooms, including 10 Spa suites, are designed in a minimalist contemporary style and feature spectacular views of Krabi’s natural scenery. Sleep soundly in a superbly luscious bed each night and wake up in their well-crafted bathrooms that include eco-friendly bath amenities.

Wholly committed to the UN sustainable tourism hospitality targets and a plastic-free destination, the Pavilions Anana has attained Green Globe certification. Its one-acre Permaculture farm uses regenerative composting and water conservation principles while supplying produce for the farm to table restaurant. The farmhouses, mainly built of natural Adobe Baan Din and recycled materials, are learning centres. At the same time, the Farm’s cooking school champions new ways of enjoying raw food and gourmet vegetarian dishes.

Guests can also enjoy the dedicated yoga & wellness centre incorporating a fitness centre, yoga pavilions, sauna and steam rooms, with five spa treatment rooms, including a Himalayan salt room. Alternately, chill out in the natural volcanic waters swimming pool or take the complementary carbon-neutral shuttles to the town and beaches.

Find out more about The Pavilions Anana

9. Moken Eco Village | Kho Phra Thong, Thailand’s Andaman Coast

On Thailand’s Andaman coast, approximately 170 km north of Phuket International Airport, is Koh Phra Thong (Phra Thong Island). Although it’s the country’s seventh-largest island at 130sq-km, it is little-visited and undeveloped except for a few simple resorts dotted along the island’s west coast. One of those is Koh Phra Thong’s Moken Eco Village.

It’s operated by Moken (Sea Gypsy) people, a race indigenous to the Andaman coast from Myanmar to northern Malaysia. All fourteen bungalows are made from local materials, and solar-powered meaning the luxury of 24-hour power for fans, lighting and hot water. The ocean breeze and the bungalow’s smart design replace air-conditioning. Dine on locally sourced seafood and produce along with organically grown herbs, vegetables and fruit from the resort’s garden. Your swimming pool is the Andaman Sea.

Kayak out to two small islands immediately off the beach for snorkelling and beachcombing. Explore the island’s savannah landscapes, unique to Thailand and south-east Asia, with a local guide. See sand lizards, kingfisher, hornbills, sambar deer, and the endangered lesser adjutant stork in the wild. And keep an eye out for the endangered “hairy leg” mountain crabs, as well as the tell-tale sign of turtle nests as you meander the 15 km stretches of spectacular beaches. Take a longtail boat to other neighbouring islands to snorkel the reefs, explore, or travel a little further to the world-renowned Similan Islands for some of the best diving in Thailand. Alternatively, simply laze in the beachside daybeds, basking in the tranquillity and enjoying the stunning sunsets.

Sleep well at night under your tropically romantic mosquito net, knowing the resort donates 2% of all room-rate income to fund local student scholarships and regenerative programs.

Moken Eco Village only operates from late October to early May and closes for the monsoon season but no list of best eco-friendly hotels in Thailand would be complete without it.

Find out more about Moken Eco Village

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