Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An

The Nam Hai is quite possibly the most stylish luxury property in the Hoin An-Da Nang region, and the air here is exclusive and chic while remaining laid back and relaxing. This exquisite property sits on expansive, well-landscaped grounds that offer gorgeous views of the ocean from several vantage points, including some of the private villas. Clean, sleek lines contrast with abundant greenery almost everywhere guests look, from the sharp gray marble walkways that cut through emerald lawns and rows of palm trees to the low-slung villas with naturally shingled pagoda roofs. Guests check in at the open-air registration pavilion, which is surrounded by terraces, lush plantings, and water features. All sorts of travelers make their way here, though the rates make it accessible to travelers on the well-off end of the spectrum: couples find it romantic and private while families appreciate the spacious villas and family-friendly services.

The resort is located on Ha My Beach in Dien Duong, along the main road between Da Nang and Hoi An. The immediate area is primarily residential and filled with small local village houses. Guests can reach charming ancient Hoi An in 20 minutes by car and getting to Da Nang takes half an hour. The hotel provides free shuttle service to Hoi An several times a day, and also arranges local sightseeing tours as well as farm and fishing tours. The Marble Mountains, one of the more dramatic landscapes in the Da Nang area, are 15 to 20 minutes away by car, as is the famed Japanese Covered Bridge. My Son Sanctuary -- a UNESCO designated collection of ancient Hindu temples -- is about half an hour away by road, while the Cham Islands are an hour's boat ride from the property. Da Nang International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the resort.

The hotel offers 100 villas, ranging in configurations from one to five bedrooms, and all starting at at least 80 square meters (861 square feet). Decor is lovely and luxurious, with Vietnamese artwork and design details such as elevated platforms for the bed with contrasting sunken areas for the writing desks and divan seating. Ceilings are vaulted, with sharp wooden accents along with sections of bamboo and lattice paneling. The stunning look is complemented by a neutral color scheme in shades of cream, brown, and black along with sumptuous silks and furniture crafted from local woods. Bold contemporary art plus classic trinkets and pottery combine to create a slightly bespoke effect.

All of the expected amenities are offered, including air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, coffeemakers, digital music players, iPod docks, Bose sound systems, and turndown service. Wi-Fi is also free, as are daily supplies of fresh fruit and select minibar drinks. All villas have stone and marble terraces with seating, and many look directly out onto the beach. Bathrooms are separated from the living areas by sliding screens and open onto private terraces with outdoor rainfall showers. They include soaking tubs and plenty of marble as well.

The 40 Pool Villas have courtyards with private heated plunge pools, fully stocked kitchens, and spacious living and dining areas with high ceilings. Guests in Pool Villas get extra bonuses including free airport transfers, afternoon tea in their villas, private butler service, and afternoon drinks and hors d'oeuvres. 

The day starts at Nam Hai with a breakfast buffet at one of two on-site restaurants, and guests can eat inside or out on the shaded wooden deck. The meal is included in room rates and includes excellent locally made jams and smoothies using local fruits. Overlooking the sea and the pool, The Restaurant also serves fusion fare for dinner, and guests can watch the chefs in action in the exhibition kitchen. On the upper level is The Bar, which serves cocktails and snacks all day in an open space overlooking the pool. A pianist entertains guests on select nights, while the open-air Beach Restaurant is the place for a casual lunch and dinner during high season. Free wine and cocktail hours are hosted on select weeknights. 

The beach is also a huge draw here, and In addition to a fitness center, there are also three sleek infinity-edge pools serve both swimmers and loungers, and one space is for adults only. There is a swank fitness center with a good selection of modern equipment and plenty of windows plus free yoga classes, and the hotel has tennis, badminton, basketball, and beach volleyball, and two golf courses are nearby. The tranquil spa features eight private treatment pavilions that appear to float on a lagoon. Treatments include massages and bathing ceremonies. 

The 24/7 library is well-stocked with magazines and books, and a table in the center has computers and a printer for guest use. The space also has sofas and arm chairs and is decorated with Vietnamese art.  The Kids’ Activities Villa has games and activities for the little ones, and older kids can play billiards and foosball in the game room. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and a free shuttle to Hoi An runs throughout the day.