5 Best Hotels in Bang Thao Beach, Phuket and the Andaman Coast

Unlike the other resorts in the area, this property sits on the lagoon instead of the beach, and therefore offers lower rates; you definitely get more bang for your buck here. Suites come in various configurations (one or two bedrooms), but all have kitchenettes. Shuttle boats between the resort and the beach run every 30 minutes from 8 to 5. The scenic trip across the lagoon takes approximately 10 minutes.

It's not opulent, but this small, friendly, and wonderfully situated resort offers comfortable rooms only 20 meters from the beach, with nice en suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, satellite TV, and beachfront patios. The location is a bit out of the way, which allows guests the opportunity to take a break from the busier parts of Bangtao Beach and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings—although it also means ordering tuk-tuks to go into town. The resort's restaurant serves delicious Thai specialties as well as seafood and fish barbecues. Overall, a pleasant atmosphere and lovely sea views.

Set on Bang Thao Beach, this resort is stylish and contemporary with tastefully decorated rooms and suites that all have either garden, lagoon, pool, or ocean views. A massive free-form swimming pool meanders throughout the resort, and there are six restaurants to choose from. Daily activities are offered to occupy guests, there is a kids club, and the on-site Angsana Spa offers fantastic rejuvenating treatments. Free shuttle bus and boat around Laguna Phuket.

Of the quintet of resorts on Laguna Beach, this is the most exclusive—and expensive. Each of the secluded villas has a bathroom as big as the bedroom, as well as an outdoor shower. The king-size bed is on a raised platform so that you can gaze out onto your garden and teak floors and locally woven fabrics remind you that you are in Thailand. The most expensive villas have their own private pools. Rejuvenating treatments in the spa include traditional herbal massages. This is the place to head for when you're looking for a bit of pampering.

This resort really caters to families, with well-organized daily activities of kids of all ages and babysitting services, as well as two pools, and a beachfront location. Other high points include the well-kept gardens, waterside massage services, and a breakfast hall organized with military precision. The rooms are spacious and simply yet tastefully decorated, with plenty of beach towels.