Built within lush tropical rainforest and set right on the soft sands of Pansea Beach, The Surin is easily one of the most idyllic beach hotels in Thailand, in our humble opinion of course. I visited on my most recent trip to Thailand, so here's a rundown of The Surin's sweet spots...
The Beach
Let's start with the big one, the beach. Despite the fact that no beaches in Thailand are technically private, The Surin seems to have found a naturally occurring loop hole. Thanks to the two rocky outcrops at either end of the beach, the long sandy stretch in the middle is really only accessible to guests staying at the hotel or the neighbouring Aman hotel. The result? A gloriously peaceful spot to while away the day, with pure white sand between your toes and palm shaded sun on your face - bliss.
The Rooms
Crisp, fresh whites and soft soothing grey is the colour palate of choice throughout the spacious suites and cottages here and for a prime beachside location and stunning ocean views, opt for one of the Beach Suites. For families, the Two-Bedroom Cottages are fantastic as the separate bedrooms link internally, so your children are within a safe distance but you parents can have your own privacy too. A nice added touch, all rooms also come with complimentary beach bags and beach hats to keep us Brits from burning on the beach!
The Food
There's no denying that Thai food is some of the best in the world; colourful, crunchy and jam packed full of flavour, we could eat Pad Thai till we burst. For some of the best in the business, the Beach Restaurant at The Surin is your go to, and with palm framed ocean views and lantern lit tables the setting isn't bad either. Alternatively, opt for equally delicious Mediterranean cuisine at the Sunset Café, or a leisurely buffet breakfast in the grand surroundings of Lomtalay Restaurant - whose pitched ceiling and full height glass windows make a very impressive setting for your morning coffee.
The Sunsets
I have never been anywhere with sunsets quite like these. As you sit at the beach bar, cocktail in hand of course, the sun sets over the ocean in front of you and then reflects in the amazing hexagonal swimming pool just behind you. Magic.