A narrow driveway hemmed in by bamboo hedges leads to the resort's circular cobbled entrance, behind which sit beige condo-like buildings that have bland contemporary architecture. Both the exteriors and the interiors, while pleasant, lack the wow factor common to upscale resorts. The open-air lobby design feels a bit more authentic Thailand, featuring a lounge with rattan furniture, a metal floor installation reminiscent of bamboo. This modern aesthetic continues into the rooms. As the resort is removed from the main city, it has a quiet and relaxing atmosphere that attracts primarily low-key families and couples.

The ShaSa Resort & Residences, Koh Samui is on a remote beach on the island's southern coast. The area is laid-back by Samui standards, with only a few neighboring hotel restaurants and a butterfly garden within walking distance. More variety and a livelier atmosphere can be found in Lamai, a 15-minute drive from the hotel. The Big Buddha is one of the island’s top attractions and can be reached in about 45 minutes by car. Koh Samui is also known for scuba diving, and there are many dive companies throughout the island. The hotel offers shuttle service to the Samui Airport, Lamai, and Chaweng for a fee. Expect about a 40-minute drive to the airport and Chaweng.

The 33 condo-style rooms and villas at ShaSa Resort & Residences come in one- to three-bedroom options, all with similar contemporary decor. The airy units have open layouts with hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and earth-tone furnishings. The dining areas have pendant lamps dangling above wooden tables, and are next to wide living rooms with flat-screen TVs, plush couches, and chaise lounges beside billowy white curtains. The kitchens have full-size refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, and stovetops, but a fee is charged to use the appliances (excluding the refrigerator). In-unit washer/dryers also cost extra to use. The sleek bathrooms have stone basin sinks, walk-in rainfall showers, and separate soaking tubs, plus bulk toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers. Each unit has a huge furnished balcony with sea views.

The resort's rocky beachfront leaves something to be desired -- especially for those seeking a stretch of sand to sunbathe on -- but it's more than suitable for water sports and fishing. The main features are the two outdoor pools -- a seaside pool with a deck that ends right at the shore, and a hillside infinity pool that has excellent views of the water. There's also a spa with a hydrotherapy pool and treatment rooms for Thai and Swedish massage. The on-site fitness center is small, but is has a few cardio machines, weight-training equipment, and free weights, along with a sauna. The spacious kids' club has toys and video games, and children can take arts and crafts classes. 

The on-site restaurant, Beyond the Sea, serves western and Thai cuisine in the style of a brasserie. It has seating both in a trendy open-air room or on an outdoor patio overlooking the lower-level pool and ocean. Breakfast is included in some rates. Theres's also a Pool Bar that serves a variety of drinks and snacks. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.