We review Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa

Before the yachts, the buzz, and the brunch queues, there was Khao Lak, a quietly glamorous stretch of Thailand’s southwest coast where rainforest meets reef, and time moves like a lazy tide. Long the choice of insiders and in-the-know escapists, it’s home to some of the most pristine beaches and lush jungles. Nestled on the southwest coast along the Andaman Sea, Khao Lak has long flown under the radar. But don’t mistake its unassuming charm for bland.

There’s a new breeze blowing through Thailand’s southwest coast. Salt-sweet, sun-drenched, and unmistakably stylish. The Andaman coast’s low-key, more reserved cousin to Phuket just got a fantastic glow-up, courtesy of the brand-new Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa, and she’s not here to play.

While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.

We review Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa, Thailand

Perched effortlessly on the golden shores of Bang-Lut Beach, this low-rise beauty is what happens when barefoot luxury meets contemporary cool. It’s Marriott Hotels’ debut in Khao Lak (finally!) and the third Southern Thai jewel in their polished crown. Marriott has officially staked its sun lounger in paradise, and we are here for it.

Designed by the visionaries at Bangkok-based P49 Design Studio, the resort is a poetic nod to local sea-faring heritage, dressed in ocean tones, artisanal textures, and just enough modern edge to feel like your favourite beach playlist, equal parts soothing and upbeat.

The scene

The moment I breezed into the open-air lobby, all sweeping lines, golden light, and that subtle “just rained on driftwood” scent, I knew I was in for a treat. The design? Stripped-back island glam meets nautical nostalgia. The vibe? Easy, elevated, effortless. Craft details, curated Thai decor, and that perfect, effortless transition from morning latte to sunset martini.

With 283 rooms, suites, and pool villas, the resort is a Pinterest board that’s come to life. Rooms start at a generous 50 sqm and top out at a sprawling 124 sqm, plenty of space for all your modish kaftans, chunky camera gear, and that inflatable unicorn float you decided to pack on a whim.

Go for the lagoon access room if you like a quick morning plunge straight from your patio. Opt for a pool villa if you’re too famous (or fabulous) for the common pool. Family in tow? There are two-bedroom suites with enough room for everyone’s drama, tantrums (or not) and pool toys. My own room was all smooth wood, ocean tones, and just the right number of plush things. There was a freestanding tub and a daybed that became my afternoon nap zone.

Bikinis, bubbles & bliss

Four pools. One ocean. Endless vitamin D. Unlimited opportunities to dazzle in swimwear. Whether you’re floating languidly in the adults-only pool, cocktail in hand and SPF doing its best work, sliding into the whirlpool like it’s your birthright, or keeping the little ones happily splashing in the kids’ pool, the vibe is pure, sun-drenched indulgence.

But when your sun-soaked skin whispers, “treat me” (in a tiny little parched voice), that’s when you head to Quan Spa. Inspired by the elegance of Andaman pearls, this sanctuary offers its signature Jade Stone therapy, along with a serenity that lingers long after your treatment ends.

Bring your appetite (and a cute outfit)

On the dining front, there are options for everyone. Mornings for me started at Goji Kitchen + Bar, which was less of a breakfast buffet and more of a gastronomic playground for the well-travelled and ravenous. I floated from station to station like a gluttonous child in a candy store, piling my plate with buttery croissants that flaked like a scandal, silky scrambled eggs, and the crispiest bacon known to mankind. Tip: Don’t skip the Thai station, as the noodle soups are seriously soul-hugging. Also, the coffee comes strong and hot, like the kind of opinion that starts a dinner party debate.

Craving spice and soul? Thai Curry Sala delivers full-bodied Southern Thai realness. No filter, no fuss, just bold flavours that bite and soothe in equal measure. Think rich, coconut-laced curries, green papaya salads with a rebellious crunch, and fresh grilled prawns. Come golden hour, I drifted beachside to Lido Beach Restaurant & Lounge, where the Andaman Sea shimmered like liquid rose gold and the vibe turned effortlessly Riviera. It was a slice of the Italian Mediterranean, Khao Lak-style. Burrata with heirloom tomatoes, seafood pasta that slapped in the best way, and a panna cotta that quivered dramatically.

Don’t miss the Thai Baking Company for flaky local pastries and caffeine dreams. Or perhaps sip something strong at the Greatroom Bar. Always chic, never overstated.
Activities for the active, adventurous and the Insta-savvy

Nature lovers, rejoice! This is your happy hunting ground. Kayak through the emerald waters of Khlong Sang Ne, hike misty trails in Khao Sok National Park, or go diving at the Similan and Surin Islands. Back at base, grab a resort bicycle and explore the coast or stretch into a bendy beachfront yoga pose as the sun dips low.

And when business calls? The Andaman Grand Ballroom and meeting rooms are fully kitted out for corporate cool or dreamy destination weddings. Prefer flower petals to PowerPoint? Beach weddings and lawn soirées are just a veil toss away.

The grand opening: when the launch party hits harder than the waves

As luck would have it, I landed during the resort’s official launch party, which was The White Lotus meets Crazy Rich Asians with a side of spicy mango salad. There were fire dancers. A live DJ. A Leica photography exhibition in the lobby curated by Chut Janthachotibutr that made me stop and stare. Better still, proceeds from print sales went to a local nonprofit. Luxe yet meaningful.

Final thoughts

Khao Lak may be more understated than Phuket, but that’s its secret power. It’s restful without being boring. Romantic without the pressure. Family-friendly without the chaos. And this new Marriott? It’s chic. It’s cheeky. It’s exactly what Khao Lak needed. A resort that doesn’t just sit pretty, but shimmies into your holiday plans with an unabashed wink and a killer mojito. Whether you’re a honeymooner, a family crew, or a solo traveller chasing the sun, the Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa is your guaranteed new happy place.

Would I recommend it? Well, only to people I like.

Find out more about Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa or Book through Booking.com

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