Khao Lak, Thailand, November 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A groundbreaking project unveils extensive renovation and expansion with 127 additional rooms and villas, the Aqua Play Zone, new restaurants, and one of the largest event spaces in Southern Thailand. The pioneering JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa has reopened its doors to guests after 18 months of renovation and expansion. The modernization and expansion has fundamentally transformed the property, setting a new standard for fully integrated luxury resort experiences in Thailand.

The resort's redesign completes the vision of a "destination within a destination" and heralds a new era for Khao Lak, Thailand's most fashionable beach resort, just an hour's drive north of Phuket International Airport. This is primarily due to the extensive expansions that open up new market segments for the destination – but also to the innovative guest experiences that have been introduced.

“We are delighted to open the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa today. Global demand for fully integrated beachfront resort experiences in Thailand is high, and we are ideally positioned to deliver this across various segments and market areas. I am confident that Khao Lak is ready and will become one of Thailand’s leading leisure tourism and MICE centers in the coming years,” said Abhimanyu Singh, General Manager of the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa.

A total of 127 additional rooms and villas were built: 76 Deluxe Rooms overlooking the lagoon pool, 28 Deluxe Rooms with direct access to the lagoon pool, 20 Family Studios with pool access, two one-bedroom villas, and, for the ultimate retreat, a two-bedroom villa. This brings the total number of rooms, suites, and villas to 420 – including 178 with direct access to a private pool or the resort's 2.4 km long lagoon pool – the longest in Southeast Asia.

Inspired by traditional southern Thai houses, these detached villas are situated on Khuk Khak Beach overlooking the Andaman Sea. The one-bedroom villas offer light-filled living spaces with modern furnishings, luxurious bathrooms, and spacious outdoor areas including a private pool. The two-bedroom villa spans 213 square meters and features a master bedroom with a king-size bed and a twin bedroom for children, family members, or friends. Two separate infinity pools complete the offering.

The new accommodation is complemented by new facilities, including the Aqua Play Zone, an exciting new destination for families where the water fun literally lasts all day. Highlights include the wave pool, where children and families can dive and jump to their heart's content, before heading to the fountain trampoline – a creative water attraction that naturally invites jumping!

The water theme continues with a giant blue slide, before children and parents can retreat to the Sala Restaurant & Bar – a cool, casual spot right next to the slide, serving popular, familiar, and healthy classics. The Sala is expected to quickly become a favorite hangout for children during their stay, as it puts them right in the heart of the action, allowing them to participate in daily pasta-making classes, cocktail workshops, and marshmallow roasting sessions.

Children can try their hand at "seaboxing," help the environment in the "Art of Trash" workshop, or simply float in their hammocks on the 2.4 km long pool, picking up an ice-cold, fresh coconut from the resort boats along the way – before watching a movie on the beach. Alternatively, families can enjoy a beach picnic in a family tent or visit the interactive teppanyaki show at the Japanese restaurant Sakura.

With its eleven restaurants and bars, the resort offers a diverse culinary experience – from traditional Thai cuisine with sunset views at Ta-Krai, to authentic Italian dishes at Olive, and international specialties at Waterfront. New additions include the Sala Restaurant & Pool Bar and the Drift Beach Bar & Grill, the resort's new steak and seafood restaurant inspired by regional Mediterranean cuisine. Refreshments and cocktails are available all day at the Deli, the Beach Bar, the Infinity Pool Bar, the Aquamarine Pool Bar, and the Czar Lobby Bar.

A holiday is all about spending time with loved ones. An important part of this is the JW Garden, an outdoor area dedicated to growing organic vegetables. Here, families can pick fresh ingredients under the guidance of the resort's chef and learn to prepare Thai dishes. Alternatively, guests can enjoy a family picnic amidst fragrant herbs and flowers or relax in the privacy of their suite or villa.

A brand-new ballroom is a key component of the expansion, transforming the MICE center in southern Thailand into a new premier venue for all types of events. The elegant, stylish, and light-filled 758-square-meter hall can accommodate up to 810 guests and is ideal for life's most beautiful and unforgettable moments, such as gala dinners, award ceremonies, corporate events, and weddings. Equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, it can be flexibly divided into three separate areas for smaller events, and the inviting foyer can also be used for exhibitions.

The JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa is complemented by its sister hotel, the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites, an exclusive collection of 52 stylish two-bedroom suites (89 to 111 square meters). The suites feature bright indoor and outdoor spaces, a design inspired by southern Thai style, modern living areas, and private terraces or balconies overlooking the tropical landscape. On the ground floor, the suites offer direct pool access to the inviting 2.4-kilometer-long lagoon pool.

Other facilities and amenities include a fully equipped fitness center, tennis and squash courts, a kids' club, and the Quan Spa, which offers holistic healing treatments ranging from traditional Thai massages to revitalizing body wraps and scrubs. Many of these treatments use organic coconut oil produced on-site at the resort. Guests can relax and create unforgettable memories in tranquil areas such as cozy cabanas. Khuk Khak Beach provides an idyllic setting for strolling, swimming, or simply relaxing in the shade of the palm trees.

About JW Marriott: JW Marriott is part of Marriott International's portfolio of luxury brands and includes beautiful hotels and unique resorts worldwide. JW Marriott pays tribute to Marriott International's founder, J. Willard "JW" Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being to better care for others. Inspired by his philosophy and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott hotels offer a haven of tranquility where guests can feel whole—present in the moment, nourished physically, and refreshed spiritually. Programs and offerings encourage guests to spend time together and savor every moment. Today, there are over 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide, appealing to discerning, mindful travelers seeking experiences that help them be fully present, build meaningful connections, and nourish their souls. Visit JW Marriott online, as well as on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to be part of Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International's global travel program. The program offers members an exceptional portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences with Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits such as free nights and recognition of elite status.

About Marriott Bonvoy: Marriott Bonvoy's exceptional portfolio offers world-class hospitality in the world's most beautiful destinations—with 30 brands tailored to every type of traveler. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and many more, Marriott Bonvoy offers more luxury experiences than any other travel program. Members earn points on stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium vacation rentals, as well as on everyday purchases with the associated credit cards. Points can be redeemed for experiences such as future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or at partner boutiques for luxury products.