You’re not alone if you’ve been dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, fancy-pants resorts in Thailand and just a hint of drama since HBO announced season three of The White Lotus.
The series, known for its biting social commentary and breathtaking filming locations, has taken audiences to the shores of Hawaii and Sicily. It’s Thailand’s turn in the spotlight now, with filming set at the ultra-luxe Four Seasons Resort in Koh Samui—a property dripping in exclusivity, with private infinity pools, world-class dining and pristine beachfront views.
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Beyond the main resort, the season also features scenes shot at other notable Thai locations. The Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort’s distinctive Singing Bird Lounge serves as a backdrop for several bar and restaurant scenes, and wellness center scenes were filmed at the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas spa.
Let’s be real, though. Most of us aren’t rolling up with White Lotus money. The good news? Thailand is packed with incredible resorts that deliver a taste of that same luxury—for a fraction of the price. If you want to save money but splurge on experience, here are some of the best resorts in Thailand to channel your inner White Lotus guest (minus the existential crisis and murder, hopefully).
Seven Best Resorts in Thailand for Every Budget
High-rolling honeymooners, celebs and those who want to live out their White Lotus dream to the fullest might book themselves into the Four Seasons, the pinnacle of Koh Samui paradise. With rates starting well into the four figures per night, it’s a fantasy destination for most. But don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of alternatives to tickle your fancy…
1. Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas
Best for: Romantic beach getaways with all the luxury, without the Four Seasons price tag.
Price: Around $400 per night.
Tucked away on the shores of Koh Phangan’s lesser-known Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, Anantara Rasananda boasts five-star beachfront villas with private plunge pools at about one-third of the cost of the Four Seasons.
Guests can arrive in style via private transportation from Samui International Airport, followed by a scheduled speedboat ride directly to the resort’s beach. Enjoy a swim-up bar, poolside cocktails, snorkeling, fishing and sun loungers with umbrellas for the perfect island escape.
2. Keemala Hotel Phuket
Best for: Travelers who want that private pool villa moment but in the jungle.
Price: Around $500 per night.
Perched on a lush hillside overlooking Kamala Beach, Keemala is an eco-luxury dream offering rainforest views and fairytale-like villas inspired by Thai folklore. Some villas are shaped like bird nests, others are tucked into the hillside, all featuring private pools.
Complimentary perks include welcome drinks, breakfast and fresh fruit. The resort also boasts an open-air restaurant/bar, outdoor pool with bar, spa, wellness retreats and an airport/beach shuttle.
3. Sala Samui Chaweng Beach Resort
Best for: Sleek, minimalist design lovers who want beachfront luxury.
Price: Starting at around $350 per night.
The five-star Sala Samui Chaweng Beach Resort is a chic boutique retreat with outdoor pool, rooftop terrace, sauna and direct beach access. Enjoy the resort’s restaurant, bar, library, babysitting services and airport shuttle.
Located within walking distance of Chaweng Beach—the longest beach on Koh Samui’s east coast—this sweet retreat is close to Wat Phra Yai, Chaweng Noi Beach and Samui International Airport.
4. The Surin Phuket
Best for: Classic tropical luxury with unbeatable beachfront views.
Price: Starting at around $200 per night.
The Surin Phuket blends tropical elegance with lush foliage and beachfront cottages leading to the soft sands of Pansea Beach. The resort is close to Wat Phra Thong Temple and Sirinat National Park.
Dine at a chic, open-air restaurant with sea views, enjoy the cafe, beach eatery and bar, or relax at the outdoor pool, serene spa and gym. Yoga, meditation, water sports, tennis and golf packages are also available.
5. Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa
Best for: A secluded, eco-luxe retreat with Thai-style villas.
Price: Starting at around $300 per night.
Situated on a hillside with a private beach along the Andaman Sea, Santhiya Koh Yao Yai is a hidden paradise next to Laem Yai Pier. The resort’s teakwood villas blend traditional Thai craftsmanship with modern taste, offering private pools, whirlpool tubs and open-air bathrooms.
With six casual restaurants, two outdoor pools, a gym, spa and salon, you have everything you need for a blissful escape. Activities include boat rentals, boxing, yoga and cooking classes.
6. Pimalai Resort & Spa Koh Lanta
Best for: Nature lovers seeking barefoot luxury.
Price: Starting at around $360 per night.
Overlooking the Andaman Sea, this luxurious hillside resort is accessible only via private speedboat. Pimalai Resort & Spa boasts polished teak floors, plush rooms with minibars, plus one- to three-bedroom villas with four-poster beds, private pools and direct beach access.
Enjoy complimentary breakfast and loaner bikes, along with two upscale restaurants, two bars, a poolside cafe, a private beach, a gym, a tennis court, an open-air spa and a dive center. Guests can also borrow plenty of equipment (including body boards) from the resort’s beach hut.
7. Marasca Resort Samui
Best for: Cherry-on-top moments with a sustainable twist.
Price: Starting at around $220 per night.
Located on the iconic Chaweng Beach, Marasca Samui is a sustainable retreat designed for your casual luxury escape. With 62 thoughtfully crafted rooms and suites, private plunge pools and high-quality amenities, it’s an intimate place to unwind.
Soak up the vibrant beachfront energy at the dynamic beach club offering all-day dining, music and entertainment. Take a dip in the beachfront pool, join curated workshops or relax at the Hideout and Spa. Looking for serenity or social vibes? Marasca adds an exciting twist to your beachfront getaway.
Best Resorts in Thailand That Feel Four-Figure
Whether splurging on the Four Seasons Koh Samui or opting for one of these more “budget-conscious” but equally stunning alternatives, Thailand has no shortage of dreamy resorts. Just remember: keep your wits about you, avoid making enemies at the pool bar and try not to get too involved in the lives of your fellow guests.
Snapshot Summary
Inspired by The White Lotus season three’s Thailand setting? Beyond the show’s ultra-luxe Four Seasons Koh Samui filming location, Thailand offers stunning resorts at more accessible price points. From Anantara Rasananda’s romantic beachfront villas to Keemala’s fairytale jungle retreats, these seven alternatives deliver private pools, pristine beaches and five-star service without the four-figure nightly rates. Experience that same White Lotus luxury—minus the drama—at resorts starting from $200 per night.
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