Garrya Tongsai Bay, Koh Samui: Worth It for a Honeymoon?
About Me
Hi, I’m Ralu, a passionate traveller who traded routine for the thrill of exploring the world. What began as a simple getaway soon turned into a journey of discovery, shaping Making Miles and Memories into what it is today. From stunning landscapes and hidden gems to local cultures and travel tips, I hope to inspire your next journey.
About Me
Hi, I’m Ralu, a passionate traveller who traded routine for the thrill of exploring the world. What began as a simple getaway soon turned into a journey of discovery, shaping Making Miles and Memories into what it is today.
From stunning landscapes and hidden gems to local cultures and travel tips, I hope to inspire your next journey.
In July 2024, my husband Hans and I spent two incredible weeks here on our honeymoon. We were on the hunt for a peaceful and tranquil escape, somewhere not too big, not too crowded. We’re not fans of loud, bustling resorts; we prefer places where we can truly unwind without the constant noise of shouting, partying, or loud music. Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui delivered exactly what we were looking for.
About the resort
Garrya Tongsai Bay originally opened in 1987 and was the first 5-star luxury resort on the island. It was renovated in 2022 and features 82 suites and villas nestled among 28 acres of lush gardens on a hillside overlooking a secluded bay…
Each of these rooms, designed with family-friendly configurations, offers stunning views, and most feature a signature outdoor bath with a view. There are 3 restaurants, 2 pools, and 1 bar on the property. But, more on that later!
Where is Garrya Tongsai Bay?
Located on the northeast tip of Koh Samui, Garrya Tongsai Bay is tucked away in its own little slice of paradise. It’s a bit removed from the main attractions, which is actually one of the things we loved most about it.
But if you’re after nightlife and shopping, you will not be disappointed either. Chaweng Beach is about a 15-minute drive away, and there’s a free shuttle service to and from the resort twice a day. The resort is a 10-minute drive from Samui Airport.
One of the highlights of our stay was the beach view. Although the sand is not very soft, you are surrounded by lush hills on either side. Whether you’re into water sports or just want to relax with a cocktail in hand, this beach is perfect. The water is calm and clear, and because it’s a private beach, it never felt crowded. Even at full capacity, the grounds were never crowded.
Arrival and check-in
As you arrive at Garrya Tongsai Bay, just a 10-minute drive from Samui Airport, you’re immediately struck by the serene atmosphere. The lobby is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, featuring high ceilings, wooden accents, and open-air spaces. It’s the perfect introduction to what this resort is all about – luxury and nature.
We were warmly greeted by the staff and taken to a comfy seating area for check-in. Here, we were served some refreshing tea and a cold towel – trust me, you’ll need that because the weather is warm and incredibly humid. The check-in process was smooth and lasted probably less than 10 minutes. At the end, both Hans and I were given a Sai Sin, a small blessing. If you don’t know what that is, neither did we! In Thailand, you’ll often see a white cord tied around a person’s wrist, symbolising a blessing for good fortune. It was a very nice start to our stay and put us in a good mood after our 20-hour trip from Belgium.
And here’s a nifty little touch – when you arrive, you get a QR code to their WhatsApp, so you can easily reach them from anywhere. We used the system 3 times, and each time we got a response within five minutes. Honestly, 2 out of 3 times, they answered within just 2 minutes. It was like having a personal concierge in your pocket—super convenient and reassuring.
As we explored the lobby, it was clear that this space was designed with tranquillity in mind. The seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces allows guests to feel connected to nature at every turn.
After check-in, our luggage was taken to our room and was already there when we arrived. The resort uses buggies to move around, as the long pathways might be a bit of a trek. We hopped on the buggies several times in our second week, mostly because they were too cute to resist or when it was raining. But honestly, we didn’t mind walking, and spent a lot of time exploring the lush hills – just another way to soak in the gorgeous surroundings.
Accommodation: the Tongsai Pool Villa
Our home for this stay was the Tongsai Seaview Pool Villa, located in the second row with what we believe was one of the best views – Villa 507. This room is an absolute gem, offering a blend of modern comfort and traditional Thai aesthetics. The villa features a king-size bed and floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to stunning views of the bay. The room also comes with a large TV and a cosy couch seating area, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
One of the charming touches from the housekeeping staff was their nightly turndown service, where they would prepare the room and leave complimentary tasty snacks for us to enjoy.
There was also a nice glass-walled shower and double vanity in the bathroom, offering both style and functionality. Next to the vanity, you’ll find a closet, a safe, and complimentary amenities for our stay: flip-flops, a beach bag, and two robes. If this closet isn’t enough, there’s another one on the other side of the room.
Next to that, the small desk can be used both as a vanity area or a working station—though I’d recommend focusing more on the ‘relaxing’ part of your stay. We certainly did.
The open-air terrace was hands down our favourite part of the villa, featuring a ‘bath with a view’ area, a four-poster gazebo with a light curtain to keep the bugs at bay, a bar, a dining area, and sun loungers. The private pool, measuring 3m x 5m with a depth of 1.2m, was the perfect spot to soak in the serene surroundings.
What's included at Garrya Tongsai Bay
Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui offers a variety of amenities and activities for guests. You can unwind at the 8 Elements Spa or get some work done in the co-working space. Families will find the Kids’ Club helpful, and for fitness enthusiasts, there’s a gym, tennis court, and yoga room. The gym, though compact, is well-equipped for those who want to keep up with their fitness routine during their stay. Enjoy a swim in one of the two outdoor pools, or dive into activities like windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling.
Whether you’re looking to relax or stay active, there’s plenty of things to do and enjoy.
A word on the pools, because this is the thing I’d want to know before booking. Garrya isn’t adults-only, and there’s a Kids’ Club, so the main pool gets busy. There is an adults-only pool, but it isn’t consistently enforced, so don’t count on it being quiet.
We had the Tongsai Seaview Pool Villa with its own 3m x 5m pool, which meant this never became our problem. Honestly, I think that’s why the honeymoon worked as well as it did. If we’d been down at the main pool every day, I’m not sure I’d be writing this review the same way, regardless of how perfect everything else was.
Evening entertainment
Evenings at Garrya Tongsai Bay were something special, with entertainment that made each night a little more memorable.
What the service is like
I can’t talk about Garrya Tongsai Bay without mentioning the incredible staff. Their warm hospitality and attention to detail truly make this place feel like a home away from home. From the housekeeping team to the restaurant servers, everyone here goes above and beyond to ensure your stay is nothing short of perfect.
To give you an idea of just how attentive the staff are, we had a little incident after a rainy day when we found a spider in our room. Now, usually, this wouldn’t be a big deal, but that little bugger gave us both the ick. So, we called reception for help. Within five minutes, a staff member arrived with a towel, quickly caught the spider, and we were back at ease in no time.
The next day, we asked reception to have housekeeping check the room for any more spiders. We headed down to the beach, but a couple of hours later, I realised I’d forgotten my phone charger, so we went back to the room. Housekeeping was already there, and she asked us exactly where we had seen the spider. This just goes to show that everything we asked for was done, and done quickly.
And it wasn’t just the housekeeping staff who were on top of things—the restaurant team was equally impressive. They were always making sure we had a drink in hand. I don’t think we ever had to wait more than 30 seconds after finishing a drink before they came over to ask if we wanted something else.
Every evening, the staff would also bring us anti-mosquito spray while at dinner, even though we already had complimentary ones in our room. We’d often forget to take them with us, but it’s like they knew what we needed before we even did. That’s just the level of care and attention you can expect here.
The restaurants at Garrya Tongsai Bay
Now, let’s talk about food! Garrya Tongsai Bay has three restaurants that cater to different tastes and moods. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a casual lunch by the pool, or a healthy breakfast to start your day, they’ve got you covered.
- The first restaurant, EVOL, is open five days a week from Sunday to Thursday and is located near the half moon pool, EVOL offers delicious dishes with a focus on wellbeing—nutritionally balanced without being boring. Highly recommended!
- Then you have RHOY RHOY, located near the lobby area. They serve dinner from Thursday to Monday, and focus on authentic Thai cuisine. It’s also where breakfast is served daily from 7 am to 10:30 am. Every Saturday, they offer a traditional Thai dance show with accompanying Thai food buffet.
- The third restaurant, Fish Tales, open daily for lunch and dinner, serves both Thai and international dishes. They also offer evening entertainment, like live music or fire shows.
The tables in all three restaurants are very smartly placed, they are not too close to each other, so you will be able to have a conversation at dinner at ease, without worrying that the next table will overhear you.
Service at all the restaurants was attentive and genuinely friendly. The staff always made sure we had everything we needed, and they were more than happy to accommodate any requests.
In addition to these restaurants, the Po-Lad Beach Bar is perfect for lunch, pre-dinner or post-dinner cocktails, tapas, or a snack in a casual setup. They offer a variety of options, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Located next to Fish Tales, right on the beach, Po-Lad also has a daily happy hour from 6 to 7 pm—two cocktails for the price of one!
If you’re looking for something more private, you can also opt for an in-villa dinner or barbecue, or a romantic dinner on the beach.
And, of course, you have room service. While they usually give you a 45-minute estimate, it never took more than 15 minutes for our food to arrive.
The 8 Elements Spa
For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s 8 Elements Spa is a true haven. It offers a range of treatments inspired by traditional Thai techniques, making it the perfect place to unwind. As part of our stay in the Tongsai Pool Villa, we enjoyed a complimentary one-hour massage, which we definitely took advantage of. We were so impressed that we booked a second treatment a couple of days later (which was an additional charge).
Checkout, and the day room
Checkout was just as smooth as our check-in. The process was handled in the reception area, where we also settled our final bill.
Checkout time is at 12 PM, but our flight wasn’t until 9 PM, leaving us with about six hours before we had to head to the airport. We had asked about a late checkout the night before, but the resort was fully booked, meaning new guests were set to arrive in our villa. So, we were prepared to spend the afternoon at the bar, enjoying our final hours at the resort.
However, after breakfast on our last day, we stopped by the lobby for one last iced latte. That’s when we ran into Mark, the hotel manager. When he heard about our late flight, he kindly offered us a day room until our departure.
At 12 o’clock, we returned to the reception to check out, and we enjoyed another latte while waiting for the room to be prepared.
If you’ve been to resorts before, you’re probably familiar with the typical courtesy rooms – just a simple shower and vanity area where you can freshen up before your journey.
Usually, you leave your luggage at reception and make do with the basics.
But that’s not what happened here. We were taken to a room situated right next to the main pool area, and to our surprise, our luggage was already waiting for us inside. This room looked like it could easily be one of the resort’s regular accommodations! It was smaller than our villa and didn’t have a pool, but it came with all the amenities, including a full shower, a vanity area, a large TV and a bed. If we had more time, we could have easily taken a nap.
We are extremely thankful to Mark for this thoughtful gesture. Being able to have a quick shower and a change of clothes before leaving for the airport, especially in that humid weather, made a huge difference to our comfort level as we headed home.
Special Mentions
During our stay, we had the pleasure of meeting some truly exceptional people who made our experience even more memorable. Here’s a heartfelt thank you to those who went above and beyond:
- Su: For truly going above and beyond. Your ability to anticipate our needs and preferences before we even had to ask was extraordinary. Whether it was a thoughtful gesture or an intuitive solution, you consistently made us feel special and cared for.
- Manuel: For your attentive support throughout our stay; thank you for everything.
- Mark: For arranging a day room for us on our last day. It was such a thoughtful gesture that made our final hours at the resort even more comfortable and stress-free.
- Peah: For serving up fantastic drinks at the beach bar and keeping the vibe just right.
- Nok: For promptly addressing and resolving our shower issue with impeccable efficiency.
- Anna, Ice, Nitq, Aen, and Reen: For the warm and welcoming conversations that made us feel right at home.
- Groof and Ta Kong: Your friendly presence and attentive service made our time even better.
- Tee: For crafting the best cocktails we enjoyed at the resort; they truly made our evenings special.
- Torn and Noi (Evol): For delivering a dining experience at Evol that was both delicious and memorable
- Sakrai: Your warm, friendly demeanour made us feel right at home.
- Reen: Your cheerful attitude was a highlight of our stay.
Is Garrya Tongsai Bay worth it for a honeymoon?
Overall, Garrya Tongsai Bay earns high marks across the board for creating a perfect escape that’s both luxurious and calming. If you’re looking for a dreamy getaway where relaxation meets exceptional service, this resort is a top choice.
Our stay exceeded every expectation, from the breathtaking location and luxurious villa to the impeccable facilities and outstanding staff. This was truly the honeymoon of our dreams.
Location
Nestled on the serene northeast tip of Koh Samui, Garrya Tongsai Bay offers a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle. The secluded bay, lush gardens, and private beach create a perfect sanctuary. Though it’s a bit removed from the island’s nightlife and shopping, you will not want to leave.
Price
For a 5-star luxury experience, Garrya Tongsai Bay provides excellent value. The updated amenities, stunning villas, and exceptional service justify the cost. While it’s on the pricier side, the quality of your stay makes it a worthwhile splurge.
Venue
From the elegant lobby blending with nature to the well-designed villas with breathtaking views, every aspect of the venue is meticulously curated. The beach service, multiple dining options, and the 8 Elements Spa enhance the overall experience.
Relaxation
Garrya Tongsai Bay excels in offering a peaceful haven. The serene atmosphere, attentive staff, and luxurious amenities ensure an unparalleled level of relaxation. Whether lounging by your private pool, enjoying a soothing massage, or sipping cocktails on the beach, you’ll find it easy to unwind and fully embrace the blissful tranquillity.
Garrya Tongsai Bay FAQ
Where is Garrya Tongsai Bay?
On the northeast tip of Koh Samui, Thailand, a 10-minute drive from Samui Airport and about 15 minutes from Chaweng Beach.
How many rooms does Garrya Tongsai Bay have?
82 suites and villas across 28 acres of gardens on a hillside overlooking a private bay.
When did Garrya Tongsai Bay open?
It opened in 1987 as the first 5-star luxury resort on Koh Samui, and was renovated in 2022.
How many restaurants does Garrya Tongsai Bay have?
Three: EVOL, RHOY RHOY and Fish Tales, plus the Po-Lad Beach Bar.
Does Garrya Tongsai Bay have room service?
Yes. The stated estimate is 45 minutes, though ours never took more than 15.
Is Garrya Tongsai Bay adults-only?
No. There is a Kids’ Club and the rooms have family-friendly configurations, though the resort is quiet.
Is there a shuttle to Chaweng?
Yes, a free shuttle runs to and from the resort twice a day.
Does the Tongsai Pool Villa include a spa treatment?
Our stay included a complimentary one-hour massage at the 8 Elements Spa.
Is Garrya Tongsai Bay good for a honeymoon?
Yes, but with a condition. We booked the Tongsai Seaview Pool Villa, which meant we had our own pool and never had to use the main one. The resort isn’t adults-only and there’s a Kids’ Club, so the main pool can be busy with families. There is an adults-only pool, but it isn’t always enforced. If you’re coming for a honeymoon, book a villa with a private pool. That’s what made it for us.
Packing Your Carry-On for Every Airline
Learn how to pack your carry-on flawlessly every time! This guide offers essential tips and tricks to help you maximise space and comply with airline regulations.
Share This Post
A heartfelt thank you to the exceptional team at Garrya Tongsai Bay for creating such a memorable experience. Your warm hospitality and meticulous attention to detail made our time here truly special. We’ll cherish these memories for years to come.
ralu
FREE Guide: Packing Your Carry-On for Every Airline
Learn how to pack your carry-on flawlessly every time! This guide offers essential tips and tricks to help you maximise space and comply with airline regulations.