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oh Phangan is famous for its full moon festival, but on the opposite side of the island, far from the beach parties, the coastline is quiet and pristine. It’s an idyllic setting for one of the region’s most luxurious resorts. Accessible by private speedboat from nearby Koh Samui, Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas is located on Thong Nai Pan Noi, a secluded white-sand beach that’s considered one of the best in Thailand. Rows of chaise longues shaded by cheerful red umbrellas face a dazzling expanse of calm aquamarine water, and just behind a border of coconut palms, the resort’s thatched-roof two-story buildings are tucked into lush jungle vegetation.

Suites and villas all have private gardens or terraces with plunge pools, and while the best rooms are ocean-facing — a few even have direct beach access and private lounge space on the sand — they’re all spacious, lavishly appointed, and designed for indoor-outdoor living. The look is elegant but down-to-earth, with native wood paneling, vaulted ceilings, and deep red accent walls. Home theaters, Nespresso machines, and extra-large bathrooms with walk-in showers come standard, and freestanding villas feature extras like open-air terrazzo tubs and complimentary minibars.

A focal point of the property is the central infinity pool with a swim-up bar and sea views, Thai massages and Ayurvedic treatments are available in the Anantara Spa’s outdoor treatment areas. The resort’s all-day bistro overlooks the pool area, and Yukinoya, a stylish Japanese restaurant, specializes in Teppanyaki menus. Beachfront yoga classes and film screenings are on offer, and staff happily arrange boating and snorkeling excursions in the surrounding nature reserve.