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Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, invites you to experience your own secluded oasis at our luxury resort in Krabi, Thailand. Beyond the limestone mountains that rise from the Andaman Sea, the ethereal beaches, and lush tropical rainforests, you will find a peaceful paradise at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Stay with us and embark on a voyage of discovery where the natural splendor and charm of the island blends blissfully with an aura of luxury and serenity.
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Nestled in a picturesque setting, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is heralded for delivering a luxurious and serene atmosphere that many travelers find magical. The hotel's spacious and exquisitely designed rooms have garnered high praise for their comfort and beauty.
Guests have called out the exceptional value, citing superior service, gourmet cuisine, and top-notch facilities, including a vast infinity pool. While some note the beach experience is limited, the hotel's attentive and professional service, coupled with its cleanliness, ensures a memorable stay that justifies the cost.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Magical
Rooms
Luxurious
Value
Exceptional
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Lavish
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Located around 2h drive from Phuket international airport , this reserve is located in the national park , surrounded by all sorts of flora and animals ( we have seen grand lizards , fishes , birds and butterflies of all sorts ). The service was impeccable : from the morning you wake up to go to breakfast to the time you close eyes - everyone is extremely helpful and respectful , but not in your face pushy . The territory is extremely clean and looked after . We enjoyed the peace and tranquility that this particular ritz reserved has got to offer - area is huge and spread , so even though there were other guests - everyone had plenty of personal space . 3 restaurants on site , with one chef overseeing it all and quality is amazing throughout . Hotel offers free boat rides to the phi phi island with tickets costing 10$ per person , when the same ride outside costing around 100$ per person. Special mention goes to our butler Jake who went above and beyond to ensure our all queries were all met from room service to restaurant recommendations - Jake is an absolute asset to the hotel. Most definitely recommending this reserve to anyone who is looking to relax fully and experience Thai culture and cuisine , without stereotypical assumptions of Thailand.
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Date of stay: January 2025
Value
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Staying at this hotel was a unique and unforgettable experience from start to finish. The welcome and farewell ceremonies were simply incredible, setting the tone for a remarkable stay. The entire staff was unbelievably friendly and attentive, always available to help without ever being intrusive.
The grounds are impeccably maintained, and the rooms are nothing short of spectacular – exquisitely decorated with a touch of extravagance that makes you feel like you’re in a special place.
The food was outstanding. The breakfast buffet might not have been overwhelmingly large, but the quality was absolutely top-notch. It’s truly a case of quality over quantity – and anyone who can’t find something to their taste here is simply impossible to please.
One of the highlights for us was the way the staff interacted with our daughter. The warmth and care they showed were truly touching. Speaking of kids, the Kids Club was beautifully designed and provided us with a wonderful place to spend time when it rained. There were plenty of activities and options to keep little ones entertained, and we genuinely appreciated this thoughtful addition.
If we were to find a single flaw, it would be that the hotel lacks a beautiful beach. However, this is more than made up for by the stunning pool area and the complimentary boat tours to nearby Hong Island, which boasts a truly paradise-like beach.
All in all, it was a fantastic stay that exceeded our expectations. We will definitely be back!
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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This is one of the best experience in any Ritz Carlton Property so far! From the start till the end of the stay we were amazed by the warm welcome that we received from the staff. The hotel is very meaningfully built for the guests and the preservation of the reserve as explained by the staff.
The villa we stayed in was spacious and had a pool included. I was fascinated by the HUGE bed as it could fit my family of four very comfortably and the luxurious bathroom. Valentin Cherepov and his team helped us to upgrade our room in our stay. The rooms were always cleaned very nicely and sometimes with even a few surprises—like the flower petal bath arranged by the housekeeping team. There was a wide variety of restaurants which always presented us dishes which would exceed our expectations. Our personal favourite location in the reserve was the sunset beach as it was fun to spend time with our family and get some drinks from the bar while watching the sunset. Overall, this experience wouldn’t have happened without our Butler, HABIB .. He helped navigate and drive us around the reserve, recommended the many activities in and out of the reserve, and also happily helped us coordinate with the kitchen for some recipes we requested for! He was always there for anything we needed with the hotel with a smile on his face. And also many thanks to the general manager, Vidhya Sagar, who was always there to check in with our family on how we’re doing!
This was overall a 10/10 experience and I would definitely go there again the next time I get the chance!
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Date of stay: April 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Vidya Sagar, Other at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Responded Jun 14, 2023
Dear 691gauravn, Thank you for your time to post this online review, and i am glad about your rating as the Best Hotel in Krabi, especially your comments on the bed, Chomtawan , Housekeeping services and the food. Thank you for your recognition of Khun Habib and Khun Valentine. I appreciate your comments. We are looking forward to welcoming you back to our resort and I hope we can again surpass your expectations. Warm regards, Vidya Sagar General Manager
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The six days at Phulay Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve were an experience we will never forget – truly a paradise on earth. From the moment we arrived, the exceptional service set the tone for a perfectly seamless and luxurious stay. Every member of the team went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, ensuring our stay was effortless and personalized. The villa itself was breathtaking, with stunning views and thoughtful touches throughout. Each evening, we were treated to spectacular sunsets that painted the sky in hues of pink and orange, creating an idyllic setting to unwind and savor the beauty of nature. The resort’s amenities exceeded all expectations. The enormous infinity pool offered sweeping views of the lush surroundings, making it the perfect place to relax in between adventures. We also had the pleasure of a complimentary transfer to Hong Island, where we spent an unforgettable day exploring crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, feeling like we’d discovered our own little slice of heaven. Dining was equally remarkable. The resort's restaurants offered incredible cuisine, but one, in particular, stood out with an extraordinary Michelin-star experience that transformed each meal into a memorable occasion. The staff’s attention to detail at every meal and throughout our stay made us feel completely taken care of. Phulay Bay is a place that effortlessly blends natural beauty with five-star luxury and hospitality, creating a peaceful retreat that leaves a lasting impression. We cannot wait to return to this remarkable destination – it’s truly a place like no other.
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Phulay Bay is hands down one of the best luxury hotels I’ve ever stayed at, offering incredible value for the money. While the price is undeniably high, it’s worth every penny, and you won’t be disappointed. Here’s what makes this hotel exceptional:
Outstanding Staff: The team here is simply world-class. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice their dedication to ensuring every guest has a flawless experience. They even memorize your drink preferences at the pool bar—a small detail that speaks volumes about their level of care.
Personal Butler Service: Every room comes with a personal butler, and ours, Noon Rungnapa, went above and beyond to make our stay unforgettable. Her warmth and attention to detail truly elevated the experience and left us with lasting memories.
Incredible Villa and Bed: We stayed in a villa with what must be the largest bed in existence—it looked like two king mattresses combined. You could probably fit several people comfortably, and I couldn’t help but wonder if it came straight from the Playboy Mansion. Beyond the bed, the villa itself was luxurious and beautifully designed.
Outstanding Food: The hotel’s food is exceptional, thanks to its German chef with two Michelin stars from his previous ventures. Every dish across the property’s restaurants was expertly crafted. Even the green curry, a seemingly simple dish, was the best we had during our entire trip to Thailand.
Engaging Management: The manager made it a point to personally connect with guests daily, which added a welcoming touch. During a chat, he shared that their goal is to create memorable experiences—and they certainly succeeded.
World-Class Spa: The spa here is not to be missed. The treatments are fantastic and worth scheduling during your stay.
A Destination in Itself: This hotel is so incredible that we skipped many excursions just to enjoy it. At $1,500 per night during high season, we wanted to make the most of every moment—and we’re so glad we did.
Gym Needs Improvement: The one area that fell short was the gym. The equipment didn’t match the level of luxury the rest of the hotel offers. For a property of this caliber, it felt underwhelming and out of place. The Marriott Chiang Mai has one of the best hotel gyms in Thailand, and honestly, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve should just call them, find out what equipment they have, and purchase the exact same setup—no exceptions. A gym that aligns with the rest of the hotel's excellence would make Phulay Bay truly flawless.
To everyone at Phulay Bay, thank you for making our stay so special. This is a place I hope to return to someday. If you’re considering booking this hotel, don’t think twice—you won’t regret it. It’s a dream come true!
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Date of stay: December 2024
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Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our stay at Ritz Carlton Reserve Phulay Bay was nothing short of magical! From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in luxury and impeccable service that made our 40th wedding anniversary truly unforgettable.
We stayed in the stunning Beachfront Villa #6, which was a dream. The spacious room featured beautiful design details, like lotus-shaped twin sinks, a Toto toilet with heated seat, and a gorgeous soaking tub. The villa’s private plunge pool with views of the sea added an extra layer of tranquility. The thoughtful layout, including two generous closets, made it as functional as it was glamorous.
The main pool was absolutely breathtaking—enormous, probably 50 meters at its widest point, and surrounded by comfortable and plentiful sun beds. The pool’s grandeur and proximity to the sea more than made up for the limited beach area, which was a small sandy spot near the water.
The service was nothing short of exceptional. Our butler, Anna, provided 24-hour assistance and seamlessly managed all of our reservations and needs. Every member of the staff we encountered was warm, attentive, and eager to make our stay perfect.
The dining experiences were phenomenal. The international breakfast buffet offered an incredible spread, complemented by a full à la carte menu. The resort’s three restaurants—Thai, seafood, and international—served dishes that were as exquisite as the surroundings.
As we were celebrating a special occasion, the resort went above and beyond with lovely anniversary touches that made us feel so cherished.
Phulay Bay is truly an oasis of elegance, tranquility, and unparalleled service. Despite the lack of a traditional beach, the resort’s other features far outweighed this minor detail. We can’t recommend it highly enough for those seeking a luxurious and memorable getaway.
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Date of stay: January 2025
Value
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Beach Villa 6 was perfect location.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Phulay Bay is a true haven of tranquility and luxury. The hotel's design blends understated elegance with a sense of serenity, offering an idyllic escape from the world. The staff are exceptionally warm, attentive, and always ready with a smile, ensuring that every need is met with care and precision. From the beautifully maintained surroundings to the exquisite attention to detail, everything reflects a commitment to excellence. Staying at Phulay Bay is not just a vacation but a memorable experience of unparalleled hospitality.
Finally, if Thailand were a woman, she would undoubtedly be Angela, our butler at Phulay Bay. Angela embodies the very essence of this beautiful country: her grace, her radiant smile, and her unparalleled sense of hospitality. She is the living definition of excellence, anticipating every need with effortless charm and making our stay nothing short of extraordinary. Her warmth and dedication turned our time at Phulay Bay into a truly unforgettable experience. Angela is not just a butler; she is the heart and soul of what makes this place so special
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Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
After a family trip to Hong Kong, we celebrated our anniversary with a trip to Phulay Bay and were not disappointed. We booked through American Express which allowed a stellar free breakfast and late checkout. From pickup at Phuket Airport to drop off, the experience was top notch and worth the effort and price. The peaceful experience with amazing rooms, views and warm staff provided a truly memorable stay. Our butler Arty took care of every need and detail from a welcome anniversary greeting and mango cake to facilitating a late late checkout so we could stay on site longer to see one more stunning sunset with complimentary drinks. Arty seamlessly arranged dinner reservations at the Thai restaurant and delicious seafood restaurant at the hotel. Arty also booked our trip to Hong Island for snorkeling as well as a last minute trip to Ao Nang Elephant sanctuary. He surprised us with an anniversary cake, flowers and picture at the Elephant sanctuary. The ocean pavilion was private with a beautiful lanai, luxurious bathroom with tub and shower and efficient air conditioning. We enjoyed lounging at the infinity pool under comfortable cabanas as well as the complimentary evening cocktails and canapes by the ocean. The included breakfast buffet was varied, healthy and delicious including Thai delicacies and cold Thai Coffee. Thank you to Bua for your service. Our stay was peaceful, restful and memorable. Thank you to all the staff at Phulay Bay- you exceeded our expectations.
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Vidya Sagar, Other at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Responded Apr 14, 2024
Dear R2525XLdavidw, Thank you for staying with us to celebrate your Anniversary. I want also to thank you for your comments on your stay, especially your recognition of your Tong Hong Khun Arty and Khun Bua. I am also happy to hear that you enjoyed our Management Cocktail evening. Feedback from our guests keeps us motivated and reviews help us in our endeavor in enhancing our service levels as well as offerings. We are looking forward to welcoming you back to our resort and I hope we can again surpass your expectations. Warm regards, Vidya Sagar General Manager
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I am writing a review for the first time ever for any hotel, and that says a lot about how exceptional Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, truly is. This resort exceeded every expectation and gave us an unforgettable experience that I feel compelled to share.
First and foremost, I have to talk about Habib, our butler, who was the absolute highlight of our stay. He is truly a gem of a person—kind, attentive, and always ready to assist with a smile. From the moment we arrived, he made us feel so special, handling everything with such care and thoughtfulness. He anticipated our needs before we even realized them ourselves, and his genuine warmth left a lasting impression on our family. I can’t praise Habib enough—he is a major reason this resort stands out.
Chaiwat, the front office manager, was also fantastic. He upgraded us to the best villa, which was beyond our imagination. He even went the extra mile to ensure small details were taken care of, like protecting our infant from mosquito bites. His thoughtfulness and dedication truly made us feel at home.
Javid, the rooms director, was another shining example of the resort's incredible service. He personally came to check on me when I had a minor stone cut on my toe, showing genuine care and concern. This kind of personalized attention is rare and made us feel so valued.
The entire team was incredibly warm and welcoming, making every moment special.
The resort itself is breathtaking—like stepping into another world. Surrounded by nature, it offers an unmatched level of peace and beauty. The villa was luxurious, and every corner of the property felt thoughtfully designed to create a serene and magical atmosphere.
The food was outstanding, with a wide variety of cuisines that catered to every palate. Every meal was a delight, and the quality was consistently excellent.
Phulay Bay is truly in a league of its own. From the exceptional service to the stunning property and delicious food, everything about this resort is perfection. A huge thank you to Habib, Chaiwat, Javid, and the rest of the team for making our stay unforgettable. If you’re looking for a place that offers luxury, comfort, and heartfelt hospitality, this is it!
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Date of stay: December 2024
Value
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Service
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Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
For the last six years my husband and I have sought out and found extraordinary places to celebrate our wedding anniversary. This year we chose Phulay Bay and let me tell you that it was extraordinary and more. We are very serious travelers and we know the difference between good, better, and best. Phulay Bay, by far, surpassed all three of those categories. It is said that Thailand is the country of smiles and that description fits every team member that we encountered. From the driver that picked us up from the airport to those who ensured that the grounds were impeccably kept, they all seemed genuinely happy to be there which in turn made us happy to be there.
While researching this year's potential anniversary locations, we wanted a place that would enable us to disconnect, relax, and not have to deal with massive crowds. Phulay Bay checked all of those boxes and more. During our 7-day stay, it seemed like we had the 54 villa resort all to ourselves. We had several private dining experiences, visited the main infinity pool area often, had a private tour for two of Hong Islands on a long boat, and we had two private spa treatments with little to no contact with other guests. This was due in large part to how the resort leadership scheduled activities. Speaking of spa, which is world class, we only had one session scheduled in our itinerary. Our first spa session was an exhilarating experience that removed the kinks and tension from our bodies while providing a relaxing feeling and environment. This led to us scheduling another spa treatment that was equally exemplary and provided the holistic and spiritual cleansing we needed.
Another draw for us to Phulay Bay was the 24-hour Butler Service. In our case, the title "Butler" was too small for Parunyu Juntaranipon (Sun), who was assigned to take care of us during our stay. Khun Sun’s gracious spirit, kind energy, and his masterful planning of our private experiences made this trip truly unforgettable. He did not put a foot wrong during our entire stay. His attention to detail and his willingness to be available made us feel like royalty. Given what we have experienced during our stay at Phulay Bay, it is very likely that every person that serves in the same capacity as Khun Sun is equally proficient, but we can only report to you our experience with him. The exemplary customer service that he rendered to us, has etched a special place in our hearts for Phulay Bay.
When we arrived, we were greeted with warmth, excitement, and care and during our stay, we gained a family. I can sincerely say that we were very sad to leave such a beautiful place and such beautiful human beings. Rest assured, we will be back. Phulay Bay has gained loyal customers. Until we see Khun Sun and the entire staff again, ดูแลและให้พรแก่คุณ.
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ko Samui, Thailand292 contributions86 helpful votes
Sorry for the late reply. I'm guessing by now you have already decided. We have stayed in both the Ritz and Banyan Tree. They are both beautiful but we prefer the more space and facilities of The Ritz Carlton. We have already stayed there twice this year (2024). I don't think we'll return to the Banyan Tree. While it too is quite beautiful the rooms aren't as nice and the layout of the resort is more challenging to navigate (small thing I know) but the Ritz operate at a higher level in all areas but price. Enjoy Krabi.
I would say that it is pretty quiet at night. As for the beach, we were only there for a couple of nights and never had the chance to make it to the beach. I hope this helps.
Before you go to the Ritz-Carlton, there is 7Eleven Shop and you should stop to the shop to buy all things you need then go to the hotel. Because the hotel is located quite far from the shop. Alternative by rent motorcycle around there or ask the hotel then you can ride any time.
There are more places to choose from in the Nong Thale area.
PRICE RANGE
C$848 - C$1,665 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
phulay bay, a ritz carlton reserve hotel nong thale, ritz carlton krabi
LOCATION
ThailandKrabi ProvinceKrabi TownNong Thale
NUMBER OF ROOMS
54
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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