SAii Phi Phi Island Village Review: Paradise Found

Discover the SAii Phi Phi Island Village Resort: this comprehensive review covers everything from its luxurious amenities and charming villas to its diverse dining options and stunning location.

If you’re looking to experience the iconic Phi Phi Islands in a serene and natural setting, away from the bustling crowds, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is the perfect choice. It seamlessly blends luxury and adventure, offering an unforgettable getaway.

My husband and I spent three nights at this idyllic resort, and with so much to do and explore, our time there flew by. We left wishing we could stay longer!

Without further ado, let’s dive into the details of our stay to help you decide if this resort is the perfect fit for your next Thailand escape.

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Overview of SAii Phi Phi Island Village

Located on the northeastern coast of Ko Phi Phi Don, the largest island in the Koh Phi Phi archipelago, SAii Phi Phi Island Village feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle that often defines this popular destination.

Ksenia standing next to a SAii Phi Phi Island Village welcome sign on the resort's beach

The rustic lobby at the resort — Resort lobby

Arriving at the resort via speedboat from Phuket, I was immediately captivated by its stunning natural setting. Towering cliffs form a dramatic backdrop, lush tropical greenery surrounds the property, and a pristine white sandy beach stretches into the sparkling turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. It’s the kind of place that feels like stepping into paradise.

True to its name, the resort is designed to resemble a traditional Thai village. Guests stay in stilted villas with charming thatched roofs, dine beachfront, and spend their days relaxing by the pools or enjoying the sea. The resort is spread out, but complimentary bikes make it easy to get around.

Resort villas with thatched roofs inspired by traditional Thai rural architecture surrounded by tropical greenery. — Resort villas with charming thatched roofs

During my stay, I felt a true sense of escape. That said, the resort ensures you don’t have to sacrifice luxury or modern conveniences. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic retreat or a family ready for an adventure amidst breathtaking surroundings, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is sure to delight you.

Resort Facilities

SAii Phi Phi Island Village ensures that guests have everything they need for an unforgettable stay.

The stunning beach, called Lo Ba Kao, is undoubtedly the highlight of the resort, featuring a sandy seabed and calm, crystal-clear waters. It’s a joy to take a dip or grab some snorkelling gear to explore the underwater world.

The resort beach and crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea

While low tide limits swimming in the sea, this is hardly an issue thanks to the resort’s two spacious pools.

At one end of the property is the fun pool, complete with a swim-up bar and a water slide that’s perfect for younger guests. One of the first things my husband and I did after arriving was take a relaxing soak in this pool, tropical piña colada in hand.

At the opposite end lies the lazy pool, a tranquil spot where you can swim while enjoying sea views. Both pools also feature jacuzzi areas for that added touch of luxury.

The lazy pool at SAii Phi Phi Island Village — Lazy pool

For those who like to stay active on holiday, the resort offers a gym and a tennis court. However, where SAii Phi Phi Island Village truly excels is in its sea-related activities, from its Marine Discovery Centre to diving excursions (more on these later!).

If relaxation is what you’re after, be sure to book a treatment at the Len Forest Spa. Perched on a hill amidst lush trees, it is a hidden sanctuary. You can also opt for a traditional Thai massage at the poolside salas if you prefer to stay outdoors.

Next to the lobby, you’ll find the resort’s shop that offers everything from snacks and sunscreen to clothing and Thai souvenirs.

As previously mentioned, the resort is quite spread out. Along with the bikes, you can also request a buggy service via the hotel app.

The clothing and accessories on sale at the resort shop — Inside the resort shop

Rooms at SAii Phi Phi Island Village

Guests at SAii Phi Phi Island Village can choose from a range of bungalows and villas, varying in size and location. Options include garden, beachfront, and secluded hillside settings, with some villas featuring private pools for an extra level of luxury.

My husband and I stayed in a Deluxe Garden Villa, set among swaying palm trees and vibrant tropical blooms. While the villa exudes charming, rustic vibes on the outside, the interior is a bright, airy haven of modern luxury.

The deluxe garden villa where Ksenia stayed at — The villa where we stayed

You enter the villa through sliding glass doors that open into a compact yet thoughtfully designed sleeping area. The space features all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including a luxurious bed, premium coffee and tea selections, and a smart lighting system. Thanks to the clever layout, the room offers garden views no matter where you’re positioned.

The compact but stylish sleeping area of the villa

The décor of the sleeping area and the walk-in wardrobe in the villa

The villa also includes a spacious bathroom and dressing area, complete with a generous waterfall shower and luxurious toiletries for that added touch of sophistication.

The vanity unit and the shower at the villa

My favourite feature of the villa was the large covered outdoor terrace overlooking the lush garden. It was pure bliss to relax there in the shade, soaking in the natural surroundings while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee.

A thoughtful addition was the inclusion of insect repellent in the room. With the nearby mangroves attracting plenty of bugs, this practical touch helped ensure we could fully enjoy the setting without any unwanted attention from the local wildlife.

Ksenia enjoying the outdoor terrace at the villa

Food and Drink

The resort boasts a variety of restaurants and bars, catering to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Thai cuisine or something lighter and more casual, there’s a dining option to suit you. I’ll discuss each in more detail in a moment.

In addition to the regular dining venues, the resort offers some special gastronomic experiences to elevate your stay. For an unforgettable romantic evening, consider booking a private beach dinner.

Choose from a range of set menus, from authentic Thai to a Mediterranean-style barbecue, and enjoy your meal at an intimate, candlelit table with uninterrupted views of the sea.

For a touch of indulgence straight out of Instagram, the resort also offers the iconic floating breakfast experience. Guests staying in pool villas can enjoy it in the privacy of their pool, while others can opt to have it arranged at the lazy pool.

Last but not least, you can also learn about the secrets of Thai cuisine by booking a cooking class with the resort’s resident chef. You’ll learn to prepare several dishes, choosing between the classic Thai and healthy set menus, and leave with a new skill to remember your trip by.

Api restaurant

Api Restaurant is the resort’s main all-day dining venue, offering beach views and a rustic design inspired by its natural surroundings and traditional Thai architecture.

Each morning, Api hosts an impressive breakfast buffet with something to please every palate. Guests can choose from healthy options like juices, smoothies, and tropical fruits; hot Western and Asian breakfast staples; freshly made omelettes; and indulgent treats like pastries and waffles.

Breakfast buffet at the Api Restaurant at SAii Phi Phi Island Village

The pancake and waffle station — Pancake and waffle station

Two personal highlights for me were the freshly prepared noodle soup, brimming with herbs and greens in an aromatic broth, and the crispy Chinese-style doughnuts served with condensed milk. The latter was a decadent treat, but I reassured myself I’d burn it off with a swim!

In the evening, Api offers a choice between buffet-style dinners, featuring changing culinary themes, and an à la carte menu. During our stay, the buffet themes included Japanese, Thai, and Mediterranean cuisine, each offering a variety of delicious options.

The à la carte menu is also available at lunchtime, with a mix of Thai and international dishes, including Mediterranean and Indian favourites. There is also an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan options which is not always common in Thailand.

For dinner at Api, we opted for the à la carte menu. I indulged in the crab meat pasta, while my husband chose one of the specials: a slow-braised aromatic beef stew inspired by traditional Thai recipes. He declared it one of the best meals of our trip.

Ksenia enjoying her crab pasta at Api Restaurant

Slow-braised aromatic beef stew special — Thai-style slow-braised stew

Api also features a bar area, perfect for relaxing with live music in the evenings, enjoying pre-dinner cocktails, or sipping a refreshing fruit shake in the afternoon.

Mr. Tomyam

Mr. Tomyam, located by the Fun Pool, offers a chic alfresco dining experience with its red tile-clad bar, rustic lighting, and charming thatched roof. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back lunch or a casual break from lounging poolside.

The menu is a global fusion of flavours, featuring everything from pizza and paninis to southeast Asian curries and burgers. The pizza selection stands out, offering both classic options like Margherita and Parma Ham as well as creative east-meets-west combos, incorporating seafood and aromatic curry pastes toppings for a unique twist.

In addition to an array of juices, soft drinks, and coffee, Mr. Tomyam boasts an impressive cocktail menu. Guests can enjoy timeless favourites like the Mai Tai and Cosmopolitan or explore a signature collection of drinks inspired by the bar’s tropical setting.

Miss Olive Oyl

Miss Olive Oyl is a stylish Mediterranean restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience with superb beachfront views. The cosy interior is inspired by the Med, featuring intricate tiles and a chic wine display, perfectly complementing its idyllic seaside setting.

As a warm welcome, guests are treated to complimentary focaccia to start their meal. The menu then takes you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, showcasing dishes like Greek salad, classic Italian pastas, and the bold, rich flavours of Moroccan tagine and harissa soup. For seafood lovers like me, the restaurant highlights the best of local catches, including tiger prawns, seabass, and lobster.

During our visit, I opted for the moreish bruschetta and grilled tuna steak, which was expertly cooked and paired beautifully with sautéed spinach. For those choosing fish or seafood, I highly recommend the Prego wine, a refreshing Pinot Grigio that perfectly complements the tropical evening setting.

Bruschetta starter (left) and Ksenia enjoying her tuna steak (right)

Miss Olive Oyl is open exclusively for dinner service and is a popular choice among guests. To secure the best table with uninterrupted sea views, I suggest making a reservation a day in advance which can be easily done via the resort app.

Ruan Thai

Ruan Thai is a smart restaurant that showcases the best of traditional Thai cuisine in a beautiful setting. It quickly became my favourite dining spot during our stay at SAii Phi Phi.

Housed in an elegant building inspired by traditional Thai architecture, the restaurant’s hillside location offers stunning sea views. Guests can dine inside the two beautifully designed halls or at the outdoor courtyard surrounded by lush greenery—just don’t forget to apply mosquito repellent! Our dinner was made even more special with the gentle sounds of live traditional Thai music accompanying the evening.

The menu at Ruan Thai spans regional specialties, offering everything from zesty salads and aromatic curries to fiery soups, stir-fried delicacies, and indulgent desserts. We opted for a three-course meal, choosing a starter, main, and dessert.

Highlights of our meal included the spicy papaya salad with soft-shell crab, the comforting khao soi noodles with melt-in-your-mouth chicken, and the delicious stir-fried cashew chicken. Naturally, we concluded the meal with the quintessential mango sticky rice, which was the perfect sweet ending.

Starters at Ruan Thai: spring rolls and papaya salad with soft shell crab

Ksenia enjoying a cocktail (left) and khao soi noodles (right)

If you’re planning a stay at SAii Phi Phi, a dinner at Ruan Thai is a must. Be sure to book your table through the app.

Bean/Co

Bean/Co is a laid-back café located between the lobby area and Api restaurant, offering a selection of sandwiches, delectable pastries, cakes, and—as the name suggests—quality coffee. Guests can enjoy their treats at the alfresco seating area or opt for takeaway.

With operating hours from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM, Bean/Co is the perfect spot for a light lunch, an afternoon snack, or an after-dinner sweet indulgence.

During our stay, my husband and I often found ourselves at Bean/Co after dinner. It was the ideal place to unwind when we weren’t quite ready to return to our room but didn’t feel like heading to a bar.

If you don’t quite fancy a pastry, Bean/Co serves premium Mövenpick ice cream, with some amazing flavours to choose from—blueberry cheesecake, anyone?

Activities

As I’ve mentioned before, the highlight of staying at the SAii Phi Phi Island Village is the wide range of water-based activities available to guests. Here’s a closer look at what’s on offer.

Marine Discovery Centre

The resort is home to a Marine Discovery Centre, where you can learn about the local ecosystem. With Phi Phi Islands being part of the Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, the marine life around the islands is diverse and of high importance.

The Centre has a shark room and clownfish room where these species are nurtured before being released into the wild. The activity programme at the Centre includes educational sessions for younger guests, beach cleaning and mangrove planting.

I felt that it was a great touch to have something like this at the resort. Phi Phi Islands are stunning, but also fragile and it’s ultimately up to us whether the future generations will get to enjoy them too.

Water Sports and Diving

The Marine Discovery Centre also doubles as the activity centre. This is where you can hire kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkelling gear to explore the local area at your own pace. Trails for local snorkelling and mangrove kayaking are available via the resort app.

Adjacent to the Discovery Centre is the diving centre. With an abundance of excellent dive locations around the Phi Phi Islands, the SAii team can help you organise an unforgettable trip tailored for your level of experience.

You can also invest in a training package and achieve your PADI certification while staying at the resort.

Excursions

If you would like to explore the Phi Phi Islands, you can easily organise longtail or speed boat day trips, with both small group and private options available. The full schedule is available at the Marine Discovery Centre.

My husband and I did an early morning longtail boat trip to Phi Phi Leh to see the famous Maya Bay. We also had a swim stop at the breathtaking Pileh Lagoon and a snorkelling session at Monkey Bay back on Phi Phi Don.

The trip was the highlight of our stay, and the early start allowed us to experience Maya Bay with fewer crowds. You can’t completely avoid them unfortunately.

The fact that this was all organised via the resort removed all hassle from the experience. If we stayed for longer, we would have gone for more snorkelling trips. For example, we’ve heard Bamboo Island comes highly recommended.

Land Activities

If the weather is not great or you fancy a break from the sea, the resort offers some land-based activities too. The Activity Centre runs arts and craft sessions, introductory Thai lessons and board game activities.

For something different, you can book as astro session to learn about the night sky or go for a tarot reading to help you gain some personal insights or, who knows, maybe even get a glimpse of the future.

Location

The northern coast of Phi Phi Don island, where the SAii resort is located, has a completely different atmosphere to Tonsai Bay, the island’s main town. With just a handful of resorts, it is a tranquil area where you can simply relax and immerse yourself in nature.

Just outside the resort, you’ll find a small village with shops, tour desks, massage outlets, a few restaurants and bars, as well as a pharmacy. The bars are quite low-key, and the nightlife there is subdued.

The local village in the evening — Night out at the local village

There are no cars, which adds to the area’s charm. The village does have a limited taxi service, consisting of mopeds with adjacent seats, but these don’t travel particularly far.

You can also explore the area on foot and reach local beaches and viewpoints via existing tracks. Signposts are available to help you navigate, and the distances between places are not vast. However, some trails can be steep and quite uneven in parts.

Access to Tonsai Bay

It’s worth noting that there are no roads connecting the resort and the island’s main town, Tonsai Bay. You can reach it on foot, which takes about an hour, or by taking a longtail boat, which takes approximately 30 minutes.

The longtail boat service to Tonsai Bay operates multiple departures and can be booked via the hotel app. The cost is 300 baht (US $8.50) per person, one way. The boat departs directly from the resort.

If you were hoping to enjoy Tonsai Bay’s famous nightlife, you might be better off combining a stay in Tonsai with some time at SAii Phi Phi. Otherwise, transportation could prove challenging.

This wasn’t an issue for us personally, however. We visited Tonsai Bay using the hotel’s longtail boat service and found that the town wasn’t really much to write home about. A day trip was more than enough to experience it.

For more information on this destination, check out my guide to Phi Phi Islands.

Getting to the Resort

SAii Phi Phi operates its own boat transfer, departing from the Royal Phuket Marina on the eastern coast of Phuket. There are two departures daily, at 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, with the journey taking just over an hour, depending on sea conditions.

At the marina, SAii Phi Phi has its own lounge where guests can wait for their speedboat to be prepared while enjoying refreshments and air conditioning. Sea sickness tablets are also provided, should you need them.

The cost of the transfer is 1,800 baht (US $52) per person, one way. This price also includes land transport from your starting point in Phuket. You can request the transfer through the resort’s website.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is an ideal choice for those looking to escape from it all without compromising on luxury and engaging activities. I personally found that staying at the resort was a fantastic way to enjoy the best of the island while minimising its downsides

We would be more than happy to stay there again, but next time I would definitely extend our visit to have more time to fully appreciate the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands.

For the best rates and exclusive offers, I recommend booking directly through the SAii Phi Phi Island Village website.

If you would like to combine your stay in Koh Phi Phi with some time in Phuket, I highly recommend checking into SAii Laguna Phuket, the sister resort of SAii Phi Phi. Laid-back luxury, excellent amenities and a fantastic beach await!

Koh Samui calling your name? Check out why SAii Koh Samui Villas or Santiburi Koh Samui should be your next stop.

Our visit to SAii Phi Phi Island Village was sponsored, but I only recommend places that I genuinely enjoy. This review is an honest account of our experience in December 2024.

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SAii Phi Phi Island Village Review: Paradise Found

Overview of SAii Phi Phi Island Village

Resort Facilities

Rooms at SAii Phi Phi Island Village