The hype
Guests rave about the massive rooms and infinity pool views but consistently groan about the steep hill and isolation.
Mantra Samui Resort
$100-180/ night
Book this if You want a quiet, adults-only hillside escape with sweeping ocean views and don't mind taking a shuttle or scooter to the beach.
Why People Love It
- Panoramic views of Koh Samui's coastline from almost every point
- Saltwater infinity pool with a swim-up bar that feels endless
- Dedicated 'Work Lounge' with ocean views for digital nomads
Quick Take: A polished, slightly corporate hillside fortress that trades beach access for killer views and total silence—unless you get the room near the kitchen vent.
Reviewed by @wherenextfamily: I stayed in this hillside paradise and the views blew me away. Waking up and jumping straight into that infinity pool was the highlight of my trip. The room was massive and felt so private. It's a bit of a climb from the beach, but totally worth it for the peace.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The '5-star' rating feels generous to some; while the hardware is good, the vibe can feel a bit cold and corporate rather than boutique Thai charm.
- You are a digital nomad needing a proper workspace
- You prefer pool lounging over sand in your shorts
- You are comfortable riding a scooter to explore
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Consistent and thorough. Daily service is reliable.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Grout lines are clean, and rainfall showers are well-maintained.
- Maintenance: Generally good, though the access road is a disaster zone. Some wear on outdoor furniture.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, though pool towels can sometimes run out late in the day.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of lemongrass; rooms are neutral. No musty complaints found.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Kitchen ventilation fans (affects rooms near the main building)
- Occasional hallway noise in main blocks
Before you book
Good to know
- The free shuttle to Fisherman's Village runs only twice daily; missed it? That's a taxi fare.
- Breakfast is ~450 THB ($13) pp if not included in your rate.
- A deposit of 500 THB/night is required at check-in.
What to pack
- International Driving Permit (police checkpoints are common if you rent a scooter)
- Slip-on shoes (lots of on/off at the pool and spa)
- Mosquito repellent (hillside jungle means bugs)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Love Ocean View Room (higher floors for unobstructed panoramas)
- Wow Suite (separate living area, best for long stays)
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the main restaurant/kitchen block (ventilation noise)
- Lower-level Garden View rooms (can feel dark and lack privacy)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking this stay for the quiet and the view. Please assign a room on a high floor, as far away from the restaurant kitchen ventilation fans as possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it really adults only?
Yes, strictly 18+. No screaming kids at the pool.
How far is the beach?
About 1.5km. It's a 5-minute drive or a very sweaty 20-minute walk down a steep hill.
Is the pool heated?
No, but it's a saltwater infinity pool that gets plenty of sun.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Technically yes, but the walk back up the steep, unlit hill is brutal. You'll want a ride.
Is the internet good enough for video calls?
Yes, especially in the dedicated Work Lounge which has high-speed WiFi.
Do they serve alcohol?
Yes, there is a swim-up bar and a full bar at The View restaurant.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Rent a scooter from 'Miss Juk' near Nathon Pier or a reputable local shop to avoid the hotel's markup, but you need confidence for the hill.
- ✨
The 'Work Lounge' has free snacks and coffee if you buy a pass or have it included—great for saving on lunch.
- ✨
Happy Hour at the pool bar offers 2-for-1 cocktails; timing varies but usually hits sunset.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Work Lounge' is arguably better equipped than many actual coworking spaces on the island.
💡The access road is not just steep; it's potholed and tricky for novice scooter drivers.
💡The 'Jai Spa' is lovely but lacks a proper thermal suite (sauna/steam) accessible to all guests.
💡Room service prices are surprisingly reasonable compared to outside dining + taxi costs.
💡The eco-friendly air conditioning system is motion-activated in some rooms, which can be annoying at night.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Mantra Samui Resort is located and what's nearby.