When Shelly and I first decided to visit Phuket, we were searching for a secluded and luxurious retreat that offered both relaxation and adventure. Our search led us to The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, and it turned out to be everything we had hoped for and more. Tucked away on a private island just off the coast of Phuket, this resort provided us with an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From the moment we first stepped on to Naka Islands, we knew we were in for a truly special experience. We have visited Phuket 3 times, and each time we always return to Naka Island. It’s that good!
Hotel Overview
The Naka Island Resort is located on a private island, accessible only by a short speedboat ride from Phuket’s east coast. As we approached the island, we were struck by the pristine beauty of the surroundings: crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical vegetation. The resort seamlessly blends traditional Thai architecture with modern luxury, creating an atmosphere that is both exotic and comforting.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the resort staff with a traditional Thai greeting and refreshing coconut drinks. The check-in process was smooth and personalized, and we were quickly whisked away to our villa in a golf cart. The resort’s design emphasizes sustainability and harmony with nature. From the moment we set foot on the island, we felt enveloped by a sense of tranquility and serenity. The lush gardens, winding pathways, and traditional Thai pavilions made us feel like we had stepped into a tropical paradise.
Our Room
Our home for the stay was one of the resort’s stunning beachfront pool villas. The villa was spacious and beautifully decorated, with a perfect mix of modern amenities and traditional Thai elements. The bedroom featured a plush king-sized bed with luxurious linens, and the living area was tastefully furnished with local art and crafts. We loved the high, vaulted ceilings and the floor-to-ceiling windows that offered breathtaking views of the ocean.
The bathroom was an experience in itself, with a deep soaking tub, an outdoor rain shower, and a private garden. Shelly and I both enjoyed taking long, relaxing baths while admiring the tropical plants and listening to the soothing sounds of nature. The villa also included a spacious dressing area with plenty of storage space for our belongings.
However, the highlight of our villa was undoubtedly the private pool and sundeck that overlooked the ocean. We spent countless hours lounging by the pool, taking in the breathtaking views and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. It was easy to forget everything else when staring out at the Andaman Sea. The sundeck was equipped with comfortable loungers, a shaded seating area, and direct access to the beach. Each morning, we were greeted with a stunning sunrise that illuminated the sky with shades of pink and orange.
The villa also came with a range of modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV, a well-stocked minibar, and high-speed Wi-Fi. We appreciated the thoughtful touches, such as the nightly turndown service, the plush bathrobes and slippers, and the selection of aromatic bath salts that made our stay even more special.
Amenities
The Naka Island Resort offers a wide range of amenities designed to enhance your stay. The main infinity pool, with its stunning views of Phang Nga Bay, quickly became one of our favorite spots. When we weren’t in our private pool, we loved relaxing on the comfortable loungers, sipping on refreshing cocktails, and taking a dip in the cool, inviting water. The pool area is beautifully designed, with lush landscaping, shaded cabanas, and attentive poolside service that ensured we were always well-hydrated and comfortable.
The resort’s fitness center is well-equipped with modern machines and free weights. We appreciated the complimentary yoga and pilates classes, which provided a great way to start our days. The yoga sessions were held in an open-air pavilion with panoramic views of the ocean, making for a truly inspiring and rejuvenating experience. For those who prefer outdoor activities, the resort offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking around the island. We enjoyed exploring the island on bikes, discovering hidden beaches, and taking in the stunning scenery.
The spa at The Naka Island is truly a sanctuary for the senses. We indulged in several treatments, including a traditional Thai massage and a soothing herbal body wrap. The spa’s serene setting, with its open-air pavilions and tranquil gardens, made each session an unforgettable experience. The therapists were skilled and attentive, ensuring that we left feeling completely relaxed. The spa menu also includes a range of facials, body scrubs, and holistic treatments that use natural, locally sourced ingredients.
In addition to the main amenities, the resort offers a variety of recreational facilities, including tennis courts, a library, and a games room. We enjoyed playing a few matches on the tennis courts, which are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The library is a cozy space where guests can relax with a good book or catch up on some work. The games room, equipped with a pool table and board games, provided a fun way to unwind in the evenings.
Dining Experience
Dining at The Naka Island Resort was a culinary adventure. The resort offers several dining options, each with its own unique charm. Tonsai, the all-day dining restaurant, serves a delicious array of Thai and international dishes. We particularly enjoyed the breakfast buffet, which featured a wide selection of fresh fruits, pastries, and made-to-order omelets. The buffet also included a variety of Asian dishes, such as dim sum, congee, and noodle soups, providing a wonderful start to our day.
For lunch and dinner, Tonsai offers an à la carte menu with a diverse range of dishes. We loved the seafood tom yum soup, the green curry with prawns, and the pad see ew. The restaurant’s open-air setting, with its panoramic views of the bay and the gentle sound of waves, made every meal a memorable experience.
For a more intimate dining experience, we dined at My Grill, the resort’s signature beachfront restaurant. Specializing in fresh seafood and prime cuts of meat, My Grill offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. We savored every bite of our meal, from the succulent grilled prawns to the perfectly cooked steak, all accompanied by an excellent selection of wines. The restaurant’s location, right on the beach, allowed us to enjoy stunning sunset views while dining under the stars.
One of the highlights of our stay was a private beachside dinner arranged by the resort. With a table set up on the sand, surrounded by candles and the sound of the waves, it was a truly magical evening. The chef prepared a bespoke menu featuring the freshest local ingredients, and the service was impeccable. We started with a selection of appetizers, including fresh oysters and seared scallops, followed by a main course of grilled lobster, steak and a decadent chocolate dessert.
The resort also offers in-villa dining, which we took advantage of on several occasions. There’s something incredibly special about enjoying a gourmet meal in the privacy of your own villa, with the sound of the ocean as your soundtrack. The in-villa dining menu features a wide range of options, from light snacks and salads to full-course meals. We particularly enjoyed the tropical fruit platters and the freshly baked pastries.
Activities at the Hotel
The Naka Island Resort offers a variety of activities to keep guests entertained. We participated in a Thai cooking class, where we learned to prepare some of our favorite dishes, including tom yum soup and pad thai. The class was held in a beautiful open-air kitchen, and the chef provided expert guidance and plenty of useful tips. After the class, we got to enjoy our culinary creations in a lovely garden setting, accompanied by traditional Thai music.
The resort also offers yoga and meditation sessions on the beach, which provided a peaceful start to our mornings. Practicing yoga with the sound of the waves and the fresh sea breeze was a truly rejuvenating experience. The instructors were knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring that each session was both relaxing and invigorating.
For those looking to explore the island, the resort offers guided nature walks and bike tours. We enjoyed a leisurely bike ride around the island, taking in the stunning scenery and learning about the local flora and fauna. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including colorful birds, butterflies, and even monitor lizards.
Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do at The Naka Island. The resort provides complimentary kayaks and paddleboards, and we spent a fun afternoon paddling around the calm waters of the bay. For a more adventurous experience, we booked a snorkeling excursion through the resort’s activity center. The clear waters around the island are teeming with colorful marine life, and we had an amazing time exploring the underwater world. The activity center also offers diving trips, deep-sea fishing, and boat tours to nearby islands.
The resort also offers art and craft classes, where guests can learn about traditional Thai painting, wood carving, and batik making. Shelly and I tried our hand at batik painting, and we had a lot of fun creating our own unique designs. The classes are led by local artists who are passionate about sharing their craft with visitors.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
While The Naka Island offers plenty to keep you occupied, it’s also worth exploring the surrounding area. We took a day trip to Phang Nga Bay, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald-green waters. The resort arranged a private boat tour for us, and we spent the day kayaking through sea caves, visiting hidden lagoons, and marveling at the stunning scenery. The bay is dotted with small islands and rock formations, each more beautiful than the last. Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly, providing fascinating insights into the area’s geology and history.
Another highlight was a visit to the nearby James Bond Island, made famous by the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.” The island’s unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters make it a popular spot for tourists, and it’s definitely worth a visit. We enjoyed exploring the island, taking photos, and learning about its cinematic history.
Overall Experience
Our stay at The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, was nothing short of extraordinary. From the luxurious accommodations and exquisite dining to the wide range of activities and the warm hospitality, every aspect of our stay exceeded our expectations. The resort’s commitment to sustainability and harmony with nature made us feel like we were part of a special place, and we left with a deep sense of peace and fulfillment.
The highlights of our visit include the serene moments spent in our beachfront villa, the rejuvenating spa treatments, and the enriching cultural experiences. We also cherished the time spent exploring the beautiful surroundings, both on the island and in the nearby areas. The resort’s staff went above and beyond to ensure our stay was memorable, and we felt truly pampered and cared for throughout our visit.
If you’re looking for a secluded and luxurious escape in Phuket, we highly recommend The Naka Island. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, indulge, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Shelly and I can’t wait to return and experience more of the magic that this beautiful island has to offer. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, this resort offers something for everyone. You can check out this amazing resort and book it HERE.
