With its almost year-round sunshine, calm seas, and white sandy beaches, Koh Samui is an ideal destination for traveling with kids. For decades, the islands in the South of Thailand have attracted visitors seeking the tranquility of the jungles, impressive Thai and international dining, nightlife, and, of course, the cloudless azure skies and turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.
Fondly regarded by locals as a coconut island, Koh Samui is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand. The island is the second largest after Phuket. It offers a lazy-days atmosphere perfect for a ‘toes-in-the-sand’ holiday. Most beaches are shallow and warm, ideal for children who love splashing around.
Koh Samui presents the country’s largest concentration of luxury internationally-branded hotels like the Ritz-Carlton, Garrya Tongsai Bay, Six Senses, Kimpton Kitalay, and Intercontinental. With hand-selected butlers and concierge specialists on hand, they’ll be able to arrange plenty of child-friendly adventures that take you to tiny islands, watch pink dolphins play, swim with pigs, or laze in remote boat-only bays. The Ang Thong National Marine Park is a protected archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand with towering limestone karsts, waterfall-filled jungles, and white-sandy beaches with hidden coves to explore. Across the island, plenty of Instagrammable moments with pretty swings, random dinosaurs, secret gardens, and ethical elephant sanctuaries exist.
Koh Samui is synonymous with tropical luxury.
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Known for its spectacular sunrises, the Hyatt Regency Koh Samui has breathtaking sea views along the rocky coastline of Chaweng. It's surrounded by over 600 protected yang na and coconut trees full of birds and wildlife. Surrounding the hotel is no end of fascinating attractions to explore, from Buddhist temples and their resident mummified monks to Samui Elephant Haven and the pristine marine park of Ang Thong. Adventurous families can explore the impressively tasty night markets that are bustling with seemingly endless food stalls and replica fashion or dine in one of the hotel's four vibrant restaurants; their culinary team uses locally sourced and organic produce and freshly caught seafood for a memorable dining experience. The Hyatt has one of the best kid's clubs on the island and has four distinctive activity zones; arts and crafts, fun and active, learning and technology, and resting. There's also a playground and a kid's pool. Little Steps loves the suite and villa family special, which includes unique in-room amenities, including a teepee full of toys, unlimited homemade sweeties from Cobalt, and one complimentary Camp Hyatt activity. You and the kids will feel energized by the timeless connection with nature. They can also experience locally-inspired activities such as basket making, snorkeling in a search for Nemo, and cooking classes. As a family, take the kids on a journey through Gallery of Eight, a lush nature and local cultural experience that shows off the most photogenic spots dotted around the resort. Hyatt is committed to advancing its environmental actions that help communities around the world.
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui, 99/11 Moo 5, North Chaweng, Bophut, Koh Samui, +66 77 448 777, samui.regency@hyatt.com, https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/thailand/hyatt-regency-koh-samui/usmrk
One of the newest kids on the block, the Kimpton Kitalay Koh Samui is an island resort with breezy beachside appeal and impressive views over Choeng Mon Beach in the north. With a village-inspired appeal, the resort embraces the spirit of a community inspired by the sea. The team has thoughtfully curated a selection of programs that will stimulate young minds. The kids will love Junio, a thought-provoking, non-tech kids club with a variety of activities that are educational and lots of fun. The 500-square-meter, split-level club is designed for exploration, creative play, and interaction with like-minded little souls. While the kids are having fun in Junio, you can have a cheeky cocktail or two at the SHADES Ocean Lounge & Bar or feel restored in a 14-step spa ritual created specifically for Kimpton Kitalay Samui by HARNN; the immersive experience uses only natural and organic ingredients that encourage your five senses. As part of the Intercontinental Hotel Group, members will receive complimentary Wi-Fi. Wherever you are on the resort, you can grab a 'loaner' designer bike and cycle through the breathtaking landscapes. The resort has five diverse dining and bar experiences; Little Steps recommends you try Boho, the all-day dining restaurant specializing in traditional and contemporary Thai cuisine. Boho also has a great collection of local handicrafts you can take home as souvenirs.
Kimpton Kitalay Koh Samui, 10/79 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, +66 77 951 999, kimptonkitalay.info@ihg.com, https://www.kimptonkitalaysamui.com/
Set in 23 acres of tropical landscapes and pretty lagoons, Santiburi Koh Samui overlooks one of the island’s most breathtaking beaches. The suites and villas are sympathetically Thai-inspired and feature sleek, contemporary décor. There is so much to do at the resort, whether paddling in the sea, practicing your swing on the members-only golf course, or learning the art of Muay Thai, tennis, sailing, or fishing. Kids love adventuring at Panya and Yim’s Junior Camp, with all sorts of fun activities for them to participate in. There is a kid's library, an outside treehouse, a dedicated PlayStation playroom, a sandpit, a slide, a bamboo hut, and a sensory garden. The kids club team will guide your little ones through educational Thai arts and crafts such as batik painting, gel candle making, and origami. The most popular activities are cooking and yoga classes! Expert babysitters are on hand every Thursday night, so you can enjoy a romantic dinner in one of the five dining destinations or in the privacy of your suite or villa. Keep the kids busy so you can enjoy a pamper session at Lèn Spa with the best contemporary treatments and therapies carefully blended with the wisdom of southern Thai massage traditions. The Santiburi Samui Country Club is framed by a coconut plantation, soaring peaks, and Gulf of Thailand views over Koh Phangan. The kids can have private golf lessons with the Swing Doctor!
Santiburi Koh Samui, 12/12 Moo 1, Maenam Beach, Koh Samui, +66 77 425 031, info@santiburisamui.com, https://santiburisamui.com/
On the northern tip of Koh Samui lies a little headland home to Six Senses. The villa-only resort blends perfectly into its natural tropical surroundings and has impressive views of the Gulf of Thailand. Six Senses is passionate about sustainability and carefully considers its operation to ensure they care for its wild setting. As part of their commitment to the environment, they involve local schools so children can learn about environmental circularity, natural products over pesticides, and waste reduction. If your kids are lucky enough, they might meet some local children and learn to speak Thai. Your kids will love the Farm on the Hill, a conservation project that looks after a herd of goats and chickens; they are invited to collect fresh eggs for breakfast and feed the animals. Just Kids is the hotel's exclusive club for little people. They can join the various activities throughout the day in the Library or learn some traditional Thai crafts such as batik, soap, coconut, or rock painting. If you have an active bunch, they can head off on a treasure hunt or take up Thai boxing. While they are kept busy, you can head to the spa for a variety of rejuvenating signature treatments, blissful massages, or facials. Inspired by a local fishing village, Six Senses offers private villas with pools. Your guest experience maker will ensure that your every whim is taken care of throughout your stay. Little Steps fell in love with the Beach Reserve villa boasting direct access to the beach and a spacious sundeck and swimming pool so the kids can splash happily all day long. Both bedrooms have an ensuite bathroom complete with oversized bathtubs, so remember to bring your kid's favorite bath toys! You are spoilt for choice with five restaurants and bars or private dining in your villa. Try Dining on the Rocks, an award-winning restaurant that serves modern food, preserving the freshest ingredients.
Six Senses Samui, 9/10 Moo 5, Baan Plai Laem, Bophut, Koh Samui, +66 77 245 678, reservations-samui@sixsenses.com, https://www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/samui/
Since 1986, Tongsai Bay has been the pioneer for sustainable tourism in Thailand and worldwide, so much so that they formed a partnership with the Banyan Tree Group, becoming part of its Garrya collection, which believes that hospitality rhymes with simplicity and balance. An almost hidden retreat set amidst 28 acres of breathtaking natural beauty and a private bay, the villa-only resort provides an exclusive sanctuary for your family. Tongsai Bay understands that family is important and there is nothing like exploring new destinations together. You and the kids can enjoy many activities, from discovering the local wildlife, learning new water sports, practicing culinary skills in the kitchen, or enjoying your favorite silver screen movie at the weekly movie night. The resort has a dedicated kid's club and a bright and welcoming games room with comfy bean bags, wooden toys, and an Xbox 360 for older kids who are partial to gaming. Cool down from the balmy sunshine and head to the 60-meter temperature-controlled swimming pool! Little Steps recommends the Akorn (named after the founder) two-bedroom seafront pool villa or the Tongsai three-bedroom sea view pool villa for families. Both have expansive outdoor living areas, the signature 'bath with a view,' a four-poster gazebo for lounging, a dining area, and sun loungers. Tongsai Bay has three restaurants, including Evol, an adventurous dining experience encouraging you to try nutritionally balanced and super-tasty dishes. Arrange for a babysitter or settle your little ones into the kids club and enjoy some pampering in 8lements Spa with their fuss-free treatments that enhance your well-being.
Garrya Tongsai Bay, 84 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, +66 77 913 750, Reservations-Tongsaibay@garrya.com, https://www.garrya.com/en/destinations/samui
If there is one thing you must do at the resort, have sundowner cocktails at the Air Bar. The top-of-the-world bar has the most impressive views over the virgin jungle, down to the beach, across the Gulf of Thailand, the mysterious five islands, and Ang Thong National Park. The ever-changing views are awe-inspiring, especially at sunset, when the sun usually puts on an impressive performance. You can experience nature, explore the protected national marine park, visit local villages, and learn about the 'land of smiles' and the beautiful Thai culture. Your Intercontinental concierge will help you plan a trip of a lifetime. You'll have to drag the kids away from Planet Trekkers, the resort's signature kid's club designed to inspire younger guests. The exclusive club encourages kids to embrace a new culture and learn traditional Thai games, eco-activities, Thai weaving, local cooking classes, coconut-leaf modeling, and crab hunting (not literally) on the beach. The Intercontinental has a private speed boat that whisks you over the calm seas to the national park and hidden coves; spend the afternoon snorkeling or searching for elusive pink dolphins that patrol the waters. The all-suite and villa resort is a sanctuary of peace. You will be spoilt for choice with three restaurants and bars, an exclusive lounge for club members, and private and in-villa dining. Indulge in the freshest seafood, authentic Thai cuisine, or succulent barbeques paired with an impressive collection of hand-picked wine or masterfully mixed cocktails. Ensure you make time to relax in the award-winning cliff-side spa that captures the essence of Koh Samui.
Intercontinental Koh Samui Resort, 295 Moo 3 Taling Ngam, Koh Samui, +66 26 560 440, icsamui.rsvn@ihg.com, https://samui.intercontinental.com/
Built into the cliffs of Laem Nan beach on the east coast peninsula, the Silavadee Koh Samui is something of a well-kept secret. With magnificent sea and jungle scapes to enjoy, your family will enjoy a holiday of a lifetime here. Built with long-term sustainability plans and eco-friendly building materials sourced globally, local artisans have sympathetically created a magical destination that will continue to support its local communities, underwater and on land nature, and provide organic produce to diners straight from their well-tended gardens. The resort has 80 rooms, pool villas, and pool suites ideal for a family getaway. Little Steps recommends the two-bedroom ocean view and oceanfront duplex pool villas for families with kids. The two-story accommodation villas are perfect for relaxing by the pool by day and enjoying a chef-cooked barbeque by night. It's truly a home-away-from-home experience. There's a comprehensive range of activities for the whole family to enjoy, or the kids can head off and have their own fun day, which includes Farmer Boy and Farmer Girl cooking classes where they will pick ingredients fresh from the gardens to make their salads, at the end of the cooking class, they can enjoy grilled marshmallows cooked over a campfire. Every Tuesday, your little ones can participate in the Nature Treasure Hunt, which leads them through the resort's expansive grounds to feed the resident animals; afterward, there are plenty of snacks and chilled homemade lemonade, just like in the famed Enid Blyton tales of the Famous Five. Thursdays are Nature Workshop days, where the kids are blindfolded, and their senses are sharpened as they try homegrown vegetables, flowers, and natural remedies. Silavadee Koh Samui also offers kids cooking classes and spa days, including the chocolicious package, perfect for chocoholics! While the kids are having fun, you can enjoy some free time and pampering at the spa or a cocktail or two at STAR, the resort’s rooftop bar.
Silavadee Koh Samui, 208/66 Moo 4, Maret, Koh Samui, +66 77 960 555, reservations@silavadeeresort.com, https://www.silavadeeresort.com/
Right on one of the most popular beaches in Koh Samui, SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort boasts an extraordinary collection of pool suites and villas steps away from the powdery white sand and the calm azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Enjoy your family holiday in the Mediterranean-esque resort and expect all the attention and services for a luxury stay. The kid's club is in the new garden wing, close to their own pool. Your little ones can experience fun-filled days with various entertaining and educational activities. With an action-packed itinerary each day, the kids can learn how to make paper fish, weave coconut leaves and paper, fold towels just like your housekeeping professionals, learn some important Thai words, or even plant a tree to help save the environment. Just a stone's throw from the beach, the garden two-bedroom suite is ideal for families with king and twin-bedded rooms. Enjoy your space with a private outdoor patio, garden, and swimming pool. You can even choose your fragrance of bath products. The resort offers a range of dining facilities, including the Tent, which serves an irresistible selection of fresh seafood, western dishes, and traditional Thai cuisine. Enjoy their beach barbeques, private dining, in-villa service, and dinner under the stars. For the ultimate relaxation experience, enjoy a haven of tranquility in the spa with blissful body scrubs, wraps, and massages using natural products from I Plus Q and Dii Skincare.
SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort, 99/10 Moo 2, Bo Phut Koh Samui, +66 77 905 888, reservation@salachaweng.com, https://www.salahospitality.com/chaweng/
Nestled in a sun-kissed private bay, the resort is surrounded by tropical rainforests, white sandy beaches, and the sapphire waters synonymous with Koh Samui. Be thoroughly spoilt with the service offerings, friendly Thai hospitality, and extravagant facilities at the multi-award-winning Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui. The resort allows you to discover cultural diversity, outdoor adventures, vibrant local life, delicious culinary journeys, and wellness experiences that honor time-old traditions. Your little ones can join Ritz Kids and discover activities inspired by water, land, environmental responsibility, and culture. They will be encouraged to tap into their natural curiosity, swim amongst the colorful reefs just moments from the shore, learn new art techniques, or have their cooking lessons with the resident chef. Each suite and pool villa is in the dappled shade of the swaying coconut trees. The contemporary accommodation has soothing color palettes and echoes the local architecture with views across the gardens or the Gulf of Thailand. Little Steps loves the two-bedroom suite with an oversized terrace, daybed, and dining area, perfect for playing games with the kids. With 186 square meters of living space, there's even enough room to play hide-and-seek! The restaurants and bars at the resort have all your favorite chili-loaded Thai dishes created with bountiful local ingredients. Take advantage of the babysitters and pop into One Rai, a circular bar with intimate pod seating and impressive views across the glorious coastline, for expertly crafted cocktails. While the kids are entertained at Ritz Kids, head to the spa and be spoilt with various customized treatments that restore balance to your mind, body, and soul using traditional Thai healing practices that incorporate coconut, healing herbs, water therapy, and freshly picked flowers.
Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui, 9/123 Moo 5, Tambon Bophut, Koh Samui, +66 77 915 777, guestservices@ritzcarlton-kohsamui.com, https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/koh-samui/hotel-overview
The Four Seasons Koh Samui is the epitome of laid-back island life. The expansive resort is perfect for families with children with a sense of adventure. Based on a tropical hillside with spectacular views over the twinkling waters of the Gulf of Thailand and the islands in the protected marine park, the expansive resort is surrounded by abundant greenery and fauna. The Four Seasons team pays particular attention to their younger guests with a dedicated kid's club featuring action-packed beach programs, creative treasure hunts, crafts, and educational and fun games. Your little ones can choose to bake with the resident chef, have swimming lessons, and even have memorable boat trips aboard Minor Affair. This small motor cruiser takes you to hidden coves in Ang Thong National Park or neighboring Koh Phangan or Koh Tao. The family pool villas can accommodate three children to the age of 12 in the spacious two-bedroom pool villa. The kid's bedroom has a flat screen television and an impressive box of games that will keep them entertained until bedtime. The private villa is decorated with island-inspired interiors affording a sense of calm and natural beauty. Take some time out and enjoy wellness treatments rooted in the best Thai traditions and relaxing therapies that reconnect your body and mind. You’ll be spoilt for choice with five restaurants, bars, and in-villa dining.
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, 219 Moo 5, Angthong, Koh Samui, +66 77 243 000, reservations.thailand@fourseasons.com, https://www.fourseasons.com/kohsamui/
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