Honestly, if you’re looking for the neon lights and chaotic energy of Ao Nang, you’re going to hate it here. People often book the Amari Vogue Krabi thinking it’s just another "central" Krabi resort, but then they realize they’re a 25-minute drive from the nearest 7-Eleven. This place is basically the definition of secluded. It sits on Tubkaek Beach, which is widely considered one of the quietest stretches of sand in mainland Thailand. If you want peace, you've found it. If you want a party, you’ve made a mistake.
The resort is built into a steep hillside. That’s the first thing you notice. It’s gorgeous, with that traditional Lanna-inspired architecture—dark woods, peaked roofs, and those iconic stone elephants everywhere—but man, those stairs are no joke. You’ll definitely get your steps in.
The Reality of Tubkaek Beach
Tubkaek isn't like Railay. There are no massive limestone cliffs hanging directly over your head while you swim. Instead, you get this panoramic, wide-angle view of the Hong Islands shimmering on the horizon. It feels more open, more private.
Because it’s a bit tucked away, the water is usually calmer here. You can grab a kayak from the resort—most of the time they’re free for guests—and just paddle out. If you're lucky, you'll have the water to yourself. But keep in mind, the tide goes out far. When it’s low tide, the beach turns into a wide flat of sand and pebbles. It's not great for swimming then, but it’s perfect for spotting tiny crabs and exploring the shoreline.
Room Vibes: Modern Meets Old-School Thai
The rooms at Amari Vogue Krabi recently went through a renovation, and they managed to keep the "Thai" feel without it looking like a dusty museum. You’ve got the Superior Rooms which are about 40 square meters—plenty for a couple—but the real winners are the Grand Deluxe Premium rooms. Why? Because they have these massive spa baths on the balcony.
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Imagine this: It’s 6:00 PM, the sun is dipping behind the islands, and you’re soaking in a tub with a cold Singha beer. That’s the peak Amari experience.
If you’re traveling with a crew or just want to flex, the One Bedroom Pool Villas are tucked away in the gardens. They feel like a private estate. They’ve got separate living areas and a plunge pool that’s actually big enough to move in, not just a glorified bathtub.
Eating at the Edge of the Andaman
Food is usually the part where "secluded" resorts fail because they know you’re a captive audience. Amari is surprisingly decent, though.
- Lotus Restaurant: This is where you’ll do breakfast. It’s a mix of international stuff and actual Thai food. Get the Thai omelet.
- Marco’s Restaurant and Bar: This is the beachfront spot. It’s more Mediterranean and Pan-Asian. It’s a bit pricier than what you’ll find in Krabi Town, obviously, but you’re paying for the fact that your feet are basically in the sand.
- Voyager Café: They actually serve Starbucks coffee here. For some people, that’s a dealbreaker in a "local" experience, but for others, it's a godsend when you need a familiar caffeine fix at 10:00 AM.
The "Stair" Factor and Logistics
I have to mention the stairs again. If you have mobility issues or you're traveling with someone who does, this might not be the spot. The resort cascades down the hill toward the ocean. It’s beautiful, but it means walking up and down a lot.
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Getting here is pretty straightforward but takes time. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Krabi International Airport (KBV). The resort can arrange a transfer, or you can grab a taxi at the airport. Just don’t expect to "pop into town" easily. A round-trip taxi to Ao Nang will probably run you 800 to 1,000 Thai Baht depending on your haggling skills.
What to Do While You're There
Don't just sit by the pool the whole time. You're right at the doorstep of the Dragon Crest (Khao Ngon Nak) Mountain trail. It’s a 3-minute walk from the resort entrance.
Warning: The hike is brutal. It’s about 3.7 kilometers of uphill climbing. But the view from the top? It’s arguably the best in Thailand. You see the entire coastline of Krabi and the islands spread out like green gumdrops in the blue water.
Alternatively, hop on a longtail boat directly from the beach in front of the hotel. You can head to Hong Island in about 20-30 minutes. Going early is the secret. If you leave at 8:00 AM, you beat the massive crowds coming from Phuket and Ao Nang. You get that pristine lagoon all to yourself for a golden half-hour.
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Is it Worth the Price?
Look, Amari Vogue Krabi is a solid 4.5-star experience. It’s not the ultra-expensive Phulay Bay (Ritz-Carlton) next door, but it’s a significant step up from the budget bungalows. It occupies a weirdly perfect middle ground.
You get the high-end service—the staff are famously nice and will probably remember your name by day two—without the $1,000-a-night price tag. It’s perfect for a honeymoon or a "reset" trip where you just want to disappear for a week.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
- Book the Premium Room: If the price difference isn't huge, the balcony tub is worth every penny.
- Download Grab: The Grab app (like Uber) works in Krabi, but it’s hit-or-miss at Tubkaek. Still, it gives you a baseline price so you don't get ripped off by private drivers.
- Happy Hour is Key: Sunset at the beach bar is the time to buy drinks. Prices drop, and the view is free.
- BYO Snacks: Since there are no convenience stores nearby, grab some snacks and extra water in Krabi Town or Ao Nang before you head to the resort.
To make the most of your trip, try to schedule your Hong Island boat tour for a weekday. The lagoon gets packed on Saturdays and Sundays with local tourists and larger tour groups, and having that crystal-clear water to yourself makes the experience feel much more like the "vogue" escape the resort promises.