Phuphaya Seaview Resort

The hotel is highly regarded for its spectacular views and an infinity pool that offers breathtaking vistas, especially at sunset. Its uphill location is a defining characteristic, providing a sense of seclusion while still being accessible to town. Guests frequently commend the generally friendly staff and the overall value for money, though the rustic bungalows and pervasive noise from beach parties are recurring topics. This destination is particularly well-suited for younger travelers, backpackers, and athletic individuals who appreciate stunning scenery and a budget-conscious stay, as well as couples seeking a romantic backdrop. However, it may not be ideal for families with young children, older guests, or those with mobility issues due to the challenging terrain. To enhance your experience, it is advisable to arrange for luggage assistance upon arrival and to pack earplugs for a more restful night's sleep.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's infinity pool is consistently highlighted as a major draw, offering unparalleled views and serving as a prime spot for sunset watching. However, some guests noted issues with the pool's cleanliness, mentioning cloudy water or a broken filter system. While Wi-Fi is available, its performance is often inconsistent, with many guests reporting it to be poor or non-existent in rooms, limiting connectivity. Room cooling varies; some bungalows feature air conditioning, but many are equipped only with a fan, and even the air conditioning units are sometimes described as inefficient, leading to uncomfortably hot rooms. A bar is on-site, though it is occasionally found to be unstaffed or closed. Basic room amenities such as kettles, fridges, or safes are frequently absent, which some guests found inconvenient.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed. While some guests praised their rooms as spotless and well-maintained with fresh towels provided daily, others reported issues such as dirty rooms, dusty surfaces, cobwebs, and marks on walls. The bungalows are often described as rustic, with thin floors and gaps in the structure that allow light and insects to enter. A significant concern for many guests is the presence of various creatures, including cockroaches, ants, lizards, and even monkeys entering rooms or appearing on porches. Noise is a major issue, with loud music from nearby beach parties audible until the early hours of the morning, often causing beds to vibrate and making sleep difficult. Bathrooms frequently receive complaints about being smelly or dirty, with common problems including no water or low water pressure, broken shower heads, missing tiles, and a general sense of dampness.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel provides a complimentary breakfast, which is generally described as basic. Typical offerings include toast, fruit, and boiled eggs, with free tea and coffee available until mid-morning. While some guests found the breakfast portions to be small, many appreciated its inclusion, especially considering the hotel's somewhat remote location. The on-site restaurant and bar facilities receive varied feedback; the bar is occasionally noted as being closed or unstaffed. Food quality at the restaurant is sometimes described as poor, with limited options, including for vegetarians. Most guests tend to utilize the hotel primarily for breakfast, opting to explore other dining establishments in town for lunch and dinner.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a defining feature, situated at the far end of the island, approximately a 15 to 20-minute walk from the main pier and town center. This distance, combined with the steep uphill climb required to reach the property, presents a significant challenge for many guests. The ascent is frequently described as a "brutal climb" or "terrifying," particularly when carrying heavy luggage or navigating in hot weather. There is no public transport on the island, meaning guests must rely on walking or pre-arranged luggage assistance, which is not always consistently provided or timely. The path leading to the hotel can be uneven, slippery when wet, and some reviews mention it being dirty with construction materials. Despite the arduous journey, the elevated position offers stunning views that many guests ultimately find to be worth the effort.

Staff & Service
Most guests report positive interactions with the staff, describing them as generally friendly, helpful, attentive, and welcoming, often going "above and beyond" to assist. Staff are praised for their efforts in daily room cleaning and providing fresh towels. However, there are notable instances of unresponsive communication, particularly from reception, and some guests encountered rude staff at the pool bar or front desk. Issues with booking cancellations and inconsistent luggage assistance upon arrival, despite prior arrangements, are also mentioned. Some guests reported that staff became defensive when issues were raised, or provided incorrect information, such as ferry schedules. Overall, while many positive experiences are highlighted, the consistency of service quality appears to be a point of concern for some visitors.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the potential for frequent water cuts and power cuts, which are reported to be common occurrences for properties situated high on the island. These interruptions can lead to periods without water for showering or flushing, and a lack of air conditioning. A unique aspect of the stay is the presence of monkeys around the bungalows, with some guests reporting them entering rooms or attempting to steal food. Despite the challenges related to its location and occasional service inconsistencies, the hotel is generally considered budget-friendly and offers good value for money, particularly for those who prioritize the exceptional views over luxury amenities or effortless accessibility.