The hype
Reviewers universally adore the staff (Khun Tong and Chef Manus), citing the service and food as the main reasons they return.
Villa Waimarie - SHA Extra Plus
$1,000-2,600/ night
Book this if You're a multi-generational family or group of friends seeking a fully staffed, private beachfront estate where you don't have to lift a finger.
Why People Love It
- Absolute beachfront on Lipa Noi's quiet sunset coast
- Private tennis court and huge lawn (rare for Samui villas)
- Exceptional staff including a dedicated chef who cooks better than local restaurants
Quick Take: A pristine, old-money style family compound that feels like a private resort, provided you don't mind wading 100 yards out to swim during low tide.
Reviewed by @Worldpitou: I couldn't believe the scale of this place. Having a private tennis court and that massive pool right on the beach made me never want to leave. It felt like owning a private island for a week. Absolutely unforgettable.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The ocean is beautiful to look at but can be 'muddy' or too shallow for real swimming during the summer months.
- You have young kids who need a safe, shallow beach and a bunk room
- You play tennis and want a private court on vacation
- You prefer dining in with a private chef over hunting for restaurants every night
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.8
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Staff refresh rooms daily and turn down beds every evening.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless. Outdoor/indoor bathrooms are kept free of leaves and bugs remarkably well.
- Maintenance: Excellent. The teak wood and fabrics are well-maintained despite the sea air.
- Linens & towels: High-thread-count crisp white linens and plush pool towels, replaced as needed.
- Odors & scents: Fresh sea breeze and lemongrass scents from the housekeeping team.
Sleepability™
9.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Ocean waves (soothing)
- Occasional ferry traffic noise in the far distance
Before you book
Good to know
- The villa is part of the Elite Havens portfolio, ensuring a standardized high level of service.
- You can sometimes book a 'partial rental' (4 or 5 bedrooms) for a reduced rate in low season.
- A 20% deposit is usually required to confirm, with the balance due 75 days prior.
What to pack
- Reef shoes (the shallow water can sometimes have shells or coral bits)
- Tennis gear (rackets are provided but pros prefer their own)
- Cash for staff tips (customary for the villa team at the end of stay)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Oceanfront Master Suites (Pavilion 1 & 2) for direct sea views and terrace access
- The Kids' Bunk Room (in Pavilion 3) is a hit for cousins/siblings
Rooms to avoid
- Garden Guest Rooms if you prioritize waking up to an ocean view (they look onto the lawn)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“We are a group of [X] and would love to ensure the grandparents get the Oceanfront Master Suite in the pavilion closest to the sala for easy access.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach swimmable?
Yes, but it's very shallow. Great for toddlers, but adults may need to walk 100m out to get waist-deep, especially from April to September.
How does the food work?
Daily breakfast is included. For other meals, the chef buys ingredients at market cost + 20% fee + 7% tax. You just pick from a menu or request dishes.
Is it private?
Yes, the entire walled estate is yours. The beach is public but very quiet and rarely sees foot traffic.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Yes, there are a few beach clubs and local spots (like Think & Retro Cafe) within a 10-15 minute beach walk.
Is there a gym?
Not on the property. Guests have access to the Chai Talay Estate gym next door for approx. 500 THB/day.
Is it party-friendly?
No. It's a family villa in a quiet neighborhood. Excessive noise is discouraged, though private celebrations are fine.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask Chef Manus for his 'Pla Tort Kamin' (turmeric fried fish) — it's a signature dish not always highlighted.
- ✨
The villa has a 'plastic free' policy, so bring your own reusable water bottle if you want to take water off-site.
- ✨
If you need a serious workout, the Chai Talay gym next door is pro-level (Hyrox training facility), not just a hotel gym.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'connecting doors' between bedrooms in each pavilion are great for families but mean less sound privacy for couples.
💡The sunset view is arguably the best on the island, directly facing the Five Islands.
💡You are 50 minutes from Chaweng/Airport — this is not a base for exploring the whole island, it's a base for staying put.
💡The tennis court also has a basketball hoop, making it a multi-sport court for teens.
💡The 'handling fee' on groceries applies to alcohol too, so buying your own wine at the store might save money.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Villa Waimarie - SHA Extra Plus is located and what's nearby.