Deva Samui Resort & Spa

The scene at Deva Samui Resort is one of chilled relaxation. This is an excellent resort for those who want to escape the crowds that plague most of Samui's beaches. The created manicured sand space in front of the resort looks like something out of the Mediterranean, and is a popular spot to lounge, as is the main infinity pool which is set just behind it. Most guests spend their time here, as the By the Sea restaurant and By the Sun pool bar are located here as well. The crowd is fairly diverse, a mix of young, old, couples, and families. 

Overall, the property doesn't have a giant wow factor, but its stylish and pleasant. The covered open-air lobby is set with brown day beds and white orchids. Reception desks are decorated with glass lamps filled with sand and seashells. White elephant statues flank the pagoda-style entrance. Grounds are peppered with native trees and colorful flowers. 

The Deva Samui is located on the north shore of the island, in between Bo Phut and Choeng Mon beaches. It's a 10- to 15-minute drive to the airport, and although the restaurants of Bophut, the beach at Choeng Mon, and the shopping and partying in Chaweng are a bit far away, the resort does run a free shuttle to each several times a day. Deva Samui isn't a good choice for those who want nightlife, partying, or a happening beach scene outside their front door, but for those looking to escape the crowds, this is a fantastic location, tucked into a cove and small harbor at Plai Laem, off the main ring road around the island. There are a few restaurants and shops near the resort so there are options if one wants a quick bite out. The sunset views here of the giant Buddha statue at Big Buddha Beach are excellent.

There are a range of room categories to choose from at the Deva Samui Resort. Superior rooms are the standard, and they are decked out in Santorini-like blue and white pastels. Concrete floors are brightened up with embedded pebbles and nautical themed knickknacks line shelves. Electric kettles, safes, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs are included. Categories above Superior add a small kitchenette, microwave, DVD player, and bathtub to the mix. Deluxe and Grand Deluxe rooms differentiate from one another only in size, each has a lovely whirlpool on a private balcony. Pool Access versions of the same rooms include direct access to the pool via the terrace, but no whirlpool. 

The beach in front of the Deva Samui might be Samui's most beautiful, although it isn't completely real. The hotel has trucked in fine white sand to create a tropical paradise next to a local boat harbor and small headland. The sand is blindingly white and postcard worthy; the water here really isn't suitable for swimming as the sea floor is quite rocky. There's a large infinity-edge pool right on the beach, and the resort has two other swimming pools as well.

Other features at the Deva Samui include a nice fitness center, a relaxing spa set in a lovely house with a large tree in the courtyard, and a colorful kids' club and play area. There's a swim-up bar in the main swimming pool and a beachside restaurant that serves Thai and international food, beach barbecue nights, and free breakfast buffets. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.