Thailand is White (Lotus) Hot

Cue that unmistakable theme song.

White Lotus is back! Season three premieres on HBO Feb. 16, and this installment promises to explore death and spiritualism in the Eastern world, with no shortage of twists and turns. Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, serves as the newest setting for the hit show.  

Known for breathtaking beaches, fringy palm trees, elephant experiences, wild jungles and more, Koh Samui is a traveler’s dream with five-star resorts and hostels that somehow share the same beaches and views and world-class food from both high-end restaurants and roadside stands. Tourism officials are expecting a 20% boom in visits to Thailand, and Hotels.com has reported an astounding 40% increase in searches for Four Seasons Koh Samui, which serves as the characters’ home base.

It’s not just the travel category that’s getting excited for this season: Abercombie & Fitch just tapped into the resortcore trend and launched a White Lotus collection, Coffee Mate rolled out two themed flavors, Homesick introduced a Room Service Candle and Compartes created chocolate bars inspired by the show, including a new mango sticky rice bar.

Our advice for enjoying the best of Koh Samui is simple: get a motorcycle (if you dare...), book a tranquil hotel, eat as much pad Thai as you possibly can, visit the temples and never pass up a massage on the beach.

If a White Lotus pilgrimage is in your future, here's where to stay:

^{Every hotel on Late Checkout is independently selected by us. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.}

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui  ‍

Find serenity by the sea at Thailand’s island paradise and the undisputed star of White Lotus: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Book a private beach massage, take a Thai cooking class, sweat it out in a Muay Thai training or simply relax by the glittering pool at this soon-to-be-iconic resort.  

Rates from $1,000, book here.

Cape Fahn Hotel  ‍

Cape Fahn Hotel is on its own tiny island, off the tip of Koh Samui. Here, the only footsteps you find in the sand will be your own. Enjoy untouched beaches, private pools and the renowned Long Dtai restaurant, helmed by the esteemed Michelin-starred chef, David Thompson. While this hotel is far from the buzzy town of Chewang or tourist-filled beaches, it’s truly a sophisticated stay that you don’t want to miss.  

Rates from $688, book here.

Kimpton Kitalay Samui ‍

Khop Khun, Kimpton! Lovers of the quirky-yet-comfortable hotel brand will enjoy this hotel in the heart of Fisherman’s Village, one of the most happening spots on the island. Dine at five unique on-site restaurants and bars, including a Michelin Guide-selected gem, swim in the idyllic pool and relax in the Kitavaree spa.  

Rates from $450, book here.

The Library ‍

The striking red pool pulls you in, but it’s the unique rooms with clean lines and modern touches that stand out. The Library is full of curiosities and art, including 1,400 books and a “breakfast in bed” beach bed that allows you to truly wake up and hit the sand. This beachfront hotel is in Koh Samui’s wildest tourism area, Chewang Beach. While the city streets are filled with boutiques, salons, restaurants, souvenir shops and lively bars, the property’s beach-front feels like a total retreat.  

Rates from $582, book here.

Napasai, A Belmond Hotel, Koh Samui ‍

This one is for the sophisticated adventure seekers. With two floodlit tennis courts, watersports, golf and thrilling water and elephant excursions, there’s no shortage of fun. Napasai sprawls across its own private sandy beach and delights guests with its Lai Thai restaurant, beachside restaurant, infinity pool bar and tropical spa.  

Rates from $1,100, book here.

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