The hype
Reviewers are obsessed with the staff (specifically mentioning 'Michelle' and 'White') and the breakfast spread, which is widely considered the best on the island.
Centara Reserve Samui (Sha+)
$250-450/ night
Book this if You want the perks of Chaweng (beach, dining) without the backpacker chaos, wrapped in a 'Reserve' level luxury that feels more like a private estate than a hotel.
Why People Love It
- The 'Reserve Time' policy allows for 24-hour check-in/check-out (subject to availability), meaning you don't lose a single hour of vacation.
- Salt Society is arguably the chicest beach club on the stripโgreat music, better brunch, and zero 'spring break' vibes.
- Daily 'Surprise of the Day' treats delivered to your room (think craft cocktails or local sweets) actually feel special, not gimmicky.
Quick Take: It's the most expensive hotel on the strip, and while the 'Reserve' branding is slick, you're still in Chawengโso expect a bit of hustle just outside the gates.
Reviewed by @alexandra_gonova:ย I was blown away by the design hereโthat spiral pool is even more stunning in person. The vibe at the beach club with the live jazz band made my sunset dinner unforgettable. Definitely the most photogenic spot I've stayed in Samui.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Ocean View' rooms often look over the pool and lawn with the sea in the distance, so don't expect to be hanging directly over the waves unless you book a villa.
- You value flexibility: the 24-hour check-in/out (if confirmed) is a game changer for weird flight times.
- You want a killer breakfast: the a la carte plus buffet hybrid at The Terrace is legendary.
- You appreciate design: the colonial-meets-contemporary aesthetic is highly Instagrammable but feels expensive.
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Twice-daily service including turn-down is standard and consistent.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Marble surfaces are well-maintained, though one reviewer noted minor staining in a shower (rare).
- Maintenance: Excellent. The property was fully renovated/rebranded recently, so wear and tear is minimal.
- Linens & towels: Plush, high-thread-count, and replaced generously. Pool towels are set up for you by staff.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of fresh lavender and lemongrass; rooms are neutral and fresh.
Sleepabilityโข
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Pool area noise during the day for facing rooms
- Occasional bass from distant beach clubs if the wind carries it
- Staff carts on walkways for ground floor units
Before you book
Good to know
- Download the Centara app before arrival to manage your 'Reserve Time' and requests.
- The 'Reserve Host' is essentially a butlerโuse them to book restaurants outside the hotel (like Phensiri).
- A deposit is required at check-in, usually around 2,000 THB per night.
What to pack
- High-strength DEET mosquito repellent (the organic stuff provided isn't always enough).
- Dressy resort wearโSalt Society and Act 5 have a 'smart casual' vibe that feels out of place in chang beer tank tops.
- Universal travel adapter (though most rooms have USB ports, the voltage is 220V).
Room Genie
Best picks
- Reserve Pool Suite: Worth the splurge for the private pool and 'Reserve Host' butler service.
- Luxury Ocean Suite: Upper floors offer better privacy and actual sea views compared to the 'Deluxe' categories.
Rooms to avoid
- Deluxe Pool Access (Ground Floor): prone to mosquitoes and lack of privacy from swimmers.
- Rooms near the main lobby if you want to avoid the bustle of arrivals/departures.
Room Request Genie โ copy & paste
โI am celebrating a special occasion and would appreciate a room on an upper floor to maximize the ocean view and ensure privacy from the pool area. A quiet location away from the main walkway would be ideal.โ
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it really quiet at night?
Yes, for Chaweng. It's at the southern end, far from the Green Mango club chaos, but it's not a deserted island.
Is the pool private?
The main pool is for everyone, but there is an adults-only infinity pool which is much quieter.
Can I walk to local restaurants?
Absolutely. You are a 5-10 minute walk from street food, 7-Elevens, and local favorites like Phensiri.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, and it's excellent. Check your specific rate, but it's worth paying for if not.
Are kids allowed?
Yes, there is a kids' club and a family pool, but the vibe leans more 'sophisticated couple' than 'Disney resort'.
Is there a resort fee?
No specific 'resort fee', but expect the standard Thai 10% service charge and 7% VAT added to everything.
Insider Tips
- โจ
The 'Gin Run' bar has over 35 house-infused gins; ask the bartender for a tasting flight, it's often not on the main menu.
- โจ
You can request a 'bath ritual' from your Reserve Host where they set up a bubble bath with essential oils while you're at dinner.
- โจ
Walk south on the beach for 5 minutes to find cheaper massage ladies under the trees if the spa prices make you wince.
5 things to know before you go
๐กThe 'Ocean View' is often a 'Pool View with Ocean Background'โmanage your expectations.
๐กThe complimentary in-room bar (in suites) includes full-size bottles of gin, vodka, and whiskey, not just minis.
๐กThe 'Surprise of the Day' button on the phone is realโpress it and something (usually food) appears.
๐กThe beach in front can get waves during the monsoon (Nov-Dec), making swimming tricky.
๐กYou might hear construction noise from the plot next door as they expand the villa complex in late 2025.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Centara Reserve Samui (Sha+) is located and what's nearby.