The Vibe: Two vibes! While the beach wing is young and funky, the landlubbers’ side is residential and sedate.

The Area: On famous Chaweng Beach (shallow waters). While the resort’s beachfront is just a five-minute walk from Koh Samui’s main nightlife area, the atmosphere is nonetheless relaxed.

The DNA: Materialized from a desire to capture the different phases and changing shapes of the moon, the SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort’s architectural gravitas plays with sequences of light and shadow with repeated lunar-inspired design moments. the resort is marked by undulating arches and curves that define its tranquil spaces and frame the spectacular surrounding scenery, and with the ocean always front and center. Earthy accents add contextual warmth, found in columns and walls clad in timber, bamboo blinders covering the lobby ceiling, and custom furniture done in local rattan and coconut shells, noting that Koh Samui is famous for its coconut trees. The striking architecture and design come together at the large outdoor court and circular swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, which is the heart of the property.

Suite-Me-Up: Minimalist rooms on both sides of the road are gleaming white and feature large comfy beds. Freestanding round tubs, some in glass cubicles, segue into the plain bathrooms, which take up almost as much space as the bedroom areas. Most rooms also have a plunge pool, and those that do not sport large balconies. The sea views in the Full Moon building are outstanding. The Dark Moon building’s rooms are clustered around a couple of courtyards and offer views of the pool and garden area.

Seen: Hospitality Design

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 138 rooms, suites & villas (45-329m2) (484-3,541 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2018 • architecture & interior design: Onion ✅ free on-site parking • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk