The Best Luxury Resorts & Hotels in Southeast Asia

Follow the trail of palm-sprinkled beaches and secluded isles, mesmerising history and peaceful valleys, and wildly beautiful nature, and find yourself on the trip of a lifetime to Southeast Asia. Spanning Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Indonesia, this corner of the world has a hotel for every kind of traveller; from tented jungle hideaways deep in the Cambodian rainforest to cliffside Balinese villas and storied retreats on the banks of the Mekong. And they do just as much work as the destination itself.

In between gazing at serene temples, meeting members of ancient hill tribes or finding bliss on the water (river, lake or ocean – take your pick!) enjoy the fabulous accommodation this corner of the world has to offer. Here are our picks for the best luxury hotels and resorts in Southeast Asia to get you started.

Bensley Collection Shinta Mani Wild

Cardamom Mountains, Cambodia

Just the name ‘Cardamom Mountains’ summons imaginings of lush forests full of fragrant scents and exotic wildlife. Now, imagine taking a helicopter into that jungle and landing at a boutique bolthole that embodies both the spirit of escape and refined luxury. This is Shinta Mani Wild, a tented creation surrounded by thick emerald green jungle and a peacefully babbling river–some tents even extend out over it–with carefully selected decor and canvas bedrooms, plushly bedecked with luxurious textiles. The dining experience is second to none with food foraged daily by the head chef and includes local delicacies such as plump mud crabs, fresh figs and even red ants. The Landing Zone mixologist will whip up all manner of cocktails as you overlook a waterfall – if you’re feeling adventurous you can even zipline to the bar! And we haven’t even mentioned all the incredible jungle adventures. Guess you’ll just have to visit and experience them for yourself…

Getting there

Fly into Sihanoukville (about 45 minutes from Phnom Penh), from where the resort arranges a helicopter transfer into the mountains. Alternatively, it’s a scenic two-hour road transfer and short boat ride.

Soneva Kiri

Koh Kood, Thailand

Koh Kood may be one of Thailand’s largest islands but you would never know it at Soneva Kiri, seated on your private terrace with nothing but jungle behind you and the azure Gulf of Thailand before you. Soneva Kiri might look, at first glance, like a classic island resort but its creativity quickly becomes clear. Like a miniature village, the resort has a setting for every occasion from a cave cellar for atmospheric wine tastings to bamboo pods where you’ll dine suspended in the trees, to a Chocolate Room (do we have your attention?) packed with hand-made treats. And did we mention the over-the-water cinema, tucked into the jungle fronds? Fresh, minimalist rooms range from one-bed villas to six-bedroom residences, each with a freeform infinity pool, sunken outdoor bath, and a personal butler. If you manage to tear yourself from such bliss, take to the water on a kayak, snorkel the colourful reefs, or hike into the forest. And in the morning, wake up to a view that’ll make you think you’re still dreaming.

Getting there

Fly into Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and connect to Trat Airport – about an hour’s flight. From Trat, the resort organises a speedboat transfer to Koh Kood, taking roughly 40 minutes.

Ancient Hue Garden Houses

Hue, Vietnam

In lush grounds beside the aptly-named Perfume River, there are five Imperial Garden Houses, an evocation of authentic dwellings dating back centuries. Built from dark, aged wood and designed according to Feng Shui, the Garden Houses are unique in every way. Each represents a theme from ancient Vietnam, beautifully woven into the design, including traditional musical instruments, poetry carved into the walls and royal costumes hanging grandly. Even dinners are reimaginings of the banquets put on by Nguyen Emperors. Ensconced by greenery, there’s a heated pool and tranquil spa to frequent in your down time, and as for exploring Hue… There are bicycle rides to pretty lakes and archaic temples, walks around the ruined Imperial Citadel and lessons with local artisans – you can even take home your own handmade conical hat.

Getting there

Hue’s Phu Bai International Airport is served by direct domestic flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with journey times of around one hour and 75 minutes respectively. The Garden Houses are a short drive from there.

Paradise Peak Cruise

Halong Bay, Vietnam

An ethereal waterscape of cloistered caves and around 1,600 misty, towering limestone peaks, Halong Bay is a place like no other. Befitting of such a location, Paradise Peak Cruise is one of the most luxurious ‘junk’ boats in its waters. With fluttering terracotta sails and a pristine, white exterior, Paradise Peak cuts a striking figure as it takes you deeper and deeper into the bay. A private butler sees to your every need and you can enjoy sunrise Tai Chi, cooking lessons, afternoon tea and sunset cocktails on the deck (they shouldn’t be missed). And that’s all before you’ve left the ship. There is also a bevy of activities ranging from kayaking and cave tours (learn of fascinating local legends) to floating markets and hikes to reach the most sweeping vistas of the bay.

Getting there

Most guests fly into Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, from where it’s roughly a 2.5-hour private transfer to Halong City’s harbour. The cruise boards typically in the early afternoon.

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp

Chiang Rai, Thailand

We love a good luxury hotel as much as the next person but there’s something about a camp that combines a love for nature with old-fashioned charm. Anantara quickly captures your heart with its commitment to elephant conservation – you’ll have the chance to visit the elephants at bath time and enjoy a picnic in the sanctuary. The stilted rooms are decked out in silks and teak with huge terrazzo tubs and views of three countries at once – Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, do yourself a favour and spend the night in one of their Jungle Bubbles, a fully-furnished transparent pod where you’ll wake up to elephants wandering past. From the riverside bar to the infinity pool and alfresco hot tub, every space at Anantara makes the most of the view. And if you want to see it all up-close, head out on a day of jungle trekking, white-water rafting and zooming through the trees in a Classic 500 sidecar. Now, that’s something you don’t do every day.

Getting there

Fly into Chiang Mai International Airport and connect by domestic flight or road to Chiang Rai – about 45 minutes by air or three hours by road. The camp is roughly 10 kilometres from Chiang Rai town.

Song Saa Private Island

Koh Rong, Cambodia

If your holi-daydreams consist of sparkling waters, over-sea luxury villas and answering to no one but your latest book, we have the spot for you. Song Saa Private Island is the stuff of oceanside dreams. By day, spend your hours snorkelling colourful reefs, taking morning yoga classes or exploring hidden coves by sea kayak. By night, enjoy cocktails and high end cuisine at Vista restaurant as you take in the 360° views, tuck into pizza on the beach, or even have a private cinema set up in your villa (complete with popcorn, of course). There are 27 palm-roofed villas to choose from: jungle villas surrounded by lush tropical trees or stilted spots above the peaceful lapping water. Whichever you choose, you’ll find stylish interiors, sumptuous beds and a private pool waiting. We’re ready to hop on a plane immediately.

Getting there

Fly into Sihanoukville, from where Song Saa arranges a 45-minute speedboat transfer directly to the island.

Six Senses Con Dao

Con Dao, Vietnam

Strolling down the mile-long and utterly secluded beach, Con Son Island feels a million miles from the bustling cities of Vietnam (in reality the mainland is 199km away). Forming part of a national and marine park, the jungle-clad Lo Voi Mountains are an amazing backdrop and before you is an expanse of silky blue sea. Designed to emulate a traditional Vietnamese fishing village, the resort has its own replica high street complete with bottomless scoops at the ice cream parlor and The Market, where Con Dao Sunrise cocktails are served on casual leather swings, and scrumptious seafood and local favourites are prepared at the Chef’s Table. Enjoy a proper pampering at the spa (Six Senses is rather famous for them), which offers lavender baths, island coffee scrubs and heavenly massages. Sitting right on the beach or amongst the palms, the villas are the perfect compliment to this island paradise with breezy wooden interiors and private pools. Activities range from snorkelling and scuba diving with sea turtles to kayaking and forest hikes – keep an eye out for the chattering long-tailed macaques. The perfect ending to a day at Six Senses? A sunset cruise as the water turns gold and the stars emerge from a periwinkle sky.

Getting there

Con Dao Airport receives direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City (around 50 minutes) and Hanoi (around two hours). The resort is a short transfer from the terminal.

Rosewood Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, Laos

Sitting on the outskirts of this picture-perfect town, Rosewood Luang Prabang offers countless moments of genuine solitude. Forests and streams can be seen (and heard) from all over the hotel, and the chic interiors perfectly complement the lush exteriors. Think opulent hilltop tents set in a canopy of trees, suites and villas by the edge of babbling rivers and a pool surrounded by emerald gardens. There’s a restaurant tempting you with five course dinners, a spa offering blissful treatments (and did we mention the glass floor over the river?), as well as yoga, Laotian cooking classes, heritage walks, private dining and river cruises. Have we sold you on this heavenly spot yet?

Getting there

Luang Prabang International Airport receives flights from Bangkok, Hanoi, Vientiane and several other regional hubs. The Rosewood is around 15 minutes from the airport by road.

Phum Baitang Resort

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap may be more about awe-inspiring temples and less about hotels, but we know a spot that might just steal your attention. Phum Baitang Resort is a moment of peace away from the bustle, with plenty of space to unwind in 20 acres of gardens and rice paddies. Undeniably luxurious with impeccable attention to detail – yet entirely free of fussy design – the resort feels like a Cambodia that time forgot. When you’re not busy exploring the local sights, drift lazily around the lush green pool, sip a cocktail in the Sunset Lounge and tuck into exquisite local fare. The succulent lobster with ginger and lime butter and the tender pork belly stew both get our vote. With the rooms’ calming decor, plush king-size beds and quiet surrounds, we dare you not to have an amazing night’s sleep. Exactly what you’ll be searching for after a day amongst the ruins of Angkor.

Getting there

Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport receives flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and various Southeast Asian hubs. The resort is roughly 20 minutes from the terminal.

Rayavadee

Krabi, Thailand

Off the coast of Thailand, Rayavadee sits in the middle of a marine reserve, meaning epic snorkelling and sensational views are guaranteed. It also happens to occupy the same stretch of golden sand as three of Krabi’s most beautiful beaches. You’ll spend a fair amount of time down here, whether it’s dining on lip-smacking seafood, enjoying sunset cocktails, or picnicking on a private sand bar. Back at the resort, there are 94 pavilions and seven villas, some with a private pool and direct beach access. Your butler will see to it that every day on the island is spent without a single worry, zipping you on a buggy to the pool for a good dose of R&R or a waiting boat, ready to take you from one island to the next. Make sure to ask about the journey up 1,200 steps to see the golden Buddha at the Tiger Cave Temple, ‘nature’s jacuzzi’ at the base of a waterfall, and kayaking down the coastline made famous by the movies. As one of our favourite Thailand hotels, they’ll know just how to make your trip extra special.

Getting there

Krabi International Airport is around 45 minutes by road from the resort’s private pier, from where the resort arranges a short longtail boat transfer. Bangkok to Krabi takes roughly 1.5 hours by air.

The Lombok Lodge

North Lombok, Indonesia

With just nine suites overlooking the turquoise expanse of Medana Bay, The Lombok Lodge has it all – an infinity pool, a five-course dinner every evening and a staff-to-guest ratio that would make most five-star hotels blush. It’s Belgian-owned and deeply personal, and it shows in everything from the Acqua di Parma amenities to the in-house band of hotel staff who serenade you over dinner. The suites are clean-lined and deliberately calm — white walls, standalone baths, outdoor showers and terraces facing the sea — with the beach bar and the pool pulling most guests outside. And the food is a genuine highlight. Chef Jiwa Raga spent years in fine-dining kitchens across Indonesia before arriving here, and his five-course dinners (all included) are, in a word, scrumptious. Activities run the full range: turtle feeding and release, PADI-certified scuba dives off the reef, island hopping to the property’s private beach gazebo on Gili Meno, and snorkelling safaris in waters thick with barracuda, lionfish and reef sharks.  Lombok doesn’t try to compete with Bali. It doesn’t need to.

Getting there

Lombok International Airport (BIL) receives direct flights from Bali (about 25 minutes), Singapore and several other hubs. From the airport, it’s roughly 1.5 hours by private transfer along the north coast road — ask the lodge to arrange pickup in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best luxury hotel in Southeast Asia?

It depends on what you’re after — but if we had to pick one, Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains is among the most singular properties in the entire region. For pure island escapism, Six Senses Con Dao is the one that leaves guests most reluctant to leave. For timeless Balinese luxury, Amankila is consistently in a class of its own.

What is the best private island resort in Southeast Asia?

Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago is one of the most coveted – genuinely private, beautifully designed and run with a strong conservation ethos. Soneva Kiri on Thailand’s Koh Kood offers a similar feeling of exclusivity with considerably more activities and culinary flair thrown in.

Which Southeast Asian country has the best luxury hotels?

Thailand, Vietnam and Bali (Indonesia) each offer something unique in the luxury department. Thailand leads for variety, Vietnam rewards travellers willing to go further off the beaten track, and Bali remains the region’s most popular luxury destination for good reason.

What is the best luxury resort in Bali?

Amankila in East Bali is our pick – away from the crowds of the south, with extraordinary views of the Lombok Strait and a level of design and service that few properties in the region can match. For something with more buzz and a clifftop setting, Anantara Uluwatu is another strong contender.

What is the best time to visit Southeast Asia for a luxury holiday?

The dry season – broadly November to April for most of Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam – is when travel is most comfortable. Bali and Lombok are best visited between May and September when the skies are clearer and the seas calmer for diving and island-hopping. That said, a great property makes any season work, and the shoulder months often mean fewer guests and better rates.

Can you combine multiple Southeast Asian countries in one trip?

Absolutely – and we’d encourage it. Thailand and Laos pair beautifully (fly Bangkok to Luang Prabang and work your way back down), while Cambodia and Vietnam are just as easy to combine. Naturally, Indonesia requires some more careful planning but it’s still possible to join with the rest of Southeast Asia. Get in touch and we’ll help you find the right combination of properties and pacing.

Southeast Asia is one of those rare parts of the world where the accommodation can be just as memorable as the destination. We’ve covered a handful of our favourites here – spanning Cambodia’s rainforests, Vietnam’s coast, the tranquillity of Laos, the beaches of Thailand and the volcanic landscapes of Indonesia – but there’s plenty more where that came from. Whether you’re after a single extraordinary property or a multi-country adventure stringing several together, we’re here to help you put together the very best itinerary. Get in touch and let’s start planning.