How To Check if Your Koh Samui Villa is Kid-Friendly

Vacationing with the family may come with a myriad of needs and challenges, but travelling with kids also brings incomparable joy. There’s nothing greater than making unforgettable memories with your family, creating core memories that last a lifetime.

Thus, children must always be considered when it comes to making choices for your next family vacation. Not all accommodations cater to kids, and what’s supposed to be a relaxing holiday could turn into chaos if you end up staying in a villa that’s not kid-friendly.

This is why finding accommodations that are safe and hospitable for children is essential when planning your family vacation in the beautiful island of Koh Samui.

What Makes a Villa Kid-Friendly?

A 2024 study from Family Travel Worldwide revealed that family travel is one of the most valuable segments of the leisure tourism market. In fact, family members were the most common travel companions worldwide. This data shows that many private villas do cater to families with kids, but it’s always a good idea to check if the place is indeed kid-friendly.

First and foremost, it must have comfortable sleeping arrangements. A villa that features available cots and beds for kids, as well as co-sleeping arrangements, allows for comfortable sleeping areas for both parents and kids. Even if the original layout doesn’t have these, a kid-friendly villa should have them by request and with an extra charge.

Then, the villa should have both indoor and outdoor spaces for playing. Kids are naturally active and packed with energy, so having open spaces indoors and outdoors allows them to expend their energy and play around.

Moreover, kids get easily bored, so a kid-friendly villa must have toys, games, and even children’s books to keep them entertained.

Bonus Features That Make a Villa “Kid-Friendlier”

The features mentioned above are basic requirements for a kid-friendly villa, but it’s always better to have bonus features that make a villa “kid-friendlier.” If you’re planning a family vacation with kids, their needs and challenges must be one of the things you need to consider. After all, experiences are always better than material things when it comes to showing children they are loved and valued.

So here are bonus features that elevate a villa’s status as a kid-friendly accommodation:

1. Safe Swimming areas

Photo: Villa Asan Large Swimming Pool with Kids Pool

Kids’ pools and calm waves on beachfronts can enhance the kid-friendly aspects of a villa. A pool is often the highlight of a villa stay, but not every pool is suitable for children. A villa that includes a kids’ pool, shallow splash areas, or calm beachfront access makes a big difference when it comes to safety and enjoyment. Shaded areas near the pool are also helpful, allowing children to take breaks without overexposure to the sun.

2. Child-Safe Furniture

Anything that has no sharp corners will work, but kids would especially enjoy having their own room in a villa where they can play and still maintain privacy. Furniture with rounded edges, soft finishes, and durable materials helps minimize risk when kids are running around.

Some villas even design children’s rooms to be conducive to the children’s needs, giving kids spaces they can call their own.

3. Childcare Upon Request

Many private villas go the extra mile by having in-house childcare services at an additional cost. This option gives parents the flexibility to enjoy a spa treatment, a dinner date, or even a short excursion without worrying about leaving their children unattended.

4. Bunk or Twin Beds

Photo: Kids room of Villa The View with Bunk Beds

These are always fun for kids who want their own sleeping space while still sharing a room with family or friends. While it may seem like a small detail, bunk or twin beds add a sense of fun for children. They allow siblings or cousins to share a room while still enjoying their own space. These beds often turn bedtime into part of the adventure, especially when villas decorate children’s rooms with playful themes.

Things To Do if You End Up Booking a Villa That Isn’t “Kid-Friendly”

Even with the best research, there may be times when the villa booked doesn’t meet your family’s needs. This doesn’t have to mean the end of a good holiday. With a small ounce of planning and creativity, parents can still create an enjoyable and safe environment for kids. So here’s are some recommendations if you end up booking with a holiday rental that isn’t “kid-friendly”:

Before your stay, read the villa’s description and terms. Take note of features that may not be child-safe, such as open staircases, glass tables, or areas like saunas, gyms, or wine cellars. Knowing these details helps you establish rules before you even arrive at the villa.
If the villa lacks toys or play areas, check if they provide streaming services or gaming consoles. Even simple digital options can help keep children entertained during downtime, particularly after long days of exploring Koh Samui.
Many villas offer guest experience services that can arrange kid-friendly activities that can be enjoyed in and out of the villa. Indoors, activities can include cooking lessons, arts and crafts sessions, or even Thai-language classes. Outdoors, there are limitless possibilities in Koh Samui: visits to beaches, temples, and parks. Enquire with guest experience services before arrival about kid-friendly activities, so experiences can be tailored to ensure your children and teens enjoy a truly memorable holiday.
Packing portable items like storybooks, board games, and favorite toys is always a great idea. Familiar objects provide comfort and can bridge the gap if the villa doesn’t have enough amenities for kids. Lightweight travel toys and compact card games are beneficial when luggage space is limited.
The most important step parents can take is never to allow children unsupervised access to pools or outdoor play areas. Even if the villa staff are attentive, having a responsible adult nearby provides added assurance of safety and peace of mind. Establishing clear rules early in the stay helps avoid potential risks.

Creating Lasting Family Memories in Koh Samui

Traveling as a family may be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you need to compromise luxury and kid-friendly amenities. When you find the right villa, adults can enjoy the sophistication of a private retreat. At the same time, children can have their own activities to experience in the comfort and safety of your accommodation.

Koh Samui offers a wide range of private villas that are designed for family stays, offering families the chance to combine comfort, relaxation, adventure, and togetherness in a memorable holiday.

When planning your next holiday on the island, look for Koh Samui villa rentals that cater to both your sense of comfort as well as your children’s sense of adventure. Take note of the thoughtful elements of a kid-friendly villa and make the best choice for you and your family for a rewarding vacation on this stunning Thai island.

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Featured Image by the Kid’s Club/Room of Villa Mia Palm