Beach Escape - Ko Samui
The Gulf of Thailand’s jewel, Ko Samui is a longtime favorite of visitors in search of beach bliss. With a small airport, getting here is a breeze and it screams tropical island from the moment you step off the plane.
Intro
Total Trip - 4 days
As one of the kingdom’s original island getaways, Ko Samui has grown considerably over the last 20 years but still holds undeniable charm. There’s something here for everyone and a hotel to suit all tastes. One of the country’s larger islands it’s a great destination to laze on one of its many gorgeous beaches, explore by motorbike or rental car, hike in the jungle, go scuba diving at nearby islands, enjoy fine dining and dance the night away. From bustling beaches with nightclubs to quiet, private bays, you can find it all on Ko Samui. Nearby Ko Phangan, famous for the monthly Full Moon Party, is just a short speedboat away as is Ko Tao, one of the best places in Thailand for scuba diving/snorkeling. Get ready for a classic Beach Escape!
Details
These unescorted extensions include return airfare from Bangkok to Ko Samui aboard Bangkok Airways, return van transfer from the Ko Samui International Airport to your hotel, air conditioned accommodation, breakfast daily and our handy Smiling Albino Adventure Tips Kit full of handy info to help you make the most of your time.
The following hotels have been recommended due to a number of factors:
- Nice, polite, efficient staff
- Overall environment and feel of the property
- High quality rooms with a touch of style and class
- Good beach that you can swim at whether the tide is in our out (for the most part)
- Overall value for money in comparison to other properties on the island
Montra Samui
At-a-Glance
- Small boutique property
- Just 8 rooms
- Very quiet
- Not on the beach
Very friendly staff and a family-run feel make Montra Samui a great choice for those who don’t need to be right on the beach. A private compound, rooms have a huge pool running throughout the property, a free shuttle to Lamai Beach (15 minute walk) and a small village nearby for exploring. Only double beds are available, with tasteful decorations creating a relaxing ambience. All rooms are suites with a sitting area and large bathroom – separate tub/shower.
This is a great choice for families, and travelers wanting a private, quiet property to relax at away from the crowds with a personal touch.
Rooms are spacious, cozy and have all modern amenities. Welcoming and a great place to relax for a few days.
Jan 11 – Apr 30, July 1 – Sept 30, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Standard Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$760 | US$535 | US$125 |
May1 – June 30, Oct 1 – 20, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Deluxe Bungalows; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$705 | US$505 | US$110 |
Lamai Beach
A very nice, long beach at the southeast end of Ko Samui, there’s always somewhere to swim here regardless of the tide and lots of room to escape the crowds. One of the island’s prettiest beaches.
Silavadee
At-a-Glance
- Modern, natural design
- Wonderful views of Lamai Beach
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Set back from the beach
Perched on a hill with nice views of the ocean, especially Lamai Beach, bamboo is major design element, with a modern Thai feel. About 60 rooms make up this cozy property, set on a hillside about 15 minute walk to Lamai Beach. There’s a good coral reef right here and a nice, small beach to laze the days away. A nice infinity pool rounds out a very tranquil environment.
This is a great choice for couples wanting a modern, quiet resort but many stairs make this not a great choice for families or those who have trouble with stairs.
Deluxe Balcony rooms are 50sqm in size, feature separate shower/bath and modern amenities. Ocean View Pool Villas are a massive 140sqm, feature an outdoor plunge pool, wine cellar, terrazzo bathtub and stunning ocean views.
Apr 16 - July 14, 2010, Sept 1 – Oct 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Deluxe Balcony | ||
| US$1005 | US$655 | US$220 |
| Ocean View Pool Villa | ||
| US$2370 | US$1340 | US$675 |
Jan 7 – Apr 15, 2010, July 15 – Aug 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Deluxe Balcony | ||
| US$1085 | US$700 | US$245 |
| Ocean View Pool Villa | ||
| US$2585 | US$1445 | US$745 |
* Peak Season, December 20th - January 10th, prices increase by about 30% and there is a minimum 5 night stay
Chaweng Beach
This is THE beach right in the heart of the action. The sand is gorgeous, you can swim anytime and there’s lots to do. If being close to it all is the goal, then Chaweng is your choice.
Kala Samui
At-a-Glance
- Nice modern feel
- All day breakfast
- Friendly staff
- Near lots of action
Situated on the side of a hill along the ocean, this modern property has very comfy rooms, attentive staff and nice facilities. With easy access to shops, restaurants and bars, finding things to do is easy. A nice pool makes this a great place to chill out. There is no beach right at the resort so a short walk is needed to hit the sand, but in the mid-range price category, this is a nice safe bet.
Deluxe Rooms are 45-52sqm, featuring modern amenities and natural materials/furnishings. Deluxe Suites are 80sqm with a second room with daybed and outdoor shower with nice bathtub. All rooms have ocean views.
Jan 11-Apr 15, Jul 16-Sept 14, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Deluxe Room; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$925 | US$615 | US$180 |
| Deluxe Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1035 | US$670 | US$220 |
Apr 16-July 15, Sept 15-Oct 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Deluxe Room; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$805 | US$555 | US$140 |
| Deluxe Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$935 | US$620 | US$185 |
* Peak Season, December 24 - January 10, prices increase by about 15%
Poppies
At-a-Glance
- Gorgeous garden setting
- Personally managed feel
- Great beach
- One of the island’s best restaurants
A Ko Samui institution, Poppies has a solid reputation that brings guests back again and again. In the heart of Chaweng, but still quiet, Poppies is an oasis in the middle of it all. With about 25 units, bungalows are separate units, very tasteful in design and comfy. A nice pool and one of the island’s nicest beaches make this a great choice. Add the fact that their restaurant is one of the tastiest and you won’t have to stroll far for great food.
Perfect for travelers wanting a classic beach resort, right on a gorgeous beach without modern flare or pizzazz.
Thai Cottages are feature teak wood, Thai silks, sunken bathtub/shower and are in an L-shape, creating a mini-suite environment.
Jan 6-Apr 23, Jul 16-Aug 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Thai Cottage; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1010 | US$660 | US$220 |
Sept 1-Dec 20, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Thai Cottage; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$795 | US$550 | US$145 |
* Peak Season, December 20 - January 10, prices increase by about 30%
The Library
At-a-Glance
- Ultra-modern
- Far out in every way
- Very nice beach
- Did we mention it's far out?
One of the island’s funkiest properties, The Library oozes cool at every turn. All white, long straight lines, open spaces and relaxed staff make this a modern gem. Roughly 30 rooms set in two-story units create a high-end beach condo feel. Right on Chaweng Beach, beach bliss is right there and it’s easy to get out and do as much or little as you like. There’re even giant pillows on the beach for guests to stretch out and enjoy. Try not to fall asleep!
This is a love or hate it property, perfect for artists, hipsters and travelers craving the latest concept. Keep in mind there’s little Thai about this property but it is very cool.
Studios are 67sqm, located on the second floor with relaxing nooks and very modern amenities. Suites are 76sqm, feature an outdoor sitting area, iMac computer, lots of neat spots to read/relax and a very relaxing ambience.
Jan 6-Apr 30, Jul 16-Sep 30, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Smart Studio; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1725 | US$1015 | US$455 |
| Exotic Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1920 | US$1115 | US$520 |
May 1-Jul 15, Oct 1-Oct 30, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Smart Studio; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1450 | US$900 | US$380 |
| Exotic Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1660 | US$985 | US$435 |
Bo Phut Beach
On the northern end of Ko Samui, Bo Phut is a nice choice in between quiet and in the middle of the action. Soft sand and good access to restaurants and bars by foot make this a very nice choice. And the view of Ko Phangna in the distance is a treat too.
Anantara
The Thai hotel group Anantara has built a well-deserved quality reputation over the last few years. Service is top drawer, attention to detail prevalent, landscaping (Bill Bensley) exquisite and overall ambience tops. From the moment you cross a wooden bridge at the stunning entrance, the layout wows at every turn. A huge swimming pool, two restaurants, gym, all modern facilities, lots of trees, neat furnishings and a very nice beach make this one of Ko Samui’s best bets. About 80 well appointed rooms feature beds on an elevated platform on the floor, huge bathtubs (perfect for two), but most rooms do not have ocean views.
A perfect choice for travelers craving creative elegance and perhaps the island’s best value for money.
Deluxe rooms are about 45sqm, feature laid-back beds on an elevated floor, deep-large bathtubs and gorgeous Thai silks. The Anantara Suite has a spacious living room with adjoining bedroom and lots of special touches.
Jan 8-July 15, Sept 1-Oct 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Deluxe; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$960 | US$630 | US$195 |
| Anatara Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1385 | US$845 | US$335 |
* Peak Season, December 27 - January 7, prices increase by about 40%
Angthong Beach
A gorgeous, private beach, if staying put and lazing the days away is the goal, this is the beach to do it on.
Four Seasons
Palatial in all senses, built in a truly incredible setting set on a steep cliff, this is classic Four Seasons with all modern touches. Wild views, stunning state rooms, every conceivable amenity and staff waiting to tend to your every wish make this our favorite property on the island. It’s secluded so you won’t be wandering to nearby restaurants, but then again why would you want to leave?
Perfect for those with a good-standing platinum card wanting the ultimate beach escape.
One-Bedroom Villas have lots of living space: 60sqm bedroom, 42sqm hardwood deck featuring an outdoor living room and a 15sqm private infinity pool. The One-Bedroom Residence Villa is more like a home, starting at 331sqm, featuring separate living/dining/entertaining areas with everything you would expect from the Four Seasons and then some.
Jan 11-Jul 31, Sept 1-Sept 15, Dec 1-21, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| One Bedroom Villa | ||
| US$2835 | US$1570 | US$785 |
| One Bedroom Residence Villa | ||
| US$8095 | US$4200 | US$2535 |
Aug 1-31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| One Bedroom Villa | ||
| US$3140 | US$1725 | US$885 |
| One Bedroom Residence Villa | ||
| US$9950 | US$5130 | US$3155 |
Sept 16-Nov 30, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| One Bedroom Villa | ||
| US$2370 | US$1340 | US$630 |
| One Bedroom Residence Villa | ||
| US$8095 | US$4200 | US$2535 |
* Peak Season, December 22 - January 10, prices increase by about 40% and there is a minimum 5 night stay
Maenam Beach
A quiet beach on the northwestern end of Ko Samui, the sand is soft but some areas can be a bit tough to wade out and swim in when the tide is low. Regardless, it’s tropical goodness all around.
Napasai
An Oriental-Express property, every effort is made to make you feel welcome and special. Fitness center, two restaurants, an extended beach (yep, they renovated it) and innovative pontoon system make swimming anytime possible regardless of the tide. It’s a bit secluded but there are a few small restaurants and such within walking distance for those that want to get out a bit.
A good choice for those seeking a charming, quiet, high-touch beach experience.
Private Sea View Cottages feature rich wood/bamboo design, fine Thai silk and a day bed, perfect for lounging or a third guest. The 1 Bedroom Private Pool Residence is a multi-level complex with separate living/sleeping/relaxing areas. Stairs take you from one area to another, plants abound and a private pool rounds out a dynamite place to rest your head.
Jan 9-Apr 15, July 1-31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Private Sea View Cottage; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1100 | US$705 | US$240 |
| 1 Bedroom Private Pool Residence; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$2010 | US$1160 | US$545 |
Apr 16-June 30, Oct 1-Dec 22, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Private Sea View Cottage; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1015 | US$660 | US$210 |
| 1 Bedroom Private Pool Residence; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1815 | US$1060 | US$480 |
* Peak Season, Dec 23 - Jan 8 and Aug 1-31, prices increase by about 25%
Karma Karmet
A very unique, interesting hotel, with custom furniture throughout and a feeling of a private villa complex, this Relais & Chateaux property is a one of a kind with some of the coolest furnishings on the island. With just 12 rooms, this feels more like a private villa than a hotel. The beach is nice but not good for swimming when the tide is out, but don’t fear as they have a free shuttle to a nearby beach. There’re a good number of restaurants/bars nearby which makes getting out for meals easy. A small pool means there’s little reason to venture outside this lovely property.
A great choice for fans of one-of-a-kind hotels and Relais & Chateaux.
Sea Breeze Suites are 40sqm, each one decorated in a different style with exquisite furnishings. Flat screen TV, raindrop shower and a host of special touches make this a super cool place to stay.
Jan 6-Apr 30, July 16-Aug 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Sea Breeze Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1035 | US$670 | US$220 |
May 1-July 15, Sept 1-Oct 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Sea Breeze Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$840 | US$575 | US$155 |
* Peak Season, December 24 - January 5, prices increase by about 45%
Choeng Mon Beach
Six Senses Samui
One of the region’s coolest hotel brands, Six Senses Samui exudes natural elegance throughout featuring natural woods, bamboo and a back to nature feel. Very spiritual in concept, a massive infinity pool, chilled-out lounging areas, a restaurant that hangs off a cliff, nice small beach and staff that wear yoga-like outfits your soul is sure to be quickly relaxed. With about 80 units scattered along a hillside, buggy rides are key but privacy easy to find.
This is a great choice for hip, young couples and/or those wanting back to nature-spiritual cool. It’s not a good choice for travelers that don’t like walking and want easy access to outside services.
The Hideaway Villa features 55sqm of living space with a total of 130sqm making up the total unit. Plunge bathtub, bamboo, fine white fabrics and modern amenities make this a winner. Pool Villas have 55sqm of living space and 160sqm of total space, with a 12.5sqm plunge pool, two outdoor day beds and dining table and everything to truly relax you.
Jan 11-July 15, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Hideaway Villa; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1485 | US$895 | US$415 |
| Pool Villa; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$2195 | US$1250 | US$675 |
July 16-Aug 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Hideaway Villa; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$2075 | US$1190 | US$630 |
| Pool Villa; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$2905 | US$1605 | US$930 |
Sept 1-Oct 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Hideaway Villa; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1385 | US$845 | US$380 |
| Pool Villa; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$2025 | US$1165 | US$610 |
* Peak Season, Dec 22 - Jan 10, prices increase by about 180%
Tongsai Bay
One of the originals on the island for more than twenty years, there’s a reason Tongsai Bay keeps guests coming back time and time again. A classy concept, nice, contemporary rooms ooze class, are situated on a nice cliff, featuring timeless design and are very cozy. Nothing here will go out of style and it’s one of the few properties to feature a tennis court and two swimming pools – one for adults only. Set back from the action, you’ll have to take a short taxi ride into town to get out and about.
The perfect choice for those who enjoy traditional style and value in a very classy, relaxed setting.
Cottage Suites range in size from 68-78sqm, are dotted along the hillside, feature ocean views, have 2 outdoor loungers and a bathtub with a view. The Tongsai Pool Villa is 185sqm in total size including a very large outdoor patio, 15sqm plunge pool and all modern amenities. Perfect for a family of four.
Jan 11-Mar 31, 2010
| Single | Double (P/P) | Extra Nights |
| Cottage Suite; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$1695 | US$1000 | US$450 |
| Tongsai Pool Villa; 4 day, 3 night package | ||
| US$3045 | US$1675 | US$900 |
* Peak Season, Dec 22 - Jan 10, prices increase by about 15%
Related Categories:
Beach Escapes
Have any questions?
info@smilingalbino.com.
Itinerary
Length: 4 days
Cost: see Details
Includes: Bangkok to Ko Samui return flight, transfers, accommodation, breakfast, Adventure Kit
Activities: hiking, cycling, boating, walking
