Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Conjure a daydream of paradisical Thailand, and the mind’s eye might summon the Krabi seascape, where a dream-like tableau of overgrown granite islands rises from a shimmering Andaman horizon. Sitting atop golden sands, Ritz Carlton Phulay Bay guests live out this sun-drenched fantasy. Hemmed by virgin rainforest and ocean-facing at every opportunity, you won’t miss a minute of the property’s cinematic front-row vista.

Pinch-me moments start upon arrival with grand design framing Mother Nature’s largesse. A lengthy corridor of royal-purple walls ushers guests into the property’s inner sanctuary, opening to a stately pavilion rising out of an infinity pool hidden with a wall of trees. Ferried around the expansive, lush grounds by golf cart, views of Phulay Bay and its smattering of islands peek through stands of palm trees and thick foliage.

The 54 suites and villas are borderline palatial, resplendent in jewel-like accents, Thai design motifs, and dramatic architectural elements. Step straight from lavish rooms onto ocean or garden-view decks and terraces, many of which boast private swimming pools.

Start the day with yoga or Muay Thai, followed by dips in the pool. Reserve time for a Thai-inspired spa treatment and then a contemplative soak in the garden-wrapped vitality pool. Forays off-property include island-hopping around the bay and hiking Dragon Crest Mountain to reach a scenic viewpoint. When you’ve worked up an appetite, both restaurant and private dining options abound. Sip casual cocktails and light snacks delivered straight to poolside daybeds or savor captivating Thai cuisine in intimate settings. Take a seat on the lantern-lit outdoor deck at Lae Lay for pulled-fresh-from-the-Andaman seafood or opt for a personal barbecue on the beach as dusk descends over Krabi. Whatever you need at Phulay Bay is just a “Ton Hong” butler service away.