The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui

The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui covers 58 acres of a former coconut plantation on the island's northeast tip, wrapped around a private bay with two secluded beaches. Its 175 rooms, suites and pool villas spread from the sand up the hillside, and the suites start at 93 square meters. The water in front holds a swim reef, and alongside a beachfront infinity pool and the main pool the resort runs a seasonal ocean pool it describes as the only one in Thailand.

Dining covers more ground than most Samui resorts, from Pak Tai's southern Thai cooking in a Thai sala to the Sea Breeze Grill by the beach and The View's Mediterranean menu at the top of the hill, though several outlets close for parts of the year, so check what's open for your dates. The Spa Village has eight treatment suites, a yoga pavilion and its own lap pool, and the Ritz Kids club runs indoor and outdoor activities.

The airport is about 6 km away, and Choeng Mon, the Big Buddha and Chaweng's restaurants are a short drive. The resort is large and climbs a hillside, so ask about villa location when you book if you want to be near the beach.