Traveling to Samui doesn't have to entail heavy nights of drinking and partying on Chaweng Beach—not if you know where else to go, that is.

Tucked away on the clean, calm and often-overlooked Choeng Mon Beach, Baywater Resort (88/18 Moo 5, Bophut, 077-953-009, www.baywaterresort.com) is a boutique resort that goes for a refreshingly pared-back, modern look.

Better yet are the prices. Home to 100 rooms and villas, the hotel is designed for economically-friendly, relaxing getaways with deluxe rooms starting at B2,888 per night, which includes access to an on-site sky bar, onsen spa and massive swimming pool that also acts as a centerpiece for the resort's courtyard.