Kupu Kupu Phangan Beach Villas and Spa by l'Occitane

Past its unassuming entrance, this upscale property opens onto beautiful beachfront grounds studded with tall palms and lush greenery. Composed of just 32 private guest villas and two suites, the vibe is intimate and peaceful. The traditional Balinese architecture includes local natural materials and wooden structures topped with steep peaked roofs. The 30-meter infinity pool is a showstopper, scenically set overlooking the ocean and flanked by chic black and red loungers and canopied seating areas. The backdrop is truly stunning, and the hotel's location on the western coast makes for gorgeous sunsets. The poolside restaurant spills out from its casual yet chic partially open-air space to the water's edge -- and there's even seating right in the water.Part of a French chain of properties, the hotel is popular with French and European travelers, attracting mainly couples. The atmosphere is quiet and tranquil, and though the island is famous for its full moon parties, these are concentrated on the southeast coast.

The resort is located on the western shore of Ko Pha Ngan island, which is famous for its full moon parties. Most of them are centered in Sunrise Beach on the southeastern coast (about a half-hour drive away) so the west coast is much quieter in comparison. There are several other resorts in the immediate area of the property, as well as two bars across the street. The port is an eight-minute drive away for ferry service to Ko Samui and the mainland. There's also a town by the port area, offering shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. The nearest airport is on Ko Samui; guests can take the ferry or request a private speedboat transfer (for a fee).

Most of the lodging on offer here are private villas, but the hotel also has two suites. Like the rest of the resort, villas feature traditional Balinese architecture utilizing local wood and other natural materials from the area. Interiors are simple, yet elegant, doused in earthy neutral hues. All units have small private plunge pools surrounded by wooden sundecks set with padded red loungers and umbrellas. Beachfront villas and suites are right on the sand, while more affordable units are placed in the gardens. The largest option is the Sea View Double Suite, which has two bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as a living room.Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, well-stocked minibars, electric kettles, espresso machines, safes, free bottled water, and free Wi-Fi, though some guests complain of a poor connection. Bathrooms are lovely with stone basin sinks, marble soaking tubs, and walk-in showers. They're separated from the bedrooms by curtains, but there are separate water closets. L'Occitane toiletries are provided.

Features here are chic and relaxing. One of the top highlights is the attractive outdoor pool, which offers gorgeous sunset views over the sea. There's a poolside restaurant and bar, with seating spilling outside by the water's edge -- there's even a table right in the water. The hotel's poolside restaurant and bar serves three meals a day, and breakfast is free. Guests also have direct access to a small sandy beach, but there are no sunbeds offered here. The on-site L'Occitane spa has two double treatment rooms and offers a wide range of treatments, plus a lovely outdoor pool. The sleek, wood-paneled fitness room is elegant, but is minimally equipped with four cardio machines and some weights. Other amenities include a traditional fishing boat on which the resort organizes various outings (for a fee), such as snorkeling trips and sunset cruises. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. The property is available for weddings and has a special wedding gazebo.