Feel like a Hollywood star at these cinematic villas in Koh Samui, designed to impress on the big screen as in real life.
Drawn to Koh Samui because of The White Lotus Season 3 hype? Even before Piper or Rick stepped onto its beautiful sandy shores, this popular island has long attracted travellers seeking a picturesque escape.
Up the glamour factor of your tropical vacation by staying in designer villas worthy of the big screen. These stylish holiday homes set the stage for a memorable island getaway: Think photogenic infinity pools, drop-dead gorgeous views and amazing resort-like amenities, plus a dedicated villa team at your service. Here’s where to go when you want to holiday like an A-list Hollywood star.
Don’t miss: The White Lotus Guide: 72 Hours in Samui
Kelapa House
Where: Chaweng Noi
Style: Batman mansion meets Bond-style hideaway
Meet Kelapa House, the latest addition to our portfolio of gorgeous villas in Koh Samui. Feel like you’re 007 before he sets off on his next mission; or more playfully, like a supervillain enjoying your otherworldly lair. Have your martini shaken, not stirred, as you admire the fantastic views from the outdoor deck.
The villa attendants can also be the Alfred to your Bruce Wayne vacation persona. On-demand massages and spa services can be arranged, enjoyed in the privacy of a wood-clad spa pavilion equipped with a Finnish-style sauna. When hunger strikes, trust the in-villa private chef to whip up delicious meals, tailored to your cravings and preferences.
Keeping fit won’t be an issue with a private trainer who can coach you through your workout in the villa’s dedicated gym; you’re also free to use its top-tier Technogym equipment as you please. Even when you need to work, Kelapa House has one of the most stylish workspaces we have ever seen. There won’t be a need for a digital background; you’ll want to showcase this chic office.
With such fabulous amenities, who needs to head out? If you decide to, Kelapa House is just a short drive to the quiet Chaweng Noi beach, the Central Festvial Samui shopping mall, a Muay Thai Stadium, as well as many other bars and restaurants.
Praana Residence
Where: Bophut
Style: A contemporary take on The Great Gatsby
If Jay Gatsby was reincarnated in modern-day Thailand, we’d like to imagine he could be living in Praana Residence. Feel like you’re the king of the hill in the massive 3,200 sqm villa that’s the crown jewel of Panacea Retreat.
An amazing 25m-long infinity pool? Check. A cinema, karaoke den and your own speakeasy bar? You got it. That’s not to mention it has a private gym, tennis court, aquarium and even a Muay Thai boxing ring of your own at this fully-staffed villa.
If there’s a place to truly live large, it’s the gorgeous open-plan living pavilion. This space impresses with its soaring ceiling height, and comes with a kitchen well-equipped with cooking appliances ready for you to play out your Master Chef dreams. Or simply leave it to the private chef to prepare a fabulous feast to be enjoyed in the air-conditioned dining area or al fresco at the covered dining pavilion next to the pool.
Villa Akatsuki
Where: Lipa Noi
Style: Lost in Translation meets The White Lotus
You’re not in Japan darling, but the soothing ambience at Villa Akatsuki suggests that you could be. Immaculately executed in every corner, you’ll feel like you’re in a film set while staying here. Designed by Riccardo Tossani Architecture, this enthralling beachfront property instantly puts you instantly into a state of Zen, from the moment you step in. Feel like you’re in the real-life version of The White Lotus Season 3, with this villa presenting the ultimate luxury of having resort-like facilities all to yourself.
The lofty living room has a moon-like chandelier and low-height side tables reminiscent of modern Japanese homes. One of the bedrooms has a mezzanine area, furnished with futon-style beds. Wooden slats, lamps with wicker and paper shades, and other subtle touches offer nods to the Land of the Rising Sun.
The amazing spa room might make you briefly think you’re in a Japanese onsen. A pair of massage beds face a bubbling private Jacuzzi, where you can enjoy a leisurely soak and find your inner peace. What’s more, the pristine white sand of Samui’s exclusive Lipa Noi Beach is mere steps away. Plus, the villa’s location on the western coast means you get front row views of the sunset. Channel main character energy as you walk along the sandy stretch, admiring the scenery and having the time of your life.
Baan Sang
Where: Taling Ngam
Style: Mediterranean bliss ala The Talented Mr. Ripley
Feel like you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean coast, even while you’re enjoying the tropical splendour of Koh Samui. You can almost picture yourself as a character on The Talented Mr. Ripley or Leonardo Dicaprio’s suave anti-hero in Catch Me If You Can, even while you’re staying at the beautiful Baan Sang in Thailand.
The pebble-wash stone, tasteful furnishings and marvellous architecture come together wonderfully to emphasise the views from the villa’s clifftop location, all while creating an effortlessly elegant atmosphere. You could also make believe you’re on a Jean-Luc Godard film set, basking in the breeze on the sun-drenched terrace.
One thing’s for sure: You’ll definitely want to take a dip in the 25m-long infinity pool, which looks out to the ocean and presents a privileged view of the Five Islands. Next to the pool is an al fresco area laid with wood slats, almost in the style of an Italian pergola.
Elsewhere in the villa, the bathrooms are cleverly placed to face the views. Soak in the tub of the master bathroom and you might almost feel as if you’re on a yacht peering at the horizon from this remarkable vantage point. In another bathroom on the lower storey, enjoy soothing sights of the forest from the tub.
L2 Residence
Where: Taling Ngam
Style: Mad Men in a jungle setting
Be at one with nature in L2 Residence, a property that encourages you to embrace the wilder side of Samui. This villa looks like it’s chiselled into the cliff, presenting amazing views from its elevated location.
Fitting right into its jungle environment is its waterfall-style plunge pool. Get a fantastic vantage point of this pool from the master suite — get your partner to play photographer to capture your leading star moment at this picturesque spot.
Wellness influencers including Nude Yoga Girl have made full use of its outdoor decks, which form the perfect spot for scenic yoga sessions. Beyond the splendid natural surroundings, every room and lounge area in this villa is exquisitely designed.
Every space is Instagram-worthy and yet extremely relaxing, too. Lounging on the mid-century modern furnishings, it’s easy to imagine you’re Don Draper, enjoying a good Old Fashioned as you savour the views.