Nestled among lush gardens, The Kala Samui seamlessly blends with the surrounding scenery. The structures housing the rooms, villas, and common spaces have been built to incorporate nature rather than removing it, as can be the case with much of the development along Thailand's shores. Here, large boulders cut through walls, palm trees jut out from beneath terraces, and plants and trees creep into common spaces. The extensive use of wood and natural fabrics, as well as the traditional Thai architecture style of the buildings, add to the local charm. The look is sharp and minimalistic, with sleek lines throughout, though a fresh coat of paint on some of the walkways would be welcome.

The hotel is perched on a rugged hillside that meets the ocean. At the very top is the lobby, housed in a striking wood pavilion with high ceilings and lots of stone accents. The front desk is tucked away in a nook on the lower level, and the rest of the lobby, complete with a cute shop selling traditional Thai items, is located on the upper floor, overlooking the grounds. A small seating area juts out over the trees, offering sweeping sea views. The pavilions housing the rooms and villas are a little lower, partially hidden behind the thick vegetation. The beach is a little farther away, down a boardwalk that runs through the greenery. Given the secluded atmosphere and higher-end price tags, guests tend to be couples, including a good number of honeymooners. 

The hotel is located in a lush area right off the road that connects Chaweng and Lamai. As it's built into a hillside, the property has a significant amount of stairs that can be tricky for guests with mobility issues to navigate. There's nothing within walking distance except other resorts, and the only restaurant that can be reached on foot aside from the on-site eatery is the one at the hotel’s beach club, located a five-minute walk from the hotel proper. The Kala Samui is equidistant from hopping Lamai and Chaweng, both offering a wide array of nightlife and dining options a 10- to 15-minute drive away. The Big Buddha and Samui Airport can both be reached in about 20 minutes. 

The hotel has 32 Deluxe Rooms and eight Duplex Villas, all offering stylishly minimal decor, ocean views, and king-size beds (or twins on request). Subtle Thai elements are used sparingly, carved wood and artsy recessed lighting. The look is simple and sharp, with polished wooden floors, platform beds, high ceilings, and small seating areas with pillows on the floor. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, air-conditioning, safes, free Wi-Fi, electric kettles for tea and coffee, free water replenished daily, and free fresh fruit on arrival. All units are appealing, but a few are showing some wear and tear, including scuff marks on floors and furniture, and slightly rough finishes. 

The Villas are the most high-end units at The Kala, and have two floors each plus private infinity pools, DVD and MP3 players, sound systems, wooden ceilings, and outdoor showers; some have wine coolers. Family Rooms each have two bedrooms and space for a cot in the living room. Bathrooms are bright and luxurious in all rooms, with round stone sinks, all-white decor with wood accents, toiletries, and rainfall showers with separate deep soaking tubs made of Balinese stone.

Tucked away amid lush gardens, the sleek infinity pool is a quiet spot for a lazy day in the sun. It has a handful of loungers and umbrellas for shade, as well as views of the gulf. A little farther away is the sun deck, an even quieter spot for those seeking extra privacy. The spa is small but luxurious, with a nice array of treatments, and cabins for couples. 26th Degree Restaurant serves fusion cuisine in an airy dining room with a handful of wooden tables and ocean views. Breakfast is offered but is not included with room rates. Right below it is Rabbit Bar, a tiny drinking spot serving an array of cocktails. The hotel does not have a fitness center, but those looking to get some exercise can borrow kayaks plus snorkeling and fishing gear for free. The property’s small, sandy beach is located a five-minute walk away along a boardwalk, and has a Beach Club with small restaurant and a sun deck offering a moon bath experience twice monthly. The beach can also be reached by kayak or using the free shuttle offered by the hotel. Additionally, the property offers free shuttle service to Lamai and Chaweng, and airport transfers for a fee. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.