Muang Samui Spa Resort

Because it sits in the center of Chaweng Beach, Samui's most happening town, you'd think that Muang Samui Spa would be party central -- but it's not. Prices here are high enough to keep out the budget crowd, and there are as many older couples here as young ones. Jungle scenery with tucked away rooms seem to deter the late night crowd. That said, there's still plenty going on here. The beachfront area is usually busy, and guests get to the limited number of prime sun loungers early to claim their spots. The Lare Lae restaurant and bar get crowded, but it pales compared to the top hangout choice here, which is the hotel's Samui Seafood Grill Restaurant located across the street from the resort. Fresh seafood draws in hungry customers, and there's also Italian and international fare to go with the Thai menu. A wooden boat sits in the middle of the restaurant, and hosts classical Thai music and performance in the evenings. The entire resort is casual and laid-back. A semi-open air lobby includes Thai touches and wooden furniture. There isn't much of a dress code at the resort other than swimwear.

Muang Samui Spa Resort sits in the center of Chaweng Beach, Samui's party and beach hotspot and main tourist town. It's a prime location, extremely convenient for restaurants, bars, and shops; there are literally hundreds within five minutes of walking in either direction. The resort lies along the beach road, but is partially hidden in lush gardens and foliage and most of the features of the resort lie towards the back, directly on the sand, so it looks and feels removed from the center of Chaweng. Expect about a 15-minute drive to the airport. 

There are Grand Deluxe and Royal Suite rooms at the Muang Samui Spa Resort, with views overlooking the garden or the pool. All have teak wood floors and contemporary Thai furnishings. Cream colored curtains hang above beds made-up with white linens and red throw pillows. Bathrooms include a large jetted tub and separate shower with a rain head. Free Wi-Fi, a minibar, safe, flat-screen TV, DVD player, and baskets to bring to the beach are standard in all rooms. Royal Suites have an Illy espresso machine. Terraces are set with tables and chairs. Some of the rooms can pick up light noise from the street, but most are set far enough back that noise isn't a problem. Past guests have complained that the rooms could use a refresh. 

The Samui Seafood Grill Restaurant and Bar is one of Chaweng's most popular restaurants. Not only does it have fresh seafood displayed outside every night, but the inside of the restaurant features a large wooden ship, from where live music and Thai dance are performed. It's a happening spot, rivaled only by the busy beachfront scene set with a slew of beach umbrellas and sun loungers on the sand. A long swimming pool with a waterfall and kids' pool sits in front of the beach. Lare Lae restaurant and bar offers tables overlooking the water, and a free buffet breakfast is served here every morning. The resort has a small fitness center and spa to round out the features. Wi-Fi is included with the room rate. Expect crowds and early risers that've called dibs on the best sun loungers.