Banyan Tree Samui

Nestled among palm trees and lush vegetation, the exclusive Banyan Tree Samui offers a level of luxury only rivaled on Koh Samui by the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui Thailand. A winding road lined with thick greenery takes guests to the lobby, housed in an airy structure with high ceilings perched atop a series of terraces that cascade toward the hotel’s own private beach. Open on four sides and offering striking ocean views, the reception area sets the mood for an uber-luxurious stay with top-notch services and stunning rooms. Decor is stylish and contemporary throughout, with varying types of wood and a subdued earth-tone palette that stands out against the dark, chic furniture. The use of local materials and the beautiful architectural style give the resort a strong Thai feel. The Banyan Tree Samui is a sprawling property, and golf carts bus guests from their rooms to the common spaces and the beach on request. Each room is housed in a stand-alone structure nestled among trees and flowers, offering a high level of privacy. Common spaces are mostly serene and uncrowded, which adds to the intimate feel of the property. However, although the Banyan Tree Samui is a favorite among couples and honeymooners, the property also caters to families with a kids’ club, a kiddy pool, and activities for all ages.

The hotel is located atop a hill on a small peninsula directly east of Lamai. There is little within walking distance, but the hotel has its own private sandy beach with towel and drink service, and an array of water sports available on the beach -- it's meant to be a self-contained resort for those seeking an exclusive getaway. Few guests venture out of the property, but those interested in exploring the island can drive to several diving spots, beaches, and small towns in about 30 minutes. The Big Buddha is one of the island’s top attractions and can be reached in about 35 minutes, and the Samui Butterfly Gardens are just under 25 minutes from the property. Banyan Tree Samui offers free shuttle service to busting Chaweng and Lamai towns. Drives into Lamai take about 10 minutes, while Chaweng town is about 40 minutes away by car. The airport is just outside of Chaweng. Ferries to mainland Surat Thani depart from the west side of Koh Samui, 20 minutes from the hotel. 

The hotel has 88 large, airy rooms, all housed in stand-alone structures surrounded by lush plants and trees. Each villa has its own private infinity pool, furnished wraparound deck, and living area with a couch, a table, and an armchair. Decor is elegant and contemporary throughout, with cream-colored stone floors, stylish dark wood furniture, and black stone and lacquer accents. Shimmery accents are used sparingly, but give rooms an added polish. All villas have a railroad layout, with a large glass wall overlooking the grounds or the ocean in all three main rooms. King beds, large flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers with free tea and coffee, safes, minibars, pillow menus, DVD players, and air-conditioning are all standard amenities. Bathrooms are luxurious, with walk-in rainfall showers, separate soaking tubs, and two black marble sinks over glass counters. Family Villas have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an outdoor whirlpool. Some units are a little far from the hotel's common spaces, but the hotel offers buggy service on request. A butler is assigned to each room on arrival, and guests are given a cellphone with which they can contact the staff should they have any requests.

The hotel offers four restaurants, including fine dining options and more casual spots. All serve tasty food in appealing spaces with ocean views, and prices are generally on par with other luxury hotels. Saffron is the hotel’s fine dining restaurant and serves traditional Thai cuisine with a twist. Sands is located directly on the beach and has a short menu of seafood and grilled dishes. A varied and free breakfast buffet is served every morning at The Edge, which also has buffet and a la carte options for lunch and dinner. The lobby lounge is a quiet spot for evening drinks, but it also offers a tapas menu during the day. Staff comes around the beautiful infinity pool several times an hour with towels, water, and snacks, while sandwiches, pastries, cocktails, and juices are available at the pool bar. The fitness center has a handful of cardio and strength-training machines, as well as a yoga studio with private and group classes. Those looking to get pampered can book a body treatment at the swish spa, which also features a hydrotherapy area and a hair and nail salon. The kids’ club and the kiddy pool are nice perks for those traveling with children. Additionally, the hotel also offers meeting rooms, turndown service, and great freebies such as Wi-Fi, shuttle to Chaweng and Lamai, and water sports equipment. The hotel also has a shop selling crafts and spa goods.