Mook Lamai Resort and Spa

Mook Lamai is a family-owned resort inland, just south of Koh Mook's village, the first hotel of one of the island's long-established families, who say they have lived here for generations. Rooms are set around a swimming pool, from pool-view rooms with direct access to the water up to private pool grand villas, and there's a restaurant, a bar and a spa.

Guests write about the friendly staff, the clean, modern rooms and advice on timing the kayak to the Emerald Cave and the hike to Sabai Beach. It isn't on a beach, so you'll walk or take the resort's tuk-tuk or a sidecar taxi to Charlie Beach or Sivalai, and a few reviewers say the free shuttle and pier pick-up aren't always there when promised, so confirm your transfer.