The shopping mall entry to the Iyara Beach Hotel & Plaza isn’t quite glamorous or in keeping with the idyllic beach atmosphere that travelers might want when arriving at Koh Samui. However, the bright, upbeat lobby quickly puts the property in a different light, and has a contemporary sheen that manages to capture a bit of classic Thai style. An ultra-modern, shapely cobalt blue couch with bright throw pillows fills the center of the sitting area, while a ceiling bathed in pumpkin orange and dotted with geometric circles competes for attention. The color palette is similar in the airy restaurant, with deeply saturated orange accents playing well with warm wood thatched ceilings and hardwood tables. It’s earthy and welcoming, especially outside where there are tropical gardens and colorful blossoms to spruce up the property. The effect there is secluded and romantic, making the hotel particularly appealing to couples seeking a beachside getaway.

Iyara Beach Hotel & Plaza is located to the north of Chaweng proper, and sits right on its own stretch of admittedly less-nice beach. Its entrance is via the Iyara Shopping Plaza, and plentiful shop and restaurant options are right next door. Otherwise, it's a 10-minute walk to the heart of Chaweng's bar and nightlife scene. Many popular attractions are also nearby. These include the Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem temple, the Samui Speed Boat-Petcherat Marina, and the Fisherman’s Village Plaza -- all just under a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Koh Samui Airport is a seven-minute drive, while Bangrak Pier is about 12 minutes away by car. Overall, it’s quieter here than elsewhere along the beachfront, though shopping crowds may occasionally create some noise. 

Room styles at Iyara Beach Hotel & Plaza vary, and are situated in distinctive wings. Decor is contemporary, but classically Thai, with stylish teakwood furnishings and mostly hardwood floors. Some units are brighter and bolder than others, with accents of pink, purple, or green, while others feature minimal tans and ivories. Colorful wall art and throw pillows punch up the look just a touch, and the Cabanas have charming pitched wooden ceilings. Amenities include flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibars, coffeemakers, and security safes. Lighting is a bit dim, and several previous guests have complained about a lack of light.

The Superior Rooms measure approximately 39 square meters (420 square feet) and are set directly above the shopping center in the Plaza Wing. By contrast, the Iyara Suites in the Ocean Wing are around 75 square meters (780 square feet) and include living rooms, furnished terraces, and flawless ocean views. Studio Rooms within the same wing are 40 square meters (430 square feet) and overlook either the water or the plaza. There are also a series of low-rise Cabanas set within the hotel’s tropical gardens in the Cabana Wing. At around 31 square meters (334 square feet), they’re quaint, with comfortable outdoor seating, ceiling fans, and deep soaking tubs. The most recent additions are the 38-square-meter (409-square-foot) Private Deluxe Rooms. These ground-floor units feature rainfall showers, and are the only rooms on the property that feature larger 42-inch plasma TVs. All other units have pleasant enough bathrooms containing showers and tubs.

There are plenty of attractive features at Iyara Beach Hotel and Plaza, though unfortunately some of its showpieces are a little underwhleming. While the beach is pretty to look at, it's not the best, as the water can be clogged with seaweed. There are some sunbeds for laying next to the water. The pool is a nice infinity number set next to the beach (and there's a children's area too), but the water can be discolored and cloudy on occasion.

The Ivory Restaurant features excellent views from just about any vantage point. Covered areas provide glimpses of the sea in the distance, and there’s generous seating directly by the pool, too. The menu includes Thai specialties, along with western fare, and seafood. For lighter fare or to nip a sweet tooth in the bud, La Croissanterie serves fresh pastries, snacks, breads, and refreshing drinks. 

Therapeutic services can be arranged at the spa. Services include Thai massage, foot massage, and full-body massage treatments using luxurious oils and aloe vera. There is no fitness center. The on-site Iyara Shopping Plaza is packed with an array of well-known fashion retailers, restaurants, and bakeries. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.