Make a splash at these dreamy Koh Samui resorts, home to some of the best pools on the island
Famous for its white sandy beaches, glassy blue oceans and rugged green cliffs, Koh Samui is a true embodiment of paradise. This 25km-long island may be small, but it sure packs a punch with its spectacular natural wonders, huge variety of wildlife, inspiring historical and cultural sites and traditional towns full of friendly locals.
After a long day of exploring Koh Samui, there’s nothing like returning to your luxurious resort room and cooling off with a dip in the pool or watching the sunset over the water from a poolside lounge, cocktail in hand. Thankfully, we’ve found the most luxurious Koh Samui resorts with the best pools so you don’t have to. Which one will you choose?
Splash about at Silavadee Pool Spa Resort
Silavadee Pool Spa Resort is a secluded haven that takes advantage of the gorgeous natural surroundings, creating a small village. The resort sits above a gorgeous white sand beach that’s formed amid huge boulders, creating a perfect backdrop for photos.
Each room and villa is gorgeously appointed with traditional touches of teak, cedar, bamboo and marble, with modern fittings ensuring a luxurious atmosphere. Your bright, airy room will also have a balcony or outdoor area and either a private infinity pool or outdoor jacuzzi, which means you’ll have an unlimited amount of opportunity to laze by the pool, swim or rejuvenate yourself in total privacy. If you do want to mingle though, you can take a dip or enjoy a delicious cocktail by the resort’s two beautiful shared pools.
The multiple drinking and dining options give you delicious meal choices made with fresh produce from the resort’s mini farm, accompanied by dreamy ocean vistas. You can also take a Thai cooking class to cook like the pros. To work it all off, you’ll have a ball at the resort’s fitness course, Muay Thai, yoga or meditation classes. Go snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding and try other exciting activities. Children will enjoy the fun kids' club while you go and indulge at the day spa. Then go back to the rooftop bar for a nightcap under the stars.
Freeform pools at ShaSa Resort & Residence
If you’re seeking spectacular views, look no further than the hillside ShaSa Resort. This gem is located in a quieter corner of Koh Samui, but is still close to the local attractions, offering the best of both worlds. With panoramic views across the turquoise Gulf of Thailand and the golden sands of Laem Set beach from every room, you’ll want to be sure to bring your camera. Don’t forget your underwater camera too, as there’s a thriving coral reef to explore just 100m offshore.
The resort’s luxe accommodation includes spacious suites with sea-view balconies, plus a beachfront villa with a private infinity pool and huge outdoor tub. All rooms are beautifully appointed and fashionably minimalistic, with a touch of traditional decor. The resort’s multiple cascading free-form pools are simply gorgeous and add to the overall aesthetic. Surrounded by lush, scented tropical gardens, each one invites guests of all ages to play, relax and explore. You can also indulge your sense with a water massage at Koh Samui’s only outdoor hydrotherapy pool.
Enjoy traditional Thai cuisine from the ‘catch of the day's menu at the resort’s gourmet restaurant, or visit the vintage bar and pool bar for a refreshing cocktail while admiring the glittering Samui sunset. Work off your overindulgence at the well-equipped fitness centre, or participate in some kayaking, snorkelling, diving or fishing. Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service to Chaweng Beach and Lamai and explore some of Thailand’s amazing attractions. Children will go wild at the kids' club, with a huge range of arts and crafts to do. The menu of luxury treatments available at the beachfront spa will have your worries melting away in no time at all.
Private infinity pools at Banyan Tree Samui
The secluded Banyan Tree Samui is situated in a lush, tropical jungle outcrop in glorious Lamai Bay. This picturesque resort offers sublime views across the clear, blue ocean to the emerald islands nearby. This eco-friendly resort’s private beach is a sanctuary for many laying turtles, who arrive in early summer to lay their eggs, which then hatch up until late autumn.
Every luxurious villa at the resort is bright, airy and comfortable and all feature their own private infinity pool and outdoor terrace. Contemporary fittings are complemented by a touch of traditional Thai class and architecture, resulting in a palatial feel. Multiple dining options include Thai and international cuisine in romantic and picturesque settings. You can choose between fine dining, a barbie on the beach, or more intimate experiences with private beach dinners and in-room meals. You can even learn from the pros with a Thai cooking class.
The resort offers a plethora of activities from watersports to yoga, a gym, guided walking tours and snorkelling. Kids will enjoy learning and playing at the kids' club while you indulge in a soothing massage, beauty treatment or hydrothermal experience at the day spa. Stop in at the nearby Fisherman’s Village for a dose of traditional culture, or enjoy the excitement and nightlife at nearby Lamai Beach. Sipping poolside cocktails under the stars at the Pool Bar or Beach Bar is a must if you’re looking for that true tropical paradise atmosphere.
In-pool lounging at Rocky's Boutique Resort
The gorgeous Rocky’s Boutique Resort is designed to make you feel like royalty from check-in to checkout. This peaceful resort feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but it’s just minutes from all the island’s best attractions. Rocky’s is situated above three sheltered beaches that are fringed by large, smooth granite outcrops, creating a sense of privacy and cosiness, as well as a fantastic backdrop for photographs. The ocean is alive with tropical coral and sealife, making it a perfect spot for snorkelling and diving.
Unique, luxurious rooms and villas are decorated with a mix of top-end fittings and traditional Thai decor. You can opt for a spacious and bright garden, ocean or pool view room, or splash out on a beachfront villa. There are two swimming pools located in the upper garden and along the beachfront. Both have enchanting surroundings where you can relax and enjoy a heady cocktail or snack. Both pools feature a shallow, underwater deck with lounges, while the garden pool also has a number of in-pool benches, allowing you to sit and chat for hours in cool comfort.
Dining options range from a decadent fine-dining restaurant situated on top of a huge granite slab to a cute café, garden pool bistro and pool bar. You can also opt for a private beach dinner or an in-room meal. The resort’s beachfront sala spa is sure to help you unwind, with Thai massage, reflexology and other health and beauty treatments. There are multiple activities to pursue, such as a cruise in the resort’s private boat, island hopping adventures, local tours, snorkelling, cooking classes and more. Kids will love the playroom or take them out for a day at the aquarium or butterfly garden, or just explore the magical surroundings on a daily walk.
Looking for more Thailand inspiration? Check out The Best Beach Clubs in Thailand.
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