Luxury hotel review in Koh Samui in Thailand
Where island time meets modern luxury: Inside Kimpton Kitalay Samui in Thailand
By Melissa Hoyer
There is no denying: Thailand is still bathing in the exquisitely reflected glory of being the backdrop for the third season of cult smash hit series, The White Lotus. You can tell just by looking at holidaymakers in Thailand that they are all eager to live their own WL experience.
So how good it was to land on the Thai island of Koh Samui for a brilliant taste of the Kimpton Kitalay, a beachfront resort that reeks of said understated Lotus glam.
Tucked along the soft sands of Choeng Mon Beach, the boutique hotel gem the kind of hotel gem that instantly makes you exhale and forget what day it is.
White Lotus Vibe
Obviously, the White Lotus vibe is still a huge thing when travelling to Thai resorts. Most hotels have upped their game by their making stays as ‘Lotus-y’ as possible (minus the smoothie & untimely death situations) with tourism numbers well and truly up on the same time last year.
Reports have since shown a 312% increase in bookings (during January 2025) while booking platforms reported a 28-30% spike in searches and reservations for places like Koh Samui and general Google searches for ‘Thailand vacations’ have doubled.
When I first visited the exquisite Anantara Hotels & Resorts late last year (they featured in the TV series) it was a few months before WL fever took over the world.
Luxury meets Thai Charm at the Kimpton
So what is vibe of the beachfront Kimpton? Think boho-luxury meets Thai charm. Every corner of the resort is so thoughtfully designed with earthy tones, natural textures and just the right pop of colour. We’re talking villas with ocean views, sand & private pools (just like the villa I tested out) complete with lush tropical gardens and a bathtub that basically demands a soak with a view.
The food scene here is chef’s kiss territory with 5 restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood and Thai comfort food to sunset cocktails with a private dinner on the beach also available (that was sublime) and that just hit the culinary spot.
And don’t even get me started on the spa. I booked a (strong) massage treatment on day one and was back for a sound healing session the next day. They also have a 14-step ‘sensory ritual’ that (I’m told) is magic. That’ll be on the bucket list for next time!
A family friendly resort in Thailand
Just so you know, Kimpton is also a family-friendly resort – but the kidlets would be so obsessed with the huge kids’ club) that isn’t your average babysitting setup) and parents/guardians would probably be hard-pressed to see them for much of the day. And yes, there is plenty of sunscreen!
The Kimpton has an actual wonderland feel and if the kids are ‘otherwise engaged’ they’d be in the expertly life-saver and guarded hotel guest pool, which is located down the spine of the resort. There are also lots of bikes too, especially if you feel like exploring beyond the hotel with Koh Samui full of exquisite locales, experiences and discoveries.
Oh, and the Kimpton is also just a short drive from Samui airport – which really is one of the quirkiest and most charming open-air airports in the world – because who wants a loooong transfer after a flight?
Would I come back to Thailand? 1000% yes. After extraordinary Thai experiences, I’d say I’m more Koh Samui than Phuket. KS is a blend of chill, relax, rest, exquisite food, gentle tours, swims & wanders and some of the most beautiful staff I’ve encountered.
Accommodation at the Kimpton in Thailand
The resort comprises 138 rooms, suites and villas that are spread like a serene sea‑side village. Designed by P49 Design and woven with Thai teak wood, wickerwork, and indigo accents, the architecture balances boutique charm and spirited island living.
The lobby is styled like a fisherman’s home and opens directly to the Gulf of Thailand, creating an instant connection with the ocean. It is an incredibly spectacular scene when you arrive!
Villas and Rooms in Koh Samui
Pool access rooms open directly to shared plunge pools: excellent for couples or families who prefer a private waterside retreat.
One‑Bedroom Oceanfront Pool Villas offer individual pools and garden decks right on the beach so they’re perfect for a luxe, first class and relaxed escape.
Interiors include incredibly plush king beds with high-quality linens, Nespresso machines, minibars, local sweet treats do you and in‑room yoga mats so no excuse for avoiding your downward dog. The Bathrooms feature freestanding tubs and rain showers, some which are set in open‑air courtyards. And boy, I loved the outdoor shower.
As I spoke to fellow guests around, they consistently praised the thoughtful touches: welcome cocktails, bedtime postcards, sweets and amenities like phone chargers and umbrella, which are all part of the hotel’s ‘Forgot It? We’ve Got It!’ service.
Dining and bars at the Kimpton
The resort showcases five venues: the Boho Thai Lifestyle Cafe which is an all-day dining with a breakfast buffet and a la carte options that blend Thai and Western favorite. Oh, the coconut pudding with tropical fruits were a total standout.
The HOM Baking Company is a purely charming café for pastries, sandwiches, and seriously excellent coffee.
The FishHouse (Michelin‑selected) is a relaxed seafood‑focused eatery with an oceanfront, rustic ambiance & popular for fresh fish, seafood towers, and a romantic vibe.
Shades Pool & Ocean Lounge is a poolside bar with creative cocktails, frozen treats, and a vibrant happy‑hour crowd.
The Lanai Bar & Lounge is a chilled, library‑style evening spot for cocktails and light bites.
Facilities and activities at the Kimpton in Thailand
*There are Five lagoon‑style pools plus a colorful kids’ waterpark, though one guest noted the lack of heating which made early‑season swims slightly brisk. First world problem I’d say!
*The spa – Pimãanda by HARNN offers signature sea‑salt and patchouli treatments, holistic spa packages, and is consistently praised for ambiance and skill.
*Fitness & Wellness: there is a 24/7 gym, fitness classes, sunrise yoga and Muay Thai equipment while
daily creative classes – Thai language, candle‑making, cooking – as well as complimentary paddleboarding, kayaking and designer bike loans will fill your day up seamlessly.
*The hotel is pet-friendly so dogs can stay free; can access pet parks; there’s a concierge service and all doggies receive amenities like grooming kits which is just part of Kimpton’s signature ‘welcome’.
Service
Service is an undoubted highlight: warm, personalized and attentive. The staff always seem to know regulars’ quirks and guests report constant handwritten notes, IM support via WhatsApp reminder messages. Guests staying in the beacfront villas have a dedicated villa concierge and designer resort amenities created by Thai designer Parissara while the Australian plant-based luxury branded bath amenities, Aesop, complete the experience.
The Hoyer Verdict
Kimpton Kitalay Samui, on the sands of the Chiang Mon Beach delivers an inspired blend of playful luxury and thoughtful service. It’s a resort that feels boutique in spirit but expansive in its offer. And with its chic design, top-tier dining and strong wellness focus, Kitalay Kimpton Samui is a perfect tonic. I loooved my beachfront pool villa and for adults seeking a tranquil resort stay, this will be your kind of place. Beam me back!
Visit https://www.kimptonkitalaysamui.com/ for more information.
Melissa was a guest of Kitalay Kimpton Samui
