Best luxury hotels in Koh Samui

No matter if you are seeking a romantic escape with your cherished other or an epic getaway with your whole tribe, this tropical paradise on the northwestern shore of Koh Samui has it all. You'll be spoilt for choice with 13 ocean-facing villas, some large enough to accommodate up to 12 guests. Interiors are chic, sunlit spaces with island-inspired touches that epitomise Koh Samui's tropical soul. And if lounging poolside ever loses its charm (unlikely), there are options aplenty for physical fun: snorkelling and diving at Sail Rock, tennis and Muay Thai lessons, and rounds of golf are just some of the many activities available.

Best for: Private yacht excursions.

Address: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, 19 Moo 5, Angthong, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand

Samujana, a mix of the island's name and ‘jana’, the Moroccan word for coral (because the resort overlooks a coral cove), features 23 beautiful Thai-style villas that offer jaw-dropping views of the Gulf of Thailand. Furnished with all the mod-cons one could need–from fully-equipped kitchens to outdoor BBQs and infinity pools–they are pockets of private perfection. Vegetarians and those with diet restrictions are also catered for here, with a villa manager or chef on hand to whip up delicious feasts in the villa’s kitchen. Conversely, if you're keen to shed a few pounds while on holiday, relax – a team of wellness therapists, yoga instructors and Thai boxing coaches is available to put you through your paces, all in the privacy of your villa.

Best for: State-of-the-art facilities and services will keep you from leaving your room.

Address: Samujana Villas, 63/154 Moo 5, Plai Laem Soi 11, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand 84320

Located 19 kilometres from Samui International Airport near Lamai Bay, Banyan Tree Samui is ideal for an exclusive, serene getaway. Because it is nestled in hills along the coastline, the 88-room resort has a private island feel to it, so that holiday breaks really do feel far from the madding crowd. The resort is a foodie's paradise, serving Asian, Thai and Western menus with dishes to satisfy any craving. And for the ultimate indulgence, each villa comes with a private pool, rain shower and breathtaking panoramic views.

Best for: Parents will appreciate the resort’s daycare and babysitter services.

Address: Banyan Tree Samui, 99, 9, Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84310

Cool and contemporary, this W Hotels retreat brings a party vibe to the north coast of Samui. Perched high on a peninsula between Bophut and Maenam beaches, it boasts 74 villas and miles of golden sand. With two bars, two restaurants, a spa, a gym, free exercise classes and a team of staff ready to spoil you, it's hard to tear yourself away. Spacious standard rooms, ocean or jungle-facing, feel more like suites at 163 square metres, and each comes with a private plunge pool and wooden deck. The luxurious 2-bedroom premium villas also come with private pools and expansive ocean views, making them a great option for family stays. 

Best for: All villas are pet-friendly (limited to one pet of less than 18 kilogrammes per villa).

Address: W Koh Samui, 4/1 Moo 1 Tambol Maenam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84330

Originally known as Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui and the first Centara outpost on the island, this property has received a makeover that blends colonial charm with contemporary aesthetics. This pristine getaway is only a 15-minute drive from the island’s air hub and yet feels remote in its location nestled at the tip of Chaweng Beach. You'll be spoilt for choice with an array of 184 villas and suites and positively pampered by services that include personalised butlers. 

Best for: An enlightened 24-hour check-in and check-out service.

Address: Centara Reserve Samui, 38, Chaweng Beach, 2 Bophut, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320

Lush, tropical jungle envelopes this family-friendly beach resort of 106 classic southern Thai-style rooms and suites. The setting evokes scenes from an Indiana Jones movie - minus the booby traps and dramatic adventures. The resort's restaurants serve up a global culinary journey that runs from Thai classics to delectable flavours from South America. Settle by the pool with a cocktail inspired by that continent and bites of zesty Peruvian cuisine and you’ll be hard pushed to tear yourself away.

Best for: Its award-winning garden spa.

Address: Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, 99/9 Bophut Bay, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320

Beautifully kept tropical gardens full of jasmine, bougainvillaea, hibiscus and cashew trees are the first things you'll spot at this five-star gem. The 45 villas, 22 suites and some private pool residences are all spacious and feature Thai-style decor, including heaps of teak and vaulted ceilings. If you're feeling adventurous, you're in it for a treat because it offers PADI-certified snorkelling and scuba diving lessons. As for food, their Lai Thai restaurant makes vegetarian and vegan guests feel right at home. Children are welcome, and although there's no dedicated kids' club, youngsters of all ages can get involved in the many activities available, including cookery classes, a host of water sports and even Thai language lessons.

Best for: A spectacular freshwater infinity-edged pool.

Address: Napasai, A Belmond Hotel, Koh Samui, 65/10 Baan Tai, Maenam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84330

Find enlightenment just a 40-minutes from the airport at this 76-room and villa beachside resort sensitively constructed around a sacred hillside and cave where monks and locals have been coming to meditate for a long time. This is where you melt your stress away and reset your mind, body and soul. We're not talking about the odd yoga or meditation class; an individually tailored spa and well-being programme is planned as you check in. The rooms are simple and understated but feature local art and woods, and two open-air restaurants focus on healthy living with many vegetarian options. 

Best for: Those seeking to disconnect and detox.

Address: Kamalaya Koh Samui, 102 9 Laem-Set Rd, Tambon Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140

Located in a peaceful corner of Koh Samui, the resort is inspired by royal Raja-living and designs bear a resemblance to a mini palace showcasing stunning northern Lanna Thai aesthetics. Set on tranquil Lamai beach, this sanctuary offers 18 exquisite beach front villas that feature wooden furnishings, gold accents, heaps of mirrors and stylish lighting. In terms of dining, dietary options are endless. The resort’s open-air restaurant is adorned with fairy lights and primarily serves Thai cuisine with a selection Western dishes. Thai options are brimming with vegetarian twists and include classics such as tom yum kung and healthy papaya salads. Halal guests are thoughtfully catered for as well.

Best for: Cultural immersion in northern Thai Lanna traditions.

Address: Ammatara Pura Pool Villas, 128/75-76 Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84310

Tucked away on the northeastern side of Samui, this Ritz-Carlton vacationland spans 58 acres and encompasses some 175 rooms, suites and private pool villas. Contemporary interiors decorated with calming colours transform spaces into tranquil oasis and the sense of relaxation is enhanced with the wonderful seascape of the Gulf of Thailand. With a private beach, relaxing massages and a picturesque pool, this is the perfect setting for a romantic honeymoon or a dreamy intimate staycation. Not only that, the resort serves as a getaway for wellness and relaxation, offering exclusive activities and experiences that give you a taste of the culture and traditions of southern Thailand. 

Best for: Aquatic wellness exercise programmes.

Address: The Ritz-Carlton, 9, 123 Tambon, Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320