An inviting open-air lobby with ample seating areas and lush tropical gardens immediately set the scene for this resort. It feels very authentic in its architectural style, utilizing dark teak woods and tiled floors within a hut-type structure and offering a tranquil vibe. With the beach as backdrop, guests take full advantage of the ocean -- though watch out for the people on rented jet skis who sometimes get a little too close to the resort's waters. The grounds are manicured and well lit with little ornamentations adding to the Thai feel. Generally, the property is quiet, but there can be noisier activities in the evenings. 

Located directly on Chaweng Beach with the town of Bophut nearby, the resort is in a perfect location for enjoying the sea as well as the scene. Soft sands and warm waters are less than a minute away via a short pathway from the hotel to the oceanfront. Walk up the driveway from the resort in the opposite direction, turn right, and you will head into a busy area of town with nightlife and restaurants. Turn left and there are still many shops, but it's a little calmer. The Baan Chaweng is also under Samui Airport's flight path, so overhead plane traffic can be heard about every 45 minutes, but it's not too intrusive.

There’s wide variety in the 93 rooms available here, and what you get depends on what you book. Basic rooms are just that and are located in two-story buildings with stairs and rudimentary amenities. (Tube-style TVs show up in some of these spaces, while other rooms have flat-screen TVs.) Ironically, this level is categorized as "Superior," but don't let the name fool you. That being said, these units still have perks like stocked minibars, air-conditioning, and free high-speed Wi-Fi, but be forewarned that the connection for the latter is intermittent and anything but fast. 

There are also Deluxe Villas, sea-view rooms, and even a few separate bungalows. All units are large and clean with a minimalistic, earthy decor relying on dark wood furnishings, calm colors, and Thai cultural accents. Most rooms have balconies or private patio areas as well. Modern fixtures adorn large bathrooms, some with showers only and others with showers and tubs; updated spaces are the priciest. Comforts like robes and slippers are also available, though some focus could be put into upgrading the linens. Overall, rooms are quiet, though there’s occasional ambient noise from other guests and planes passing overhead.

A medium-sized, well-maintained pool is available for those who don't wish to swim in the nearby ocean, with plenty of sun loungers, umbrellas, and palm trees on hand. Rachavadee Spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, body scrubs, and bubble baths, though many of the spas in town offer commensurate treatments for less money. Beach-side massages can also be arranged. 

The open-air Leelavadee Restaurant is situated right on the beach, offering a terrific setting for a romantic evening or casual daytime meals. The menu includes traditional Thai cuisine along with seafood and Western specialties, and the venue hosts an ample daily free breakfast. Barbecue grills for guests are available as well and the full bar serves up a tasty piña colada.