Baan Chaweng Beach Resort and Spa Hotel

The whole Christmas stay was miserable, and without a doubt this was the worst hotel experience we've had. We chose Baan Chaweng only because places were scarce over the Christmas rush, despite having stayed in hundreds of hotels across dozens of countries. Our holiday as a couple was ruined. From check-in onward, a staff member named Tik treated us poorly. We were met with rules instead of a welcome: only one room key per room, no second key under any circumstances, a 2,000 THB charge if it was lost, and beach towels had to be back before 6:00 PM, no exceptions. When we told the manager the way we'd been welcomed upset us, she said something along the lines of “otherwise we can’t control people.” That sounded more like something from a prison guard than a hotel manager. We were given twin beds even though we were a couple on a Christmas holiday. Staff said nothing could be done and pushed the beds together as a temporary fix. The room also had a connecting door to the next room, so we could hear everything, including the neighbors' sexual activity. We had no privacy and only used the room for sleeping. There were other problems too. The hotel had a strong sewage smell. At the beach we waited 30 minutes for one coffee. Our door wouldn't lock properly, and we had to ask for repairs three days in a row. Spider webs covered the balcony drains, and the bathroom wasn't clean. Reception staff were some of the rudest we've encountered, constantly unfriendly, dismissive, and openly unpleasant. On checkout day we were treated coldly and disrespectfully too. We stayed at Baan Chaweng Samui from 24-27 December, during the Christmas period, and it was a terrible experience from the moment we arrived.

We come back to Baan Chaweng every year, and this was another great visit. It's right on Chaweng beach, and the friendly staff made sure we were looked after. Khun Woo and Khun Lai were especially attentive, and the team made vegan (vegetarian) breakfasts just for us alongside the regular buffet. There's a phased renovation underway. We were told the current part was expected to finish in Nov 2025 before the next phase begins. It didn't cause much disruption since we spent most days at the beach.

The only snag was the umbrella issue at checkout. We were told one was missing and initially asked to pay 500 Baht. It wasn't about the money, it felt like a matter of principle. The large golf-style umbrella couldn't possibly fit in a suitcase, and my husband remembered both being there a few days earlier. Luckily, a Thai-speaking friend was able to clear things up with the staff. The resort in Koh Samui was just what we wanted for our family's first Christmas and New Year abroad. The beachfront pool isn't big, but it was relaxing, with comfy loungers and lots of shade. We all enjoyed the soothing massages at the onsite Rachavadee Spa. New Year's Eve was a highlight: our stay included a wonderful gala dinner on the beach with live entertainment, fire shows, a midnight countdown, and spectacular fireworks. The staff were warm, friendly, and truly helpful. They worked hard all day on 31 December and through the night at the dinner. A special mention to the middle-aged female staff member with short hair who looked after our table that evening and was back working breakfast the next morning. Their dedication and work ethic were admirable. We'll definitely stay here again.

Right by the beach, Talay Restaurant has a breathtaking view and makes for a lovely place to relax with family. You can swim or play on the beach too. We had brunch beside the water, sipping some awesome signature cocktails. Their cocktails are to die for. We ordered calamari, grilled chicken, and Pepporini Pizza. The staff were so kind and courteous, especially Khun Time, who checked on our food and recommended some good cocktails. A must-visit for anyone going to Koh Samui.