Sustainability

Elephant Parade® is a social enterprise that raises awareness and funds for elephant conservation through its collection of artist-designed elephant sculptures.

Our resort mascot, “Smiles Go Miles”, was created by self-taught abstract artist Jennie Wood and is displayed within the resort. Guests can also purchase miniature replicas at The Gallery, with 20% of proceeds/net profits donated to the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF) in Chiang Rai.

Established in 2006, GTAEF supports elephant welfare through rescue, veterinary care, research and habitat conservation.

The resort operates an on-site water-bottling facility, helping to reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles. We also collect and treat rainwater for use in designated areas of the resort. Team members receive regular training on responsible water use, and guests are encouraged to take part in our water-conservation efforts during their stay.

Dollars for Deeds is Anantara’s charitable giving programme, supporting selected community and conservation initiatives in the destinations where we operate.

At Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, a voluntary donation of USD 1 [per night/per stay/per room] is added to the guest’s bill. Anantara matches each guest donation dollar for dollar, doubling the contribution made through the programme. Guests who prefer not to participate may inform our team at any time, and the donation will be removed from the bill.

In Thailand, donations made through the programme support the following organisations:

- Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, Chiang Rai
- Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Phuket
- Princess Sirindhorn Craniofacial Center, Chulalongkorn Hospital, Bangkok

Inspired by Phuket’s local traditions, Kala Massage uses gently warmed coconut shells as part of a soothing body treatment. “Kala” is a local term for coconut shell, reflecting the treatment’s connection to the island’s natural surroundings and cultural heritage.

Coconut shells are carefully repurposed for the treatment and paired with pure virgin coconut oil. Their gentle warmth and smooth contours help ease muscular tension, creating a deeply relaxing spa experience.

Located within walking distance of Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation supports the protection of sea turtles and the coastal ecosystems of Mai Khao.

The foundation works with local organisations and conservation partners to support sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation, protect nesting sites and raise public awareness of marine conservation. Guests can visit the turtle shelter and education centre to learn more about its work and the sea turtles under its care.

The foundation is typically open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday, 11.00 am–3.00 pm. Opening hours may change; advance confirmation is recommended.

Winding through the resort, the lotus lagoons are a defining feature of Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas. Their still waters, tropical greenery and seasonal lotus blossoms create a tranquil setting inspired by the natural landscape of southern Thailand.

Lotus flowers hold special significance in Thai culture and Buddhism, symbolising purity and spiritual awakening. The blossoms are best viewed in the morning, gradually closing as the day progresses or when the sky is overcast.

Guests receive a refillable aluminium water bottle for use during their stay. Drinking-water refill stations are available in the lobby and selected public areas of the resort, helping to reduce the use of single-use plastic water bottles.

The resort separates recyclable materials including glass bottles, paper, cardboard, selected plastics, aluminium cans and metal. Used cooking oil is collected separately. These materials are transferred to designated waste-management partners for appropriate processing or recycling.

The resort keeps a small flock of hens in a cage-free enclosure within its herb garden. Eggs collected from the flock are used in selected dishes, subject to daily availability.

In addition, the resort sources shell eggs from cage-free suppliers where available, in line with Minor Hotels’ animal-welfare sourcing programme.

Where seasonality and availability allow, our restaurants source selected ingredients from producers and fishing communities in Phuket and nearby provinces. These include Phuket lobster, sea grapes, Phuket pineapple, watermelon and coconut.

Our culinary team works with suppliers to identify seasonal ingredients and incorporate them into selected menus across the resort.