Far from the boozy party in downtown Chaweng, the Casa De Mar still manages to feel sleek and contemporary despite its location in a quieter corner north of town. In keeping with the tranquil beach scene in North Chaweng, the vibe is relaxed both inside and out. Sleek wooden beams and glass panels create a modern exterior, with similar details repeated in the cool, airy lobby. Soft grays couches and mahogany tables provide a subtly chic ambience that plays well with the overall understated character here. Plants and floor-to-ceiling windows lend the area a bright earthiness, while Thai statues and vases sit like unassuming treasures atop warm oak shelves. The restaurant has a similar feel, though there’s also lovely outdoor seating right along the water if you prefer a brighter setting. The hotel's peaceful setting makes it a smart choice for couples and honeymooners.

Those who want to visit Chaweng for easy access to the town's storied party scene may want to look elsewhere, as this part of town is peaceful and quiet. There are a few shops and restaurants on the road nearby, within a five-minute walk, but otherwise guests wanting more action will have to rent a scooter or take a cab. It's a five- to 10-minute ride to the main bar-and-club part of town, which is also home to tons of restaurants and tourist shops. The kickboxing stadium is also a 10-minute drive away. The iconic Big Buddha statue and Wat Plai Laem temple are both approximately 10 minutes away by car as well. Koh Samui Airport is only five minutes away by car.

There are two classes of rooms here: those overlooking the beach, and those without water views. Across the board, though, the look is fresh and simple, with restrained palettes that feature dark and light wood, white, plus simple artsy accents like baskets mounted on the walls. Villas step things up a bit, with sleek four-poster beds and woven pendant lighting. The Beach Front Villas are, of course, the nicest on offer, and provide exceptional views of the beach plus furnished terraces. Some include private pools. All rooms here are clean and air-conditioned, and include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffeemakers, and minibars. Bathrooms, too, are modern, with deep sinks, rainfall showers, and wide mirrors. Villa bathrooms have luxurious extras, like soaking tubs and plenty of extra counter space. Some guests report that the water doesn’t get hot enough and that there isn't enough of it for a nice shower.

There aren't a ton of features here -- and the hotel is notably missing a spa -- but what's on offer keeps most guests here happy. While there isn't a proper sandy beach directly on-site, there's direct access to the water beyond the sea wall, and it’s just a brief swim to sandier areas (or a trip down some stairs). There are plenty of cushy lounge chairs on the wooden planks along the water’s edge, as well as comfortable lounge seating beside the outdoor pool that overlooks the sea. 

Journey Bar & Restaurant provides equally remarkable beach views and a menu of regional and European cuisines, with outdoor sitting on a spacious terrace that sits just above the water. It’s not quite so tropical inside the restaurant -- oak wood tables and benches are balanced by ceiling fans and birdcage-style chandeliers above, yet the overall vibe is still cool and relaxed. Other perks include a free breakfast buffet and a small gym. Guests traveling by air can take advantage of a one-way free transfer from Koh Samui Airport to the resort. Parking and Wi-Fi are also free.