Overview: Sat on a peninsula where Maenam and Bo Phut beaches meet, W is blessed with an unparalleled panorama of natural beauty. Still, that doesn’t stop them from pulling out all the stops in terms of creature comforts and then some more. If W Retreat were a woman, she would be a New York jetsetter who cannot live without her Jimmy Choo heels even on the beach. The design features the themes of round shapes, curves, rocks, glasses (inspired by waves)—and warm wood, to tone down the cutting-edge coldness. The all-villa resort has seven types, each with a spacious bedroom and a bath area with private pool and garden.

Food & Drink: Check out the not-to-be-missed Bubbly Breakfast on Sunday (B1,200 for outside guests) that prepares a dizzying array of options until 1pm or try fusion Japanese cuisine at the signature Nami Restaurant right by the beach or sip all six types of mojitos at Woo Bar during the Moo-Hee-Toes Madness every Friday (B888, 5-8pm). Its beach bar, Sip, promises a stunning sunset scene over the two beaches.

Spa: There are all the usual head-to-toe treatments, but the highlight of the Away Spa is its signature Thaimazcal (see our full story, page 14).

Good: Despite swanky uber-stylish designs, the staff is really friendly. Its villas are actually more livable than they look: you could fit the whole family, and feature a real swimable pool—not just a big bathtub. Its SWEAT fitness center not only provides a full range of machines but also daily classes. And there’s a purple-colored (fab!) tennis court, too. Woo Bar has a stunning panorama, made even more stunning after a few drinks.

Bad: Though blessed with a view and two joining beaches, the sand is not really walkable in bare feet—far from Chaweng’s silky powderiness.

Rates: A “Retreat and Surrender” deal (start from B17,000) includes daily breakfast, roundtrip airport transfer, B2,500 credit to spend within the resort and free upgrade. Valid through Mar 31.