Sister resorts in southern Thailand continue to be recognised for exceptional stays, meaningful luxury and authentic Thai hospitality
Two of Thailand’s most celebrated beachfront resorts, Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi, have retained their prestigious Two MICHELIN Keys from the MICHELIN Guide Thailand for the third consecutive year.
The recognition places both resorts among hotels and resorts delivering what the MICHELIN Guide describes as an “exceptional stay” — an experience defined by distinctive character, outstanding design, memorable surroundings and impeccable service.
The latest recognition follows a detailed assessment by anonymous MICHELIN Guide inspectors and highlights Banyan Tree’s continued focus on meaningful luxury, wellness and authentic experiences in southern Thailand.
A Recognition of Exceptional Hospitality
For Banyan Tree Krabi General Manager Haruethai Maneerat, retaining the Two MICHELIN Keys reflects the consistency and character behind the resort’s guest experience.
“To retain Two Keys in an increasingly competitive market is a significant achievement,” Maneerat said, highlighting the importance of consistency, a strong sense of place and genuine hospitality.
The resort’s philosophy is rooted in Banyan Tree’s founding concept of creating a “Sanctuary for the Senses,” where nature, culture and wellbeing come together to create a more meaningful stay.
At Banyan Tree Samui, General Manager Stuart de San Nicolas also credited the resort’s team for the recognition. He described the property as a peaceful sanctuary where guests can slow down, reconnect with themselves and experience the spirit of Koh Samui.
A Wellbeing-Focused Escape in Krabi
Set along the secluded shores of Tubkaek Beach, Banyan Tree Krabi combines dramatic coastal scenery with a strong focus on wellness. The resort overlooks the limestone formations of the surrounding marine national park, creating a tranquil setting for relaxation.
A key feature is the Banyan Tree Wellbeing Sanctuary, an initiative introduced by Banyan Tree Krabi and Banyan Tree Samui in October 2021.
The programme allows guests to combine a traditional holiday with a structured wellness experience designed to support the mind, body and soul. Activities can include meditation, yoga, Thai boxing, spa treatments, nature walks and sailing lessons.
Guests can also receive personal consultations and enjoy nutritious meals designed to complement their wellbeing programmes.
The resort’s Rainforest hydrotherapy facility adds another dimension to the experience, with facilities including vitality pools, steam rooms, saunas and ice fountains.
Thai Heritage Meets Contemporary Dining
Food is another important part of the Banyan Tree experience, with both resorts showcasing Thai cuisine through their signature Saffron restaurants.
At Banyan Tree Samui, Saffron sits on a lush hillside overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand. The restaurant has been recommended by the MICHELIN Guide Thailand for the past two years and combines traditional Thai flavours with refined presentation.
Its menu highlights the complexity of Thai herbs and spices through dishes such as crispy rice noodle-wrapped prawns, chicken satay, fried seabass rice noodle rolls and pomelo salad with tamarind sauce.
One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is Massaman of slow-braised Wagyu beef, bringing together classic Thai flavours with premium ingredients.
At Banyan Tree Krabi, Saffron offers a contemporary interpretation of Thai classics while taking advantage of its elevated setting. Guests reach the restaurant by electric funicular and can enjoy sweeping views across the Andaman Sea.
The restaurant is also home to three distinctive Bird’s Nest tables, tucked among the trees and offering a memorable setting for afternoon tea or sunset drinks.
Supporting Local Communities and Marine Conservation
Beyond hospitality, both Banyan Tree properties have received recognition for their contribution to their local communities and environmental initiatives.
Their efforts include ongoing marine conservation work in Koh Samui, support for local fisheries in Krabi and initiatives aimed at eliminating single-use plastics.
These programmes form part of Banyan Tree’s wider approach to responsible and sustainable tourism, placing environmental stewardship alongside the guest experience.
Inside Banyan Tree Krabi
Banyan Tree Krabi features 72 pool suites and villas, including seven two-bedroom accommodation options, a three-bedroom villa and a seven-bedroom beachfront Presidential Villa.
Every accommodation option is positioned to capture views of the sea and sunset as the resort follows the natural contours of the hillside.
Guests have access to two restaurants, a beach bar, kids’ club, fitness centre, meeting facilities and a tropical spa featuring the Rainforest hydrotherapy experience.
The resort has also been recognised by Fodor’s Travel 2026, which included Banyan Tree Krabi among its 100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World and named it the only Thai property on the list.
A Private Villa Experience in Koh Samui
Banyan Tree Samui offers 88 spacious pool villas, each featuring its own private infinity pool.
The villas are designed to blend naturally into the surrounding landscape, combining contemporary Thai architecture with locally sourced materials and artwork. The result is an intimate setting that reflects the destination while giving guests plenty of privacy.
The resort features three restaurants, including MICHELIN Guide-listed Saffron, along with a fitness centre, kids’ club, meetings and events facilities and a highly regarded spa with its own Rainforest hydrotherapy facility.
A Continued Commitment to Meaningful Luxury
The third consecutive Two MICHELIN Key recognition for Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi highlights the resorts’ continued emphasis on more than traditional luxury.
From secluded beachfront locations and private pool villas to Thai cuisine, wellness programmes and sustainability initiatives, both properties aim to create experiences that connect guests with the natural and cultural character of southern Thailand.
For travellers seeking a combination of luxury, wellness, Thai hospitality and immersive destination experiences, the two resorts continue to offer distinctive escapes in Koh Samui and Krabi.
About Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree is a global hospitality brand focused on creating sanctuary-like experiences that encourage guests to rejuvenate their mind, body and soul. The brand operates properties in distinctive destinations around the world, combining premium accommodation with authentic experiences, wellness and responsible tourism.
About Banyan Group
Banyan Group, formerly Banyan Tree Holdings Limited, is a global hospitality company with a portfolio spanning hotels and resorts, spas, galleries and branded residences across more than 20 countries.
The group operates 12 global brands, including its flagship Banyan Tree brand, and focuses on design-led hospitality, responsible stewardship and sustainable travel.
Its founding philosophy, “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People,” is reflected through initiatives led by the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Academy, with a broader focus on regenerative tourism and experiences designed to create lasting value for guests and local communities.
