Saboey Resort and Villas

With just 20 rooms, Saboey Resort and Villas feels intimate without having to try. From the street, the chain-like exterior isn't all that impressive, but walking into the reception area feels like entering a secluded little hideaway. The lobby is bright and airy with contemporary decor that stills nods to traditional Thai style, colorful furniture, and fountain features that add an upscale touch to the space. Thanks to its beachfront location and open-air concept centered around the ocean-view pool, the hotel has a tropical vibe that's only enhanced by the abundance of palm trees and lush greenery. It's a generally quiet spot that seems to predominantly appeal to couples, though friends and families frequent this hotel, too. Guests should be warned that the peaceful, tranquil environment may be interrupted by overhead noise due to close proximity to the airport.

Saboey Resort and Villas' beachfront location is a big draw for most guests. Guests who choose to stay in beach villas are literally just a few steps from the sandy shore. Some previous guests were a little disappointed with the beach, though, noting that it isn't ideal for swimming and there are lots of boats nearby. As an alternative, guests can venture over to the popular Bo Phut Beach; at 45 minutes, it's not really within walking distance, but a drive there takes about 12 minutes. Several restaurants, bars, an ATM, and shops are within easy walking distance. The popular Big Buddha Temple is a quick four-minute drive or 19-minute walk. The Samui Airport is a convenient seven-minute drive.

Guest rooms at Saboey Resort and Villas are comfortably sized and unexpectedly upscale. Four-post beds, rich teak-wood flooring, and either vaulted exposed-beam ceilings or thatched ceilings add character and an elegant touch to the rooms. Some guests have noted that the wood floors and ceilings can make the room feel dark, but the white walls, bedding, and canopies help to brighten the space. Throw pillows and artwork add pleasant touches of color. Though room styles vary, they share many of the same features including air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and DVD players, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and minibars. 

There are some features that set the villas and suites apart though, particularly views from the furnished terraces or balconies, as some have lovely sea views while others overlook the gardens. Beach villas are just a few steps from the beach, and they have a two-person sunken tub that overlooks the ocean, too. Sunken tub aside, bathrooms throughout the 20 guest rooms are pretty similar, with bright-white walls and slate-gray stone accents throughout. All bathrooms have a large walk-in shower, a small amount of free bath products, and a hairdryer. Some guest rooms also have plush bathrobes for guests. 

Though the features on-site aren't extensive, those that areavailable have received rave reviews. The outdoor pool offers guests incredible ocean views, and from certain angles it seems as if the pool meshes right into the ocean thanks to its infinity edge. It has a well-sized hot tub, too. There are plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas around the pool, and towels are available upon request at the pool bar or reception. Unfortunately, there are no loungers along the beach and lots of nearby boats may detract from the atmosphere. There are no spa or fitness facilities, or kids' club, though massage vendors can often be found on the beach. The on-site bar and restaurant, White Bar, is a well-reviewed outdoor spot. It has a covered area for those looking to retreat from the sun, and previous guests have noted that the sunset views  -- and the food -- are incredible. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout.