Lipa Bay Resort

Overview

Samui's west coast is where the island watches the sun go down, and Lipa Bay Resort makes the most of it. The resort sits on its own stretch of beach at Lipa Noi, with tropical planting behind the sand and a bar placed for the evening view.

Meals centre on Thai cooking, served in an open-air restaurant that looks out to sea. Rooms are spacious and furnished in a classic style with plenty of wood, and each has a private balcony.

This is a stay for slowing down rather than going out, though Nikki Beach's beach club is a few steps away if you want a livelier evening.

Highlights

• Private beachfront at Lipa Noi
• Bar with sunset views
• Open-air Thai restaurant facing the sea
• Spacious wood-furnished rooms with balconies
• Free Wi-Fi in the public areas

Location

Lipa Noi is a quiet bay south of Nathon on the west coast, far from the east-coast crowds. The resort lists a 10-minute drive to Lipa Noi Pier, about 30 minutes to Lamai, 40 minutes to Chaweng Noi and roughly 45 minutes to Samui International Airport.

Those times make it a base for people who intend to stay put. Taxis can be arranged for trips across the island, but many guests hire a car or scooter.

Good to know

• Wi-Fi is listed for the public areas, so don't count on it in your room.
• The airport is on the opposite side of the island; allow about 45 minutes for transfers.
• West-coast water tends to be calm and shallow, best for paddling rather than surf.