How2Day: Ao Nang, Thailand Hotels

Enjoy Thai cuisine in Ao Nang. Mark Harris/Photodisc/Getty Images
Ao Nang is primarily a family and sports destination in southern Thailand. It is a well developed area, but still possesses the charm and peacefulness of Thailand. The town is located close to the fishing, diving and kayaking sites of Phang Nga Bay. Other water sports include snorkeling and white-water rafting. Visitors can explore the temples or take an elephant trek. For relaxation Ao Nang offers spa services, island hopping or shopping.

The Sala Talay Resort and Spa in Ao Nang is a contemporary beachfront hotel, located amid tropical vegetation and with views of Ao Nang Bay. The hotel consists of 59 rooms and suites in low-rise buildings. First-floor rooms have swimming pool access and private sun lounge areas. The mangrove suites open to a mangrove garden, and penthouse suites have balconies overlooking the sea and private plunge pools. Deluxe rooms located on the second and third level of the hotel offer sea-view rooms and Balinese-style tropical showers.

The hotel offers 24-hour concierge service, yacht rentals, laundry facilities, a business center and a florist with "made to order" arrangements for guests' convenience. If you bring the kids, there is an outdoor pool for their enjoyment and the hotel offers babysitting services for your special evenings out.

For beachfront dining the Pakarang Thai and Seafood Restaurant serves seafood selections amid outdoor gardens with a sea view. A rooftop restaurant, The Breeze Grill and Wine, serves light meals and snacks and provides panoramic views of the ocean. For cocktails and beverages, visit the Wave Bar or the Pool Bar.

Pakasai Resort features a secluded garden setting near Ao Nang. The resort's 104 rooms and suites have an oriental design and include balconies with views of the gardens and the sea. All rooms include air conditioning, satellite TVs and mini-bar. For trips to the pool or the beach, guests are provided with a beach basket.

At the resort, facilities are available to maintain your fitness regimen. The hotel offers an infinity pool on the rooftop, mountain bikes, a fitness center and spa services, including massage and steam treatments. For touring the area, contact the concierge or the tour desk. For guests' convenience the resort offers nightly turn-down service.

Outdoor dining is available at Dalah Restaurant, overlooking the garden and lotus pond. A breakfast buffet includes Thai and international dishes. Lunch and dinner entrees include seafood dishes and Southern Thai cuisine. At poolside, snacks and beverages are available at the Pool Cafe. Guests can relax at the Adora Bar and enjoy afternoon tea or evening cocktails.

For a quiet getaway, choose the Aonang Paradise Resort, situated just 400 yards from Ao Nang Beach. The resort offers 34 rooms with modern conveniences located in a natural tropical setting. All guestrooms offer private balconies with garden or cliff views. All rooms are air-conditioned, have cable TV and a refrigerator with mini-bar. Larger rooms, suitable for families, have separate bedrooms and living areas offering additional space for children.

Hotel amenities include two swimming pools -- one for adults, and a family pool where children are welcome. A tour desk is available to provide information about local activities.

The Bird of Paradise Restaurant serves Thai and Western foods in an open-air setting. The Sea of Love Bar is located near the swimming pool, and serves cocktails and beverages.

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