Koh Samui, ThailandChaweng
The Library Samui
Book-themed beachfront resort
Book-themed beachfront resort
Pavilions are numbered like book pages along wooden boardwalks, leading past reading statues to an all-white library on the beach.
“The bloodred-tiled pool is the dramatic centerpiece, with huge pillows and daybeds beside it.”
What it’s good at
Notable
Chaweng beachfront loungers and complimentary sea kayaks set beside red mosaic pools.
Listed
Monochrome suites feature black-lacquer floors, custom mood lighting, and private saltwater pools.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler, Softer Volumes and Wallpaper*.
This close to Koh Samui’s bustling Chaweng Beach, the greatest service a hotel can provide is a break from the crowd.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Chaweng Beach sits right out front, and the street behind fills at night with open-air bars and clubs.
The rooms
White platform beds stand against polished black-lacquer floors, and sliding glass doors open onto private outdoor living areas.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Italian mosaic tiles in orange, yellow, and deep red give the water its vivid crimson tone.
The gym
Floor-to-ceiling glass encloses the timber-decked fitness studio, looking out over the gardens toward the sea.
Restaurant
The Page
Teak decking extends onto the sand, where royal Thai dishes are served beside illuminated reading statues by the sea.
The design of the luxury villas (or ‘pages’) blends minimalist styling with intentional use of colour, such as splashes of blood red.
At the table
The Drawing Room serves Samui heritage tasting menus and afternoon tea brewed with French Mariage Frères leaves.
How it began
Owner Kasemtham Sornsong grew up on this beachfront plot, where his parents once ran a simple backpacker bungalow.
“The Library, which opened on a patch of sun-kissed beach in Koh Samui in 2007, earns applause for the consistency of the slick design.”
Koh Samui
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.