When you’re looking for somewhere to stay on vacation, if you happen to have a tropical destination you will probably come across the terms “Oceanfront,” “Oceanview,” or “Beachfront” – terms used to describe different villas and their location or position relative to the sea. But just what do these seemingly synonymous terms really mean? Let’s breakdown the definition of each one to bring a bit of clarity to your quest for accommodations. 

Oceanfront or Seafront Villas
Poolside View from Villa Padma Phuket

Oceanfront villas are built directly beside the sea/ocean but have no beaches. This can mean they are built on a cliff next to the sea/ocean, or located in an area without a beach and instead are next to a rocky tide pool or some other type of formation.

These type of villas offer stunning views of the sea/ocean and absolutely an amazing place to relax, but don’t offer direct beach access – you might have to walk or drive your way to find a safe place to get in the water, but you’ll be able to enjoy all the beauties of a marine view from your villa. Luxury Villa PadmaVilla Saengootsa and Villa Ocean’s 11 are three of our best oceanfront luxury villas located in Phuket. As for our luxury villas in Bali, we have Villa Madara and Villa Yangan.

Oceanview or Seaview Villas
Ocean view from Villa Paradiso’s living area and infinity pool

In contrast to oceanfront or seafront, oceanview villas have a view of the ocean or sea but are not necessarily located seaside. In fact, Oceanview villas can be many miles from the ocean, perched atop a high cliff or mountain which provides a commanding view of the sea, or they can be in close proximity to the sea.

Oceanview villas might put you a good distance from the water sometimes, but they tend to offer the most privacy and seclusion. Not to mention some of the finest views the world has to offer. Among our finest collection of luxury villas in Phuket, Villa ParadisoVilla Kalipay, Villa Yang Som, and Villa Aya are some of our villas with the best ocean view. In the island of Samui, we have Villa AnavayaVilla Hin, Villa Sangkachai, and Villa Praana.

Beachfront Villas
Beachside lounging areas and pool from Villa Akatsuki

If being as close to the beach as possible is at the top of your vacation checklist, Beachfront villas are what you seek. Beachfront villas are constructed directly in front of or even on beaches. They offer direct access to the beach and are the perfect way to spend all day splashing in the surf without worrying about the long trip back to your shower and bed.

While Beachfront certainly offers the best route to the beach, these villas are maybe less private than Oceanfront or Oceanview properties, as you will likely have to share the beach with neighbors, tourists, and other beachgoers. However, most of our beachfront villas are located in very secluded or private areas. Our best luxury villas in Koh Samui built beachfront are Villa Akatsuki, Villa Sairee, and Villa Akella. In Phuket, our best property located beachfront is Villa Amarapura while in Bali, we have Villa Amber and Villa Etapa.

Hopefully, this brief overview has left you with a clear picture of what each term implies. Happy travels!

This article was recently updated on August 22, 2017.