When staying on Thailand's dreamiest island, opt for ultimate boutique style at one of these top hotels.
Koh Samui may be Thailand’s second-largest island, but it’s certainly not second-best. This paradise on Earth is famous for its lush rainforests, palm-lined beaches and blue oceans, making it a tough contender for the best island in Thailand. The island is brimming with fascinating historical sites, including the huge golden Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple, while its fascinating wildlife effortlessly captivates visiting nature enthusiasts.
Far-flung travellers looking to soak up the glorious sunshine and bask in the natural beauty need somewhere to stay, so it’s no surprise there are some seriously stunning hotels and resorts to choose from. For a more intimate experience, you’ll want to choose a boutique hotel that will not only be more secluded, but will also feature personable service fit for royalty. Keep reading to discover our list of the best boutique hotels in Koh Samui.
Seclude yourself at Silavadee Pool Spa Resort
The first thing you’ll notice about the stunning Silavadee Pool Spa Resort is just how perfectly it melts into the verdant hillside upon which it sits. It’s like walking into an ancient tropical village, except instead of grass huts there are luxurious villas. From every vantage point at this resort, the views are monumental. Picture emerald jungles tumbling into gleaming white beaches that are lapped at by the deep-blue, sparkling ocean.
The accommodation epitomises opulence with rooms and villas decorated to perfection, mixing modern fittings with traditional teak, bamboo, cedar and stone. You can choose from ocean or tropical jungle views, both of which are phenomenal. Pool villas feature infinity pools, and all rooms feature tranquil outdoor areas with balconies and huge doors to bring the outside indoors. Multiple dining options will tantalise your tastebuds with local and international cuisine enjoyed alongside ocean views. After dining, you can soak up the sparkling night sky, cocktail in hand, at the Star rooftop bar.
With a plethora of activities ranging from relaxing wellbeing programs, to exciting adventures, you won’t experience one dull moment. Try a fitness course or some mindful meditation, stretch out at yoga or try your hand at Muay Thai. Enjoy snorkelling, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding, or learn to cook Thai cuisine with a chef. If you have children, they’ll love the kids club activities, which will keep them entertained while you enjoy some well-deserved free time. If you’d like to explore the island’s striking natural beauty and historical sights, the friendly staff can help you organise some memorable excursions. If you’re after an authentic Thai experience with abundant luxury, this is the resort for you.
Relax at Rocky's Boutique Resort’s sun-soaked beaches
Enveloped in a calm and secluded cove, Rocky’s Boutique Resort is the ultimate destination for visitors seeking the tranquil isolation of a private hideaway, while still being close enough to Lamai city to take advantage of modern amenities. The moment you enter the reception area, which offers spectacular views across the resort’s tropical garden and beyond that the ocean, you’ll realise the extent of luxury at this intimate, eco-friendly resort. While the popular Lamai beach is only 1.5 kilometres away, you’ll be hard-pressed to leave the resort’s three picturesque beaches, which offer a romantic slice of paradise sheltered by huge, weather-worn boulders.
The beautifully appointed rooms and villas at Rocky's offer each guest a unique experience, with individual décor designed with luxury in mind. Rooms are bright, spacious and comfortable, with all the mod-cons you’d expect from a high-end hotel. Choose between garden view, ocean view, pool view or beachfront options, with each combining class with a touch of tradition. The main restaurant sits atop a huge granite boulder, with panoramic ocean views to keep you mesmerised during this fine-dining experience. There’s also a garden pool bistro, café and pool bar for more casual dining options. Alternatively, opt for a private dinner on the beach.
The resort’s beaches are filled with sea life and are a great place to try snorkelling. Take a private boat ride to explore nearby islands, or hop on the resort shuttle to nearby attractions. If you’d prefer to stick to swimming in a pool, take a dip in one of the two swimming pools, or enjoy a poolside cocktail under the stars. After a full day of fun and adventure, a treatment at the day spa will leave you feeling pampered and rejuvenated in no time.
Sweeping views at Six Senses Samui
The stunning Six Senses Samui resort enjoys a unique location atop a sloping headland at Koh Samui’s northern tip. With sweeping views across the clear blue Gulf of Thailand and the surrounding forest, this resort gives the impression of total privacy, despite being close to a handful of shops, restaurants and only 15 minutes to the airport. With a focus on sustainability, this resort is careful to ensure all its operations and activities are environmentally friendly and sustainable. They even have their own hilltop farm, which you can visit, pet the animals and collect fresh eggs for your breakfast.
Each pool or garden villa is beautifully appointed with traditional ‘Thai fishing village’ inspired architecture and décor, combined with luxury fittings. Many villas feature private pools, but if you opt for a Hideaway Villa, you can enjoy a dip in the resort’s impressive infinity pool, or spend your days sipping a poolside cocktail. The multiple dining options aren’t simply delicious, but also eye-catching, with each location selected to maximise the spectacular natural surroundings.
If you’re on a family holiday with kids, they’ll have a ball at the kids club. After spending long, sunny days exploring the surrounding environment, visiting local attractions and participating in watersports, bicycle and boat tours, wine tasting, cooking classes and other exciting activities, you can relax like royalty at the wellness and spa centre. Here, practise yoga, unwind with a massage, or relax in the dry sauna or steam room and let the rest of the world melt away.
Best beach at Buri Rasa Village Samui
The Buri Rasa Village Samui is a beachfront oasis that’s a jewel in Koh Samui’s crown. This beautiful resort is situated on Koh Samui’s finest white sand beach, Chaweng Beach. This small-but-sweet resort exudes traditional luxury, with the architecture aligning heavily with a Southern Thai village style. The bright, fresh colours featured throughout the resort create a lively vibe, but it’s still the perfect atmosphere for relaxing.
Each suite and room is splendidly styled with traditional décor and architecture, and this combined with modern facilities results in a comfortable stay. Gaze at the spellbinding views from your balcony or terrace, day or night. When hunger strikes, head to the Beach Club restaurant for some local flavours in an oceanfront setting, or enjoy a cocktail or two at the Beach Bar. Slip into the slate-sided pool to cool off or visit the Nam Thai Herbal Spa for some well-deserved pampering.
Aside from enjoying the surf and sun, there is a bounty of activities to participate in. Observe the colourful sea life while snorkelling or learn to scuba dive. Learn to cook traditional Thai food or get the adrenaline pumping at the nearby zipline park. For an in-depth experience with the natural beauty of the area, visit Ang Thong Marine Park. Then relax with a stroll along the starlit beach and feel the powdery-soft sand between your toes.
Looking for more Koh Samui inspiration? Check out The Best Things to Do in Koh Samui.
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