Andalay Boutique Resort

Our one-bedroom studio-style room looked out over the pool and ocean, and the beach was just a few steps away. The place is mostly quiet and secluded in the daytime, while couples and families head along the shore at night for food and fire shows. There are plenty of food options after a relaxed walk down the beach, and a few breakfast and coffee spots a short walk or scooter ride down the road. The on-site food and drinks are fine. There’s also a massage hut right by the water, where hearing the waves during a massage was an incredible experience. Keep your expectations in check and it’s great value for a couple visiting Koh Lanta, especially for two or three nights.

We came near the end of the rainy season and, while the place was otherwise really good, the room smelled damp the whole time. We had no hot water a few times, and a lamp blew on our first night. Breakfast could be better with machine coffee instead of instant. Outside, the garden and bar lights were off after 8pm, making it very dark and easy to miss your way on the beach. I think that may have been because we came before the season started. We were told the pool stays open later in November, though it closed at 7pm for us, and the bar closes at 10pm rather than 8pm.

It was handy to rent a scooter directly from the hotel, and the location made it easy to get around. The room was a good size for two, but the beds were hard and uncomfortable, our TV never worked despite staff trying, and we didn’t get fresh towels during our five nights. Nearby beach bars and restaurants made it loud at night, and both the rooms and grounds need better upkeep. Service was poor: staff weren’t friendly or helpful to me, though they were nice to my boyfriend, even when I was friendly with them. For what we paid, I expected a more comfortable stay. We found cheaper places on our three-week trip that were much nicer. I wouldn’t recommend staying more than three nights.

We absolutely loved this place and plan to return. The pool area is stunning, and the beach and nearby restaurants are only a minute’s walk away. Our spacious bungalow had beach and sea views, plus a large shower and bath with lovely gels and shampoos. Everyone on staff was kind and ready to help. Breakfast was included and made fresh to order. Some people wanted more options, but for an 18-room boutique resort we thought the selection was good: eggs, bacon, sausages, pancakes, French toast, fruit, and yogurt. The mattress was too hard, though; two toppers helped a lot, but it still could have been better. We stayed six days in March 2024.