Hansar Samui Resort

One of the lovelier resorts in the Bo Phut area, the Hansar Samui is an elegant property, though it still keeps things casual and easy. Guests drive through lovely gardens to reach the main building of this resort, setting the tone for a relaxing stay here. The lobby is an elegant space with a tile floor, exotic wood accents, and window walls. Guests check in seated at the desk, and cushioned sofas and chairs provide places where they can hang out. Welcome drinks are provided. The atmosphere is relaxed and romantic, especially appealing to couples, but families, groups of friends, and individuals also make their way here. The abundance of activities is a nice touch, including lovely movie nights on the beach, and helps make this one of the island's most well-liked luxury properties.

The hotel is located on Bo Phut Beach surrounded by other hotels and resorts as well as restaurants and bars. It's a kicked-back area, and a far cry from wild Chaweng. Fisherman's Village can be reached in 10 minutes on foot. Wat Plai Laem Buddhist temple is about 15 minutes away by car, as is the island's iconic Big Buddha statue, and Chaweng is about a 20-minute drive. The Samui Airport is a 15- to 20-minute drive. Ferries to Koh Phangnan can be found at the Nathon Pier, a 30-minute drive west. 

Rooms are spacious, modern, and elegant, with hardwood floors, teak furniture, and a soothing white and beige color palette. Decoration is minimal, but has a rustic-chic elegance to it, with breezy details like canopy beds, lots of warm wood tones, and vintage-feeling string curtains. Walls are covered in a textured wallpaper, that brings a bit more depth to everything. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibars, electric kettles and French presses, and safes. All rooms have outdoor spaces with nice cushioned daybeds and chairs. Bathrooms are beautiful, with unusual stone sinks, separate bathtubs, and walk-in showers -- the semi-open floor plan is particularly suited for romantic couples. Hairdryers, toiletries, and robes and slippers are supplied. All rooms have views of the sea, and some are right on the beach. It's worth noting that we did notice the lingering smell of cigarettes in some of the rooms we visited. 

While the rooms are lovely, the extra features place this hotel a step above other competing properties. H Bistro serves all meals, with a focus on French Mediterranean fare. Lobsters are imported from Maine, and oysters are from Canada, Japan, and France. Diners can sit inside or out, with beautiful views of the sea. Or they can opt for a private romantic dinner on the beach, or take a sunset cruise with champagne, cocktails, and oysters. There's also a beach bar serving snacks and drinks by the pool. 

Suitable for swimming laps, the lovely outdoor pool overlooks the sea. Cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas line the wooden pool deck. More chairs are available on the wide sandy beach. The LUXSA spa focuses on the traditional Thai healing methods based on the four body elements of fire, water, earth, and air. Treatments include aromatherapy, massage, facials, body wraps and scrubs, and manicures and pedicures. The fitness center offers cardio and weight-training equipment, as well as free weights, and personal trainers for free. Yoga classes are offered twice a week for a fee, and twice-weekly swimming classes are free. 

Guests who take the cooking classes get to select fruits, vegetables, and herbs from the resort's own garden to use in the classes. Cocktail classes also are offered, and guests learn to create two specialty drinks. A variety of other classes also are available, and activities include movie nights on the beach. The resort is popular for weddings, and there are several packages to choose from.