The Best Villas in Koh Samui, Thailand
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Since opening up to luxury travel in the '80s, travelers in search of high-end hospitality, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and windows into Thailand’s layered cultural heritage have flocked to the sun-drenched coast of Koh Samui—considered one of the best islands in Thailand to visit. Stunning hotels and a diverse range of Airbnbs await to welcome travelers from all over, but for a more homely feel, here are some of the best villas in Koh Samui.
Samujana Twelve
Best for: Modern glam
The villa’s ultra-slick, brazenly modern design incorporates vast windows that flood the space with natural light, as well as offering uninterrupted ocean views. The infinity pool seemingly merges with the horizon, a breathtaking backdrop for sunbathing or leisurely swims. Evenings can be spent gathered together in the private cinema for a group film night, or dining alfresco on the expansive terrace as the sun glides over Choeng Mon Bay. For winding down afterward, there are hot tubs in five of the bedrooms. Located minutes from Choeng Mon Beach, you’ll also be within easy reach of its golden sands and gentle waves, ideal for swimming or paddleboarding. The iconic gilded Big Buddha is among nearby sites, or scour the humming night markets or chic cafes of the Fisherman’s Village.
Sleeps: 14
Price: From around $3,993 per night, with a two-night minimum
Secret Tides Sol
Best for: Beachfront living
Tucked into the picturesque Koh Samui coastline, at this bright and roomy villa, you’ll be greeted in the mornings by sweeping ocean views. Sunlight flows through the expansive windows, and with a retractable wall leading to the pool terrace, there’s an alfresco ambiance to the open-concept living areas. Around your private infinity pool, you’ll be able to relax while watching foam-trimmed waves lap the sandy shore just a few steps away. The outdoor terrace calls for sundowners, with a prime view of the sun sinking into the sea. During the day, if you can peel yourself away from your private slice of island paradise, explore the ins and outs of nearby Bophut Beach. For adventure seekers, the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park is a gorgeous setting for kayaking and snorkeling.
Sleeps: 2
Price: From around $362 per night
Sunset Villa
Best for: Incredible sunset views
The soothingly soft earth tones of this five-bedroom villa in the Plai Laem area of Tambon Bo Put create a luxurious environment with relaxation and quality of experience in mind. You'll be surrounded by panoramic views of the ocean, with sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the elegantly designed bedrooms. The open-plan living areas blend modern sophistication with comfort, featuring plush furnishings amongst the pared-back decor. You’ll spend your days lounging by the private infinity pool, sipping cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. Evenings will be for dining on the spacious terrace, followed by stargazing from the cozy outdoor lounge. You’re in good company with the Ritz-Carlton Resort nearby, and many of the island’s key attractions are only a few minutes' drive away, such as Chaweng Beach, Big Buddha, and the Fisherman’s Village.
Sleeps: 10
Price: From around $730 per night, with a three-night minimum
Five Islands Beach House
Best for: Traditional architecture
Sat on the tranquil shores of Taling Ngam, this gleaming teak home offers a tropical escape rooted in historical Thai architectural design. You'll wake up to the lull of gently crashing waves, and take in the panoramic ocean views framed by lush palm trees across the property. The traditional architecture is complemented by classical antiques and artistic decorative ornaments, while seamlessly interweaving modern sophistication. Spend afternoons lounging by the private pool, or take a few steps to a well-maintained beach for a refreshing swim. Watch the sun set over the Thai Gulf on the spacious terrace—backlit by a red-orange warmth, it's the perfect setting for an evening tipple. Nearby, you can explore the cultural and spiritual significance of Wat Khao Chedi, or venture to Taling Ngam Beach for serene shoreline walks. The boutiques, coffeehouses, and local restaurants of Taling Ngam village are just a little further along the coast.
Sleeps: 8
Price: From around $774 per night, with a three-night minimum
Nicolas.Voisin44@Gmail.com©Villa Anong
Best for: A big group retreat
A stylish hillside haven hugged by thick jungle-like scenery, it’ll be hard to say goodbye to Villa Anong. Multiple corners across the property are windows to cinematic ocean views, including the private bedroom balconies. Exuding a straightforward, modern elegance, the interiors are designed for communal activity. For example, a vast square-shaped built-in sofa defines the open-plan living room area. Relax in the infinity pool overlooking a sheet of deep azure, or polish off a big group dinner on the open-air terrace. With multiple shaded, scenic spots across the villa’s multiple floors, there’s no shortage of options for a place to unwind.
Sleeps: 10
Price: From around $3,618 per night, with a three-night minimum
ATIT/SIRIPRAROBVilla Panya
Best for: A couple’s private island getaway
Villa Panya at Cape Fahn offers a secluded sanctuary perched above a pretty-as-a-picture bay on a private island off Koh Sumai’s northeastern coast. The design features are fresh and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing breathtaking panoramas of turquoise waters and distant islands. The private infinity pool calls for morning swims with a view, and you’ll bring sun-dappled days to a close on the roomy terrace, watching the ribbons of pink and gold ripple across the sky. You’ll only be a short boat ride away from the spectacular limestone cliffs of Ang Thong National Marine Park, but being right on the waterfront, you won’t have to go far for your daily dose of coastal natural beauty.
Sleeps: 2
Price: From around $1,155 per night, with a three-night minimum
Praana Residence
Best for: One for the books
If sinking into blossom-scented waters in a freestanding outdoor bathtub while looking out to sweeping views of the sea and rugged mountains sounds like your idea of a holiday, then this one’s for you. Blending typical modern luxury home features, like a sleek infinity pool, with rustic touches such as exposed brick and wooden vaulted ceilings, Praana Residence is a world of its own. Spend lazy afternoons strolling across the meticulously manicured garden or getting lost in the blend of sea and sky from the pool. If you’re feeling more energetic, head to the private gym before a well-deserved wind down in the spa room. Close by, bustling Bophut Beach awaits for souvenir shopping or trying out traditional fare, whether at a lowkey eatery or an upscale restaurant. You’ll also be well placed to embark on an island hopping tour, should you fancy venturing a little further afield.
Sleeps: 12
Price: From around $4,118 per night
Nicolas VoisinFresh Lemongrass Villa
Best for: Having everything onsite
With five spacious bedrooms and six bathrooms, this villa is an ideal choice for bigger families or mixed groups. You’ll be able to succumb to a traditional Thai massage in your own dedicated spa room, or unwind with a tropical fruit-flavored cooler under the large pergola, looking onto layers of blue decorated with rugged hilltops. While there’s plenty of space to soak up the sun, private access to Thongson Beach provides another blissful setting for sunbathing. If you’re a bit more of a thrillseeker, there are local diving and windsurfing excursions too. Oh, and privately catered Thai feasts can be arranged to enjoy after you’re done working up an appetite.
Sleeps: 10
Price: From around $3,064 per night
Majestic Mornings Villa
Best for: A blissful family holiday
You’ll feel as though you're stepping into the sea itself as you dip into your infinity pool at this villa. The entire property blends smoothly into the surrounding seascape, with ocean vistas brought into your home through stretches of transparent floor-to-ceiling windows. The bright, crisp interiors help encourage a sense of calm, and if that's not enough, you’ll be able to reach family-friendly Choeng Mon Beach on foot.
Sleeps: 8
Price: From around $2,513 per night
This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
