Coco Palm Beach Resort

While staying right on the beach isn't always an economical choice on Koh Samui, this hotel is an exception. Rates here are frequently far lower than the hotel's neighbors, though that comes with a few sacrifices. At its core, this is a simple property without much in the way of style. That, coupled with the location right next to the ferry pier, make things feel a little more downmarket than they might otherwise. The lush tropical grounds are a highlight, with bamboo and palm trees lining the entrance into the property. Guests receive a cool welcome drink when they check in, and the lobby is open and spacious, with multiple seating groups where guests can hang out. Otherwise, there are a decent number of places for guests to kick back, which is the name of the game in comparably laid-back Mae Nam. The pool overlooks the beach and is a popular place for guests to gather. The property is peaceful and relaxing, suitable for families, couples, and small groups of friends.

The hotel is located on Mae Nam Beach along the north coast of Koh Samui. It's surrounded by other hotels and resorts, restaurants, and bars, though the Mae Name are is a far cry from the wilder towns like Chaweng and Lamai. The Mae Nam Pier, where high-speed boats depart for Koh Phangan, is next to the hotel, meaning that the beach here isn't exactly peaceful. Golfers can get to the course at Santiburi Samui Country Club in 10 minutes by car, and adventure seekers can be at Canopy Adventures Secret Falls-Koh Samui in 15 minutes. Chaweng is about 30 minutes away by car, and the hotel offers a free shuttle there twice a day. Samui International Airport is a 25-minute drive from the resort.

The resort offers spacious bungalows and villas with garden or sea views. Decor is a bit of a mixed bag. Some are done almost entirely in dark wood that creates a slightly dated, cottage vibe, while others have brighter interiors, with a blend of wood and white tones. In any case, all are simple, and there's not much in the way of decor beyond rattan accents and a few pieces of token Thai art on the walls. All rooms offer air-conditioning, a balcony or terrace, mini-fridge, tea/coffee makers, and free Wi-Fi. Superior Bungalows are the most basic and include old tube TVs. They are showing their age, with a bit of wear on furniture, and would benefit from some freshening up. Other rooms have flat-screen TVs and are more up-to-date. Beachfront Villas look directly out onto the beautiful beach. Nine of the rooms have their own pools. Bathrooms are reasonably modern across the board and come with above-counter sinks, hairdryers, toiletries, and walk-in showers. Some have separate bathtubs as well.

Like many of the other hotels along Mae Nam Beach, there is a decent handful of features available on-site, though some -- like the beach -- are a bit disappointing. Dining takes place by the beach at the Palm Terrace Restaurant, which serves a breakfast buffet, a la carte lunch, and themed buffet dinners. Thai Lantern Restaurant serves Thai cuisine for dinner in an elegant space with lanterns hanging from the high pitched ceiling. Guests also can dine on the beach under the palm trees. The Asco pool bar serves snacks and drinks by the pool and beach as well. The rectangular outdoor pool overlooking the beach is suitable for swimming laps. Wooden lounge chairs line the narrow pool deck; trees provide shade, but there are no umbrellas. A small slide helps entertain the little ones. Lounge chairs on the sandy beach are topped by umbrellas, but it's worth noting that the neighboring ferry pier keeps this from being a completely peaceful slice of sand. Massage treatments are available at Coconut Spa. The hotel can arrange car and moped rentals, and a free shuttle runs to Chaweng twice a day. A tour desk can help organize various activities, and cooking classes are also offered. A business desk in the lobby provides computers for guests to use, and Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.