Samui Bayview Resort & Spa

Perched on a verdant hillside, Samui Bayview Resort's primarily appeal is its breathtaking views of the rocky coastline and sea below from rooms, infinity pools, and the restaurant. Unfortunately, the property it is a bit weathered and old-fashioned, albeit with some rustic charm. The resort is far from Samui’s party scene, and any restaurants for that matter, so the property is best for those seeking tranquility and likely to spend a lot of time on-site. Guests here are primarily laid-back couples. 

Nestled on a steep hill 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, Samui Bayview Resort is located between Chaweng and Lamai beaches on Koh Samui island’s east coast. Both beaches are a 10-minute drive away, while Samui Airport is 25 minutes by car and Nathon Pier is 45 minutes. Since the spot is rather isolated, guests need to travel to Chaweng and Lamai for restaurants, bars, and shops. Additionally, there is no beach in the area, just big rocks. The resort offers regular free shuttle service to both Chaweng and Lamai. There is no return service, however, so guests have to rely on taxis, which can be be pricey -- travelers can try to haggle the price down. 

From entry-level, 290-square-foot (27-square-meter) Superior Garden View Rooms to 807-square-foot (75-square-meter) Honeymoon Jacuzzi Suites, Samui Bayview Resort has multiple room options. Decor varies a bit, but they're all done in a traditional, old-fashioned style that feels more dated than charming. Expect wicker furniture, terra-cotta-colored tile floor, satin bed runners and throw pillows in earth tones, and locally inspired artwork. Unfortunately, wear and tear is evident. On the plus side, all have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto furnished balconies with stunning ocean or garden views -- past guests largely agree that it's worth upgrading to a sea view. Honeymoon Jacuzzi Suites have living rooms, four-poster beds, and ocean-view balconies with hot tubs. 

All rooms come with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, coffee- and tea-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, minibars, safes, and desks. Meanwhile, the bathrooms -- some with loud green tiling -- have walk-in showers, hairdryers, slippers, and toiletries. 

The resort's standout features are two hillside infinity-edge pools with striking views of the ocean. They're surrounded by stone sundecks with loungers and umbrellas. A simple spa features a variety of treatments, as well as an open-air massage pavilion, hot tub, sauna, and steam room. Although a small gym comes with a few pieces of equipment are on-site, guests have reported that many machines are broken and old. 

The open-air Bayview Restaurant lives up to its name with gorgeous views over the ocean from the al fresco terrace lined with wooden tables and chairs. The venue’s Thai and international dishes can be overpriced, however, and there are no cheaper options within walking distance. On the plus side, all rates include a well-regarded, simple breakfast. 

For entertainment, a kids' playroom with toys and games, snooker table, table tennis, and foosball are available. There is also a tour desk that can arrange car or scooter rentals. The resort’s conference room, which can accommodate up to 80 people banquet-style, comes with a podium, LCD projector, and audio and visual equipment. An internet room is adjacent to the lobby, plus Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.