Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

Michael Boardman

We enjoyed our family holiday over Christmas 2025. It is a very interesting place. It is not the most modern of resorts (it was built nearly 40 years ago, although it was renovated recently) and this gives it an exquisite charm. As many other reviewers have noted it is in a stunning, very large (just walking around is about 3 km) and private location (yet only 15 min from the airport). The resort has only about 80 rooms/villas (very spacious with large terraces) and the main attraction for us was the low key and quiet surroundings – the resort has its own beach and beautiful gardens. Had it been developed in the last 15-20 years, they would probably have constructed at least double the number of rooms, another 2-3 restaurants and bars and generally overbuilt the site. The low key also had the advantage that even at peak times we did not have a problem finding a beach bed/umbrella or a table for breakfast/dinner (although we only had dinner in twice since we like to explore). We were able to play tennis and use paddle boards (all free) at will and those few times we asked for buggies they arrived within 2-3 minutes. The staff were generally amazing – friendly, attentive, helpful, and there was always a personal touch by remembering our names. The personal touch is exemplified by the hotel manager personally taking your breakfast order at the counter and then finding you at your table! On the last day we were unable to use the beach because of heavy rain and they gave us use of a day room until we left for the airport! In summary: recommended if you want a personal charming resort to relax and unwind and we would definitively return.

Kashma Raju

Tranquil setting, beautiful resort. Away from the hustle and bustle. Great views and immersed in nature. You must want this type of vacation and enjoy the peace and tranquility. We felt it was a bit far out from Chaweng (vibey spots) which meant us paying a lot for transport. We were a big group so we made it enjoyable. The beach unfortunately due to the weather was not swimmable. That was a bit of a downer. The breakfasts were delicious and extensive and they had Indian options too which was great! Service was good however there were a few minor issues that one would not expect from a 5 star resort. Overall would recommend however for a 3 or 5 night stay. We stayed for 7 nights and felt that was too long.

Ori Orenbach

My wife and I have spent 7 nights at Garrya, and what an awesome experience it was. We took a hillside view room. The room and bathroom are of a decent size. Modern with almost all amenities one needs. The pool and beach are private and quiet with many seating spots. The hotel has some nice areas to stroll and you can climb a nice viewpoint to watch the bay. Among all other great things, the breakfast and the extreme attentiveness of the staff are really impressive. The staff greets you and is always so helpful. They seem to really care about their guests. Highly recommending Garrya for anyone looking for a good value, luxury vacation, quiet but still very close to the island main attractions.

Ben

Honestly, this is probably the best hotel we’ve ever stayed at. From start to finish, the service was exceptional. In many hotels the staff can be a bit too attentive, but Garrya gets it absolutely right. There are so many thoughtful touches. The bed is turned down in the evening, you’re given cold towels, there’s plenty of complimentary water, water is brought to you by the pool, and extra towels are always available. The list really does go on. The room was incredible. We stayed in a hillside view suite and did not realise it was spread across two floors. It was huge, with two bathrooms as well. The view was stunning and the bathtub on the terrace was such a nice touch. Truly an amazing room. Breakfast was the best we’ve ever had. You can order any style of eggs. I had poached eggs on a muffin with hash browns and bacon every morning. On top of that, there was an extensive spread, including a dedicated juice station. The pool was lovely and the hotel overall is very peaceful. There was never an issue getting sunbeds. The restaurants were also excellent, with food that was very well priced compared to what we’re used to in London. We attended the New Year’s Eve party and initially thought it was a bit overpriced, but it completely delivered. It was probably the most magical New Year’s Eve we’ve ever had. The level of service was taken up a notch, it was great fun, and every detail had been thought through. The food was spot on too. We stayed for three nights in 234 and were already wishing we could come back for longer. Hopefully very soon. The only thing worth noting is that while there is a buggy service to take you wherever you need to go, some rooms still involve quite a few steps. It’s worth keeping this in mind when booking. That said, there do appear to be more accessible rooms in other areas of the hotel.

Ein S.

I spent just one night at Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui during my first trip to Koh Samui, and it left a far deeper impression than I expected. From the moment we arrived, the staff welcomed us with genuine warmth — a lovely mix of Thai charm and polished, international service. The welcome drink was delightful, and the traditional string bracelet was a small but thoughtful gesture that instantly made us feel at home. Our seafront room was bright, spacious, and immaculately clean, with a sweeping view of the ocean. I particularly loved the balcony bathtub with the hotel’s own bath foam and salts; the scent alone made the whole space feel wonderfully relaxing. I also visited the spa, where Ms Lucy gave an excellent treatment. Her recommendation — an organic coconut oil massage — was heavenly, and I was so relaxed that I actually fell asleep. Dinner happened to be Wagyu Night, and the picanha was beautifully done: flavourful, tender, and very good value. Breakfast the next morning offered plenty of choice, and even on the morning we checkout the staff surprised us with a small parting gift that showed real attention to detail. Before leaving, we were also given a scented sachet matching the fragrance of the room amenities — a simple but touching way of letting us take a piece of the holiday home with us. It’s easy to see why so many guests return time and again. I certainly hope to do the same next time I'm in Samui.