Karon Phunaka Resort and Spa

Set on a forested hillside overlooking the Andaman Sea, this serene resort is 2 km from Karon Beach, and 8 km from the nightlife and shopping in buzzy Patong. Warm rooms with tropical accents come with free Internet access, flat-screen TVs and minifridges, plus tea and coffeemakers. All have pull-out sofas and balconies with sea views; some feature hot tubs. Suites add separate living rooms. A breakfast buffet, a beach shuttle and parking are complimentary. There's also an international restaurant featuring a terrace with views of the sea. Other amenities include a spa, a gym and squash courts, as well as an infinity pool with a kids' section.