Stilted villas facing Lamai Beach, with private pools suspended above the rocks.
Banyan Tree Samui
From
754.47 €
“Each villa has a private 10-metre infinity pool, facing due south over the Gulf of Thailand.”
Banyan Tree Samui occupies a granite cliff in the south-east of Koh Samui, between Lamai and Chaweng. We sleep in stilted villas, each with its private pool suspended above the rocks, Burmese teak floor, king bed facing the sea. The spa offers traditional Thai treatments in pavilions open to the canopy. Two communal pools, including a 40-metre infinity pool that follows the curve of the coast. The service is discreet, never intrusive, with a dedicated butler per villa. Lamai beach is reached by a 120-step staircase, plan for legs. From 754 € a night, we pay for the view and intimacy, not the proximity to the sand ✨
Who is it for?
Who we recommend it to
We recommend the Banyan Tree to couples on honeymoon or anniversary seeking absolute intimacy, with a substantial budget. It is an address for travellers who prioritise the private villa over the lively resort, the panoramic view over the white sand beach. Families with young children will find the stairs constraining, better to aim for teenagers or go as a couple.
The building
Architecture and interiors
The resort rises across a 35-degree slope, villas in Burmese teak and local volcanic stone built between 2004 and 2010. Contemporary Thai architecture by Architrave Design & Planning, gently pitched roofs, large sliding glass bays. Each villa measures between 165 and 285 m², with ipé terrace, outdoor lava-stone shower, Jim Thompson furnishings. The ensemble comprises 88 units spread across 9 hectares of preserved tropical vegetation.
At the table
Restaurants, bar, service
Two tables at Banyan Tree: Saffron for royal Thai cuisine on a panoramic terrace, short and technical menu, and Sands with feet in the sand at Lamai Beach, grilled seafood and salads. Breakfast is taken in the villa or at Saffron, continental buffet and Thai plates à la carte. Cocktail bar The Edge by the main pool, open until midnight. 24-hour room service, reduced menu after 22h.
Highlights
- 60 villas with private 10-metre infinity pool, all sea-facing
- 800 m² Banyan Tree Spa in tropical vegetation, signature Thai treatments
- Two restaurants: Saffron (royal Thai) and Sands (feet in the water at Lamai)
- Elevated position on granite cliff, 180° view over the gulf
- Personal butler per villa, 24-hour concierge service
Location & access
Where the hotel sits in Koh Samui
Banyan Tree sits on the east coast of Koh Samui, midway between Lamai (3 km) and Chaweng (7 km). Lamai Beach accessible by private staircase, otherwise free shuttle three times daily. Koh Samui airport 25 minutes by car, the resort arranges transfers (chargeable). The neighbourhood is residential and quiet, few shops within walking distance, better to rent a scooter or use hotel taxis. Chaweng for restaurants and nightlife, Lamai for authenticity and the Sunday night market.
Good to know
Before you book
- Children
- Welcome, cot and high chair on request, no children's club.
- Pool
- Communal pools open 7h-19h, private villa pools without restriction.
- Spa
- Open 10h-22h, reservation advised 24h in advance in high season.
- Parking
- Free, covered spaces in front of reception, valet available.
- Beach access
- 120-step staircase to Lamai Beach, free shuttle 3 times/day.
Facilities
2 pools
Non-smoking rooms
Fitness centre
Spa and wellness centre
Room service
Restaurant
Facilities for disabled guests
Free parking
Free Wi-Fi connection
Location
Where Banyan Tree Samui is located
Exact address
Banyan Tree Samui
Address
99/9 Moo 4, Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
In the same city
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