Stay here: Amanpuri, Phuket review
What’s the deal?
Aman Hotels is a brand synonymous with modern, nature-inspired luxury, and Amanpuri is where it all began. Opened in 1988 as the group’s very first property, this timeless beach resort has a name which means “place of peace” – and it delivers on its promise.
Located on a private peninsula on Phuket’s west coast, Amanpuri is nestled within a coconut grove overlooking the powder-white sands of Pansea Beach and turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. As you step inside, you’ll pass a shimmering midnight-blue pool framed by a canopy of palms, setting the tone for your stay. It’s matched by the warm welcome you’ll receive upon arrival. Service here is personalised, discreet and intuitive – from tailored itineraries to thoughtful touches in your room, Aman’s team goes above and beyond to cultivate a sense of ease and belonging.
Incredibly, all this sequestered beauty and genuine hospitality is just a 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport,and bars and restaurants are also within easy reach. Offering a taste of local culture, the laidback allure of Surin Beach is a short stroll away.
Why stay?
Amanpuri blends a veneration for heritage with the pursuit of perfection, preserving its timeless charm even through annual renovations that uphold Aman’s world-class standards. Elegant wood-panelled pavilions and ultra-luxe villas nod to ancient Ayutthaya architecture with their characteristic pointed, tiled roofs.
The Partial Ocean Pool Pavilion, in which we stayed, is a sanctuary of light and calm, equipped with a king-size bed, stunning bathroom, contemporary dressing area and spacious outdoor terrace for lounging and dining. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and savour every moment. The cherry on top? Those ocean views peeking through the lush treetops. Of course, for the pinnacle of luxury and privacy that Amanpuri has to offer, opt for one of the resort’s villas, which in addition to space and seclusion, come with a dedicated host and your own serene private pool.
Dining at Amanpuri is akin to journeying across continents, with the chance to savour authentic flavours from Thailand to the Mediterranean — all while in view of Phuket’s spectacular coastline. As evening falls, head to the resort’s main terrace for sundowners and the melodic tones of the ranat ek, a traditional Thai percussion instrument.
Amanpuri has long been a destination for wellness. At its Holistic Wellness Centre, traditional Thai healing practices meld with cutting-edge science. Guests can indulge in bespoke treatments designed to restore balance to body, mind and spirit. Just when we thought we couldn’t sink any deeper into serenity, we tried the popular Holistic massage, a deeply relaxing treatment – using a signature blend of aromatherapy oils – that melted away every last trace of tension.
Beyond its reputation for relaxation, the flagship presents endless opportunities for discovery, from thrilling aquatic pursuits to authentic cultural experiences and scenic nature tours. Activities range from daily movement classes to traditional Thai arts and crafts workshops, ensuring that there’s something to appeal to every guest. As long-time fans of Muay Thai, a sport deeply woven into Thailand’s cultural fabric, we couldn’t resist stepping into Amanpuri’s professional boxing ring for an authentic training session. Afterwards, we made sure to visit the steam room and infrared sauna to fully recharge.
editors say…
“Every moment at Amanpuri feels worth savouring, but a true highlight was the resort’s daily afternoon tea. Chef Sao has been with the hotel since 1990 and never fails to delight with the delicious Thai desserts she prepares fresh at a live station. You might even be invited to make kanom krok (coconut rice pancakes) with her. My personal favourite treat? The divine coconut-topped sticky rice. For the ultimate pinch-me moment, stay up late to enjoy a midnight dip in your private pool overlooking the ocean.”