Ayara Kamala Resort

Overlooking the Andaman Sea, this posh hillside hotel is 9 minutes' walk from Hua Beach and 5 km from Kamala Beach. Featuring plush furnishings and balconies, the elegant rooms offer sea views, Wi-Fi, flat-screens, sofas and desks. Upgraded rooms and suites have whirlpool tubs, direct pool access and/or private pools. Luxurious 1- to 5-bedroom villas add kitchens.There's a swanky restaurant, a glass-enclosed lounge, a private beach, and an infinity pool with a cocktail bar, as well as a gym and a tennis court. Thai cooking classes, massages and spa treatments are available, as are breakfast and parking.