Santhiya vs. Anantara Koh Yao Yai: The Ultimate Family Resort Showdown
⚡ Quick Verdict: Which Resort Suits You?
Best for "Jungle Luxe" & Views: Santhiya - Authentic Thai teakwood architecture, dramatic cliffside views, but lots of stairs.
Best for Modern Luxury & Kids: Anantara - Sleek design, massive Kids' Club with slides, flat and stroller-friendly.
Best Value: Santhiya often offers larger pool villas for a lower price.
Best Beach Access: Anantara - Directly on a long stretch of sand near Laem Had sandbank.
When you are planning a luxury family trip to Thailand, specifically to the peaceful Koh Yao Yai island, two names dominate the conversation: Santhiya and Anantara.
Having stayed at both with our two kids (4 & 6 year olds), I can tell you that while they are neighbors on the same beautiful island, they offer completely different experiences.
If you are torn between the spectacular teakwood palaces of Santhiya Resort and the sleek, modern playground of Anantara, here is our honest, parent-to-parent review to help you make your choice today.
1. The Vibe: Jungle Palaces vs. Modern Sleek
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa feels like stepping into a traditional Thai kingdom. The entire property is crafted from intricate teak wood and is carved into the hillside. It feels ancient, authentic, and deeply connected to nature.
The Vibe: Rustic-luxe, quiet, dramatic, and steep. You are truly in the jungle here—don't be surprised if you see a lizard or monkey while you relax on your balcony!
Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas creates a totally different atmosphere. It feels fresh, expansive, and incredibly polished. As Dubai residents, it felt familiar—like a high-end "Dubai style" hotel dropped into a tropical paradise.
The Vibe: Bright, airy, modern, and manicured. It screams "5-star luxury" from the moment you arrive via speedboat at their private pier.
Want the full tour of the "Jungle Palace"? Read our dedicated review: From Bustle to Bliss: Why Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Became Our Family's Tranquil Thai Escape
2. The Accommodation: Pool Villas & Private Pools
This is where the battle of the pool villas gets interesting.
Santhiya: Famous for its Sea View Pool Villas. Even the entry-level rooms often come with a beautiful wooden bathtub on the balcony. If you book a private pool villa here, expect stunning panoramic views of the ocean. The wood carving details in the rooms are simply amazing.
Anantara: Offers massive Family Suites with bunk beds (a huge plus for us!) and beachfront pool villas that open directly onto the lawn. The style is contemporary and clean, perfect if you prefer modern comforts over rustic charm.
3. Dining: Breakfast, Restaurants & Food
We know that eating well is a huge part of the holiday.
Santhiya: The breakfast buffet is extensive, served in a large open-air pavilion with views over the bay. For dinner, their restaurants focus heavily on authentic Thai food. It’s a great place to enjoy a spicy curry while you watch the sunset.
Anantara: The culinary options here are more global. From a Japanese Omakase restaurant to a casual beachside grill, the food quality is exceptional. Their breakfast station is a highlight, offering everything from fresh coconuts to made-to-order eggs benedict.
4. Wellness & Activities: Spa, Yoga & Day Trips
If you are looking to relax or explore, both resorts have plenty to offer.
Santhiya: The Ayurvana Spa is legendary. It’s definitely worth the pay for a massage here just for the setting alone. They also offer yoga classes on a wooden deck facing the ocean—a truly spiritual way to start the day.
Anantara: Focuses on active wellness. They have a state-of-the-art gym and offer yoga sessions (sometimes including "Flying Yoga" for kids!). They also make it very convenient to organize day trips to nearby islands like Hong Island directly from their activities center.
Curious about the Anantara activities? See our deep dive here: Anantara Koh Yao Yai: A Destinationz Family Review & In-Depth Guide
5. The Kids’ Clubs: The Real Decider?
If you are travelling with children, this might be your dealbreaker.
Santhiya: The Kids' Club is sweet and traditional, but simpler. The kids also need to be under the supervision of a parent at all times. However, the complimentary Muay Thai boxing class was a huge hit with our kids—a unique cultural touch you won't find everywhere!
Anantara: This is hands-down one of the best Kids' Clubs in the world (or at least in Thailand!). It’s a massive facility with indoor slides, a ball pit rain-shower, and endless activities. If you want your kids to be entertained for a few hours while you enjoy a drink at the bar, Anantara wins.
Final Thoughts: Which One Did We Love More?
It depends on what you are looking for.
We loved Santhiya for the adventure. Riding the wooden trucks, waking up to the sounds of the jungle, and the incredible architecture made it feel like a complete escape.
We enjoyed Anantara for the ease. Everything was seamless, the services were top-notch, and the luxury was effortless.
Still can't decide?
Why not do what we did—split your stay! Or, if you want a custom recommendation based on your budget and preferences, just ask us.
Need help booking your Thai Island escape?
We have direct contacts at both resorts and can help you book the perfect room type.
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