Tucked beneath leafy green foliage, the Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort & Spa is a quiet barefoot luxury retreat in Krabi. Backed by the Hang Nak Mountain and leading directly onto a private stretch of beach overlooking 13 islands in the Andaman Sea, this blissful resort promises peaceful living and beautiful warm and sheltered waters.
While our stay at the Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort & Spa was short and sweet, we managed to pack a lot in. Had we stayed longer, our trip would have perhaps been more leisurely as the sheer volume of things to do at the resort had our brief three days really chock-a-block. From day trips out to the nearby islands, enjoying the resort’s Happy Hour at sunset to Thai cooking classes and relaxing spa treatments, this is a resort that strikes the perfect balance: do as much or as little as you like.
Want to learn more about this resort on Krabi's east coast? Take a look at our full review below.
Why we recommend the Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort & Spa – Relax in total tranquillity
"During our three night stay at the Tubkaak, which means “home for visitors”, we discovered just how true this name really is. Warmly welcomed by reception staff as well as the resident manager, we couldn’t have felt more at home than if we had been back in the UK.
"The quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the resort is something we love, ideal for those who want to get away from it all. As the hotel is suited for older kids only, it has the feel of an adults-only resort. Plus, they've thought of and provided everything you could ever need during your stay with a wide variety of books available for light holiday reading at the library plus a complimentary beach bag filled with towels, sandals and Thai fans!
"Plus, unlike other resorts, the Tubkaak doesn’t allow long-tail boats to dock at the resort ensuring the noisy motors don’t disturb the peace and privacy of the beach. Instead, long-tail boats are ordered from a local contact as and when they are needed."
Best for… the laidback traveller
For those in search of a resort where you're expected to do nothing more than simply lounge in the sunshine perhaps with a fruity cocktail close to hand, look no further. In fact, Tubkaak even has a barefoot etiquette: shoes should be removed when you enter your room or hotel spaces. Buckets of water are located around the resort for you to wash the sand off your feet when stepping off the beach or entering your room!
Where is the resort located?
Tubkaak is tucked away from the main road, behind a line of bamboo and green foliage, enticing guests in with its rustic wooden walkway and beach hut vibes. The resort's private beach sprawls out across Krabi's east coast and the exclusive location ensures you'll be wonderfully hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
Attractions near Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort & Spa
- Climb to Dragon Crest – Venturing out on this viewpoint requires nerves of steel but you'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Krabi's beaches and islands after a steep climb through thick forest.
- Visit Mirror Lake – Just 20 minutes away by car, at Mirror Lake you can take the afternoon to unwind in a wonderfully peaceful setting. The waters here are unbelievably clear and you can even rent a transparent kayak to see what's going on below.
- Plan a day trip to Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) – This vibrant temple is located around 45 minutes away by car but is worth the journey. Upon arrival, you're greeted by stunning red and green coloured steps, leading the way up to the intricately decorated temple itself. Once you reach the top, you'll find the main feature – a giant golden Buddha statue.
Rooms and accommodation at Tubkaak Krabi
Despite being an intimate boutique resort, the Tubkaak still manages to provide a wide choice of room types. The Superior (ground floor) and Deluxe Rooms (second floor) are set around the pool area, the Garden Rooms are slightly more private while the Sea View Rooms are larger and offer views of the ocean.
Premier Pool Villas are set at the back of the resort with their own pool while the Beach Pool Villas have pools with direct access to the beach. For those looking for something a little more spacious and private, opt for a Suite – the Laurel Suite with sea views, the Haven Suite built around a tree which brings the outside inside or the beachfront Tubkaak Suite – the top room category with a private infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
Our favourite room?
The Premier Pool Villa. We may be slightly biased because this was the room category we stayed in, but we found it the most private with a spacious indoor area and private pool. The hidden pool and bathtub is perfect for couples and honeymooners.
What to do & where to eat at Tubkaak Krabi
Even though Tubkaak does all it can to create a setting so relaxed you'll simply want to do nothing more than sprawl out on a swinging hammock or spend your day in the tranquil setting of the on-site spa, there is still plenty to see and do.
Indulge in a cocktail...or two
Don’t miss the daily Happy Hour available at the Arundina at sunset every evening. Some evenings, there is even live entertainment or you could plan to enjoy the poolside and beachfront service – order a cocktail while sunning yourself with a view of the ocean.
Spa by starlight
Experience the spa with its unusual cocoon-like pods. We recommend booking a night-time spa treatment where you can enjoy the incredible effects of the lighting against the wicker walls.
Always choose Thai food
Opt for Thai food over Italian. The Thai food is much better and can even be ordered in from the comfort of your room (great for those rainy days!). We also recommend the caramelised rice served in a leaf at breakfast.
Book one of the day trips from the resort
There are plenty of day trips available from the resort which can all be organised with the local long-tail boat drivers by the reception team. We recommend the Half Day Hong Islands tour which takes place between 8am and 2pm.
You’ll be picked up from the beachfront in a private long-tail boat and driven by a local Thai boat driver (English is minimal) where you can snorkel the bay at Hong Island and see the limestone formations of these impressive volcanic islands, including Lading Island and Pakbia Island. We saw a baby reef shark and plenty of colourful fish! Make sure you go early as Hong Island gets busier towards the middle of the day. The tour includes a private long-tail boat and snorkel gear.
Sign up for a Thai cooking class
Cooking, on holiday? While this is something we wouldn’t normally do, at Tubkaak we'll make an exception. We highly recommend signing up for one of the resort's Thai cooking classes that allow you to take a taste of Thailand home to share with your friends and family members. You’ll cook with fresh ingredients and learn simple and traditional Thai cooking methods preparing a range of authentic dishes.
Stretch it out with daily yoga classes
Whether you're an experienced yogi or just fancy a good stretch, sign up for one of the yoga classes that look out over the ocean. Classes are available nearly every day of the week with towels, chilled water and bug spray also provided.
Good to know
You'll enjoy a complimentary minibar when you first arrive. This means that the first selection of soft drinks, sparkling water and beer are free. Enjoy!
Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort & Spa FAQs
How do I get to the Tubkaak Krabi?
Depending on where you are coming from, we would suggest taking a road transfer from your previous hotel to the Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort & Spa as it’s the fastest, most comfortable and most scenic route. We can arrange your transfers for you in advance and your driver will pick you up directly from the resort reception and take you door to door. Should you wish to arrive by ferry, your Best at Travel consultant can also arrange this for you in advance.
How far is the Tubkaak Krabi Resort from Tubkaek beach?
The resort is very close to the beach which takes just minutes to reach on foot.
Can I hire a bicycle at this resort?
Yes, you can take out one of the resort’s four free bicycles and explore the surrounding area at your own leisure.
Is the Tubkaak Krabi Resort family-friendly?
The resort allows older children to stay but isn't the best choice for younger families.
Is there free Wi-Fi at this hotel?
Yes, you can access free Wi-Fi in the resort's public areas. There are also computers available to use in the library that have access to the Internet.
Does the Tubkaak Krabi offer a shuttle bus service to Krabi town?
Yes, there is a round trip shuttle service available which costs around 350 baht per person, which takes you to Krabi town where you can explore the markets, order off the menu in authentic Thai restaurants and explore the Wat Kaew Korawaram temple that overlooks the town.
Find the perfect hotel in Thailand
We know how confusing it can be to pick a hotel with the wealth of options that exist out there. That’s why we’re constantly sending out our travel experts to do the hard work for you. We’ve also tried and tested Kata Rocks, the Ritz-Carlton Koh Sumai and Zeavola Resort in Phi Phi Island. Take a look at our reviews!
Want to plan your own stay at the Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort & Spa? Browse the hotel online or call our Thailand experts to start planning your holiday today!