The Library Koh Samui - a review of the luxury hotel with the red pool on Chaweng Beach

The Library is a five-star boutique hotel in the middle of Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, famous for its red swimming pool, its minimalist architecture and an unusual concept that brings together literature, art and design. The hotel has 46 studio rooms, suites and villas with private pools, on grounds of about 12,800 sq m. Its main strengths are the spacious rooms, the personal service, direct beach access and a convenient location for restaurants and shopping. But this is a luxury hotel with high prices, and choosing between a studio room and a private villa completely changes the experience.

The Library - a hotel that is also a work of architecture

Koh Samui has many luxury hotels, but The Library stands out thanks to a design concept you recognise instantly.

The clean white buildings sit within a tropical garden, and in the middle of the grounds is a red swimming pool that looks almost like an art installation.

The design is based on precise geometric lines, open spaces and a bold use of colour. The white of the buildings contrasts with the green vegetation and the red pools.

The hotel draws its inspiration from the world of books. The names of the rooms, facilities and guest areas are linked to words, pages and stories, and at the heart of the concept is a library with more than 1,400 books.

But despite the impressive design, the property itself is not huge. It has only 46 units, spread over a relatively large area.

The result is a hotel with plenty of space between rooms, pleasant gardens and a more intimate feel than large resorts.

The location - in the heart of Chaweng, with direct beach access

The Library is at 14/1 Moo 2, in the central part of Chaweng Beach.

It is one of the most convenient locations on Koh Samui if you want to combine a beach holiday with restaurants, shops and evenings out.

The hotel faces the beach on one side and Chaweng's main road on the other.

The Central Samui shopping mall, restaurants, cafes and shops are within walking distance.

You can spend the day at the pool or on the beach, go out for dinner in the evening and carry on shopping or to a bar, without calling a taxi.

Being close to the centre matters a lot on Koh Samui, where some luxury hotels are in secluded bays and require a drive for almost every outing.

Is the hotel quiet despite the location?

One of the things that sets The Library apart is the separation between the bustle of Chaweng and the guest areas.

The rooms and villas are spread across green grounds, and not all the buildings are right on the main road.

This gives a relatively calm feel, despite the central location.

That said, Chaweng remains a busy tourist area, and at certain times you can hear activity from the beach and the surroundings.

If you are looking for complete seclusion, you may prefer a quieter bay, but if you like combining a luxury holiday with being able to walk out, this is a real advantage.

Rooms and villas - much more than a regular hotel room

The Library offers two main groups of accommodation: Pages and Secret Chapters.

The Pages categories include studio rooms and spacious suites, while Secret Chapters is made up of private villas with swimming pools.

The differences between the categories are especially significant in terms of space, privacy and facilities.

Smart Studio - a 67 sq m entry-level room

The Smart Studio is the hotel's entry-level room, but "entry-level" is a little misleading here.

The room covers 67 sq m, far larger than standard rooms at many hotels on Koh Samui.

It is on the upper floor of the accommodation buildings and has a king-size bed or two single beds, a seating area, a balcony overlooking the garden and a bathroom with a bathtub and a rain shower.

The design is modern and clean, with pale furniture, mood lighting and entertainment systems.

It is a particularly good option for couples who want to enjoy The Library experience without booking a villa with a private pool.

The generous space means you can settle in comfortably and spend time in the room during the day too.

The drawbacks are the stairs to the upper floor and the lack of a private pool.

Exotic Suite - a 76 sq m ground-floor suite

The Exotic Suite offers 76 sq m and is on the ground floor.

It has a king-size bed or two single beds, a seating area, an outdoor patio facing the garden and a bathroom with a jacuzzi bath and a rain shower.

The suite offers a little more space than the Smart Studio and easier access to the garden.

The patio lets you step straight out of the room into the greenery, without using stairs.

It is a convenient option for couples who prefer a ground-floor room and like sitting outside.

The Bookmark - a special suite near the sea

The Bookmark is a 102 sq m suite close to the beach.

Its most striking feature is a 3.3-metre-wide bed, considerably larger than a standard king-size bed.

The suite also has a living area, a bathroom with an indoor jacuzzi, two washbasins, a walk-in wardrobe and entertainment systems.

This is a category that puts a strong emphasis on the room itself.

The space, the huge bed and the amenities suit anyone who prefers to spend a good part of their holiday in the suite.

For a couple looking for a particularly indulgent stay who do not need a private pool, it is an interesting option.

Two-Bedroom Suite - a large suite for families

The Library's family suite covers 156 sq m.

It has two bedrooms, a living area, a dining area and an outdoor jacuzzi.

The main bedroom has a 3.3-metre-wide bed, and the second bedroom has two single beds.

The suite sleeps up to six guests, of whom up to five can be adults.

It is an interesting option for families or groups of friends looking for plenty of space who do not need a private villa.

The separation between the bedrooms is especially important for families with older children.

Secret Chapters - The Library's private villas

The Secret Chapters wing offers a more luxurious and intimate stay, with large villas and private pools.

Instead of a regular hotel room, guests get a private compound with living areas, dining areas and a courtyard with a pool.

Some villas suit couples and others families and groups.

One-Bedroom Secret Pool Villa - a 220 sq m private villa

The entry-level couple's villa in the Secret Chapters group covers 220 sq m.

It has a bedroom with a 3.3-metre-wide bed, a living and dining area, a kitchenette and an eight-metre private swimming pool.

There is also a large bathroom, a double rain shower and an outdoor jacuzzi.

There is enough space to spend a whole day in the villa without feeling the need to go to the shared pool.

It is an option that particularly suits a romantic holiday with an emphasis on privacy.

Two-Bedroom Secret Pool Villa - a 347 sq m family villa

The large family villa covers 347 sq m.

It has two bedrooms, a living area, a dining area, a private gym and a ten-metre swimming pool.

Both bedrooms have 3.3-metre-wide beds.

There is also an outdoor jacuzzi and large shared spaces.

The villa sleeps up to six guests, of whom up to five can be adults.

It is an interesting choice for families looking for a high level of privacy, or for two couples travelling together who want a pool and a private compound.

The Editor - an adults-only romantic villa

The Editor is a 278 sq m villa for adults only.

It has a bedroom with a 3.3-metre-wide bed, a living area, a dining area, a private reading room, an outdoor seating area and an eight-metre swimming pool.

There is also an outdoor jacuzzi and plenty of space for relaxing.

It is one of the hotel's most interesting categories for couples looking for an exceptional romantic holiday.

The villa is not just a place to sleep, but a private compound where you can spend a large part of your holiday.

The Writer - the most luxurious villa

The Writer is The Library's largest and most luxurious villa, covering 359 sq m.

It faces the sea and has direct beach access.

Inside the villa there is a large bedroom, living and dining areas, a private library, an outdoor cinema, a gym and a jacuzzi.

The private pool measures about 8.5 by 7.5 metres.

It is an adults-only villa, designed mainly for couples looking for a particularly exclusive stay.

The main advantage is the combination of almost complete privacy, a very large space and direct access to the sea.

The red pool - the symbol of The Library

You cannot talk about The Library without mentioning the red swimming pool.

The Red Pool is one of the architectural features most associated with the hotel.

Instead of a regular pool in shades of blue, the bottom is covered in mosaic tiles in red, orange and yellow.

The combination of the tiles and the water creates the unusual red look.

The pool is close to the beach, combining its dramatic colour with the blue view of the Gulf of Thailand.

The contrast between the red pool, the white buildings and the green vegetation is one of the reasons the hotel has become so well known for its design.

A pool for photos, but also for swimming

Despite its unusual look, this is a working swimming pool, not just a design feature.

You can get in, swim and relax in the seating areas around it.

That said, some guests may prefer a more traditional-looking pool, especially if they like water that looks blue and clear.

It is a matter of personal taste.

The Long Pool - a second pool for swimming

Besides the famous red pool, the hotel has a second pool called The Long Pool.

It is rectangular and longer, and suits regular lap swimming.

Here too, mosaic tiles in warm shades of red, orange and yellow are used.

The difference is that while The Red Pool is about the architectural experience facing the sea, The Long Pool is better for anyone who wants to swim lengths.

Having two pools is a real advantage in a hotel with a relatively small number of rooms.

The beach - central Chaweng, with direct access from the hotel

The Library is right on Chaweng Beach, in the central part of the strip.

This is one of its biggest advantages.

The beach here has pleasant pale sand and fairly easy access to the water, especially compared with the shallower northern parts of Chaweng.

You can leave the grounds and be on the beach within a few minutes, without crossing a road.

The hotel has seating areas and sun loungers facing the sea, so you can combine the pool, the beach and the restaurant over the course of the day.

But remember that this is a public, touristy beach.

There are holidaymakers, boats and water sports in the area, and swimming conditions vary with the season and the weather.

If you are looking for a completely secluded beach, Chaweng is not necessarily the right choice.

On the other hand, if you like a central beach with restaurants and shops within walking distance, the location is excellent.

The library - much more than decoration

The Lib is the hotel's library, and it gives the hotel its name and its special character.

The library holds more than 1,400 books, along with a selection of films.

The space is designed in a minimalist style, with pale tones, large windows and a view towards the pool and the sea.

You can sit with a book and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.

It is a particularly interesting feature for a beach hotel.

Instead of focusing the whole experience on the pool, the restaurant and the spa, The Library also adds a space dedicated to reading, thinking and resting.

The concept carries through to the names of the villas, rooms and facilities.

Breakfast - a carefully crafted experience

Breakfast at The Library is served as part of the hotel's dining experience, with an emphasis on the quality of the dishes and the presentation.

The selection includes Western and Thai dishes, tropical fruit, pastries, eggs and more.

One of the advantages is starting the day in an elegant setting facing the sea.

Guests give breakfast particularly positive reviews, highlighting the quality of the food and the service.

If breakfast matters to you as part of a luxury hotel experience, this is one of the place's strengths.

The Page - an upmarket restaurant on the beach

The Page is The Library's main restaurant.

It is right on the beach and serves Thai and international cuisine.

The food is served in a designed setting, with an emphasis on ingredients, cooking techniques and careful presentation.

The restaurant suits lunch facing the sea or a romantic dinner.

The design follows the hotel's style: modern, clean and elegant, without decorative clutter.

The advantage is being able to enjoy a high-quality meal without leaving the grounds.

On the other hand, it is a restaurant with luxury-hotel prices.

Thanks to the hotel's central location in Chaweng, you can also choose from many other restaurants within walking distance.

The Drawing Room - another dining experience

The Drawing Room is another restaurant on the property, designed in a Western style with details inspired by Koh Samui.

One of the special experiences offered here is Kin Hor, a meal based on local Koh Samui dishes with a contemporary twist.

There is also afternoon tea, with pastries and treats alongside Mariage Frères tea.

It is an interesting option if you want a dining experience that is a little different from a regular beach restaurant.

Spa, gym and activities

The hotel has The Index, which offers massages and body treatments by professional therapists.

It suits anyone who wants to fit some relaxing treatments into their holiday without leaving the hotel.

There is also The Fit, a gym with fitness equipment.

Guests can also use kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, depending on conditions.

It is a convenient mix of leisure facilities and options for staying active.

That said, The Library is not a huge resort with kids' clubs, a water park and a wide entertainment programme.

The focus here is on design, privacy, service and a personal stay.

Service - one of the major strengths

The Library scores very highly for service.

Guests highlight the personal attention, the courtesy and the staff's willingness to help with requests.

Reception is open 24 hours a day, and the staff help arrange transfers, activities and other services.

In a relatively small hotel, with only 46 units, it is possible to give guests more personal attention.

Service is a significant part of the value at a luxury hotel.

Even a large room and a beautiful pool are not enough if the service does not live up to expectations, and at The Library this is one of the areas where the hotel excels.

Is The Library good for couples?

Absolutely. It is one of the most interesting hotels on Koh Samui for a luxury couple's holiday.

The rooms are spacious, the design is meticulous, and the option of a villa with a private pool makes for a particularly intimate holiday.

For couples looking for a romantic holiday without booking an expensive villa, the Smart Studio or Exotic Suite can be a good fit.

If you want more privacy, you can choose the One-Bedroom Secret Pool Villa.

For a particularly high-end romantic holiday, The Editor or The Writer offer an exceptional stay.

Is The Library good for families?

The hotel can suit families too, mainly thanks to the two-bedroom suites and the large villas.

The Two-Bedroom Suite offers 156 sq m and room for up to six guests, while the Two-Bedroom Secret Pool Villa offers 347 sq m and a private pool.

That said, some of the villas, such as The Editor and The Writer, are for adults only.

The private pools also require constant supervision if you are travelling with young children.

For families looking for a luxury holiday with lots of space and privacy, the family categories can work very well.

But if you are looking for a family resort with water slides, a large kids' club and organised activities, you may prefer another hotel.

Is the hotel good for solo travellers?

The Library can suit solo travellers looking for a luxurious and relatively quiet hotel in the heart of Chaweng.

Being close to restaurants, shops and nightlife means you can get around on foot, without needing transport every time you go out.

That is a particularly significant advantage if you would rather not rent a scooter.

That said, the hotel is priced at a high luxury level, and much of what it offers is aimed at couples and families.

If you are mainly looking for a comfortable room and a central location, a simpler hotel may offer better value.

The Library compared with other luxury hotels in Chaweng

SALA Samui Chaweng also offers striking architectural design, suites with private pools and high-level service. SALA focuses on white tones and rounded shapes, while The Library combines white minimalism with red pools and a literary concept.

Sareeraya Villas & Suites offers large suites and a more classic luxury atmosphere, with a pool facing the sea.

Muang Samui Spa Resort offers traditional Thai design, large suites and a lush tropical garden.

Baan Chaweng Beach Resort and Malibu Beach Resort offer a classic beach experience in a central location, without The Library's architectural focus and luxury villas.

The Library particularly suits anyone who wants a hotel that is also a design experience, and is willing to pay more for large rooms, privacy and personal service.

The drawbacks - what should you know before booking?

High prices: the hotel is priced at luxury level, and the private villas can be particularly expensive.

The red pool is not to everyone's taste: the design is unusual and impressive, but not everyone likes the look of red water.

No wide range of children's facilities: this is a hotel that focuses on design, privacy and a relaxed holiday.

Some categories are on the upper floor: if you prefer to avoid stairs, choose a ground-floor room.

The cost of hotel services: the restaurants and treatments are priced at five-star level.

The location in central Chaweng: it is very convenient, but if you want a completely secluded beach you may prefer another area.

Big differences between categories: there is a significant gap between a Smart Studio and a private pool villa, so choose according to your holiday style.

Who is The Library especially good for?

Couples looking for a romantic, design-led hotel, lovers of architecture and interior design, anyone who prefers particularly large rooms, and travellers who want to combine a luxury holiday with a central, convenient location.

The private villas particularly suit anyone planning to spend much of the day at the hotel who wants personal space and a private pool.

Who should choose another hotel?

The Library is less suited to anyone looking for budget accommodation.

It is also less suited to families who prefer a resort with a wide range of activities for children.

If you come to Koh Samui to explore all day and only return to sleep, the high price may not justify facilities you will not use.

And if you prefer a traditional Thai style rich in wood and decorative details, you may connect more with hotels such as Muang Samui Spa Resort.

Is The Library good value for money?

The hotel's high scores point to particularly high satisfaction with the location, comfort, cleanliness and service.

Value for money is also rated fairly well for a luxury hotel, despite the high prices.

The reason is that the hotel does not rely only on its name or a sought-after location.

Even the entry-level category offers a 67 sq m room, and the villas have private pools and particularly impressive facilities.

That said, value depends on the kind of holiday you have in mind.

If you plan to spend many hours in your room, at the pool, in the restaurants and using the facilities, the hotel can justify its price.

On the other hand, if you plan to go out exploring every day and spend very little time at the hotel, a simpler choice may be better value.

The bottom line - should you book The Library?

The Library is one of the most distinctive hotels on Koh Samui, mainly thanks to its design and concept.

The red pool, the library, the white buildings and the spacious rooms create a stay unlike a regular Thai resort.

The location in central Chaweng means you can walk to restaurants, shops and nightlife, and the hotel itself offers direct beach access and high-level service.

The main drawback is the price, especially for the private villas.

If you are looking for a design-led luxury hotel with a unique character, large rooms and an excellent location on Chaweng Beach, The Library is one of the most interesting options on Koh Samui.

Sources

This review is based on the hotel's official website, Booking.com, Agoda and Tripadvisor, and on our own visit in March 2025.