Chaba Samui Resort

The Chaba Samui Resort feels like a bit of Florida plopped down in Thailand. There are a lot of older guests at this resort, many of whom have been coming here repeatedly for years. The resort is one of the oldest in Chaweng, and while it looks quite worn in parts, the regulars like the familiarity and service. The sole reason for staying here seems to be scoring a prime sun lounger at either the pool or the beach; both areas are packed with guests. The Ocean Wing pool area is large, but so is the hotel, and space here and on the beachfront can be at a premium during high season. Central Chaweng is meant for old timers or the young crowd that comes to party. 

The lobby looks dated with diamond-shape tile floors, wood chairs topped with light-green cushions centered around glass tables, and a chalkboard advertising the day's weather. An elephant-shaped planter holds artificial pink flowers. Two computers are available for guests to use. The wooden front desk is decorated with a blue circle and clocks displaying the time in London, Sydney, and Bangkok. The breakfast area in the Terrace Coffee Shop can be quite a scene in the morning, with lots of folks trying to load up on the free breakfast included with the room rate. This isn't a resort for those seeking solitude or privacy; honeymooners would do better to head elsewhere.

The Chaba Samui Resort is located right on the beach in the heart of Chaweng, Samui's largest beach and party town. The resort straddles the main beach road, with an Ocean Wing on the beach side, and a Lake Wing across the street. Despite looking out towards Chaweng's lake, there really aren't any views to be had of it, as they are blocked by trees and buildings. This is a convenient location and perfect if one is looking to be smack in the middle of the busy beach scene. There are hundreds of restaurants, bars, and shops on all sides, the airport is only a 15-minute drive away. However, the entire area is super crowded, with plenty of people and vehicle traffic throughout the day and night. Guests can take a free, scheduled shuttle to the hotel's sister property, Chaba Cabana Beach Resort, for a quieter scene. 

There are basically two categories of rooms here, with different bed configurations in each, and a few higher end suites as well. Guests choose between rooms in the Ocean Wing building, which is on the beach side of the property, or in the Lake Wing, which is across the street and away from the beach. Rooms are fairly similar in that they all come with small flat-screen TVs, safes, electric kettles for tea and coffee, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. The wooden floors have been redone and the bedding is nice, with touches of contemporary Thai decor, however, the rooms overall are a bit worn -- not surprising given that this is one of the older properties in Chaweng. The main difference between the two buildings is that Ocean Wing rooms have small balconies, whereas the Lake Wing rooms have more space but no balconies; these are a better deal for the price. Bathrooms on both sides are tiny and dated, with bathtub/shower combos. Toiletries are provided in a seashell-shaped dish filled with smooth stones. Those who have rooms located near the street side of the building will probably hear a bit of noise at night from surrounding bars. 

The biggest and best feature of the Chaba Samui Resort is its Ocean Wing swimming pool, which is large and sits right next to Chaweng Beach. There are lots of sun loungers here, although there is fierce competition for the best ones each morning. A second swimming pool is located near the Lake Wing building across the street, but its small and not as appealing. 

A free breakfast buffet is served every morning. There's also a seafood restaurant, Terrace Coffee shop, and a bakery corner. Room service is available, too. There's a tiny and dated fitness center and sauna, plus an area for massages. A kids' playground and free Wi-Fi round out the features.