Paradee Resort

Paradee Resort & Spa Hotel seamlessly combines nature and luxury. The property is lush with abundant palm trees, and it sits on a pristine and peaceful stretch of beachfront. So, it's not surprising that many of the common areas -- lobby, bars, and restaurant -- are open-air, allowing guests to be fully immersed in nature, but with the comforts of a high-end establishment. Much of the aesthetic incorporates earthy, rustic-chic elements -- think thatched roofs, exposed wood-beam ceilings, and teak floors inside traditional Thai-style villas. Overall, the decor isn't overly local-inspired, but subtle accents add a nice touch of authenticity and charm. The quiet that comes with its isolated location makes this spot popular with couples looking for a private, romantic getaway. 

Paradee has a secluded, quiet setting on the southern end of Koh Samet, located about a 15-minute speedboat ride from Jadet Pier in Rayong -- a two-hour drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. The hotel can arrange private transfer for a fee. This hotel offers guests direct access to two beaches, one of which has soft white sand, while the other is rockier. Aside from visiting other nearby beaches, like Laem Kut (nine-minute walk) there isn't much to do within walking distance. To head to other spots on the island, like Khao Laemya National Park (20-minute drive), a taxi is necessary, and previous guests have noted that taxi rides can be expensive. 

Villas at Paradee Resort & Spa are, similar to other areas of the hotel, a pleasant mix of natural elements and high-end decor. Rich teak floors and wood-beam ceilings are brightened with mustard-yellow walls, four-poster beds with crisp white linens and hanging canopies, and upholstery in attractive shades of purple, red, and blue. Despite their earthy feel, all of the villas are equipped with modern creature comforts like free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, magazines, minibars, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Bathrooms feature open-air showers, and large bathtubs, plus bathrobes, sandals, hairdryers, bottled water, and toiletries. All of the rooms also have luxe furnished outdoor sitting areas either overlooking the sea or garden. Many of the villas also have their own private plunge pools, and some offer direct beach access.

It's not surprising that in such a picturesque setting, most of Paradee Resort & Spa Hotel's features focus on being outside. Though many rooms have private pools, the main pool is worth a visit, too. The infinity-edge pool looks out over the beach and is surrounded by plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas. It has a swim-up bar and tables and chairs on the deck. Steps from the pool lead to the wide, white-sand private beach, which has a limited number of loungers. Kayaks, snorkeling gear, and beach toys (like buckets to build sandcastles) are available for free. Catamarans are available for a charge. A second smaller pool is located farther in, surrounded by lush plants but lacking seating. The full-service spa offers an array of wellness and beauty treatments, while a small fitness center is housed in a bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows. A few dated cardio machines and strength-training equipment are available.

The open-air restaurant serves well-reviewed Asian-fusion fare, and it's unsurprisingly pricey. In addition to the pool bar, another bar is on the western stretch of beach, providing gorgeous sunset views. Private dining can be arranged in rooms or on the beach. A library lounge area has books to borrow, plus meeting and event spaces are available -- suitable for weddings. On the downside for families, there's little in the way of kid-centric facilities, though babysitting can be arranged for a fee.