Samrong Beach Villa

Samrong Beach Villa is a bright, modern home on the hillside above Samrong Bay at Plai Laem, on Samui’s quiet north-east tip between Bangrak and Choeng Mon. The bay below is one of the island’s prettiest, a curve of pale sand and clear turquoise water fringed by green headlands, and the beach is just a few steps from the door. From the terraces the view sweeps out across the Gulf of Thailand to the neighbouring islands, and the sunsets here are something special.

The villa is built over several levels in crisp white, with glossy floors, glass balustrades and walls of sliding glass that pull the sea view inside. The terrace is the heart of the house, with a sea-view plunge pool, sun loungers and an alfresco dining table where breakfast drifts happily into lunch. Indoors, the open-plan living room has a deep L-shaped sofa, striking artwork and a smart TV, flowing into an informal dining area and a modern kitchen with a breakfast counter and stools.

Five air-conditioned bedrooms suit families and groups of friends: three with king beds and two twin rooms, which are ideal for children. Many rooms open onto private balconies with glass fencing and wide views over the bay, and the marble bathrooms are fresh and spacious. Kayaks are on hand for paddling around the bay, a chef can be arranged for meals at the villa, and the seaside restaurants of Choeng Mon and the colourful temple at Wat Plai Laem are only minutes away.