Khao Lak, Thailand, November 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Transformative project unveils extensive renovation and expansion including an additional 127 rooms and villas, the Aqua Play Zone, new dining outlets and one of the largest event spaces in southern Thailand. Pioneering resort, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa has opened its doors to guests following an 18-month long renovation and expansion that has transformed the property and set a new beanchmark for fully-integrated luxury resort experiences in Thailand.
The reimagination of the resort completes the vision of creating a “destination within a destination” and heralds a new era for Khao Lak, Thailand hottest beach destination located an hour’s drive north of Phuket International Airport. This is due largely to the considerable additions that open up new market segments for the destination – but also importantly due to the innovative guest experiences that have been introduced.
“We are delighted to be unveiling JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa today. There is high demand for fully-integrated, beachfront resort experiences in Thailand from around the world and we are positioned to deliver this across multiple segments and market sectors. I believe Khao Lak is ready and I believe the destination will become one of Thailand’s leading leisure tourism and MICE hubs in the years to come,” said Abhimanyu Singh, General Manager, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa.
A total of 127 additional rooms and villas have been built: 76 Deluxe Lagoon Pool View Rooms, 28 Deluxe Lagoon Pool Access Rooms, 20 Family Pool Access Studios, two One-Bedroom Villas and, for the ultimate escape, the Two-Bedroom Villa, to create a total of 420 rooms, suites and villas – including 178 with direct access to a private pool or the resort’s 2.4 km lagoon pool waterway – the longest in Southeast Asia.
Inspired by traditional southern Thai houses, the standalone villas are located on Khuk Khak Beach, overlooking the Andaman Sea. The one-bedroom villas feature naturally-lit living spaces with contemporary furnishings, spa-inspired bathrooms and extensive outdoor space, including a private pool. While the two-bedroom villa spans 213 square meters, with a master king bedroom and a twin bedroom for children, extended family or friends, featuring two separate infinity pools.
The new accommodation is complemented by new facilities, such as the Aqua Play Zone, an exhilarating new destination for families and where the water fun, literally, lasts all day long. Highlights include the wave pool where kids and families get the chance to duck and dive before heading over to the fountain trampoline, a creative water activity designed for, what else, jumping!
The watery theme continues with an oversized blue slide before kids and parents can retreat to the Sala Restaurant & Bar, a cool, casual outlet right next to the slide serving comfortable, familiar and healthy classics. Sala is expected to quickly become basecamp for kids during their stay so they are close to the action – and can take part in the daily pasta making, mixology masterclasses and marshmallow roasting held at Sala.
Kids can also have a go at “sea boxing”, help the environment in the Art of Trash workshop, or simply cruise around the 2.4 km pool on their floating hammocks, grabbing an ice-cold fresh coconut on the way courtesy of the resort boats that ply the waters – before catching a movie at the beach. Alternatively, families can enjioy beach picnic in one family tent – or enjoy the interactive Teppankayi Show at Sakura Japanese restaurant.
The resort’s collection of 11 restaurants and bars offer an array of dining choices, ranging from traditional Thai cuisine with sunset views at Ta-Krai to authentic Italian cuisine at Olive, and international fare at Waterfront. New additions include Sala Restaurant & Pool Bar, while Drift Beach Bar & Grill is the resort’s new steak and seafood grill, inspired by regional Mediterranean cuisine. All-day refreshments and cocktails can be enjoyed at the Deli, Beach Bar, Infinity Pool Bar, Aquamarine Pool Bar and Czar Lobby Bar.
Vacations are all about reconnecting with your loved ones, and a key ingredient for this is JW Garden, an outdoor space dedicated to cultivating organic vegetables. Here families are guided by the resort’s chef to pick fresh ingredients and learn how to cook Thai dishes. Alternatively, guests can enjoy a family picnic among the fragrant herbs and flowers, or even in the privacy of their own suite or villa.
A brand-new ballroom is a major part of the expansion creating a new MICE destination in southern Thailand. Chic, stylish and naturally-lit, the 758-square meter venue can host up to 810 attendees for life’s most meaningful and memorable moments, such as gala dinners, award ceremonies, corporate conventions, nad weddings. It is fully equipped with the latest audio-visual technology, can be flexibly divided into three separate spaces for more intimate events, and the inviting pre-function area can also host exhibitions.
JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa is also complemented by a sister property on-site, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites, an exclusive collection of 52 stylish two-bedroom suites range from 89 to 111 square meters with bright indoor and outdoor spaces, southern Thai-inspired design, contemporary living areas and private terraces or balconies that overlook the natural tropical surroundings. On the ground floor, pool access suites allows guests to step straight into the inviting 2.4 km-long lagoon swimming pool.
Other facilities and experiences include a fully-equipped fitness center, tennis and squash courts, the Kids Club and Quan Spa, which offers holistic healing therapies from traditional Thai massages to revitalizing body wraps and scrubs, many of which use organic coconut oil produced onsite at the resort. A series of serene spaces such as cozy cabanas let guests reconnect and create memorable moments, whilst Khuk Khak Beach offers an idyllic setting to stroll, splash or sit in the shade of palm trees.
About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.
About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques.
