ITED along an arcing swathe of golden sand on Mae Nam Beach along Samui's northern coast , the sprawling and verdant Santiburi Koh Samui is at once welcoming of families, golfers, wellness seekers and those searching for a dreamy beach wedding venue. Yet, with its kids' club mega-pool, football field, cycling and activities that make this one of the best child friendly hotels in Thailand, there are acres of unruffled seclusion at the newly minted Grand Reserve Pool Villas with their neat slate roofs, clean contemporary lines and flash of sun-drenched turquoise. Santiburi is a place for romantics, families, the corporate meeting bound or just old-fashioned book lovers who want a quiet laze with an occasional dip into surfing, kayaking, spa treatments, tennis, volleyball, Thai boxing, fishing or even cooking. Take your pick.

A Grand Reserve Pool Villa serves up 250sq m of sound-proofed rumpus room for relaxed beach-chic hedonists with pillow menus, WiFi, soaking tubs and sprightly rain showers.

The 285sq m Grand Deluxe Pool Villas offer a private spa sanctuary in tropical green surrounds with the signature pool and shaded sala. Accommodation options are diverse, from two-bedroom villas to smaller 60sq m Garden Villas and 55sq m one-bedroom Suites. Think gleaming wooden floors and large sliding doors and windows welcoming of light.

The Santiburi Spa (by Bhawa Spa) is a must-try with an arsenal of lotions and potions and treatments from body wraps and scrubs to soothing oil rubs, shower workouts and Turkish massage. This is a top Samui spa resort. For fathers seeking a break from typhoon tots or golf aficionados there's the 18-hole Santiburi Country Club championship course (6,930 yards par 72) in lush, breezy surrounds.

Balanced and savoury calories are on offer at The Beach House with its fresh fish menus, Sala Thai with classic recipes, The Lounge, Vimarnmek for hearty breakfasts, and the Poolside Bar. This is an all-in-one resort where everyone can find his or her personal space.