KC Resort & Over Water Villas

Due to this hotel's hillside location, the vibe is definitely quieter than some of the more central area resorts. The large open-air lobby is simple, with minimal seating areas that include white leather couches and assorted chairs, plus a tour office and a reception desk. The vaulted high wooden ceilings, lantern-like light fixtures, and hut-shaped entryway make the space feel authentically Thai. Palm trees, a steep staircase fountain, and bamboo accents further the tropical island feel. Though there are some kid-friendly activities such as ping-pong, this resort is really best suited to vacationing couples as the overall ambience is quiet and romantic. 

Located up a hill overlooking the Gulf of Thailand and the beaches of Koh Samui, the KC Resort & Over Water Villas is still close enough to the activity in Bophut to be convenient, but removed enough to escape the craziness. Close to the airport, it's a 20-minute walk from Samui Crocodile Farm and within a 10-minute drive of the Big Buddha Statue, Phetch Buncha Thai Boxing Stadium, and Bangrak Beach. Guests can reach nearby Chaweng Beach in just over five minutes on the hotel's free shuttle. There isn't much directly around the hotel aside from a decrepit building next door, an eyesore that detracts from the otherwise lovely views. 

The 95 rooms at this hillside hotel are simply decorated with teak wood decor elements that give a Thai feel to the otherwise plain white spaces. Unfortunately, many of the rooms are dated and in need of an upgrade/coat of paint, and some past guests have complained of lax housekeeping. On a positive note, the rooms are large with comfy oversize king platform beds. Flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, minibars, and air-conditioning come standard, though getting an iron and ironing board in this hotel feels practically impossible. Wi-Fi is free but the connection in rooms is spotty -- speeds are much faster by the pool. The bathrooms all have light therapy whirlpool tubs and rainfall showers, and some rooms have whirlpool tubs on the balconies. Unfortunately, the water pressure is weak and water qualities and temperatures can vary -- past guests have reported inconsistent water temperature and brown water coming out of the taps. High-quality robes and slippers are available for guest use, but the thin towels need replacing and the toiletries are sparse. Before shelling out the extra for a Sea View Room, be sure to ask to see it first; some rooms in this category have better views than others. 

The infinity pool is a highlight of this hotel, with stunning views over the surrounding area from the deck; a few more lounge chairs would be useful, but otherwise this area is well-maintained. The on-site restaurant -- The View Restaurant & Wine Lounge -- offers terrific views and a varied wine list true to its name, but mediocre food that doesn't live up to its priciness. The Panorama Bar -- located by the infinity pool -- offers snacks and poolside cocktails. There is a breakfast buffet served daily for a nominal fee.The fitness room has weights, cardio machines, and exerciese balls, but some of the equipment looks barely wired together and the belts on the treadmills are worn. Mayang Sari Wellness & Spa features a menu of massages and facials along with its signature treatment, a WATSU massage in a floating saltwater pool. For the adventurous, there are motorbike rentals available on the premises. For closer trips -- or just those who don't wish to walk up the steep hill to the hotel -- gusts can get rides from staff members in golf carts. There's also a free area shuttle to the KC Beach Club Pool and Villas, the hotel's sister property at Chaweng Beach, where guests can use the amenities thanks to a reciprocal arrangement -- just be sure to book a return trip before leaving the shuttle.