The Waterfront is a lovely place, and I can understand that it attracts many positive reviews. However, I think it is important to note that it is ideal for a certain type of holidaymaker, and may not suit everyone. I'm not sure, overall, that it's TA rating reflects that.

If you are a returner to Thailand, looking for somewhere that is effectively a "home from home", where you plan to do very little except lie in the sun, dip yourself in the pool and chat to fellow guests, then I agree that the Waterfront is the perfect place to do it. Ideal location very close to Fishermens' Village and access to many restaurants and bars.

However, this property is very basic, and absolutely lacks any elegance or style. The "beach view bungalows" are effectively portacabins, and quite small, and the pool is functional rather than inviting. I have some sympathy with the reviews which suggest the hotel is reminscent of an English seaside holiday camp! If you've never visited Thailand before, or are looking for somewhere that is decorated or landscaped in the Thai style, there are many other charming and better value properties in the vicinity. For me, that's part of the attraction of Samui, and several beachfront hotels in and around Bophut do this so well. The Waterfront is clean but has no charm.

I cannot criticise the Waterfront, or its owners, because they do not try to be something they are not, and clearly take great trouble to look after their guests. But I do think all of the rave reviews ought to be balanced with something that makes it clear that if you don't fit into the mould of their "typical" guests, then I'd consider looking elsewhere. For instance, the Peace Resort, Baan Bophut and Saboey are all comparable prices (or were when we booked) and are much more attractive.

We had a lovely relaxing two week stay over Christmas and the New Year at the Waterfront. It was our family’s seventh time to stay at the Waterfront and Robin and Sue and their son and daughter, Michael and Charlotte, and all their lovely staff made us feel so welcomed that it felt like we were coming home.
We again stayed in the family suite that has two large size bedrooms and a lounge area all air-conditioned with TV and DVD. There is a well stocked mini fridge and tea and coffee making facilities and also now free Wi-Fi internet.
We had stayed at the Waterfront the previous Christmas when the weather was glorious but unfortunately on this trip the weather was rainy and cloudy. There are usually beautiful views across the water to Koh Phangan but this time the island seemed to have disappeared!. Eventually towards the end of our holiday the sun did came out and Koh Phangan appeared like Brigadoon from the mist.
The Waterfront really lived up to its name on Christmas day when the gardens flooded but did not stop us all having a great time with all the guests drinking Bucks Fizz at the bar followed by Christmas Lunch with roast turkey and all the trimmings at Classico restaurant just a short walk up the road. We went there again on New Years Eve for dinner followed by singing Auld Lang Syne and then a spectacular firework display along the beach.
There are even more restaurants and bars along the street these days especially on the east end towards the Waterfront. The Friday Walking Street gets packed with different stalls each side of the street selling clothes, jewellery, handicrafts and lots of food and drinks. One good outcome of the Friday Walking Street is that the local council has now installed proper drainage and street lights at this end of the village so no more tiptoeing through puddles in the dark after a late night in the Billabong or Frog and Geko pub.
The two weeks flew by and we were sad to leave again and our 9 year old daughter was close to tears as all the staff she has known since she was a two year old gave us all goodbye hugs.
Over the last ten years we have stayed in lots of hotels in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka and Tanzania but none have the special ambience of the Waterfront. The wonderful relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff and comfortable surroundings make the place like a home from home and we are already looking forward to our next visit.

Every employee and every aspect of The Waterfront is perfect. I was alone and in the area for my niece's wedding and felt right at home and with family at this great hotel.ZW

One of the most friendliest, most welcoming, most hospitable, generous and caring hotels I've ever had the pleasure of staying in. From beach front rooms, to 24 hour service. I have never experienced a hotel environment where the staff actually go out of their way to accomodate and help you in anyway. The friendly nature of the staff welcomes you to feel like you're a long time resident on the island. There is no differentiation between new or old hoteliers. They treat everybody equally , with great respect, care and attention. I would recommend this hotel everytime to anyone going to Koh Samui, staying in the Bophut area. From beach views just on your doorstep, to great customer service and food, the Waterfront is definately a place to create memories from. The kind and humble nature of the staff are beyond words and the hotel is worthy of 5 star status.