Review: W Koh Samui (Ocean Front Haven Villa)

What benefits to expect when you stay at W Koh Samui as a Marriott Bonvoy Platinum or Titanium Elite member?

The property opened in 2010 with a total of 74 private villas.

Location

This all-villa hotel is located in the North of Koh Samui island, and is directly connected to a beach.

• 25 mins drive to Samui Airport (USM)
• 25 mins drive to Nathon Ferry Pier

Arrival

We arrived by car, while on a 3-week road trip from Johor Bahru to Bangkok.

Upon arrival, we were assisted with our luggage, before handing the car to the valet staff. Valet service is complimentary for all guests.

Walking into the resort, I was greeted with the “poster” image of W Koh Samui. I’ve seen photos of this WOOBAR countless times over the years, and it was nice to finally be there.

I had submitted a Nightly Upgrade Award (NUA) for the Tropical Oasis Villa, but unfortunately, it didn’t clear.

To my surprise, I saw (on the app) that I was, quite generously, upgraded to the Ocean Front Haven Villa, on the morning before arrival. That’s 2 categories higher than what I’d requested!

I’ve read a lot about how useless NUAs are, since it was renamed from Suite Upgrade Awards (SUA). I asked one of the receptionists at the hotel, and was informed that they have no control over NUAs, and they are automatically-processed by Marriott Bonvoy.

Platinum members and above do not automatically receive complimentary breakfast, and they need to be selected as a welcome gift.

To get around in this large, all-villa property, guests can call for a buggy at any time, and at no charge.

Ocean Front Haven Villa

This beachfront villa is 223sqm (2,399sqft) in size.

It was a very well-maintained villa, inside and out, and I liked the general layout.

However, the light-coloured and shiny (!) wooden furnishing probably gave away its 14-year age. The old-school analog ports by the work desk didn’t help!

We received this welcome amenity upon arrival. They were made of dried fruits dipped in chocolate, dark chocolate salami and crackers; all of them quite delicious!

I’ve spent thousands of nights in hotels around the world, and I don’t remember, ever, using an Illy coffee machine that worked well. The hotel should really throw them out when a renovation is due. Urgh..

Breakfast

Breakfast was held as a buffet at The Kitchen Table restaurant. Guests can also get made-to-order dishes and even cocktails!

However, for a hotel at this price point, I wasn’t impressed by the overall standard of the breakfast. Pastries tasted like they’ve been on display for 4 to 5 hours, and made-to-order dishes (omelette and French toast) were not plated well (see below).

Other W Hotels that I’ve stayed in, and Conrad Koh Samui offered a higher-quality breakfast.

I just didn’t expect a French toast, in this upscale property, to look like the one that I usually make at home. Have a look at the breakfast spread at W Bali Seminyak, and their version of this dish. And also, the one at Andaz Bali.

For a property at this price point, this was just poor.

Internet speed

The WiFi speed was good enough for light web surfing.

Shuttle service

The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to Central Samui mall. However, there was only 1 scheduled journey per direction.

Other facilities

Swimming pool

As an all-villa property, all guests have a private pool and the main swimming pool tends to be pretty empty. It is a lovely photo spot though!

Guests can get between the lobby (high ground) and beach (low ground) by stairs and a lift.

Beach

The resort is directly-connected to a beautiful beach. However, guests should note that this is not a private beach. I even saw a non-affiliated massage stall set up along the beach.

It’s a little concerning that the door to the villa doesn’t have a lock, as the public can access this beach.

Sweet Spot

The resort has a Sweet Spot station where guests can get ice cream and/or drinks all day. I think it’s a nice touch, and I’ve not seen it in other W hotels.

Gym

My ratings

This is how I am rating my stay, considering what I paid:

Bottom line

It was an enjoyable stay at W Koh Samui.

As a Titanium Elite member for the past 5 years, I was a little worried about my upgrade chances as a (downgraded) Platinum Elite member this year. But with the 1pm early check-in, 4pm late check-out and generous 5-category upgrade to a beachfront villa, I was really impressed by the overall recognition at this property.

However, breakfast quality needs work, and the villas, especially the interiors, may be due for a renovation in the coming years.