Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas has joined The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), becoming the first Anantara‑branded resort in Asia to be welcomed into the prestigious independent luxury hotel collection.

Set on Koh Yao Yai, one of Thailand’s last unspoilt islands, the resort exemplifies Anantara’s commitment to experiential luxury rooted in place, culture, and nature. Its inclusion further strengthens LHW’s presence in Thailand, where it is now one of only eight member properties nationwide.

For nearly a century, The Leading Hotels of the World has curated a closely guarded collection of approximately 400 exceptional hotels across 80 countries, each defined by distinctive character, refined service, and a sense of the remarkably uncommon.

“Welcoming Anantara Koh Yao Yai to The Leading Hotels of the World is a meaningful addition to our collection,” said Dean Bannon, Vice President, Member Success & Development at LHW. “Its thoughtful design, natural setting, and deeply immersive experiences offer travellers a stay that is both memorable and truly connected to its destination.”

As one of Anantara’s flagship resorts, Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas continues to elevate Thai hospitality; the resort was named one of TIME’s World’s Greatest Places 2025 and ranked among the Top 15 Resorts in Thailand by Condé Nast Traveler readers, recognised for its singular setting, expansive facilities, and deeply immersive guest experiences.

A cocoon of serenity surrounded by lush tropical landscapes, the resort unfolds across more than a kilometre of golden beachfront. Accommodation spans all‑suite, pool villa, and penthouse categories, with uninterrupted views across Phang Nga Bay’s emerald waters and iconic limestone karsts. Secluded wellness villas nestle within native foliage, offering Traditional Thai Medicine retreats that restore balance from within, while families enjoy expansive suites with private splash pools, waterslides, and southern Thailand’s largest children’s club.

Experiences are designed to connect guests meaningfully with the destination, from sidecar journeys through rubber plantations, rice paddies, and artisan workshops, to sailing excursions to Maya Bay and James Bond Island. For the ultimate escape, guests can spend the night aboard My SKY, the resort’s ultra‑luxury yacht, exploring hidden lagoons, deserted coves, and enjoying starlit chef‑led dinners at sea.

Wellness takes on deeper intention at Anantara Koh Yao Yai, where ancient wisdom meets modern consciousness. At Mindfulness House, guests are invited each Wednesday to participate in an authentic Thai Mindfulness & Vipassana Practice Journey, developed in collaboration with Wat Charoensamanakit. The two‑hour experience includes a Dana alms offering, monastic chanting, Vipassana‑inspired meditation, and traditional blessings, including the tying of the sacred Sai Sin bracelet, all conducted with cultural authenticity and respect.

“We are truly honoured to join such a prestigious collection of hotels,” concluded Stuart de San Nicolas, General Manager of Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas. “As part of The Leading Hotels of the World, we look forward to welcoming guests from even further afield and inviting them to experience the natural beauty and spirit of the island we proudly call home.”