An interesting feature of the Pimalai is that the property is actually two seperate resorts, the lower complex being the 'resort' and the higher hillside 'Villa Estate'. We stayed in the former and found the hotel to be clean and well-managed with excellent service. Shortly before our stay we enrolled, online, in the Pimalai's loyalty programme, which is free to join, and as a result, were upgraded from the standard Deluxe room to a Bayfront Deluxe.
The room was generous in size and well appointed and maintained, offering a great view of the beach. The options of restaurants were good and varied enough to stop boredom setting in. There is the choice of Spice & Rice which serves an extensive Thai menu while there is the the beach bar with a Happy Hour between 5 &7 pm ( great for rehydrating at the end of a hard day's sunbathing!) which also doubles as a restaurant where the beach barbecue is highly recommended, good quality and great value!
If you're looking for that little bit extra from your dining experience, make a reservation at the Villa Estate Restaurant, Seven Sea's. The food is great, the view excellent and the atmosphere a lot quieter.
The pool area of the resort is great with ample loungers however if you're after a little peace and quite accompanied by a fantastic view, take the short ride up to the Villa Estate infinity pool,well worth the effort!
Something to be aware of when considering this hotel is that the resorts are built on a steep hillside and getting anywhere involves negotiating steps so this could be an issue for those with mobility issues!
The resort also provide a variety of packages on their website offering various deals on transfers, accomodation and spa treatments which would be worth considering prior to booking as we booked the Spa package which included a daily 2 hour massage each and a complimentary meal for two in the Seven Seas Restaurant which was excellent value!
All in all, a great relaxing experience in a lovely resort!!

The low season is probably a very good time to stay at this hotel. It's quiet, service is attentive, the pools and the beach (kept very clean) are practically empty etc. And if you are lucky (we were) it doesn't rain at all.
The whole place is nicely kept and there is little to complain about. The food in the Western- and Thai restaurant(s) could be slightly better but that's a matter of taste. The hilltop location of the Western restaurant offers a wonderful view! I'd like to mention in particular the Spa which is in a very nice garden setting and offers great massages and beauty treatments.
All staff are very friendly and well-trained!
It's nice to arrive/depart by the hotel-boat which adds another special touch.

Super place for a long weekend. Great location with a private beach, 2 lovely infinity pools and carefully positioned villas. Food is lovely without being overly pretentious and just excellent service.
From the minute we landed everything was first class regarding service, transport, hotel and food.
We made the return by boat and it was an lovely boat trip with amazing side seeing.
The hotel is located far away from the city but rent a bike and you'll enjoy the island too.
As a tip, I always suggest you rent bike or plan a boat trip from the small village located 5' form the hotel. You'll get much better price.