Chatrium Phuket Rawai has officially opened its doors on Phuket's southern coast, introducing a new resort experience that combines contemporary luxury with local maritime heritage.
Located beside historic Rawai Pier, the 304-key property occupies one of Phuket's remaining stretches of relatively undeveloped coastline. It also marks the flagship expression of Chatrium's refreshed brand identity, built around the Thai concept of Jai Sabai – a sense of ease, comfort and wellbeing.
The resort translates this philosophy into Yen Sabai, a feeling of calm inspired by the sea, nature and the slower pace of coastal life. Its approach to luxury focuses on thoughtful design, personalised hospitality and experiences that encourage guests to reconnect with their surroundings.
The opening also highlights Rawai's cultural identity, particularly its connection with the Chao Lay fishing community, whose generations-old maritime traditions remain an important part of the area's character.
Design inspired by Phuket's coastal heritage
Designed by dwp in collaboration with Foreign Policy Design Group, Chatrium Phuket Rawai draws inspiration from the island's coastal landscapes, marine environment and traditional craftsmanship.
The lobby evokes the atmosphere of an underwater coral reef through aquatic colour palettes, flowing timber forms and reflective water features. Across the resort, Toei Panan weaving patterns feature in screens, furnishings and decorative details. These elements were developed in collaboration with local design studio Sarnsard.
Natural materials, including hand-finished timber and veined stone, further connect the interiors with the surrounding coastal environment.
The resort's 304 rooms, suites and villas take inspiration from the changing colours of the Andaman sky, with interiors reflecting the transition from sunrise to dusk. Warm sunset orange, deep ocean blue and soft twilight purple create a relaxed residential atmosphere.
Accommodation ranges from Deluxe Rooms and Two-Bedroom Suites to Beachfront Pool Villas. Bespoke woven elements, tactile furnishings and spa-inspired bathrooms feature throughout the collection.
Southern Thai flavours and beachfront dining
Food plays a central role in the resort's guest experience, with a dining programme led by Executive Chef Yi-Fan Chu.
AuJaan, the resort's all-day dining restaurant, draws on generations-old recipes and southern Thailand's communal dining traditions. Its menus showcase responsibly sourced ingredients and regional flavours.
Meanwhile, Lamoon Beach Lounge offers beachfront dining throughout the day, transitioning into an evening destination for fresh seafood, open-flame cooking and live music.
Families can also visit Kalui Kids' Corner & Bar, a marine-inspired space serving colourful mocktails, fresh juices and Thai-inspired refreshments for younger guests.
Wellness, island adventures and family experiences
Chatrium Phuket Rawai combines opportunities for relaxation with access to southern Phuket's outdoor attractions.
Guests can start the day with sunrise yoga overlooking the Andaman Sea or spend an afternoon enjoying the resort's coastal setting. Those seeking adventure can arrange traditional longtail boat trips to nearby islands, explore coral-fringed beaches, go ziplining through southern Phuket's natural landscapes or hike to secluded beaches and panoramic viewpoints.
Kalui Kids' Corner & Bar also offers marine-themed storytelling, creative workshops and interactive activities designed to encourage children's curiosity and imagination.
For corporate events, weddings and social celebrations, The Sail provides a dedicated venue inspired by the graceful curves of traditional Chao Lay boat hulls. The space can accommodate up to 250 guests.
Celebrating Rawai's local identity
The resort's location beside Rawai Pier gives it a distinctive connection to one of Phuket's established fishing communities.
Richard Adrian Mehr, general manager of Chatrium Phuket Rawai, said the resort sought to reflect the area's character and the relationship between local families and the sea.
"Generations of Chao Lay families have lived in close connection with the sea, and it is their warmth, resilience and deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures that we aspire to bring into the guest experience," he said.
The opening adds another hospitality option to Phuket's southern coastline, where visitors can experience a different side of the island beyond its better-known resort and entertainment districts.
With its emphasis on local craftsmanship, southern Thai cuisine, coastal exploration and a more relaxed approach to luxury, Chatrium Phuket Rawai aims to position itself as a destination for travellers seeking both cultural connection and time by the Andaman Sea.
