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3-star hotels in Koh Samui
This shortlist gathers 3-star hotels in Koh Samui with guest ratings from 4.5 to 4.9 out of 5, from 155 to 1,256 reviews. It is for travellers who want a comfortable island base without stepping up a class, whether they are in Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut or elsewhere.
Staying in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a tropical Thai island with warm temperatures all year, a dry season from December to August and a wet season from September to November. Beaches are the main draw, and the island mixes Thai and international food, with particularly fresh seafood. Chaweng is the main tourist hub, Lamai the second-largest resort area and quieter, Bophut is known for its Fisherman's Village, and Maenam is peaceful and less developed.
The hotels here sit in several parts of the island. Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus, Baan Samui Resort and King's Garden Resort SHA Plus are in Chaweng; Palm Coco Mantra, Crystal Lamai Hotel, Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui, Pattra Vill Resort and Am Samui Palace are in the Lamai and Maret area; Baan Sukreep Resort is in Chaweng Noi and Secret Garden Beach Resort in Ban Bangrak. Cascade Tara, Karma Resort and Viva Vacation Resort have addresses that name no district. Couples, families and short-break visitors are all served, with family rooms at several and the largest review counts in Chaweng.
The shortlist
Ranked by hotel class, then guest rating and number of reviews.
Cascade Tara
20 1 Moo 2 Na Mueang Sub District, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Outdoor pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay hereCascade Tara earns its exceptional 4.9 rating from 169 reviews, and the setting in Na Mueang keeps it well away from the busy strips. Guests have an outdoor pool, a spa and massage, and a restaurant on site, with kitchenettes in some rooms for longer stays. It suits couples and families who want a quiet, self-contained base in the south of the island and are happy to be 10.6 km from the centre.
See Cascade TaraPalm Coco Mantra
143 11 Moo 4 Maret Lamai Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Outdoor pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay herePalm Coco Mantra sits above Maret near Lamai Beach, with its own private beach and sea views from the property. An outdoor pool with a pool bar, a restaurant and massage cover the essentials without leaving the grounds. With 583 reviews averaging 4.7, it is a solid pick for beach-first travellers who want diving and fishing nearby and a room with a balcony.
See Palm Coco MantraKarma Resort
182 3 Moo 1, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Outdoor pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay hereKarma Resort is the closest of this group to the centre at 3.4 km, which makes it convenient for guests who want to be in the thick of things. There is an outdoor pool, a spa, a lounge and a restaurant, plus bicycle hire for getting around without a car. A 4.6 rating across 743 reviews reflects how consistently it satisfies couples and independent travellers.
See Karma ResortCrystal Lamai Hotel
136 92 Moo 4 Maret, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Outdoor pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay hereCrystal Lamai Hotel combines an outdoor pool and spa with a fitness centre, so days can mix swimming with a proper workout. Family rooms and a 24-hour front desk make it practical for those travelling with children, and the Lamai setting at 7.8 km from the centre is calm without being remote. 280 reviews give it a 4.6 rating, suggesting few unpleasant surprises.
See Crystal Lamai HotelCentara Life Lamai Resort Samui
124 25 Moo 3 Lamai Beach Road Tambol Maret, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Outdoor pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay hereCentara Life Lamai Resort Samui puts an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a spa on site, with the beach a short hop away. Lifts and wheelchair access make it one of the easier properties here for guests with mobility needs, and parking is free for those with a car. Rated 4.6 from 266 reviews, it suits couples and families wanting a comfortable, straightforward Lamai stay.
See Centara Life Lamai Resort SamuiPromtsuk Buri Resort
146 56 Moo 4 T. Maret Thong Takian, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers
- Free car parking
- Beach nearby
- Air conditioning
Why stay herePromtsuk Buri Resort has its own private beach in Thong Takian, and the sea is part of the setting rather than a distant amenity. A restaurant, room service and massage keep things relaxed, and balconies and terraces let guests make the most of the surroundings. The 4.6 rating from 261 reviews points to a small resort that guests return from satisfied.
See Promtsuk Buri ResortBaan Sukreep Resort
91 11 Moo 3 Chaweng Noi, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Outdoor pool
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
Why stay hereBaan Sukreep Resort in Chaweng Noi comes with an unusually wide activity list for a 3-star: diving, fishing, horse riding, golf and aerobics are all on offer, alongside a games room and garden. Family rooms and babysitting make it workable for parents, and there is a restaurant plus bar on site. Its 4.6 rating from 203 reviews suits active guests who want options beyond the pool.
See Baan Sukreep ResortViva Vacation Resort
19 4 M.3 T.Lipa Noi, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Kids pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay hereViva Vacation Resort at Lipa Noi has a private beach and an outdoor pool with a kids pool alongside, making it a natural fit for families. Rooms come with balconies and sea-facing settings, and canoeing is available for those who want time on the water. A restaurant, bar and massage cover the rest, and 199 reviews give it a 4.6 rating.
See Viva Vacation ResortChaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus
162 8 Moo 2 Tambon Bophut Amphoe Koh Samui Suratthani, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Outdoor pool
- Free car parking
- Lounge
Why stay hereChaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus is the largest property here by review volume, with 1,256 guests awarding it 4.5. The location 2.5 km from the centre puts Chaweng's beach and nightlife within easy reach. An outdoor pool with pool bar, a garden setting and Jacuzzis in some rooms make it a dependable choice for couples and families who want a lively, well-established base.
See Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA PlusThe Spa Garden Samui
104 1 Moo3 Maret, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Outdoor pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay hereThe Spa Garden Samui is built around winding down: a spa, steam room and massage, plus an outdoor pool in a garden. It sits near Maret, 8.0 km from the centre, with the beach nearby and a shuttle service for trips further afield. Wheelchair access and non-smoking rooms add to the appeal, and 177 reviews give it a 4.6 rating, suggesting a calm, well-kept stay.
See The Spa Garden SamuiSecret Garden Beach Resort
22 1 Moo 4 Ban Bangrak, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Outdoor pool
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
Why stay hereSecret Garden Beach Resort in Ban Bangrak has a genuine beachside feel, with sea views, a garden and its own outdoor pool. A restaurant, bar and room service mean guests can settle in, and diving can be arranged for those keen to explore the water. With 900 reviews averaging 4.5, it is a well-tested option for couples and families wanting a relaxed Bangrak base 2.2 km from the centre.
See Secret Garden Beach ResortBaan Samui Resort
14 7 Moo 2 Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Pool and spa · Breakfast
- Kids pool
- Spa
- Breakfast
Why stay hereBaan Samui Resort sits at Chaweng Beach, 2.4 km from the centre, with sea views and a pool plus kids pool for families. An outdoor pool with pool bar, a restaurant and room service make it easy to stay put, and babysitting is available for parents who want an evening out. 672 reviews give it a 4.5 rating, and the location suits guests who want the beach on the doorstep.
See Baan Samui ResortPattra Vill Resort
124 329 Moo3 Maret, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Outdoor pool
- Spa
- Free car parking
Why stay herePattra Vill Resort in Maret offers family rooms and kitchenettes, making it a practical choice for longer stays or guests travelling with children. An outdoor pool, fitness centre and restaurant cover daily needs, and a shuttle service connects to the wider area. It is 8.6 km from the centre, and a 4.6 rating from 155 reviews suggests a well-run, quieter property.
See Pattra Vill ResortAm Samui Palace
124 39 Moo 3 Maret Lamai, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Outdoor pool
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
Why stay hereAm Samui Palace in Lamai pairs an outdoor pool and salt water pool with a fitness centre and restaurant, so guests can swim and keep up a routine. Family rooms and kitchen facilities suit those with children or a preference for self-catering, and the beach is nearby. Located 8.6 km from the centre, it holds a 4.5 rating from 569 reviews.
See Am Samui PalaceKing's Garden Resort SHA Plus
12 Moo 2 Chaweng Beach Road Bophut Koh Samui Suratthani, Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Spa
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
Why stay hereKing's Garden Resort SHA Plus places guests at Chaweng Beach, 2.6 km from the centre, with sea views and a garden. A restaurant, bar and room service handle meals, while spa and massage treatments are available on site for recovery after a beach day. It is one of the few properties here that accepts pets, and 505 reviews give it a 4.5 rating.
See King's Garden Resort SHA Plus
The shortlist side by side
| Hotel | Class | Guest rating | Reviews | Parking | Breakfast | Pool or spa | Pets | To the centre |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cascade Tara | ★★★ | 4.9 | 169 | Yes | – | Yes | Yes | 10.6 km |
| Palm Coco Mantra | ★★★ | 4.7 | 583 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 8.4 km |
| Karma Resort | ★★★ | 4.6 | 743 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 3.4 km |
| Crystal Lamai Hotel | ★★★ | 4.6 | 280 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 7.8 km |
| Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui | ★★★ | 4.6 | 266 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 8.8 km |
| Promtsuk Buri Resort | ★★★ | 4.6 | 261 | Yes | – | – | – | 7.7 km |
| Baan Sukreep Resort | ★★★ | 4.6 | 203 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 4.9 km |
| Viva Vacation Resort | ★★★ | 4.6 | 199 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 12.2 km |
| Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus | ★★★ | 4.5 | 1,256 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 2.5 km |
| The Spa Garden Samui | ★★★ | 4.6 | 177 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 8.0 km |
| Secret Garden Beach Resort | ★★★ | 4.5 | 900 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 2.2 km |
| Baan Samui Resort | ★★★ | 4.5 | 672 | – | Yes | Yes | – | 2.4 km |
| Pattra Vill Resort | ★★★ | 4.6 | 155 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 8.6 km |
| Am Samui Palace | ★★★ | 4.5 | 569 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 8.6 km |
| King's Garden Resort SHA Plus | ★★★ | 4.5 | 505 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 2.6 km |
From each hotel's own listing on this site; a dash means it is not listed.
How to choose
For families
Family rooms appear at Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus, Am Samui Palace and Baan Sukreep Resort, and all four of these have a garden. Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus and Am Samui Palace also list babysitting service, and Baan Sukreep Resort adds a games room and a kids pool is listed at Viva Vacation Resort for younger guests.
Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus · Am Samui Palace · Baan Sukreep Resort · Secret Garden Beach Resort
Closest to the centre
Secret Garden Beach Resort is 2.2 km from the centre, Baan Samui Resort 2.4 km, Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus 2.5 km and King's Garden Resort SHA Plus 2.6 km. All four sit in the Chaweng or Ban Bangrak area, handy for the island's main restaurants, bars and shops.
Secret Garden Beach Resort · Baan Samui Resort · Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus · King's Garden Resort SHA Plus
Best rated
At the top of the guest ratings sit Cascade Tara at 4.9 out of 5, Palm Coco Mantra at 4.7, and Karma Resort and Crystal Lamai Hotel at 4.6. Review counts range from 169 at Cascade Tara to 743 at Karma Resort, so the scores rest on different amounts of feedback.
Cascade Tara · Palm Coco Mantra · Karma Resort · Crystal Lamai Hotel
Pools, spas and beaches
Palm Coco Mantra and Viva Vacation Resort both list a private beach and an outdoor pool, and all four here have a pool bar or poolside setting. Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus lists a Jacuzzi and massage, Am Samui Palace a salt water pool, and Viva Vacation Resort a kids pool alongside its own beach.
Palm Coco Mantra · Viva Vacation Resort · Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus · Am Samui Palace
Where to stay in Koh Samui
Chaweng
Chaweng is the island's main tourist hub, with a long white-sand beach and numerous restaurants, bars and shops; it suits those who want to be in the centre of the action. Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus, Baan Samui Resort and King's Garden Resort SHA Plus all have Chaweng addresses here, and all are within about 2.6 km of the centre.
Our picks here: Baan Samui Resort · King's Garden Resort SHA Plus
Chaweng Noi
Chaweng Noi is named in the address of Baan Sukreep Resort, which sits 4.9 km from the centre. The resort lists a garden, a lounge and family rooms, and it is set apart from the busier main Chaweng strip named for the neighbouring hotels here.
Our picks here: Baan Sukreep Resort
Ban Bangrak
Ban Bangrak appears in the address of Secret Garden Beach Resort, the closest hotel on this list to the centre at 2.2 km. It lists its own garden, a restaurant, an outdoor pool and a swimming pool, and it is a short run from the Chaweng area described in the island's guide.
Our picks here: Secret Garden Beach Resort
Plan your stay
When to go
The best time to visit Koh Samui is during the dry season, from December to August. The wet season runs from September to November, with frequent rain and occasional storms. Temperatures stay warm all year, typically from 25°C to 32°C. February to April are particularly popular, with calm seas and clear skies, though this is also the hottest period. For fewer crowds, June or July still offers good weather.
Questions, answered
Which hotels here are closest to the centre of Koh Samui?
Secret Garden Beach Resort is 2.2 km from the centre, Baan Samui Resort 2.4 km, Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus 2.5 km and King's Garden Resort SHA Plus 2.6 km. Cascade Tara, at 10.6 km, and Viva Vacation Resort, at 12.2 km, are the furthest.
Which hotels accept pets?
Cascade Tara and King's Garden Resort SHA Plus both list pets allowed among their facilities. Between them they cover Chaweng and an address that names no district, and both offer free car parking for guests arriving by car.
Do any of these hotels have a spa?
Cascade Tara, Karma Resort, Crystal Lamai Hotel, Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui, The Spa Garden Samui and King's Garden Resort SHA Plus all list a spa. The Spa Garden Samui also lists a steam room alongside its outdoor pool.
Is parking available at these hotels?
Free car parking is listed at Cascade Tara, Palm Coco Mantra, Karma Resort, Crystal Lamai Hotel, Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui, Promtsuk Buri Resort, Baan Sukreep Resort, Viva Vacation Resort, Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus, The Spa Garden Samui, Secret Garden Beach Resort, Pattra Vill Resort, Am Samui Palace and King's Garden Resort SHA Plus.
Which hotel is the top-rated pick?
Cascade Tara holds the highest guest rating on this list at 4.9 out of 5, from 169 reviews. Palm Coco Mantra is next at 4.7 from 583 reviews, followed by Karma Resort and Crystal Lamai Hotel, both at 4.6.
Which hotels have a private beach?
Palm Coco Mantra, Promtsuk Buri Resort and Viva Vacation Resort each list a private beach among their facilities. Palm Coco Mantra and Viva Vacation Resort also add an outdoor pool and a restaurant.
Do any hotels have a pool bar?
Palm Coco Mantra, Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus, Baan Samui Resort and Am Samui Palace all list a pool bar. Am Samui Palace adds a salt water pool, and Palm Coco Mantra lists a jacuzzi.
Which hotels are best for families?
Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus, Am Samui Palace and Baan Sukreep Resort list family rooms, and all three list babysitting service. Chaweng Garden Beach Resort SHA Plus has 1,256 reviews, the most on this list, and Viva Vacation Resort adds a kids pool.