Once upon a time holidays were simply about taking a relaxing break, indulging in excellent food and ultimately, recharging your batteries. Today, there is an endless pressure for vacations to be about fulfilling bucket lists, turning into a culture vulture or immersing yourself in authentic experiences; that is when you are not hiking up a mountain or sailing the seven seas, of course. However, there is a lot to be said for laid-back getaways, and what better way to enjoy a chilled-out holiday than with a stay at a relaxing luxury villa island retreat in Thailand?

Relaxation is defined by not having to overdo or over think during your time away. A luxury villa with your own butler and private chef as well as an infinity pool and gorgeous view is enough to inspire a feeling of inner peace and harmony; a mindful, meditative experience that relaxes you to your very core. In Thai island destinations, such as Phuket and Koh Samui, you have a private luxury retreat setting for the perfect tropical paradise stay.

Imagine staying in one of these beautiful Thai island luxury villas. We listed them in no particular order.

1. Villa Anavaya

Villa Anavaya is a 6-bedroom beauty on the sunrise side of Koh Samui, with four staff. Modern and spacious, this villa epitomises laid-back luxury. Panoramic views of the blue waters and green coastline are deeply meditative. The poolside lounge with its comfy sofa as well outdoor dining, lawn bed, and a rooftop terrace are spectacularly inviting. The cinema promises cozy movie nights or a daytime matinee out of the sun. A whirlpool, gorgeous L-shaped pool, and hilltop setting complete the experience. No doubt, Villa Anavaya is one of the best Koh Samui Villas you can find on the island.

2. Villa Amarapura

Villa Amarapura is a 7-bedroom chic stay in one of Phuket’s most serene east-coast locations, with five staff to look after you during your trip. Located in Cape Yamu, not only renowned for being a gorgeous part of the island but is also upscale, non-touristy, and creates a feeling of being off the beaten path. Glamorously contemporary, this villa features two stunning infinity pools on two different levels with Jacuzzis, as well as relaxation-inducing nest chairs to curl up with a view, and poolside sala for al fresco dining. On a hilltop with the beach just below, golf simulator, a putting green, and a basketball court promise leisurely pursuits, with a tennis court on the villa estate and even a trampoline available on request for some fun de-stressing. One room creates the ultimate private stay with a standalone white cube down a stepping-stone path within the villa grounds. Villa Amarapura is one of those Phuket Villas where you will keep coming back every holiday or vacation.

3. Villa Akatsuki

Villa Akatsuki, on Koh Samui’s divine west coast with its pristine white sands and splendid sunsets, is a 5-bedroom stunner with six staff. With Zen-like Japanese design influence, each suite is unique, creating an individual atmosphere that is truly refreshing; with one suite promising access to its private garden and pool and another creating a family-friendly space on its own floor. Private gardens and a plunge pool, as well as luxurious spa treatments using the essence of natural Asian ingredients all,  add to the soothing villa vibe. Meanwhile, a world-class private chef enhances the experience with gourmet dishes that inspire happiness and cooking classes for some creative culinary therapy. If what you’re looking for is beachfront, privacy, seclusion, impeccable service, best food, authenticity, serenity, or simply put complete relaxation, Villa Akatsuki, is our top recommendation.

4. Villa Padma

Villa Padma is spectacularly spacious, evoking a sense of grandeur for this 4-bedroom, 3-staff stay in a quiet beauty spot on Phuket’s east coast. Cape Yamu is an exclusive hideaway location, nestled in a lush green setting, with all eyes on the blue waters out on the horizon from its clifftop vantage point. A sunken sala, long infinity pool, and super-sized sofas and daybeds, plus floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, create a soothingly seamless villa experience; moving effortlessly from indoors to out and back again. This is an extraordinary hideaway with features designed to enhance the feeling of villa luxury.

5. Villa Praana

Villa Praana, in the northern part of Koh Samui offers guests a 6-bedroom holiday haven with eight great staff on hand. Views of the island’s rainforest landscape are mesmerizing, while this villa exudes a sense of luxurious comfort in every aspect of its design. A coastal view is also spied, while a swim-up bar in the villa’s long infinity pool is the ultimate relaxed drink. As well as an in-villa cinema and spa to help you unwind, there is even a Jazz pianist on staff creating a smooth mood.

6. Villa Kalipay

Villa Kalipay, a 5-bedroom luxury stay with four staff sparkles on a hilltop overlooking Phuket’s turquoise Andaman Sea; in one of the island’s most gloriously exclusive locations, the idyllic Cape Yamu on the east coast. The décor shines white while floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors create a refreshing and calming feeling of pure space and light. The purity of the villa’s pristine setting is breathtaking while the infinity pool, boutique-stay handcrafted interiors and in-villa cinema add just the right balance of homely comfort and inspirational living; with dining by the pool, in the dining room or the kitchen.

7. Villa Sairee

Villa Sairee boasts an absolute beachfront location and is a 6-bedroom, 3-acre sanctuary with five staff in the south of Koh Samui. The beautiful teak panels, gabled roof, and wooden floors evoke a nostalgic air that quietens the senses to reveal a villa oasis just steps from the white-sand shore. An attractive rice barn has been perfectly converted for kids with beds and a games room, while lawns and outdoor areas abound. A tennis court and trampoline bring happiness to kids so grown-ups can recline with their feet up.

8. Villa Hin

Villa Hin connects guests with nature, and this 5-bedroom stay with three staff overlooking the north-eastern shore of Koh Samui is known as the Rock House due to its incredible architectural design that works with the location’s natural rock formations; embracing the essence of Samui as a relaxing Thai island retreat. The spacious rooms have an open-air design that flows to the gardens outside, with coastal views and a seaside feel. A deck seems to float on water or jut out from the rocky landscape with transparent walls adding to the feeling of relaxing tranquillity; a blissful luxury villa experience.