The Shore at Katathani Resort

This is a couples' place, and it doesn't pretend otherwise. Every villa comes with its own pool, the hill above Kata Noi Bay does the rest, and the whole thing sits within the larger Katathani property on Kata Noi Road in Karon. If you're traveling with kids or want to roll out of bed into a bar strip, book somewhere else. If you want to see almost nobody for three days, this is the shape of vacation it's designed around.

Kata Noi itself is the quiet end of this stretch of coast, sheltered and a good deal calmer than Patong, with direct beach access from the resort. There's fine dining on site and a spa, which matters more than it sounds, because the pull here is to not leave. That's fine for a long stay. For a two-night stop it's a lot of money for a pool you'll barely use, and Kata and Karon proper are close enough to be worth a taxi.