A sprawling coconut grove, a private 800-metre beach and a pace of life dictated by the tides. This isn't the Koh Phi Phi of postcards and party legends; this is SAii Phi Phi Island Village, a self-contained world of barefoot luxury that feels thrillingly remote, yet polished to perfection. My journey here began where most Phi Phi adventures do, at the bustling Tonsai Pier, but quickly diverged. As I stepped onto the resort’s private longtail boat, leaving the crowds behind for a stunning 20-minute ride along the island’s jungle-clad coast, I felt a palpable sense of escape. Pulling into the turquoise waters of Loh Ba Gao Bay, the resort’s thatched-roof bungalows peeking out from between 70 acres of palms, it was clear this was a hotel that doesn't just occupy a location; it is the destination. It’s a place that proves you can find total tranquility on one of Thailand’s most famous islands.
Why stay at SAii Phi Phi Island Village?
For anyone who loves the idea of a remote island escape but still wants flawless service, a choice of pools, and a top-tier dive centre on their doorstep, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is the answer. It masterfully walks the line between rustic-chic and five-star comfort. Formerly the Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, a 2020 rebranding under the youthful SAii banner injected a fresh, playful energy into this long-established property. The physical ‘village’ footprint remains, creating a wonderful sense of space, but it’s been updated with a contemporary aesthetic and thoughtful, fun touches.
Even more unique are the resort's pop-up activities. During my stay, a local astronomy teacher, Marco Capriz, hosted a fascinating stargazing session on the beach. There, under a perfectly dark sky, he had set up some surprisingly huge telescopes. There’s nothing quite like sipping a glass of wine while observing the rings of Saturn to put your daily worries into perspective.
The resort’s history is rooted in providing a secluded sanctuary, and that DNA remains its biggest strength. Its sheer scale means you can find your own private corner of paradise, whether you're a couple on a romantic getaway or a family with kids in tow. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place, where one day might be spent diving the world-famous Bida islands and the next simply migrating from your private terrace to a sun lounger by the pool. It offers a version of Phi Phi that’s about genuine relaxation and connection with nature, making it one of the most unique and best hotels in Thailand for an island getaway.
What are the rooms like at SAii Phi Phi Island Village?
The rooms here are split between charming, traditional bungalows and seriously swanky hillside villas. I stayed in one of the 148 bungalows, which are dotted throughout the lush coconut groves and along the beachfront. Forget cramped hotel rooms; these are spacious, standalone structures with high, vaulted ceilings and gleaming wooden floors that feel both authentic and luxurious. The king-size bed was immense and ridiculously comfortable, and there was a separate living area for lounging. The highlight for me, however, was the large, shaded terrace with a plush daybed – it became my go-to spot with a cold Singha beer from the minibar after a day in the sun.
What are the best restaurants and bars at SAii Phi Phi Island Village?
Dining here is a playful and varied affair, anchored by two signature restaurants. Miss Olive Oyl is a breezy, stylish eatery that brings Mediterranean sunshine to the island. The focus is on fresh, organic ingredients, with a menu full of fantastic grilled seafood and tasty dishes that are simple yet sophisticated. As the sun begins to dip, grabbing a table on the sand here is essential. I had some incredible grilled tiger prawns, their smoky flavour pairing perfectly with the sound of the waves. The tropical cocktails are also a must-try. Its counterpart, Mr. Tomyam, is a modern Thai restaurant with a show-stopping open kitchen. It’s a visual feast where you can watch the talented chefs at work, before dining on flavour-packed local cuisine, either in the chic interior or out on the beachfront terrace.
For a truly special evening, the culinary highlight of my stay was Ruan Thai. Set in a magnificent traditional Thai house on the hillside, the restaurant offers stunning views and even more stunning food. Massaman curry was rich, complex and utterly unforgettable. And for daily essentials, Api Restaurant & Bar serves a huge breakfast buffet, while bean/Co is the cheerful deli for a great coffee or pastry.
What is the service like at SAii Phi Phi Island Village?
The service is warm, intuitive, and genuinely friendly, striking the perfect balance between relaxed island charm and five-star attentiveness. From the moment I was greeted at the pier to the final wave goodbye, every interaction was a pleasure. The staff who zip around in the electric buggies (essential for navigating the vast resort) always had a smile and a greeting. I was told most staff members have worked there for well over a decade.
What is the spa and what other facilities are there at SAii Phi Phi Island Village?
The facilities here are extensive and impressive. The resort boasts two beautiful swimming pools: a huge, family-friendly infinity pool that’s the social heart of the resort (complete with a swim-up bar), and a quieter, more secluded pool tucked away in the gardens for those seeking peace.
However, the resort’s real USP is its Marine Discovery Centre. This on-site conservation hub, run by a resident marine biologist, is a fantastic initiative. Breeding bamboo sharks, a crucial part of the area’s balanced ecosystem, is just one of their initiatives. I spent a fascinating hour learning about their clownfish breeding programme (you can literally find Nemo) and their efforts to restore local coral reefs. It’s an engaging and educational experience that adds real depth to your stay.
For underwater adventurers, the 5-Star PADI Dive Centre offers a full range of courses and daily excursions to world-class sites. After a scuba dive refresher course in the infinity pool, I was lucky enough to release bamboo sharks into the wild the following day. Releasing a tiny shark into the sea does something to you. It’s in moments like these that ‘ecotourism’ stops feeling like a buzzword and becomes this very real, powerful connection to the aquatic world – an experience that feels less like an activity and more like an essential part of travelling.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, the Lèn Forest Spa, with its treatment rooms set in serene jungle huts, is an oasis of calm. There’s also a well-equipped gym and tennis courts, ensuring there’s plenty to do if you can tear yourself away from the beach.
What's the area like around SAii Phi Phi Island Village?
In this case, the resort is the neighbourhood. It completely dominates the beautiful and secluded Loh Ba Gao Bay on Phi Phi Don’s north-eastern coast. This is a good thing – its isolation is central to its charm. It's a world away from the noise and crowds of Tonsai village.
The resort's border is a sprawling mangrove forest, a key player in the local ecosystem. The best way to get up close is by grabbing a kayak and gliding through its brackish waters for a first-hand look at the natural filter that protects the coastline.
The general vibe is one of utter tranquility. A short, pleasant walk along the beach will lead you to a small, local sea gypsy village and a couple of rustic, ramshackle beach bars, which are great for a change of scenery and a cheap beer. But largely, it’s just you, the resort, and the jungle-covered hills. This is a fantastic area to stay in because it offers a peaceful, exclusive slice of the island while still providing easy access (via the resort’s boat services) to all the must-see spots like Maya Bay.
Why should you book a stay at SAii Phi Phi Island Village?
You should book a stay at SAii Phi Phi Island Village for a holiday that combines true escapism with every comfort you could wish for. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic and secluded retreat, and equally brilliant for families, thanks to its vast grounds and array of activities. My advice is to book one of the Garden Bungalows for a perfect blend of charm and value. To find the best deals, consider travelling in the shoulder seasons (April-June or September-October), when the weather is still beautiful but the prices are lower than the Christmas and New Year peak. This is a place to disconnect, recharge and experience the quieter, more magical side of one of the world's most beautiful islands.
Address: 149 Moo 8, Laem Tong Beach, Ao Nang, Krabi, 81000, Thailand
Price per night: Prices for a bungalow start from around B6,000 per night in the low season, rising to over B15,000 in peak season.
Closest transport link: The journey involves a speedboat from Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi's Tonsai Pier arranged by the resort.
Book now: https://www.booking.com/hotel/th/phiphiislandvillagebeachresortandspa.en-gb.html?aid=2427673
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