Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach

Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach Overview

You know what really struck me when I first walked into Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach? The lobby doesn’t try too hard to impress you with flashy decorations or over-the-top chandeliers. Instead, it’s got this understated Thai elegance that actually feels genuine – lots of warm teak wood, traditional art pieces that look like they were chosen by someone who actually cares, and these massive windows that frame the coastline perfectly. I mean, you’re literally looking at one of Phuket’s most stunning beaches from the moment you check in.

The thing about this five-star property is that it sits on the quieter southern end of Karon Beach, which honestly makes all the difference. While the main stretch near the restaurants and beach bars can get pretty hectic (especially during high season from December to March), this spot feels almost secluded. You’ve got direct beach access, but it’s the kind of section where you’ll actually find a decent spot to lay your towel without fighting crowds. The sand here is that powdery white stuff that Karon is famous for – though fair warning, it does that squeaky thing under your feet that some people find annoying. The resort’s infinity pool overlooks the Andaman Sea, and I’d recommend grabbing one of the daybeds there around 4 PM when the light gets really magical for photos.

What I love about staying here is how they’ve managed to feel luxurious without being stuffy. The spa treatments are legitimately excellent (I tried the traditional Thai massage and honestly didn’t want to leave), and the staff seems to remember your name after like, the second interaction. The rooms are spacious with these huge marble bathrooms, though the WiFi can be a bit spotty in some of the beachfront villas – not a huge deal unless you’re trying to work, but worth mentioning. Food-wise, their beachfront restaurant serves solid Thai cuisine, though it’s pricey even by resort standards. You’re about a 10-minute walk to the main Karon strip where you’ll find more affordable local spots, plus that famous Big Buddha viewpoint is just a short tuk-tuk ride up the hill. The resort offers shuttle service to Kata and Patong, which is actually pretty convenient since taxi drivers around here can be… well, let’s just say they know you’re staying somewhere nice and price accordingly. If you’re looking for that perfect balance of luxury and authentic Thai hospitality without the chaos of Patong, this place really delivers.

Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach Accommodations

Reviews of Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach

• Raphael from Austria (10/10)

  – The excluded villa style bungalows on the hills
  – The breakfast buffet
  – The pool with poolbar
  – The friendly staff, clean place and support at the reception (booked a boat transfer to Phi Phi, organized shuttles, helped with tourist information)

• Duncan from United Kingdom (10/10)

  We had a great stay at Mandarava. The staff were so welcoming from the start especially of our 4 month old baby and really made the trip. The location is beautiful set on jungly hills and resort set out over various areas set around different pools. The pool view rooms are amazing and a great option with a baby. Food was great and we made the most of the pool bars. Breakfast was quite extensive. Can easily walk into town or get a cart in. Would recommend staying. We were less of fans about Karon beach however spent majority of the time in the resort.

• Delon from United States (10/10)

  The resort is built against a mountain. It’s not right in front of the beach, but the hotel had tuk tuk cars that took us to Karon beach. The room was clean and the maid cleaned it every day. The view from our balcony was beautiful, we can see the garden view of the property, some of the ocean and the sunset. The whole property is on a hill so you will need to climb stairs to go to the pools and the restaurants. It was hot but also felt like walking in a tropical park. Surprisingly, there are not a lot of insects with all those trees and plants.

• Charlie from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Stayed here for 3 nights as our first stop in Thailand and I don’t think any of our other hotels will top this one.
  
  The layout and aesthetic of the resort is brilliant. The photos do not do the resort or the rooms justice. Everything was kept pristine, cannot fault anything about the rooms.
  
  We only ate breakfast in the main restaurant, so cannot comment on the lunches or dinners, but the quality and range of food was also 5 star worthy. The food and drinks from the pool bars were also top tier.
  
  From check-in to check-out, the staff were always friendly and attentive. Again, definitely 5 star service.
  
  The resort is a short 5-10 minute walk down a slight hill to Karon beach and the main Karon strip. Taxis to Patong were only 450 Baht (Cheaper for anywhere closer to the resort)
  
  Would 100% recommend.

• Hardeep from United Kingdom (10/10)

  The facilities , the hospitality and breakfast every morning was extensive and wonderful . We were so full with indulging every morning.

• Btissam from China (10/10)

  Exceptional resort and the staff were very friendly. Many swimming pool, mini cars available for free to go the beach. I recommend 100%.

• Itay from Austria (10/10)

  Super super cozy!!! We loved it!!!
  Many many pools that so fun and comfortable to spand the whole day in. Restaurant are great and also breakfast area. Beautiful and comfortable.
  
  The spa was perfect for visit. Amazing massage!
  
  The team was soo soo helpful and friendly.
  We had an amazing experience.

• Khary from United Kingdom (10/10)

  The entire property was incredible. The choice of pools amazing and we had the most beautiful room. Would definitely stay here afain

• Madeline from Australia (10/10)

  The pools, the rooms, the restaurants

• Ryan from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Large rooms. Amazing staff. Several swimming pools to choose from, all very nice!

Surroundings

Facilities