Its brochure proclaims,"Discover a world of simplicity and style where the discerning traveller can experience the authentic grace and beauty of Thailand." And that's just about spot on!

Far from the busy east and north coasts, The Five Islands Restaurant can be found in an idyllic location on the unspoiled south west coast, typical of how Samui used to before the advent of mass tourism. The restaurant enjoys
a spectacular 180-degree panoramic view of the palm-fringed coastline and out across the shimmering Gulf of Siam to four tropical islands. But shouldn't that be five islands? Well yes, technically that's correct, The locals actually call them Four Islands Five Islands, because one is hidden behind another when viewed from The Five Islands Beach.

And it's a perfect destination to visit during a day out exploring Samui. Ten minutes south of Nathon, and not far from Samui Snake Farm, you follow the signs to the Virgin Coast and Baan Talling Ngam. Head down the road that's guarded by two massive elephant statues and you pass a rustic little fishing village before reaching an unmissable wood and stone sign for The Five Islands Restaurant.

Once inside the entranceway, the approach to this beautiful beachside restaurant is a voyage of discovery in itself. As you wander through the plantation-style garden, with its eclectic collection of carved stone statues and artifacts from all over south east Asia lining the pathway (these lovely pieces are actually available for purchase), you'll see the turquoise-blue water shining through from beyond. And when the beach and the restaurant appear the picture is complete.

The roof is an amazing structure that is true to the traditional Thai-style, and fits the location perfectly. Thai wall sculptures and the artistic blend of wood, stone and natural colours all play their part in creating the perfect blend of beachside informality with refined splendour. Being totally open-sided means that you'll feel the cooling sea breezes wherever you choose to sit, whether that's in the intimate-yet-spacious 40-seater interior or on the tables and chairs and sunbeds that are set up on the beach itself. And it's all private enough to make you feel as relaxed as if you were in your own private haven.

The kitchen is open too, so you'll be able to see the highly-experienced chefs busily creating your dishes, that's if you can keep your eyes away from the magnificent view. Especially in the daytime, and at sunset when it would be hard to find a better place to witness the sun disappearing into the ocean and lighting up the evening sky.

Apart from the dining areas and kitchen, there's also a well-stocked bar that you can perch beside and enjoy a lazy afternoon with a cocktail or two. Or, if you prefer sinking down into a soft sofa, there's a comfortable lounge area where you can enjoy a special blend of real ground coffee.

Which brings us to the best part – the food! And as you'd expect from a restaurant that's right on the beach, with a line of traditional Thai long-tail fishing boats moored outside, the seafood here is so fresh, that the daily special is determined by the daily catch! The small yet select menu is full of originality, being a fusion of Thai and international cuisine focusing on the fresh scent and flavours of Thai herbs. And there's also an excellent handpicked selection of European dishes to choose from, should you prefer.

"... and at sunset, when it would be hard to find a better place to witness the sun disappearing into the ocean and lighting up the evening sky."

Plus there's a fine range of wines to complement the meal, and several Thai deserts alongside everybody's hot climate favourites – fresh fruit and ice-cream served in a coconut shell.

And a highlight of many a visitor's stay on Samui is the restaurant's Five Islands Experience. But what's that? Well, firstly you are picked up at your hotel and brought to the restaurant. And from there you're taken by traditional long-tail boat around the Five Sister Islands, famous for the ancestral craft of harvesting birds nests, stopping off at a special location to swim, snorkel and hand-feed the tropical fish. Then its back to the restaurant for cocktails on the beach followed by an all-inclusive set meal. And finally you're returned to your hotel when you're ready to leave. There're two trips every day: one sets out in the morning and includes lunch: and the other leaves in the afternoon and gets back for a sunset dinner. And it's truly the perfect way of spending a very special day on Samui's south-west coast.

The Five Islands Restaurant is open from 12:00 noon until late. For reservations, transport and further information, telephone:0 7741 5359 or 0 814 775 371.