Large villas and eco-luxury - a hidden gem on Koh Jum island

Suppose you are into rustic and sustainable luxury, plenty of space, a laid-back atmosphere, and island life. In that case, Koh Jum Beach Villas might be the perfect fit for you.

Koh Jum - a true time capsule

The island is just an hour from Krabi and Koh Lanta, a bit further from Phuket, and only a 30-minute boat ride from Phi Phi. Surprisingly, places like Koh Jum have been allowed to remain untouched while mass tourism has flooded the neighboring islands.

Perhaps it is because Koh Jum's beaches have a slightly more golden hue than some of the postcard-perfect white alternatives, or maybe it is because the local community has insisted on keeping big players out and only allowing resorts with a particular local connection and respect for nature. It is likely a combination of both.

The local connection and respect for nature are Koh Jum's greatest strengths. These established destinations recruit employees from domestic and foreign sources, and most staff are local. And the pride and presence that come with that are far more valuable than the polished and flawless service often encountered elsewhere.

Koh Jum Beach Villas is by far the best resort on the island. And even though it is foreign-owned, the local connection runs deep. Sustainability is not just a word but the entire foundation.

Luxury is about emotions and nature

The 19 villas vary in size, style, and location. The sizes range from one to five bedrooms, so there is something for both couples and larger families. Most have direct access to the beach, but a few are further back.

Some come with a private pool, while others do not - some are cooled by air conditioning, while others are designed to be naturally cooled by the sea breeze. They all have a rustic design with plenty of natural materials. In other words, it is luxurious in a relaxed and nature-inspired way.

At Koh Jum Beach Villas, luxury is interpreted through soft values rather than facilities. Luxury here means space, privacy, personal service, a strong local culture, and access to beautiful and unspoiled nature.

The experience is about impacting you emotionally rather than satisfying your consumer needs. And your feelings and senses are stimulated by falling asleep to the sound of gentle waves and the light breeze of the sea that cools your body in the tropical night.

From farm to table

The food is as close to farm-to-table as it gets around here. At least if you want it to be. Herbs and salads are harvested from the resort's own organic garden. Fish and shellfish come directly from the local fishermen's nets (and not from Thailand's otherwise infamous fishing industry). And the rest is purchased locally as much as possible.

There are also dishes from the international menu if you need a little variety or to satisfy your children. But as often happens, the local cuisine is the best.

Enjoy the simple island life

A long walk on the beach may be their most significant attraction, as there are not many other tourists around, so you can fully enjoy nature and tranquility. And the mix of strolling on the sand, taking a dip in the water, and then stopping for a drink, a bite to eat, and a chat with the locals is, in many ways, the perfect agenda for a day in the tropics.

If that is not enough for you, you can play a game of volleyball or petanque on the beach while soaking up the idyllic atmosphere. Taking a paddleboard, kayak, mountain bike, or hiking to the top of the over 400m high Mt. Pu are also options.

Snorkeling and diving near Koh Jum may not be impressive, but you do not have to go far to find some great spots. Koh Jum Beach Villas is home to the island's only dive center, making arranging easy and convenient.