Amari Koh Samui

Amari Koh Samui is an upscale resort with all of the hallmarks of tropical paradise. It also happens to be a far cry from the sometimes rowdy party scene in downtown Chaweng, making this appealing to guests seeking a quiet and calm getaway. Feathery palm trees front the property, and that theme continues when you step into the airy lobby. Floor-to-ceiling windows stream natural light onto thick wooden beams, light wood floors, and beachy furniture. A central courtyard dotted with plants adds to the tropical atmosphere, along with vibrant cushions and plenty of canopied outdoor seating. The on-site restaurants are fittingly breezy, all brightly lit and designed with the elements in mind -- think: soft woods, open-air architecture, and neutral palettes punctuated by pops of color. It’s an inviting, relaxed setting that provides a peaceful backdrop for a honeymooning or newly engaged couples, though groups of friends and families are likewise frequent guests.

On a calm stretch of sand along Chaweng Beach, Amari Koh Samui provides gorgeous views of the Gulf of Thailand. The sprawling property is ideally situated for those wanting to be near -- but not right in -- the heart of Chaweng's action. It's just three minutes by foot from a few bars, restaurants, and shopping, and 10 minutes from the heart of the city. The colorful Buddhist temple, Wat Plai Laem, will take around 12 minutes to reach by car. Tourists can get a great glimpse of traditional Samui life at Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village, whose bustling street market is a 15-minute drive from the hotel. For those seeking even more culture, the Secret Buddha Garden is roughly 45 minutes by car from the hotel -- the private park showcases elegant sculptures and provides unspoiled views of the island from its impressive peak. Amari Koh Samui is only a 10-minute drive from Samui International Airport.

Rooms at the hotel are spread out over three different wings, each with its own character. Garden Wing rooms are sleek and modern, Beach Wing rooms are airy and bright, and Thai Village Wing rooms work traditional elements into their decor. Bear in mind that both the Garden and Thai Village Wings are located across Chaweng Beach Road, and guests will need to cross the street to the Beach Wing side to access many of the hotel’s facilities. All of the rooms here, though, share a serene, upscale quality -- they’re quietly sophisticated, with hardwood floors and understated artwork -- and all have air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with premium channels, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and mini-fridges. Lower category rooms have electric kettles, while higher-end rooms have premium coffeemakers. Most also include balconies with garden, ocean, or pool views. Some rooms have two floors that make them fine choices for families, while most others have chic seating areas near the windows. Bathrooms are contemporary, and all are outfitted with deep soaking tubs, wide countertops, and spacious walk-in showers.

There are a number of features on offer here, though of course the main draw are the hotel's outdoor areas. The beach is lined with a couple rows of lounge chairs as well as cafe tables, and there are two pools, including shallow children's areas. The other main draw here is the culinary scene -- and it’s fairly vibrant. Prego Italian Restaurant features open-air seating, yet still retains a romantic vibe thanks to the chandeliers that cast a soft glow over hardwood tables and walls. For a more relaxed dining experience, Amaya Cafe provides cozy couches and a more basic pastry and beverage menu. The Amaya Food Gallery is where chefs prepare Asian meals in an open-concept kitchen. In the far corner of the resort sits Amaya Bar, a chilled-out zone overlooking the sea that serves cocktails late into the evening.One of the more unexpected perks here is the Voyager Lounge, which is designed for those with early check-ins or late check-outs and includes showers, spacious lockers, and plenty of comfortable chairs. It’s adjacent to the FIT Centre, a gym that, while not particularly large, offers most standard equipment and weights. There's also an attractive spa offering Thai massages and other treatments. A cheery Kids’ Club packed with toys, games, and TVs keeps little ones occupied through the day. There’s also ample meeting space for business travelers. Golf carts are available to help move from wing to wing. Wi-Fi is free throughout, as is parking.