koh samui culture trip

• How To Spend The Perfect...

How To Spend the Perfect Week in Koh Samui

Commissioning Editor

There’s much more to little Koh Samui than lazing by the beach. From perfect cocktails to paddling piglets, here’s Culture Trip’s guide to spending an unforgettable week in paradise.

Only an hour’s flight south of bustling Bangkok, Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most celebrated escapes. Its name derives from the Chinese word saboey , meaning ‘safe haven’, a nod to the island’s past as a refuge for sailors. Today, that legacy continues to bear fruit for world-weary tourists, who lap up the island’s bounty of beautiful beaches, spas and marine life. After a week on these powdery shores, you’ll never want to leave.

Note that certain popular activities on Koh Samui are only available on specific days of the week. This itinerary assumes a Monday to Sunday schedule, so feel free to readjust according to your own timeline.

Costs on Koh Samui

Where to stay on koh samui.

Koh Samui is developing fast, with large hotel chains cropping up like coconut trees. Unlike the party hostel bohemia that is neighbouring Koh Phangan, Koh Samui errs on the side of luxury, catering to a more grown-up clientele with a little more cash to burn.

Backpackers should make a beeline for the bouncing party hostels and fire-spinners that line Chaweng beach, while those looking for peace (on a budget) will appreciate the quieter corners of Lamai and Bophut.

Getting around Koh Samui

Koh Samui is small, with most of the action concentrated in three main neighbourhoods; Chaweng, Bophut and Lamai. Basing yourself in any of these areas means you’re in walking distance to bars, restaurants and a stretch of sandy beach.

However, should you wish to venture further, you’ll either need to hail a taxi (either from the street or from the popular GrabCar app), or take the helm of a scooter and brave the winding island roads. You can rent these from hotels and specialist shops. Please note that motorbike accidents are the leading cause of death in Thailand and Koh Samui’s roads are not particularly well-lit at night – so think twice before taking the plunge.

Day 1 – Soak in massage oils and island views

It’s practically criminal to visit Thailand without getting a massage, so first it’s off to Navasana Spa to banish your jetlag. Opt for the 90-minute Signature Massage, which combines Hawaiian and traditional Thai techniques; priced at a lavish 2,000 Baht, it’ll dig as deep into your knots as you’ll have to into your pockets. It’s probably going to hurt, but you’ll soon feel reborn – as the staff say, “First pain, then relax”. It’s wise to book in advance.

After you’ve allowed the lemongrass oil to soak in, it’s a short taxi ride to The Social Samui for cocktails at sunset. Order an Electric Soup cocktail (coconut rum, ginger, chilli and kaffir lime) and nab a hammock chair overlooking the glimmering Gulf of Thailand.

Day 2 – Dive into the deep blue sea

Ang Thong National Marine Park comprises 246 square kilometres (95 square miles) of azure ocean and karst islets, said to have inspired Alex Garland’s novel The Beach (1996). This stunning seascape is reason enough to visit Koh Samui, allowing you to get up close with hawksbill turtles, Kuhl’s stingrays and psychedelic coral reefs. Book a day tour from the mainland, which includes lunch, kayaking and snorkelling gear. Scuba divers can opt for specialist excursions to Hin Yippon and Koh Wao dive sites, home to staggering underwater limestone formations and secret caves.

Once you’ve got your land legs back, hail a taxi from your hotel to feast on the sensory overload of Chaweng Night Market (5pm to 11pm, daily). Gorge on crispy pork pad thai; steaming noodle soups with fresh squid; and spicy prawns drizzled in sweet tamarind sauce (seafood comes highly recommended on Koh Samui). After you’ve had your fill, waddle five minutes north to riotous Chaweng Walking Street to bargain for souvenirs.

Day 3 – Explore the island’s (multi)cultural influences

People flying into Koh Samui often spot Wat Phra Yai’s ‘Big Buddha’, a 12-metre golden statue perched on a small rocky outpost. This temple complex is covered in beautiful reflective tilework, built in 1972 to cater to the island’s increasing population (and tourist numbers). The statue itself represents Buddha in the Mara posture – resisting earthly temptations on his path to enlightenment. Take off your shoes, dress respectfully and climb the staircase to the viewing platform, where stunning panoramas of Koh Samui await.

Complete your tour of Koh Samui’s biggest landmarks and venture 30 minutes south to Hin Ta and Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks), which resemble male and female genitals. After a snigger, you’ll find the real attraction here is the beautiful ocean view, with waves crashing against the shore.

It may seem unusual to seek Italian food in Thailand, but Pepenero is one of Samui’s most popular dinner spots. Make room for cold cuts imported fresh from the homeland, delicious wine and some of the best gorgonzola and truffle pappardelle you’ll find anywhere on earth.

Day 4 – Piglets and chill

Koh Madsum, aka Pig Island, is home to dozens of semi-domesticated swines who spend all day napping under palm trees, cooling off in the sea and gorging on bread, living an envious life even by most human standards. The pigs are said to have swum here from neighbouring Koh Taen, according to their caretaker and owner of the island’s only beach bar (you won’t find pork on the menu here). Book a day tour through Lub D Hostel to meet the piggies up close and squeal with delight as they shove their snouts into your pockets on the hunt for snacks.

Once you’ve refreshed in your hotel, hail a cab to Bangrak for movie night at Chi Samui, where cinema classics are projected against a five-metre HD screen across from a swanky swim-up pool bar. Be sure to order some shrimp tacos to share.

Both activities only available on Thursdays.

Day 5 – Fire spinning and Full Moon madness

Friday night means trendy Fisherman’s Village comes alive with stalls, hawkers and performers jostling for elbow space in the weekly Walking Street market (5pm to 11pm). Sift through handicrafts, Chang beer vests and faux Prada handbags before grabbing refreshments at Coco Tam’s. This gorgeous beach bar is popular with hip young locals, with a design inspired by traditional bamboo houses. Seat yourself on a beachside beanbag, order a round of beers and watch fire spinners twirl flames in a blaze of glory – be warned that they can get up close and sometimes ask for audience participation!

If you’ve timed your trip right, your night may coincide with the legendary Full Moon Party on neighbouring Koh Phangan. The day of the week varies from month to month (when the full moon is up), according to this calendar. Many hotels, hostels and tour companies offer ferry rides to the event, with a return trip back in the wee hours. Be sure to check the legitimacy of your operator, as riding drunk across the ocean at night in a speedboat can be incredibly dangerous.

Day 6 – Cut shapes on the canvas and dancefloor

Experience the mesmerising art of traditional knife painting at KoKo Gallery, where talented artists scrape oil paints into beautiful landscapes. You can order a custom souvenir from Koko himself and pick it up in 48 hours. Prices hover between 100 and 200 baht and you’ll be doing your part to support local artisans.

Saturday night finds lively Chaweng Beach Road in full swing. Backpackers, beer girls and bar veterans spill out of establishments pumping EDM, revealing a side to Koh Samui not unlike Bangkok’s Khaosan Road. For dinner, brave a ‘Thai Spicy’ Red Curry Duck at Khaw Glong, cooked fresh with ingredients sourced from the local market. There’s a bit of a wait because it’s become so popular, but trust that the punchy food is well worth it.

After you’ve had your fill, head for the beach bars that line the shore. ARKbar is a legendary vodka-bucket-touting hangout, while next door Elephant Beach Club offers a more subdued alternative with ambient music and lounge chairs. Meanwhile, drag fans will adore the fierce, high-kicking queens of Paris Follies Cabaret.

Day 7 – Scrub up at an all-natural jungle spa

Wash off the weekend with a day at Tamarind Springs Forest Spa . Built into a hillside grove, a luxurious reception gives way to a winding rainforest complex of plunge pools, all-natural scrubs and several massage pavilions. The best part may very well be following the walkways surrounded by dense jungle, inspiring a child-like sense of adventure. Gigantic granite boulders house two steam rooms, where patrons sit in quiet contemplation as condensation drips from the cavernous stone walls. A rejuvenating end to your week in Koh Samui.

Andrew was hosted on this trip by Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort , which offers the perfect introduction to Koh Samui’s renowned hospitality. Only 10 minutes from the airport, guests enjoy a private beach, overlooked by a pool and complete with a restaurant.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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See & Do

The top 15 things to see and do on koh samui.

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The 22 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand

• Last Updated: January 17, 2024

The ultimate list of all the best things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.

Planning a trip through the many islands of Thailand can seem overwhelming.

There are over a thousand Thai islands and they all have something different to offer.

The big developed islands have lots of accessible tourist attractions, and the small uninhabited islands have raw, untouched natural beauty.

To make your trip-planning easier, visit the bigger islands that have a diverse range of landscapes and activities and explore them thoroughly.

One of the most rewarding islands to visit is Koh Samui, the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket (click the link to read our detailed itinerary posts).

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a huge island covered in forest and fringed with white sandy beaches.

Koh Samui has had a reputation for being quite ritzy and expensive.

There are lots of luxury resorts, fancy hotels and vacation packages that appeal to the wealthy, but recently the more local, affordable side of Koh Samui is beginning to surface.

Backpacker hostels, street markets, cheap tours and a long list of attractions are starting to pull more young budget travellers to Koh Samui, Thailand.

Table of Contents

1) Book a Tour to Ang Thong National Marine Park

2) see a mummified monk, 3) visit the big buddha, 4) indulge in a thai massage, 5) try stand up paddleboarding, 6) laze away on one of koh samui’s beautiful beaches, 7) explore the secret buddha garden, 8) taste local food at the chaweng night market, 9) visit wat plai laem, 10) hike to the hilltop temple, khao hua jook chedi, 11) cool down at the na muang waterfalls, 12) see the mysterious hin ta and hin yai rocks, 13) check out the guan yu shrine, 14) attend a ladyboy cabaret, 15) stroll through the fisherman’s village walking street market, 16) hike the elephant rock near lamai beach, 17) watch a muay thai boxing match, 18) take a thai cooking class, 19) marvel at laem sor pagoda, 20) go diving or snorkeling, 21) watch the sunset from the west side of the island, 22) try a fruit carving class, our favourite local tour guide – mr pek, best budget hostel on koh samui: timeless hostel, best mid-range hotel on koh samui: promtsuk buri hotel, best luxury hotel on koh samui: cape fahn hotel, budget – guay tiew noodle shop, mid-range – the jungle club, luxury – height restaurant, the best things to do in koh samui, thailand.

The classic touristy Thai culture, with its Buddhist temples, Muay Thai boxing matches, and Ladyboy cabarets, is affordable enough that backpackers are able to travel Koh Samui without spending a fortune.

Soft white sand, sparkling turquoise water, and towering coconut palms make Koh Samui look like a postcard, and now the island is more affordable and accessible than ever.

There are plenty of things to do in Koh Samui on a budget, and plenty of nice hotels and restaurants to suit those with more money to spend.

The island’s natural beauty will amaze anyone, and there is so much Koh Samui sightseeing to do to fill a schedule of a few days or even a few weeks.

So here is a list of the best things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.

READ MORE: Check out our guide to our top 5 Koh Samui day trips too!

This is easily one of the best things to do in Koh Samui, and in the whole Gulf of Thailand.

Ang Thong National Marine Park is an archipelago of 42 islands, each one rugged and unique.

Throughout the park you can find limestone cliffs, rocky caves, thick jungle, lakes and rivers, waterfalls, coral reefs, lagoons, hiking trails and sandy beaches, all connected by the vibrant blue ocean.

Highlights in the park include the Emerald Lake, or “Thale Nai”, a green saltwater lake in the midst of the jungle, Koh Sam Sao, an island with amazing snorkelling, and Koh Mae, an island with a steep hike that leads to a scenic viewpoint.

Luckily, Ang Thong Marine Park is well protected as a national park, so exotic wildlife can thrive and human development never oversteps its boundaries.

Only tour boats that are approved by the government are allowed to enter, so travellers cannot access Ang Thong Marine Park without booking a tour.

But there are lots of reputable tour companies offering affordable and super fun tours around Ang Thong National Marine Park that include snorkelling, kayaking, and relaxing.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Wat Khunaram is a Buddhist temple in Koh Samui famous for its mummified monk.

This sight isn’t for the faint-hearted, as it is literally a dead body on display in a glass case. But it is quite fascinating for those who are interested.

Buddhist monk, Luang Pho Daeng, died in 1973 and his body is now a source of wonder for local Thais and Buddhists in the area.

He died while sitting in a meditative position and his corpse is in surprisingly good shape for someone who died over forty years ago.

Be sure to follow proper dress code when visiting any temples in Thailand (no shoulders or knees showing).

• Location: Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140
• Hours: 7 am to 5 pm, open every day

READ MORE: This post tells you everything you’ll ever need to know about travelling to Thailand!

The Big Buddha should definitely have a place on any list of things to see in Koh Samui.

Formally known as Wat Phra Yai , this Buddhist temple complex is located on a small island off of Koh Samui’s northeastern coast.

The massive golden Buddha sitting at the top of the temple stairs is 12 meters tall and was built in 1972.

If you’re flying into Koh Samui you can sometimes see the giant Buddha from the airplane.

The Wat Phra Yai temple grounds also host a small market with souvenirs, interesting clothes and religious ornaments on sale.

• Location: Big Buddha Beach, off Route 4171, Bophut
• Hours: Open all day, every day

Thai massage is an ancient healing practice that is revered all around Thailand.

Though the massage isn’t as relaxing as traditional massages, it is supposed to rejuvenate the body and feel amazing afterwards.

Trained Thai masseuses bend and twist your body into odd positions during a massage, and this gets the blood flowing and soothes as well as strengthens your muscles.

There are plenty of spas all over Koh Samui, so check them out if you feel like treating yourself.

READ MORE: Keep your exploration of the Gulf of Thailand going with our curated list of the best things to do in Koh Tao !

With ocean scenery as stunning as Koh Samui, do your best to spend as much time in the water as possible.

For a relaxing and laid-back yet active day in Koh Samui try stand up paddleboarding. (You can book your SUP experience here .)

Paddleboards are heavy and sturdy, so they are easy to balance on even if it’s your first time.

This is a great way to soak in the views and spend quality time with the ocean, and it is a family-friendly activity as well.

Try paddling at sunrise or sunset to beat the heat and see the sky’s natural colours dancing above the water.

You simply can’t visit Koh Samui without visiting a few of the island’s picturesque beaches.

Chaweng Beach is the most popular place on the island, with tons of Koh Samui attractions and nightlife surrounding the beach.

So if you’re wondering what to do in Koh Samui, hit Chaweng Beach first, then figure the rest out from there.

Lamai Beach is the second most popular beach, and but it is less crowded and much more relaxing than Chaweng Beach.

Coral Cove Beach is lovely for snorkelling and is hidden in a small bay behind a hotel.

Choeng Mon Beach is located on the north of the island near the Big Buddha, and there are lots of nice hotels and beach bars up here.

Lipa Noi Beach is the most kid-friendly of Koh Samui’s beaches, as it has shallow, clear water and barely any coral or rocks.

Pretty much every beach here has velvety white sand and coconut palm trees providing shade, and the water is clear and refreshing everywhere too.

So pick any beach on Koh Samui and you’ll feel like you’re in paradise.

The Secret Buddha Garden is one of the most interesting Koh Samui attractions.

Back in 1976, a local farmer named Nim Thongsuk began creating a garden by setting up statues around his land.

Years later, the statues of Buddhas, other deities, animals and random creatures have taken over and the lush jungle gardens provide a nice background to all the artwork.

Spend an hour strolling through the peaceful green forest and admiring all the interesting statues; there is a sense of mystery here at the Secret Buddha Garden that is intriguing.

Some adventure tours around Koh Samui stop at the Secret Buddha Garden as part of their itinerary, though you can also drive on your own.

Even though it is called the SECRET Buddha Garden, this beautiful place has become one of the most famous Koh Samui attractions.

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on all the best things to do in Ao Nang when you are in southern Thailand!

For some of the best street food in Koh Samui, head to the Chaweng Night Market.

This is one of the busiest areas on the island, so the market is full of things to see and is packed every night with locals and tourists alike.

Sample flavorful local snacks for insanely cheap prices, or even get a full meal for less than 2 USD.

The market is mostly comprised of food, but you can also find some clothes, jewellery, and other classic souvenirs on sale as well.

• Location: 14/102 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach Road, Chaweng, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
• Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, open every day

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Thailand with our list of the best places to visit in the country !

Another one of the best Koh Samui attractions is Wat Plai Laem, a Buddhist temple on the northeast coast of the island.

The temple is famous for its statue of Guanyin , the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion.

Bathed in white and sporting 18 arms, the Guanyin statue towers over the temple grounds and the surrounding lake.

Wat Plai Laem is close to the Big Buddha, so you can easily stop by both during your Koh Samui sightseeing.

For a bit of exercise and panoramic views, visit Koh Samui’s hilltop temple known as Khao Hua Jook Chedi.

You’ll have to drive or take a taxi to Khao Hua Jook Chedi as there is no public transport running directly to this attraction.

The mountain on which the temple lies is called Chom Daow Mountain , and there is a shimmering gold pagoda as well as statues and Buddhist artworks in the temple complex.

The viewing platform provides a wonderful view over Chaweng Lake, so make sure to bring your camera to Khao Hua Jook Chedi.

• Location: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320
• Hours: 8 am to 5 pm, open every day

These two waterfalls are some of the best natural sights in Koh Samui.

They are located only a five-minute drive away from each other and they are both incredibly picturesque.

Na Muang Waterfall One is super easy to access because you can basically drive right up to the entrance.

And it has a wide natural pool that is perfect for swimming (especially during the rainy season).

Getting to Waterfall Two requires a little climbing, so wear sturdy, waterproof shoes.

The thick jungle provides gorgeous natural scenery, and the view from the top of Waterfall Two is quite famous among backpackers.

• Location : Off Route 4169, Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140
• Hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm, open every day
• Cost: Waterfall One has no entrance fee, Waterfall Two costs 30 Baht. You also have to pay for parking at Waterfall Two, 20 Baht for scooters and 60 Baht for cars.

READ MORE: The absolute best things to do in Thailand !

Of all the things to do in Koh Samui, this is probably the oddest.

Set on a rocky beach on the island’s southeast coast, the Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks are famous because they resemble male and female genitalia.

They are also called the Grandfather’s and Grandmother’s Rocks, and there are a few local myths about how the rocks came to be.

Whether you are interested in the stories behind the landmarks or not, the nearby beaches are beautiful so it is worth stopping at Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks.

Symbolic of the Chinese culture that has spread throughout Thailand, the Guan Yu Shrine is a powerful landmark in Koh Samui.

There is a 16-meter high statue of Guan Yu, the Chinese God of War and a symbol of courage, loyalty, and bravery.

You probably won’t find too many other tourists here, so you can enjoy a little bit of peace and quiet while reading about the shrine’s history.

If you want to continue your education about Chinese culture after visiting the statue, there are some local Chinese restaurants out front.

• Location: 190/1 Moo 1, Tambon Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84310
• Hours : 8 am to 5 pm, open every day

One of the best things to do in Koh Samui, or anywhere in Thailand, is going to a ladyboy cabaret.

The local Thai ladyboys are men that change their appearance to look like glamorous women, and they often put on amazing performances around the country.

Koh Samui’s best location for watching a dazzling ladyboy performance is the Paris Follies Cabaret in Chaweng Beach.

There are three shows every night here, and different dances and songs from all over the world are incorporated into the sets.

So for a night full of song, dance, and charisma, go to the Paris Follies Cabaret and prepare to be entertained by Koh Samui’s best ladyboys.

• Location: 166/92 Moo 2, off Chaweng Beach Road
• Hours: Performances at 8 pm, 9:30 pm and 11 pm, every night.
• Cost: Free entry, but you are expected to buy a drink at the bar which can be over 200 Baht

READ MORE: Plan for all of the exciting things to do in Phuket !

Bophut is an area on the northern coast of Koh Samui known for its local fisherman’s village.

The village is one of the oldest areas of the island, with rustic old buildings and charming local culture.

Every Friday night starting at 5 pm, Bophut Beach Road turns into a lively walking street market full of souvenirs, artwork, street food, and live music.

Some of the local shops bring their merchandise to the streets while other vendors set up new stalls and street performers put on a show.

• Location: Bophut Beach Road, Bophut 84320
• Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, every Friday

Those looking for active things to do in Koh Samui can head to the Elephant Rock, located between Chaweng and Lamai Beach.

This massive rock formation is named “Elephant Rock” simply because it looks like a giant boulder the same size as an Asian Elephant.

You can climb Elephant Rock to get a great aerial view of the surrounding ocean and beaches.

This is a nice outdoorsy activity to do while hanging out near Chaweng or Lamai Beach; just make sure you wear sturdy hiking shoes.

Muay Thai is a major part of Thai culture that travellers should try to experience in Thailand.

Koh Samui’s best place to watch a Muay Thai boxing match is Chaweng Boxing Stadium , which is also the oldest stadium on the island.

Here you can observe the talented local athletes as they engage in combat, the techniques and tricks of which evolved from the ancient fighting methods of the Siamese Empire.

Chaweng Boxing Stadium even has a program where they take youths off the streets and train them to fight Muay Thai in a safe and secure place.

So fighters you may watch during a match can range from young kids to professional adults, male or female.

This boxing stadium stays true to local traditions and still makes the fights engaging and exciting for tourists.

• Location: 166/16, Moo 2, Chaweng, Tambon Bo Put, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320
• Hours: Fights every Tuesday and Friday starting at 9 pm
• Cost: Tickets range from 1,500 to 2,000 Baht

The food is definitely one of the highlights of travelling through Thailand.

Thai food is so full of flavour and fresh ingredients, and every meal feels like an adventure for your taste buds.

The local cuisine differs slightly depending on which region of Thailand you are in.

So if you’re a true foodie you may want to take a few different Thai cooking classes throughout the country.

Koh Samui has lots of cooking schools that offer full-day tours cooking classes, most of which include a tour of the local market followed by guided instructions for making classic dishes.

This one though is the highest rated , so make sure you book it ahead of time.

The food you prepare yourself may be some of the best you eat in Thailand.

So dedicate at least one day in Koh Samui to a fun Thai cooking class.

Another one of Koh Samui’s best landmarks, Laem Sor Pagoda is located on a quiet beach far from the popular tourist areas.

Down in the southwest corner of the island, the Laem Sor Pagoda stands tall as part of the Wat Laem Sor temple complex.

The Pagoda appears to be fully coated in gold, though it is actually tiny yellow tiles that give it that glowing appearance.

Near the pagoda is a small forest with a lake and picnic benches, as well as another Pagoda called Khao Chedi , located atop a hill that offers panoramic views.

So there are a few things to do down in this corner of the island, and this area makes a nice escape from the more crowded, touristy parts of Koh Samui.

• Location: Off Route 4170, past Bang Kao village on a small beach

READ MORE: Plan for the top 10 things to do in Bangkok !

The Gulf of Thailand is known for some of the best snorkelling and diving in Southeast Asia.

The waters are crystal clear and the wildlife is colourful and active.

Koh Samui has a few nice snorkelling spots, but the best locations for snorkelling or diving are next to other nearby islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.

Your best option is to book a day tour through a local tourism company , so they can take you around the best snorkelling spots by speedboat.

Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan are two popular sights for snorkelling or scuba diving, and they can easily be reached by speedboat from Koh Samui.

Experienced certified divers can explore the waters deeply and swim down through coral reefs.

Whereas other travellers can opt for snorkelling, which doesn’t require any certifications and is a bit easier.

Whether scuba diving or snorkelling near the surface, you are sure to spot some exotic fish and sea creatures while exploring the oceans.

Tropical islands offer some of the most majestic sunsets.

Nothing says makes a vacation memorable like watching the sky change colours as the sun slowly slips behind the horizon, with the waves crashing and the palm trees swaying in the breeze.

Some of the best beaches to go watch the sunset are Lipa Noi Beach, Taling Ngam Beach or Nathon Town Beach.

They are all located on the island’s west coast so they face the setting sun.

This side of the island is also far less touristy than the east side, so you’ll most likely have the beach to yourself except for a few locals.

On a similar note, head to any beach on the east side of the island for a spectacular sunrise view!

If you’ve ever been to any sort of fancy hotel or restaurant in Thailand, you may have seen incredible art displays made entirely out of fruit.

The art of fruit carving is a traditional Thai skill that originated in the decoration of events for the Thai royal family.

Fruit carving is more accessible these days, but it is still considered a respectable skill.

You can take a fruit carving class at the Intercontinental where professionals will teach you how to carve beautiful designs into fruit and vegetables.

This is a very hands-on experience, and you are sure to learn a lot about this traditional form of Thai art.

Koh Samui Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Koh Sumai, we want to help you make your other plans as well by sharing the best accommodations and places to eat in the city.

On my most recent trip to the island in 2023, I had the chance to explore the place and do some airport/ferry transfers with a fantastic local, licensed tour guide, Mr. Pek.

Mr Pek has speaks excellent English, owns a really nice, air-conditioned modern car, and has extensive knowledge of the island.

Trust me when I say Mr. Pek is the perfect guide to take you to both the popular tourist spots and the secret, hidden gems of Koh Samui.

He’s more than happy to teach you about the island’s rich history, take you to indulge in delicious local cuisine, and find the most breathtaking views.

He also does airport, hotel and ferry terminal transfers and is very reliable.

Whether you’re interested in visiting waterfalls, temples, lounging on a secluded beach, or just need a ride from a friendly, honest and hard-working local guide, Mr. Pek has got you covered.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with him for an unforgettable adventure on this beautiful island. His official company name is ViVa Tour.

• WhatsApp: +66 (0) 894 699 968
• Email: [email protected]

Accommodations in Koh Samui, Thailand

After learning the best things to do in Koh Samui, consider where you are going to stay.

Despite the island’s reputation as being a bit expensive and catering only towards luxury travellers, Koh Samui has plenty of budget and mid-range accommodation options as well.

Stay in Timeless Hostel if you want to save money and stay right in the middle of the action.

Just a short walk from Chaweng Beach and close to all the nightlife and entertainment of the Chaweng neighbourhood, there is plenty to do here and lots of fellow travellers to hang out with.

The hostel has a cozy common room that is great for socializing, and all the usual amenities like free wifi, hot showers, city maps and a travel desk to help you plan your adventures.

It costs only 10 USD per night for a dorm bed and 30 USD per night for a standard private room.

For a feeling of luxury that doesn’t break the bank, Promtsuk Buri Hotel is the perfect option right on Lamai Beach.

Located only 80 meters away from the small, private Silver Beach, and just 2km away from the gorgeous but peaceful Lamai Beach, this part of the island is quiet yet full of things to do.

Guests rave about the helpful and friendly staff and the clean rooms, so travellers should have all their needs taken care of during their stay.

This three-star hotel offers free breakfast for guests as well as airport transfers and tours available.

There are only 17 rooms here, so it is smaller and cozier than your average hotel.

You can get private bungalows near Lamai Beach for a really good price!

Without a shadow of a doubt, the best luxury hotel on Koh Samui Thailand is Cape Fahn Hotel.

This boutique 5-star resort is found on a private island just a short boat ride away from Choeng Mon Beach.

Every one of their award-winning villas comes with its own private infinity pool, so you can sip a cocktail in peace while staring out at the ocean below.

We wrote a full Cape Fahn Hotel review which you can check out. Make sure you book ahead of time though, as this is also the number one spot for celebrities to stay on Koh Samui.

What to Eat in Koh Samui, Thailand

There are plenty of places to taste traditional Thai cuisine in Koh Samui Thailand.

Here are a few recommendations for some restaurants that have either budget, mid-range or expensive menu prices on Koh Samui.

For a super cheap and authentic local meal on Koh Samui, visit Guay Tiew Noodle Shop near Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha).

This restaurant is very localized, with a short and simple menu. But the delectable noodle and rice dishes are super cheap so it’s great for budget travelers.

The Jungle Club is a moderately-priced hilltop restaurant with a stunning view over Chaweng Beach.

Eat delicious classic Thai food or international cuisine while relaxing in comfy bean bag chairs atop their classy wooden deck.

Head out to the Height Restaurant located on a rocky headland on the east of the island, as part of Silavadee Pool Spa Resort in Koh Samui Thailand.

The fine-dining restaurant is named because it is set up high so you get a lovely view, and there are plenty of nice wines and cocktails to accompany your modern Thai meals.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

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Paradise Unveiled: Your Essential Koh Samui Travel Guide To The Top 10 Things To Do

Last updated on April 9th, 2024 at 05:04 am

Welcome to the definitive Koh Samui Travel Guide, your passport to an island paradise that beckons with its stunning beaches, captivating attractions, and a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a culture lover, Koh Samui has something extraordinary to offer. From the sun-kissed Koh Samui Beaches that allure to the vibrant pulse of Chaweng’s nightlife, this guide is your compass to crafting an unparalleled journey through this tropical jewel.

Koh Samui Travel Guide

Best time to visit koh samui.

The best time to visit Koh Samui is generally from December to April, during the dry season when the weather is warm and there’s less rainfall. This period offers the ideal conditions for enjoying Koh Samui Beaches, outdoor activities, and Chaweng Nightlife. However, keep in mind that this is a general guideline and weather patterns can vary, so it’s a good idea to check current forecasts before planning your trip. Travel Tip: The seas can get rough during the rainy season (Oct-Nov). Swimming is not advised If red flags are posted on the beach. No lifeguards are on duty, swim at your own risk.

How To Get To Koh Samui

Getting to Koh Samui is relatively easy, offering travelers a range of transportation options to choose from. Here’s a breakdown of how to reach this tropical paradise:

By Air: The most common way to reach Koh Samui is by flying. The island has its own international airport, Samui Airport (USM), which serves both domestic and international flights. You can find direct flights from major cities in Thailand, as well as from international hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. The airport is located in the northeast of the island and provides convenient access to your destination.

By Ferry: If you prefer a more scenic journey, you can take a ferry to Koh Samui. Ferries operate from various piers on the mainland, including Don Sak Pier near Surat Thani. The ferry ride offers picturesque views of the Gulf of Thailand and the surrounding islands. It’s a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the sea breeze and take in the stunning coastal landscapes.

By Bus and Ferry: For an economical option, you can take a combination of bus and ferry. Buses depart from Bangkok and other cities, bringing you to the ferry piers on the mainland. From there, you can board the ferry to Koh Samui. This option may take longer than flying but can be a more budget-friendly choice for travelers.

By Train and Ferry: Another interesting way to get to Koh Samui is by taking a train to Surat Thani on the mainland and then transferring to a ferry. While the train journey offers a unique perspective of the Thai countryside, keep in mind that this option might require multiple transfers and could take more time.

Getting Around on Koh Samui

When it comes to exploring the vibrant wonders of Koh Samui, you have a range of transportation options to suit your preferences. Each mode of transport contributes to your island experience:

1. Taxis: Taxis are a convenient way to travel around the island, offering comfort and ease. They are readily available and can take you to your desired destinations, whether it’s uncovering the allure of Koh Samui’s beautiful coastal areas or diving into the nightlife that lights up Chaweng. Use the Grab or Bolt app.

2. Songthaews: These shared open-air pick-up trucks are a popular and budget-friendly choice. They follow set routes and can be flagged down along the way, making them a great option for moving around the various attractions that Koh Samui has to offer and immersing yourself in local life.

3. Scooter and Car Rentals: For those seeking independence and flexibility, renting a scooter or car is an option. This allows you to explore Koh Samui at your own pace, whether you’re venturing to iconic viewpoints or discovering lesser-known spots mentioned in your Koh Samui Travel Guide. Samui has some poor roads and I do not recommend renting a motorbike in Thailand .

4. Motorbike Taxis: For a quick and efficient option, motorbike taxis are available for short rides. They can navigate through traffic easily and get you to your destination swiftly. Use the Grab or Bolt app.

Each transportation option presents its own advantages, allowing you to tailor your Koh Samui experience according to your desires. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning beaches, the lively Chaweng Nightlife, or the array of attractions the island offers, these options ensure you can traverse the island comfortably and make the most of your visit.

Exploring the Best Areas to Stay in Koh Samui

Selecting the ideal location for your stay in Koh Samui is a pivotal decision that can shape your entire island experience. Each area has its own unique charm, catering to different preferences and interests. Here’s a guide to help you discover the best areas to stay in Koh Samui:

1. Beachfront Bliss – Chaweng Beach: Chaweng Beach is an undeniable gem, offering a vibrant blend of pristine sands, turquoise waters, and an array of dining and entertainment options. As the island’s most popular area, it effortlessly combines the allure of Koh Samui beaches with the excitement of the Chaweng nightlife. Staying here places you at the heart of the action, ensuring that relaxation and revelry are just steps away. Recommended hotels are Montien House Hotel or Samui Paradise Chaweng Hotel

2. Tranquility and Charm – Bophut: For those seeking a more serene and culturally rich atmosphere, Bophut presents an inviting escape. The Fisherman’s Village exudes a rustic charm, with its charming shops, local markets, and beachside restaurants. Immerse yourself in the island’s heritage while enjoying the peaceful ambiance, making Bophut a perfect retreat for a relaxing getaway. Recommended hotels are Samui Heritage Resort or Hacienda Fisherman’s Village

3. Serene Oasis – Mae Nam: Mae Nam offers a tranquil haven where you can fully unwind. This area boasts quieter beaches, making it an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation away from the crowds. Mae Nam’s laid-back atmosphere is complemented by its selection of boutique resorts and bungalows, providing an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle. Recommended hotels are Sandalwood Luxury Villas or Pinnacle Samui Resort

4. Lively Energy – Lamai Beach: Lamai Beach strikes a balance between liveliness and relaxation. This area is known for its diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale resorts. As you explore the Koh Samui attractions around Lamai Beach, you’ll find a mix of water sports, shopping, and dining experiences to keep you entertained. Recommended hotels are Rich Resort Beachside Hotel or Palm Coco Mantra

5. Luxury and Seclusion – Choeng Mon: For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Choeng Mon offers a slice of luxury and seclusion. This area boasts a collection of upscale resorts and stunning villas, often accompanied by private beaches and breathtaking views. If you’re looking for privacy and pampering, Choeng Mon is an excellent choice. Recommended hotels are Samui Honey Tara Villa Residence

6. Natural Retreat – South Coast: The south coast of Koh Samui provides a natural retreat for nature enthusiasts. With its lush hillsides, stunning viewpoints, and quieter beaches, this area offers a getaway surrounded by the island’s natural beauty. It’s a haven for those who wish to disconnect and immerse themselves in tranquil surroundings. Recommended hotels are Samui Reef View Resort or Weekender Resort

Serene Koh Samui Beach Escapes: Your Oasis of Tranquility

Discover the alluring beauty of Koh Samui beaches, where pristine shores meet the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Each beach on this tropical haven offers a distinct character, from the vibrant energy of Chaweng Beach to the tranquil serenity of Lipa Noi Beach. As you explore these coastal gems, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of relaxation, adventure, and captivating natural beauty.

Chaweng Beach: As the island’s most renowned beach, Chaweng Beach stands as a testament to Koh Samui’s captivating beauty. With its powdery sands and azure waters, it’s a magnet for travelers seeking relaxation and vibrant energy. Chaweng’s array of water sports, beachfront dining, and lively nightlife contribute to its reputation as a must-visit destination.

Lamai Beach: Lamai Beach, known for its laid-back ambiance, beckons those in search of a tranquil retreat. The golden sands and swaying palms create a serene backdrop, offering a slice of paradise for relaxation. Local shops and establishments provide a glimpse into the island’s unique culture.

Bophut Beach: Bophut Beach, adorned by the charming Fisherman’s Village, is an embodiment of Koh Samui’s cultural richness. Here, you can stroll along the shoreline while exploring boutique shops, savoring delectable cuisine, and engaging with the island’s heritage.

Maenam Beach: Maenam Beach is a sanctuary of calm, where the gentle waves meet the soft sands, making it an ideal spot for swimming and unwinding. The verdant surroundings add to the tranquility, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle.

Choeng Mon Beach: Choeng Mon’s crescent-shaped bay captivates with its pristine beauty. Shallow waters and a gentle slope into the sea make it perfect for families and relaxation seekers. This serene haven is a testament to Koh Samui’s diverse beach offerings.

Silver Beach (Thongtakian Beach): Silver Beach, hidden away from the crowds, presents a secluded escape. Its fine sands and inviting waters create an intimate atmosphere, perfect for those yearning for peaceful moments by the sea.

Lipa Noi Beach: Lipa Noi Beach, renowned for its mesmerizing sunsets, invites travelers to unwind in its tranquil embrace. Its shallow waters are ideal for families, and the absence of crowds ensures an authentic and peaceful experience.

With a diverse range of options, Koh Samui beaches cater to every traveler’s preference. From the vibrant energy of Chaweng to the cultural allure of Bophut and the serenity of Lamai, each beach is a testament to the island’s innate charm. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, these pristine beaches stand as a cornerstone of your island exploration.

Top 10 Things To Do In Koh Samui

Embrace the best Koh Samui Attractions, where captivating beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a rich tapestry of experiences await. Embark on a journey guided by our Koh Samui Travel Guide, which will lead you to the best beaches, exciting attractions, and a world of adventure. Discover the allure of Koh Samui’s pristine shores, from the stunning Koh Samui beaches to the dynamic Chaweng nightlife. Uncover the hidden gems of this tropical paradise, where every moment is an opportunity to create lasting memories. Let take a look at my favorite 10 Things To Do in Koh Samui.

• Go Snorkeling at Koh Tao: Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Koh Tao, an idyllic island known for its exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, guided by experienced instructors. This adventure is a must for any underwater enthusiast visiting Koh Samui.
• Experience Angthong Marine Park: Embark on a guided tour to Angthong Marine Park, a breathtaking archipelago of 42 islands. Engage in kayaking, snorkeling, and discovering hidden lagoons. The emerald-green waters and stunning rock formations will leave you in awe, providing a unique and unforgettable experience.
• Relax on Chaweng Beach: Unwind and soak up the tropical paradise on Chaweng Beach. Feel the soft sands beneath your toes, listen to the gentle waves, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or a fun-filled beach day, Chaweng Beach has it all.
• Experience Night Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by visiting Koh Samui’s renowned night markets. Indulge in delectable local cuisine, shop for unique crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy live entertainment. The night markets offer a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds, making it a must-visit attraction.
• Visit an Elephant Sanctuary: Foster a deeper connection with nature by visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary. Get up close to these gentle giants, learn about their conservation, and contribute to their well-being. It’s an opportunity to interact with elephants in a responsible and meaningful way.
• Explore Hin Lat Waterfall Temple: Embark on a serene hike to Hin Lat Waterfall Temple, surrounded by lush foliage and the soothing sounds of cascading water. Discover the tranquil atmosphere of this spiritual site, where you can reflect, meditate, and rejuvenate amidst nature’s beauty.
• Lad Koh Viewpoint: Elevate your experience on Koh Samui by visiting Lad Koh Viewpoint. Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s coastline and surrounding landscapes. From this vantage point, you’ll witness the convergence of land and sea, providing a photographer’s dream and a moment of tranquility.
• Explore Fisherman’s Village: Stroll through the charming streets of Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, where you’ll find a fusion of culture, history, and modernity. Browse boutique shops, savor diverse culinary delights, and absorb the atmosphere of this quaint coastal village.
• Go Quad Biking in the Jungle: Get your adrenaline pumping with an exhilarating quad biking adventure through Koh Samui’s lush jungles. Navigate off-road trails, conquer obstacles, and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty, all while experiencing an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
• Attend the Full Moon Party: Join the electric atmosphere of the legendary Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, just a short boat ride away. Dance under the moonlight, revel in live music, and celebrate with fellow travelers. It’s an event that promises an unforgettable night of festivities and vibrant energy.

Culinary Delights of Koh Samui: Exploring Southern Thai Cuisine

Koh Samui offers a variety of delicious cuisines that are special to the region. One notable cuisine is “Southern Thai Cuisine,” which has a distinct and flavorful character. Known for its bold and spicy flavors, Southern Thai dishes often feature ingredients such as coconut milk, turmeric, lemongrass, and fresh herbs. Some signature dishes you might want to try include:

• Massaman Curry: A rich and aromatic curry with influences from Indian cuisine. It typically contains tender chunks of meat, potatoes, and peanuts in a flavorful, mildly spicy sauce.
• Gaeng Som: A sour and spicy soup made with fish or shrimp, tamarind, and vegetables. It’s a unique and refreshing flavor combination.
• Khao Yam: A traditional Southern Thai rice salad made with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruits, all mixed with a savory dressing.
• Kua Kling: A fiery dry curry made with minced meat (often pork or chicken) and aromatic spices. It’s a favorite among those who enjoy intense flavors.
• Khanom Jeen Nam Ya: A dish consisting of fermented rice noodles served with a flavorful fish curry sauce and an array of fresh herbs and vegetables.
• Khao Yum Pak Tai: Similar to Khao Yam, this dish features fragrant rice served with a variety of herbs, vegetables, and a tasty dressing.
• Hoi Tod: A crispy seafood pancake made with a batter of rice flour and eggs, topped with fresh oysters, mussels, or squid.
• Som Tum (Papaya Salad): While found throughout Thailand, Southern-style Som Tum tends to be spicier and incorporates additional regional ingredients.

Exploring the local food scene in Koh Samui is a culinary adventure that will introduce you to these distinctive flavors and the vibrant culture of Southern Thailand.

Embrace the Night: Koh Samui’s Captivating Nightlife Revealed

As the sun sets over Koh Samui, a new world of excitement and entertainment awakens. Our Koh Samui Nightlife Guide is your companion to unlocking the island’s after-dark allure, where the inviting Koh Samui beaches meet the dynamic Chaweng nightlife. Step into a realm where evenings come alive with vibrant energy, pulsating beats, and captivating experiences. Join us as we delve into the vibrant tapestry of Koh Samui’s nightlife, where every night holds the promise of adventure and unforgettable memories.

• Chaweng Beach Nightlife: Experience the vibrant Koh Samui nightlife at Chaweng Beach, where the lively atmosphere comes alive after dark. Explore the dynamic mix of beachfront bars, clubs, and live music venues, including the renowned Green Mango area. Dance to pulsating beats, sip on tropical cocktails, and immerse yourself in the energetic vibe of Chaweng’s night scene.
• Green Mango Club : A beacon of nightlife, the Green Mango Club stands as an emblem of Koh Samui’s party scene. This iconic mini walking street venue pulsates with energy, featuring live performances, DJ sets, and an electric atmosphere that draws revelers from all corners of the island. The club’s vibrant ambiance guarantees unforgettable nights of music, drinking, and dancing.
• Fisherman’s Village: Immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Fisherman’s Village in Bophut during the evening hours. Stroll through its enchanting streets adorned with shops, restaurants, and cozy bars. On Fridays, the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street Market offers a delightful array of local crafts, street food delights, and live performances, creating an immersive and lively atmosphere.
• Reggae Pub and Bar: Unwind in the laid-back ambiance of Koh Samui’s iconic Reggae Pub and Bar, where the soulful rhythms of reggae music fill the air. This well-loved establishment in Chaweng provides the perfect setting to enjoy live bands, sip on island-inspired drinks, and connect with fellow travelers, all while embracing the island’s distinctive and relaxed vibe. Many beer bars on way to here.
• Ark Bar Beach Club: Discover the captivating Ark Bar Beach Club on Chaweng Beach, a sought-after beachfront destination that transforms into a pulsating party paradise after sunset. Delight in the mesmerizing fire shows, dance to the beats of DJs, and savor drinks by the ocean’s edge. This beach club offers a seamless blend of electrifying energy and serene beachfront views.
• Muay Thai Boxing: Immerse yourself in the rich Thai culture by attending a thrilling Muay Thai boxing match at one of Koh Samui’s arenas. Witness the precision and intensity of this ancient martial art as skilled fighters engage in electrifying matches. This authentic experience provides a window into the island’s sporting heritage and the artistry of Muay Thai.
• Beachfront Bars: Embrace the tranquility and enchantment of Koh Samui’s beaches by unwinding at beachfront bars. Indulge in a refreshing cocktail as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the sea. The gentle waves and the sea breeze create the perfect backdrop for a serene and captivating evening.
• Night Markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture at Koh Samui’s night markets, such as the Bophut Night Market and Lamai Night Plaza. These bustling markets offer a sensory delight of flavors, colors, and sounds, inviting you to sample delectable street food, shop for unique crafts, and enjoy live performances in an immersive evening setting.
• Full Moon Party: While not hosted on Koh Samui itself, the nearby Koh Phangan beckons party enthusiasts to the legendary Full Moon Party. If your visit coincides with this vibrant event, you’ll be treated to a night of pulsating music, energetic dancing, and the luminous glow of the full moon, creating an unforgettable and electrifying atmosphere.
• Private Beach Dinners: Elevate your romantic evening by indulging in a private beach dinner experience. Many of Koh Samui’s resorts offer this intimate setting, allowing you to enjoy a candlelit dinner with your toes in the sand. The tranquil sounds of the ocean and the starlit sky create a backdrop that’s both enchanting and romantic, making for a memorable and cherished evening.

Koh Samui’s nightlife is a blend of excitement, cultural immersion, relaxation, and enchantment, offering a diverse array of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler.

Koh Samui’s Night Markets: A Feast for the Senses

As the sun sets over Koh Samui, the island’s vibrant night markets come to life, offering a captivating blend of flavors, colors, and local culture. Discover a world of experiences that evoke your senses and create lasting memories under the starlit sky. Let’s immerse ourselves in the enchanting realm of Koh Samui’s night markets, where the aroma of street food, the buzz of lively crowds, and the allure of unique finds combine to create an unforgettable evening.

Bophut Night Market: Located in the heart of Fisherman’s Village, the Bophut Night Market is a captivating fusion of local and international influences. Explore stalls brimming with authentic street food, handmade crafts, and distinctive souvenirs. Indulge in local favorites like Pad Thai, delectable savory pancakes, and freshly prepared seafood dishes. As you immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere, you’ll discover a tapestry of cultural treasures.

Lamai Night Plaza: As the sun sets, Lamai Night Plaza transforms into a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment that caters to every palate. Rows of stalls offer an eclectic mix of goods, including clothing, accessories, and artisan crafts. Delight in the diverse range of street food, from succulent grilled meats to delectable sweet treats, as you navigate through the lively plaza.

Chaweng Night Market: For an authentic Thai encounter, Chaweng Night Market beckons with its vibrant display of culture and culinary delights. Meander through a maze of stalls that showcase the essence of Thailand. The aroma of Thai street food fills the air as you explore local handicrafts and clothing. Amid the bustling crowds, the vibrant ambiance captures the spirit of Thai nightlife.

Maenam Walking Street: Set against the backdrop of Maenam Beach, the Maenam Walking Street provides an intimate and relaxed setting for a night market experience. Discover a charming assortment of stalls offering handicrafts, clothing, and captivating artwork. As you meander through the stalls, relish mouthwatering snacks and enjoy live music performances that enhance the laid-back atmosphere.

Chaweng Beach Road Night Market: Along the bustling Chaweng Beach Road, the Chaweng Beach Road Night Market brings together shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant ensemble. Explore a variety of stalls offering fashion, accessories, and unique souvenirs. Treat your taste buds to an array of street food delights hailing from different regions of Thailand.

Koh Samui’s night markets invite you to experience more than just shopping and dining; they provide a gateway to the island’s local lifestyle and age-old traditions. Whether you’re in search of one-of-a-kind keepsakes, tantalizing flavors, or an atmosphere filled with life, Koh Samui’s night markets promise an immersive and indelible evening experience that captures the essence of the island.

Experience Koh Samui’s Best: A 5-Day Adventure

Embark on a 5-day journey through Koh Samui, where adventure and tranquility unite seamlessly. This curated itinerary encapsulates with my top 10 things to do in Koh Samui list, offering a blend of natural wonders, cultural exploration, and vibrant nightlife. From snorkeling in pristine waters to dancing under the moonlight, immerse yourself in the essence of Koh Samui as you craft unforgettable memories along the way.

Day 1: Arrival and Chaweng Beach Bliss

• Arrive on Koh Samui and settle into your chosen accommodation, eagerly anticipating the adventures that lie ahead.
• Spend your initial afternoon unwinding on the alluring shores of Chaweng Beach, where the azure waters and soft sands offer a perfect introduction to the island’s beauty.
• As the sun dips below the horizon, delve into the lively atmosphere of Chaweng Night Market, immersing yourself in the local culture and treating your taste buds to a medley of culinary delights.

Day 2: Angthong Marine Park and Beachfront Indulgence

• Embark on a guided excursion to Angthong Marine Park, immersing yourself in the enchanting world of hidden lagoons and vibrant underwater life.
• Upon returning to Koh Samui in the afternoon, allow the evening to unfold with a leisurely visit to a beachfront restaurant. Here, you’ll savor a delectable meal while the tranquil waves provide a melodic backdrop.

Day 3: Nature Retreat and Sunset Spectacle

• Begin your day with a tranquil morning on the idyllic shores of Chaweng Beach, embracing the serene surroundings and breathing in the island’s natural beauty.
• As the day progresses, embark on a scenic hike to Hin Lat Waterfall, where nature’s beauty and the cascading waters create a peaceful ambiance.
• Witness the sun’s descent from Lad Koh Viewpoint, capturing a mesmerizing sunset panorama before savoring an authentic island meal at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Koh Tao Adventure and Village Delights

• Embark on an exhilarating Koh Tao excursion, delving into the underwater wonders through immersive snorkeling or diving experiences.
• Upon returning to Koh Samui, the evening invites you to Fisherman’s Village for a delightful dinner by the sea. Savor the freshest seafood and diverse cuisine while absorbing the village’s charming atmosphere.
• As night falls, immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of the Fisherman’s Village Night Market, adding a touch of cultural exploration to your evening.

Day 5: Elephant Encounter and Full Moon Celebration

• Commence your day with a heartwarming visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary, forging a meaningful connection with these gentle giants and supporting their well-being.
• As twilight sets in, embark on a brief boat journey to Koh Phangan for the iconic Full Moon Party. Dance under the luminous moon, celebrate to live music, and create unforgettable memories in a truly vibrant atmosphere.
• Enjoy your last night and Bid farewell to Koh Samui, carrying with you treasured memories of serene beaches, lush landscapes, cultural experiences, and lively celebrations.

Conclusion of Best Koh Samui Attractions

As you navigate this Koh Samui Travel Guide, let the rhythm of the island guide your journey. With its pristine beaches, beautiful natural Koh Samui attractions, and vibrant nightlife, Samui promises an unforgettable adventure that merges relaxation, culture, and excitement into an extraordinary tapestry of memories. Whether you’ve lounged on the sands, explored hidden waterfalls, or danced the night away, Koh Samui’s essence will remain etched in your heart long after you’ve returned home.

What makes Koh Samui beaches special?

Koh Samui beaches are renowned for their pristine beauty and diverse character. From the bustling shores of Chaweng to the serene coves of Choeng Mon, each beach offers a unique experience that captures the essence of the island’s allure.

What are the top things to do in Koh Samui?

Embrace a spectrum of experiences, from snorkeling at Angthong Marine Park to exploring hidden waterfalls and immersing yourself in vibrant night markets. The blend of nature, culture, and adventure makes every day on the island unforgettable.

Does Chaweng have any nightlife?

Chaweng nightlife comes alive with energy as the sun sets. From beachfront bars to vibrant nightclubs, Chaweng offers an array of entertainment options that cater to every mood and musical taste.

What are the must-visit Koh Samui attractions?

Apart from its beaches, Koh Samui boasts a treasure trove of attractions. Discover the cultural tapestry of Fisherman’s Village, capture panoramic views at Lad Koh Viewpoint, and engage with gentle giants at ethical elephant sanctuaries.

How can I make the most of my Koh Samui trip?

Plan your days around the island’s diverse offerings. Indulge in beach relaxation, explore natural wonders, savor local cuisine, and engage in the vibrant nightlife for a truly comprehensive experience.

When is the best time to visit Koh Samui?

Koh Samui’s pleasant tropical climate makes it a year-round destination. However, the dry season from December to February offers ideal conditions for beach activities and exploration.

Join Me As I Document My Travel Adventures Through Asia.

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The Best Things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 26, 2023

Koh Samui is the perfect island retreat for anyone wanting a mix of beautiful beaches, waterfalls, Buddhist temples, and modern amenities. With beautiful landscapes and natural beauty combined with cultural experiences and adventure, there are plenty of things to do in Koh Samui to fulfill every traveler’s needs.

Situated on the Eastern side of the Thai mainland in the Gulf of Thailand in the province of Surat Thani, Samui Island is the second-largest island in the Thai Kingdom (Phuket being the biggest). Koh Samui and Phuket have been compared countless times in an attempt to debate which island is the best, but to me, it is really impossible to choose a clear winner. You can read about Phuket here to help you make your choice.

Regardless, you should visit both islands when traveling to Thailand, in fact, it’s a great idea to go island hopping to see as many as you can. Nothing can really compare to the beautiful beaches of the country.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand

Visiting the Islands of South Thailand is the ultimate beach vacation and Koh Samui is one of the most popular places to enjoy the beach. While relaxing at the beach is a huge part of visiting Koh Samui, there are plenty of other things to see and do as well. So make sure to spend at least three days of your trip in Thailand on Koh Samui.

This post was originally written by Albert of Here to Stay who lived in Thailand, but it has since been updated with new hotels, tours and information by The Planet D.

Beach Life at Chaweng Beach

Koh Samui is blessed with white sandy beaches making it the perfect beach vacation in Thailand. Chaweng Beach is Koh Samui’s most popular beach and with good reason. It is one very large stretch of white sand with shady palm trees. In fact, it is so large it is broken into four parts, North, Central, South, and Little. (Chaweng Noi). If you want to be in the heart of the action, this is the place to stay.

There are plenty of water activities right on the beach at Chaweng making it the perfect place to spend the day. Try your hand at snorkeling and sea kayaking or rent a paddleboard and try stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters. It’s our favorite watersport. When the sun goes down, the nightlife begins on Chaweng Beach at its beach bars. For a taste of Koh Samui’s party scene, head out to the Green Mango strip for some bar hopping.

Where to Stay on Chaweng Beach

• Kings Island Resort is a highly rated place to stay on Chaweng Beach. There is no swimming pool but it is located directly on the beach.
• The Hyatt Regency is one of the most luxurious properties on the beach with a private swimming pool at a mid-range price.

Visit Grandpa and Grandma Rocks at Lamai Beach

Lamai Beach is quieter than Chaweng Beach and tends to attract a more laid-back crowd. This is a great beach for swimming and hanging back while enjoying the laid back Thai beach life. There are beach bars and restaurants and it is another popular place to make a base while exploring the island.

Koh Samui may be famous for its white sandy beaches, but the rocky beaches are definitely a sight to remember. It is at Lamai Beach that you will find the famous Koh Samui attractions of Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks.

Where to Stay at Lamai Beach

• Lamai Samui is a luxurious retreat with villas and suites on the water. Some villas have their own private plunge pools, infinity pools, and private dining pavilions. 
• One of the closest places to stay near the rocks is Beluga Boutique Hotel . This adult-only hotel is a secluded escape with an infinity pool, lounge bar, modern amenities and restaurants right on the beach.

Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks

Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks) are some of the more unique things to see on Koh Samui. The male and female genitalia-shaped rock formations have been a top draw since our first visit to Koh Samui way back in 2003. (and long before we ever arrived on Ko Samui).

Legend has it that an old man and woman set sail to a neighboring island to ask for the hand of a daughter of a man named Ta Monglai. When their boat capsized, they drowned and turned into these rocks to prove their true intentions to the family. It is a unique thing to see and it is also a beach on Koh Samui that offers some higher-end accommodation options.

Bouldering at Chaweng and Lamai Beach

We learned to rock climb in Thailand at Railay Beach and now, bouldering is popular on Koh Samui at Chaweng and Lamai Beach. It makes sense with their massive boulders. Its limestone walls have started attracting people honing their bouldering skills along the rocky beaches. With walls reaching up to 40 meters (120 feet)  both Chaweng and Lamai beach are also popular for rappeling.

See the Big Buddha Temple

One of the top things to do in Koh Samui is to visit Wat Phra Yai Temple to see the 12 meter high (39 foot high) Big Buddha. It was built in 1972 and has endured as one of Koh Samui’s top attractions.

Even though it isn’t technically located on Koh Samui, it is Koh Samui’s most famous landmark . The Big Buddha Temple is located on Koh Faan and connected to Koh Samui by a long causeway. Plus it is usually the first thing people put on their list to see as in Koh Samui as it can be seen by air upon arrival. This temple is a popular spot to celebrate Loy Krathong and Songkran Festivals in Thailand as well.

If you are looking to get acquainted with Koh Samui’s top attractions quickly , This half-day cycling tour lets you discover Koh Samui’s most famous sights including the Big Buddha, the Bang Rak Market, and the Choeng Mon Beach as you learn about the island’s culture and history from a local guide. We love taking a guided tour when we arrive at a new destination, it lets us see a lot of places in a couple of hours giving a great overview for the rest of the trip.

Wat Plai Laem

Another cool temple to see in Koh Samui is Wat Plai Laem. This Buddhist temple showcases Koh Samui’s Chinese heritage with a giant Guanyin statue dominating the temple grounds. Even though this is a Buddhist temple, it is actually dedicated to the Chinese Goddess Guanyin who is believed to be the Goddess of unconditional love.

A very unique thing to keep an eye out for is when you make a donation, you will receive a bag of fish food so you can feed the resident fish in the pond.

Khao Hua jook Chedi

While at Lamai Beach, make sure to go up to Wat Khao Hua Jook. It offers panoramic views of the island. It is easy to get “Watted out” When visiting Thailand. After a while, I know we have seen enough of them, but this one is worth it for the view of the valley and the coastline of Koh Samui. Plus, if you are looking to do a bit of hiking after spending too much time on the beach, this is a good walk.

If you are looking for something truly unique, keep an eye out for Overlap Stone, a large stone that rests precariously on top of a large boulder

Laem Sor Pagoda

If you are looking for a quiet place to stay away from the busy atmosphere of Lamai Beach and Chaweng Beach, Laem Sor Beach is located 20 minutes from Lamai Beach on the south side of the island. Laem Sor Pagoda is the top draw here to see the beautiful golden temple on the beach, but there are some resorts and beach bars in the area as well.

• Laem Sor Residence gets high reviews on TripAdvisor with a private pool located on a sandy beach with shallow waters.

Go Snorkeling

One of the best things to do in Koh Samui is to enjoy all of its water activities and snorkeling is one of the best things of them. Each island in Thailand offers its own unique quirks and customs but I must say, the thing that stood out the most to me about Koh Samui was the incredible snorkeling and scuba environments it had to offer. There are several boat tours that will take you out to see the coral reefs and sea life of Samui. You can also go snorkeling at Ang Thong National Marine Park.

This private long tail boat tour has you boarding one of Thailand’s famous longtail boats to Koh Taen, known for its marine life and coral reef. Plus you will get to visit Koh Madsum (Pig Island) to see the resident pigs that live there. We did this in the Bahamas and it is so much fun to see the pigs running in the sand to say hello. Other things you see are, White Rock Cave Island, Red Ant Island, and Matkhong Island

Scuba Diving

The neighboring island of Koh Tao is known for its scuba diving, but Samui is also an excellent scuba diving destination. There are many places offering scuba diving courses on the island at affordable prices. Plus the warm, clear, and inviting waters make it an ideal spot to become certified.

Scuba Diving courses are run right off Chaweng Beach , Coral Cove, and other beaches on Koh Samui with shore diving that is easy to access. Ang Thong National Marine Park is also considered a great diving destination.

Mummified Monk – Wat Khunaram

One of the strangest things to see on Koh Samui is the Mummified monk. Located at  Wat Khunaram, the mummified remains of Monk Luong Pordaeng are on display. The Buddhist monk died in 1973 in a seated meditative position. Before his death, he asked that his body be put on display should it not decompose. And now today, it is revered as an inspiration to follow a life of Buddhism.

We saw this monk on our first visit to Koh Samui and it’s not as shocking as it sounds as he is sitting behind glass so you do feel a little detached. One of the more unique things you can do is to attend a Monk Chat and meditation session at Dipabhavan Meditation Center for unique insight into this way of life. This is open to anyone.

Take a Thai Cooking Class

One of the best ways to immerse in a culture is through food. Thai food is our favorite and we eat it at home all the time! Visit a local market and learn to cook Thai cuisine. as you learn to prepare meals that you can bring home with you. It’s a fun and interactive way to spend an evening. Read more: Best Thai Food – Traditional Thai Dishes to Eat in Thailand

Book this cooking class details here – Choose four Thai dishes to prepare and then visit one of Koh Samui’s local street markets for fresh ingredients. You can book it here, with easy cancellation within 24 hours of activity for a full refund.

Check out the Night Markets

One of our favorite things to do in Thailand is to go shopping and sample their many small food stalls. Chiang Mai is famous for its night markets, but Koh Samui also has fabulous night markets that rotate locations each evening. Pick up your Thai souvenirs, sample great street food, and get lost in the energy and excitement of bartering with the vendors.

Best night markets in Koh Samui

• Fisherman’s Village Walking Street at Bophut on Fridays.
• Lamai Night Plaza Night Market in Lamai Centre – Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
• Chaweng Night Market in Bophut- Monday to Thursday and Saturday.

Fisherman’s Village in Bo Phut

Even if you don’t make it to Fishermen’s Village night market, it is a great walking street during the day. Once a thriving fishing village, Fisherman’s Village has now turned into It is filled with cafés and eateries. You can do some shopping and Bophut Beach is located right there as well. The village is lined with rustic-style buildings, boutiques, trendy restaurants, and bars along the main road.

The main section of Fisherman’s Village is Bophut Beach Road which lines the beach. Visitors can go into one of the shops or cafés and head out back for beautiful beach views.

Take a Koh Samui Jeep Tour

A fun way to see all the Koh Samui highlights is to take a jeep tour. See the secret lookout offering gorgeous views of the Gulf of Thailand, visit the waterfalls and the Buddha Garden. For a unique tour of Koh Samui, this is a great idea. Check out this top-rated jeep tour on Ko Samui and this day trip to Koh Phangan.

Swim in the Namuang Waterfalls

Namuang Waterfall is probably one of the top attractions located in central Koh Samui. Located inland from Nathon Bay, it is easily accessible by tuk tuk. Once you reach the parking lot, Na Muang 1 is just a short walk from the parking lot. Venture up another 100 meters to see Na Muang 1.

I must admit, I was very skeptical about visiting Na Muang because it is a very touristy place. But I was told when I get there I should climb up next to the waterfall as far as I could, “to see secret very beautiful waters”.

Tourists were crowding at the base of the Na Muang Waterfalls but if you are willing to climb at bit, you will have a quieter less crowded visit. As I climbed the steep little path I reached quite a few smaller but undisturbed waterfalls, each with its own little pools.

I climbed even higher and eventually reached the top. This was what I wanted to see, a totally unspoiled waterfall with lush jungle growing on either side, I discovered the “secret very beautiful waters”.

The view I had of the island was unbelievable and I couldn’t see or hear any tourists. It was heaven! I spent almost the whole day taking pictures, swimming, and eating the odd coconut that came floating down the stream.

Have a Traditional Thai Massage

Really, no matter where you are in Thailand a traditional Thai Massage should be on your list. And Koh Samui is no exception. I love getting a Thai massage on the beach and this is one of the must-do things in Koh Samui. Don’t worry about finding one, they will be walking the beach in search of tourists to soothe their aching bodies. If you don’t want to have a massage on the beach, go to a spa at one of the resorts for the 5 star treatment.

But you can also walk along the streets to find massage parlors or book a fancier massage at one of the higher-end hotels. But do yourself a favor, get a massage as much as possible in Thailand. They are so affordable and it is nice to get pampered like royalty on a regular basis.

Indulge in Wellness and Fitness

If you want to take your wellness holiday to another level, make sure to stay at the Absolute Sanctuary. This wellness fitness resort is nestled on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Located within a lush forest setting, Absolute Sanctuary takes a holistic approach seeking to address individual wellness goals such as a detox holiday, pamper-me holiday, weight management or reducing stress.

Indulge in yoga or Pilates as you enjoy a meaningful holiday that will bring peace to your mind and body. If you are looking for a wellness retreat, you can view rates and availability here.

Go for a Hike To Secret Buddha Garden

Koh Samui has some great hiking and if the beach life becomes a little tedious (I mean, how could it ever really though?) or you want to stretch your legs, head out to some of the trails for a hike.

Secret Buddha Garden (also known as Namtok Tar Nim & Magic Garden) is a very interesting place to visit. Created in 1976 by a local durian fruit farmer, there are several different Buddha Sculptures depicting different Buddha folklore.

There are plenty of other places to hike on Koh Samui besides Secret Buddha Garden to see Buddha including a hike on the Nathon Mountain Trail Ridge or head up to the Maenam Viewpoint for great views of Nathon and the beautiful tropical island scene.

• This Koh Samui Trek takes you on a hike to some of the most beautiful viewpoints on Koh Samui with a stop at the Secret Buddha Garden, the highest temple on the island and a local museum.
• You can hike to Secret Buddha Garden or take a 4X4 Jeep Tour. Check out tour options here.

Ang Thong National Marine Park

A must-do day trip from Koh Samui is to head out to the Ang Thong National Marine Park. Like so many places in Southern Thailand, Ang Thong was featured in the movie The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio . We highly recommend reading the book as well before visiting Thailand. The country has changed a lot over the years, but it really captures the feeling we had on our first backpacking trip to Thailand in 200.

Ang Thong National Park is an archipelago of 42 islands with the towering limestone mountains that Thailand is famous for. You can swim in lagoons, relax on pristine beaches, or go snorkelling and spy sea turtles in its crystal clear waters.

Both Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are part of the Ang Thong National Marine Park and it can be visited on a day trip. For the ultimate in luxury, book an overnight cruise on a junk boat to experience the islands in private.

Day Trip to Koh Phangan

We mentioned island-hopping while visiting Koh Samui above and we mean it. Thailand was made for island hopping. From Koh Samui, you can easily visit Koh Phangan and Koh Tao on boat tours from Koh Samui.

Koh Phangan is popular enough to spend some time on in its own right, but if you simply want to visit for a day, this Full day Tour takes you to see all the highlights of Koh Phangan.

The island is just a 30-minute boat ride from Koh Samui where you will land at Thong Sala pier. On this tour, you will explore the Chinese Temple, Koh Mah beach for snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters followed by traditional Thai lunch. Then it is time to visit the scenic viewpoint of Koh Raham before heading back by speedboat to your hotel in Koh Samui.

Koh Tao to explore peaceful hidden beaches, underwater sanctuaries filled with sea creatures, and all-night parties. Koh Tao is one of the best spots for snorkelling and diving in Thailand. Koh Tao is often referred to as Turtle Island for both its shape and the green and hawksbill turtles that inhabit the beautiful island. It is also one of the best places in Thailand to take your PADI certification. Read more at Beautiful Beaches in Thailand to Spark Your Wanderlust

Go to an Elephant Sanctuary

Elephants have long suffered in Thailand, but thanks to sanctuaries converting from elephant tours to ethical elephant sanctuaries, you can visit retired tourism elephants and help support their well being.

Take a 40 minute drive through the other side of the island to a sanctuary where you will learn about the rescued elephants, feed them and help bath them in mud. These elephants have been rescued and these sanctuaries are an important part in letting them live out their days in relative peace. While they can never go back in the wild, it is a much better life than having tourists ride on their backs. Find out more about the elephant sanctuary tour here.

Rent a Scooter – But Be Careful

Koh Samui offers a lot of touristy sights to explore. The best (and cheapest) way to see everything is by renting your own scooter. I understand that this is a daunting idea to most newcomers to Southeast Asia, but it only takes a couple of minutes for you to get the hang of it and feel like a hardcore biker.

Make sure that you wear a helmet at all times and drive safely. Sadly, many tourists die on the roads of Thailand every year, so be extremely careful. Dave and I had an accident in Koh Samui and burnt our legs very badly, so be sure that you know how to ride a motorcycle before renting one.

Invest in an island map and ask a local to indicate all the must-see locations. Naturally the next thing to do is to completely ignore the map and just get lost! This is the best way to find hidden gems. A Motorcycle Adventure, the Journey Begins

Chill out after Dark

After you’ve soaked up some rays all day long, head out to the beach to enjoy dinner and drinks on a matt on the beach. Each night, the lanterns are lit and the lounge chairs come out as you eat on the beach harem style laying down chillaxing with a Chang or Singha Beer.

This Sunset Tour with a Thai Beach Dinner takes you on an evening tour to see some of Koh Samui’s top tourist attractions including, a night market, the Hin Ta Hin Yai Rocks, and sunset at Laem Sor Pagoda before finishing off with a Thai dinner on the beach.

Lady Boy Cabaret Show

If you are looking for other things to do in Koh Samui at night, check out a Lady Boy Cabaret. Like the days of La Cage Au Folles in North America. (Way back in the 1990s), the Lady Boy Cabaret Shows have become one of the very best things to see in Koh Samui at night. This energetic performance involves lip-synching, dancing, and elaborate costumes.

If you want something with more action, Muay Thai fighters put on demonstrations around the island as well. You can also make your way to Chaweng Boxing Stadium to watch a Muay Thai match. You can also do some Muay Thai training on Koh Samui. We did this in Phuket and it was an amazing way to immerse in Thai culture.

Getting Around Koh Samui

I know we mentioned rending a scooter to get around, but for a safer option we recommend a car rental. You can compare prices here.

How to Get to Koh Samui

Koh Samui is located in the Surat Thani province 35 km off the coast of Surat Thani on the Gulf of Thailand. The town of Surat Thani is the main jumping-off point for the small islands on the Gulf of Thailand and you can easily catch regular ferries from here.

Neighboring islands are Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, and Ko Nang Yuan which can all be reached by longtail boat or ferry.

There are internal flights available from Phuket to Koh Samui as well as Bangkok to Koh Samui making it an easy destination to visit during your Thailand travels. If you are coming from other islands in the south of Thailand, you will have to make your way to Surat Thani. There are also daily flights from Bangkok to Surat Thani.

From Surat Thani, you will catch the ferry to Koh Samui from the main Surat Thani ferry port at Donsak Pier.

Where to Stay on Koh Samui

Koh Samui is known for its luxury resorts but there are also places that are more affordable. But here are some recommendations to get you started.

• Four Seasons Resort  – Expensive but worth the splurge. you can never go wrong with the Four Seasons brand if you are in search of a luxury stay.
• The Hyatt Regency is one of the more luxurious resorts on the beach with a private swimming pool at an affordable price for mid-range travelers.
• For other hotels on Koh Samui, check out  TripAdvisor  for reviews.

So, now you know the best things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand. When you book your next trip to the Land of Smiles, be sure to add it to your itinerary.

Koh Samui has a lot more to offer other than waterfalls and coral reefs but these were the things that stood out the most to me. It is a beautiful island with breathtaking lush jungle and amazing beaches with shady palm trees, maybe I should leave Phuket and move here. Koh Samui will definitely see me again in the near future.

Albert van Niekerk is a South African copywriter, blogger and travel writer. I lived in Thailand for a while and traveled through Southeast Asia looking for adventure.  Follow him at Here to Stray.com .

Read More about Thailand

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24 thoughts on “The Best Things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand”

It’s a best destination to visit,I think everybody must go there once in a lifetime.

Thailand is such a nice place. I have visited that place once together with my family. The foods are really delicious and the people are really good!

I’ve spent so much time in Thailand and still haven’t visited Koh Samui. Looks like I’m going to have to get myself there!

Ha! I did this about 20 years ago in my twenties and hope to do it again next year. We are in Spain now, but plan for SE Asia next. Can’t wait. Thanks for sharing and bringing back great memories.

Love that bamboo bridge.

Koh Samui looks stunning! And quite the nice little getaway you discovered by hiking farther up than the normal tourist would. I’ll be reaching Thailand in November and you are definitely giving me ideas for places to visit, thank you!

Hey Ryan, have an amazing time in Thailand. You are going to love it. One thing we find is that it is a big enough country that you can still get off the tourist path, even in the touristy places. Albert definitely showed a different side to Koh Samui. It was one of our favourite islands in Thailand, and we look forward to going back one day.

Finding hidden gems always makes the best moments when travelling. I’ve been to Koh Samui, but not for long. I definitely want to go back and try and find this waterfall.

We agree, there are always quiet places that only the locals know about and if you are lucky or if you stick around a spot long enough, you can happen upon them. We spent about a week there years ago and definitely want to go back.

I love the red color on the second and third picture of the temple. I wish I can visit the place too.

It is called Wat Ratchathammaram (Red Temple) and I took thousands of pictures of it. It is beautiful.

Beautiful! From what I understand, Koh Samui has fabulous restaurants and resorts as well as a vibrant yoga scene and affordable, eco-friendly accommodation & delicious detox / raw / juicing community with resorts dedicated to all of these practices. Amazing all around!

Thanks for the update on Koh Samui. We were last there in 2003 ourselves, so I can only imagine how much it has changed. This article has made us want to go back!

We’re going to Koh Samui in November! We’ll have to look for the secret waterfall path.

Have a great time, you are going to love Thailand and it’s even better when you get a chance to find a secret place.

Just keep on climbing and climbing. It is definitely worth the effort! Thanks for reading.

Can’t wait until we get to Thailand. Just look at the color of that water. Definitely don’t see that where we are now (England)!

Very cool post! You were lucky to find that random Thai guy. It seems he knows the place well.

Yes I was really lucky to have found the guy. I always go out of my way to chat to the locals…they always seem to guide me in the right direction. Thanks for reading the post!

Koh Samui sounds like an excellent place to let your hair down! Very informative post!

It is an amazing place you have to make a plan to see it. Thanks for reading!

• 3 February 2024

Koh Samui Travel Guide – Explore Beaches and Culture in Thailand

Explore beaches and culture in thailand with this koh samui travel guide.

Welcome to Koh Samui, the tropical paradise that blends pristine beaches, cultural wonders, and vibrant nightlife. In this Koh Samui travel guide, I’ll take you on a journey through the must-visit spots, from breathtaking beaches to cultural landmarks and sportive activities. During my stay in Koh Samui in December 2023, I joined a Muay Thai camp. An awesome experience where I could still explore some parts of the island during my daytime breaks. However, I wasn’t able to squeeze in all the hotspots I had saved on my travel map. Nevertheless, I’ll provide you with an overview of the best things to do in Koh Samui including some recommended restaurants. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure!

The best time to visit koh Samui

When planning your visit to Koh Samui, timing is key to ensure you make the most of your tropical getaway. While Thailand’s high season, characterized by dry weather, typically spans from November to February, the optimal period to explore the islands in the east, including Koh Samui, extends slightly later. The best time to visit Koh Samui is considered to be from January to April when the weather is at its finest, offering sunny days and ideal conditions for beach activities and sightseeing. However, the weather tends to improve significantly starting in mid-December. If you’re aiming for a perfect blend of clear skies and pleasant temperatures, this period provides an excellent window for your vacation. 

How to get to Koh Samui

By Air: Koh Samui’s airport is well-connected, offering domestic and international flights. Several airlines operate direct flights to the island, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure. Book early to avoid high prices, as I paid €150 for a one-way fare from Bangkok with Bangkok Airways. 

By Sea: There are also ferry and speedboat options available. Direct ferry services, such as Lomprayah, connect Koh Samui with neighbouring islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. Furthermore, there is also a connection with the mainland, such as Surat Thani. The travel time varies, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours depending on weather conditions. 

Bookings: Secure your transportation by booking directly with ferry companies like Lomprayah or use convenient platforms like 12go.asia. 

How to get around Koh Samui

Motorbike Rentals: The easiest way to get around Koh Samui is by renting a motorbike. Next to it being the most popular option, it is also the most cost-effective option. It provides the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace and generally roads are well maintained. 

Taxis: Alternatively you can take a taxi to multiple places in Koh Samui, however, sometimes the prices are quite high. I advise you to use Grab, the taxi app for the best prices and highest convenience.

Koh Samui Travel Guide Summary

Things to do.

• Enjoy the Beaches
• Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)
• Wat Plai Laem temple
• Fisherman’s Village (night market)
• Follow a Muay Thai Class
• Ang Thong Marine Park
• Na Muang Waterfall 2
• Secret Buddha Garden
• Grandfather.& Grandmother Rocks
• Overlap Stone
• Nightlife in Chaweng  

Restaurants

• Punch It Health Cafe
• Jungle Club
• Drip Indeed
• Carnival Beach Village
• Coco Tam’s
• Cape Away Beach Bar

Where to stay

The Rock Samui

Mantra Resort Samui

Lipa Lodge Beach Resort

The Nest Samui 

New Hut Bungalow 

- The best things to do in KOH Samui -

|| enjoy the best beaches on koh samui.

What better to start the Koh Samui travel guide than with an overview of the best beaches in Koh Samui? One thing is for sure, there are plenty of beaches to explore.

• Chaweng: Famous for its powdery white sand and vibrant atmosphere. Chaweng is one of the best-known tourist towns, so expect large crowds. 
• Lamai: A more laid-back alternative for Chaweng, perfect if you are seeking some crowds and drinks. 
• Lipa Noi Beach: Tranquil and more secluded, offering breathtaking sunset views.
• Baan Tai: A haven for water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers.
• Silver Beach: Crystal-clear waters and a quieter ambience for ultimate relaxation. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island. 
• Chengmon Beach: A picturesque beach with swaying palms, ideal for a stroll and a cocktail.

|| Visit the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)

Marvel at the iconic 12-meter tall golden Buddha statue, a symbol of Koh Samui that can already be seen when you fly into Koh Samui. It’s a must-visit cultural landmark in the north of the island and can be perfectly combined with Wat Plai Laem. 

|| Visit the Wat Plai Laem Temple

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of this striking temple with vibrant statues and artwork. After seeing plenty of temples in Thailand, and especially in Chiang Mai, I still have to say Wat Plai Laem is one of my favourites. 

|| Visit Fisherman's Village and the night market

Indulge in the lively atmosphere of Fisherman’s Village, especially during the night market. Explore local crafts, taste delicious street food, and experience the charm of this historic area. Overall, I would advise you to go during the night market, as there is not much happening during the day. Nevertheless, there are some nice sea front restaurants to relax.

|| Follow a Muay Thai class and / or visit a fight

Unleash your inner warrior and experience the thrill of Muay Thai. There are plenty of Muay Thai schools on Koh Samui that offer classes for all levels. A great way to experience the local culture. First of all, a big shout out to  Punch It Gym,  I highly encourage you to book a class here! Also, visiting a Muay Thai fight is another great experience. 

|| Ang Thong Marine Park

Embark on an island-hopping adventure to Ang Thong Marine Park, which is the perfect day trip from Koh Samui. Discover pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs in this stunning archipelago. Book your day trip here. 

|| Na Muang Waterfall 2

Escape to the lush interior of the island and discover the beauty of Na Muang Waterfall 2. Firstly, you can visit Na Muang Waterfall 1, however, the 2nd waterfall is much more impressive. It might be a bit harder to reach, however, after a 15-minute climb you’ll reach the foot of the waterfall. From here, you can climb to the top of the waterfall, following a path on the waterfall’s left side. Be careful, this is a steep way up and takes approximately 30 minutes. Refresh yourself in the cool waters surrounded by tropical greenery.

|| Secret Buddha Garden

Explore the enigmatic Secret Buddha Garden, a hidden gem tucked away in the hills. Marvel at the intricate statues and lush landscapes that make this place truly magical.

9. Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks and Overlap Stone

Can rock formations be one of the main island’s sights? Definitely! First of all, witness the unique rock formations of Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks in the south of the island. Next to that, you can visit the intriguing Overlap Stone. These natural wonders offer a glimpse into Koh Samui’s geological charm.

The Best Restaurants And Bars in Koh Samui

If you’ve ever been to Thailand or read about Thailand, you will be fully aware that Thai food is great. Even though I wasn’t able to try many restaurants, due to my all-in package at Punch It, I tried a couple and did some research on great bars and restaurants in Koh Samui. 

• Moonlight: An amazing local Thai restaurant in Lamai. In the tourist towns, there are plenty of international restaurants to be found. Therefore, it might almost be challenging to find a great local restaurant. Moonlight is the one!
• Wild Tribe: Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Wild Tribe, offering vegetarian and vegan local food.
• Punch It Health Cafe: This health-conscious cafe belongs to the Pucnh It Gym. It’s the best way to fuel your body before or after a workout, but also honestly one of the best restaurants.
• Jungle Club: Dine amidst lush greenery at Jungle Club or have a drink, you’ll be rewarded with. the greatest views over Koh Samui. where the menu is as diverse as the surrounding tropical landscape.
• The Roof: Another restaurant with breathtaking views to elevate your dining experience.
• The Cocoon: Experience culinary innovation at The Cocoon, with a luxury vibe and top-notch dishes. A perfect place if you are in for a treat.
• Ban Thai: Experience authentic Thai flavors at Ban Thai, where traditional recipes are crafted with precision and passion.

(Coffee)bars

• Drip Indeed: Indulge in the rich and aromatic coffee blends at Drip Indeed, a cosy spot for coffee enthusiasts to unwind.
• Ocean Lane: Another good coffee bar in the north of Koh Samui.
• Carnival Beach Village: Immerse yourself in a lively beachside atmosphere at Carnival Beach Village, offering a mix of delicious food and festive vibes. In the afternoon, you can relax by the pool.
• Coco Tam’s: Unwind in the laid-back ambiance of Coco Tam’s, with tropical cocktails and the famous evening fire show.
• Cape Away Beach Bar: Enjoy a casual beachside meal at Cape Away Beach Bar near Baan Tai, where the sound of waves complements the delicious bites on offer.

- The best places to stay in Koh Samui -

There are plenty of hotels, hostels and resorts to be found in Koh Samui. Finding the right hotel can be quite overwhelming, even as finding the right location. Firstly, if you are looking for some buzz and nightlife, Chaweng is the best option. Also, Lamai might be your cup of tea. If you want to seek some more relaxation and quietness, it is better to stay in. the north of the island. With the list below, I tried to find some of the best hotels in Koh Samui to get you inspired, in different price ranges and locations. 

The Rock Samui, Lamai - Mid Range

Located near Grandfather and Grandmother Rock, you can find the beautiful hotel / resort The Rock Samui . The hotel is located right at the beach and has an outdoor swimming pool. Rooms start around €80. 

Mantra Samui Resort, Fisherman's Village - Luxury

If you are looking for a luxurious boutique hotel, look no further. Mantra Samui Resort is the perfect option for you. With beautiful rooms, all in a neutral and wood style, exceptional service, a gym and a pool, this resort has all you need. Rooms are already available starting at €82. 

Lipa Lodge Beach Resort, Lipa Noi, Mid-range

This beach-front location, Lipa Lodge , has bungalows surrounded by beautiful gardens and includes an outdoor pool. Located near Lipa Noi, it is the centre of tranquillity. Prices of a superior bungalow already start at €59.

The Nest Samui, Bophut - Budget

Located in the north of the Island, near Bangrak beach, you’ll find The Nest Samui. With an outdoor pool, shared kitchen and rooms with all the facilities you need, this is the perfect budget location to use as your base to explore the island. Rooms start at €41 a night.

New Hut Bungalow, Lamai - Budget

The final accommodation on this list is New Hut Bungalow , a budget accommodation. Stay the night in a small beach bungalow (with a fan), with not many more facilities than a bed and a shared bathroom. However, you are staying right at the beach and you’ll only pay €13 a night for 2 people!

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The 14 Coolest Things To Do In Koh Samui In 2024

Let’s head to the Gulf of Thailand to explore the beautiful island of Koh Samui! I’d been hearing about it for quite some time but I didn’t really know what to expect when I went there. The great thing about Koh Samui is that the island is quite big (the second biggest in Thailand after Phuket actually) so I figured. I’d certainly find enjoyable activities to do there.

And indeed I was glad to find out that Koh Samui offered a wide range of activities. You can relax on its beautiful beaches, party until the crack of dawn, hike, discover the local culture, try great local dishes, and so on.

This blog post is my take on the things (14 of them) not to miss out on in Koh Samui. First, let me give you some advice on how to get to Koh Samui and where to book your hotel.

Let’s get right into this! 🙂

How To Get To Koh Samui

There are two major means of transportation to get to Koh Samui. The fastest and most convenient is to fly from Bangkok , Chiang Mai or another major city in Thailand. I took a domestic flight from Bangkok that took a little less than an hour.

Although it takes more time, the other cheaper option is to go first to Surat Thani (by plane or train) and then take a ferry to Koh Samui. FYI, the ferry trip takes a little less than 2 hours.

As far as transportation in Koh Samui is concerned, you can take taxis which aren’t that cheap but still cost cheaper than in Europe. To give you an example, a transfer from the airport to Chaweng costs about 400 baths or about $13. Alternatively, you can also rent a scooter for the negotiated price of 200 baths a day or about $7.

Where To Stay In Koh Samui

The island is quite large so it is important to choose the location of your hotel according to your plans and convenience. If you want to stay in a central area with a festive atmosphere, you will have to opt for Chaweng Beach. If you’re traveling with a partner or with family and are looking for a quieter place to stay, then Lamai Beach will be a better choice. If, like me, you’re into “chill” and hippie atmospheres, then get closer to Bophut Beach.

Once you decide where you want to stay, check out these hotel recommendations for each mentioned area.

Chaweng Beach – Banana Fan Sea

The Banana Fan Sea hotel is located in the southern region of Chaweng so you’ll be staying in a quiet area while still being close to the main attractions of the region. The Banana Fan Sea is a seaside hotel so you’ll be able to swim in the sea as well as in the superb swimming pool of the hotel.

Lamai Beach – Beluga Boutique Hotel

The Beluga is a charming boutique hotel located south of Lamai Beach. There you will find everything you need for a relaxing stay. It is also right next to the Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks which I’ll talk about below.

Bophut – Peace Resort

In the Bophut region, you can stay at the superb Peace Resort . The beach is great and the resort offers really beautiful bungalows. I find it not that expensive considering the luxurious accommodation it offers.

What To Do In Koh Samui – 14 Must-Try Activities!

Travel tips and good addresses aside, here are the 14 places I liked best on Koh Samui! Below is the complete list with a map to locate all the places I’ll be talking about. We’ll go over each of them next.

• Chaweng beach
• The Big Buddha
• Wat Plai Laem
• Bangrak Market
• Samrong Beach
• The fishing village of Bophut
• Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park
• Silver Beach, Crystal Bay
• Lamai Beach
• Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
• The Chinese shrine of Guan Yu
• Namuang Waterfalls
• The Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim & Magic Garden)
• Nikki Beach

1. Chaweng Beach

Chaweng Beach is central to Koh Samui, so to speak, certainly not geographically but rather in terms of population density. Chaweng is the largest city on the island and also has the largest beach I think. So tourism in Samui started on Chaweng Beach which gradually became the most crowded beach on the island.

Chaweng Beach has many shops, hotels, and restaurants. It is also the liveliest area of Koh Samui. If you are going to Thailand to party, you should love it. FYI, one of the most popular bars in Chaweng is the beachfront Ark Bar. It gets crazy until 2 AM but the party goes on at the Green Mango if you’re up for it. 🙂

Even though Chaweng is a popular beach, it is still a beautiful spot with fine sand and crystal clear water. A must when visiting Koh Samui Island.

2. The Big Buddha

If you want to know more about Koh Samui’s culture, the Big Buddha should be on top of your list. The official name of this temple is Wat Phra Yai and it is situated northeast of the island. Access is free so you can admire the magnificent 12-meter high golden Buddha statue free of charge.

Behind the Buddha’s head, you will notice a sort of halo which is, in fact, a wheel. It is the Wheel of Karma and is one of the most important symbols in Buddhism. It symbolizes the idea that all our actions have consequences and therefore karmic justice should be expected.

3. Wat Plai Laem

If you want to explore another Buddhist temple in Koh Samui, go to Wat Plai Laem! It is a 15-minute walk from the Great Buddha statue. As you can see, there is a lot of Chinese influence in the structure of this temple. The statue in the picture above is not Buddha but Budai who is a highly revered Chinese monk.

And as for the statue that has 18 arms, it is Guanyin, the goddess of compassion and mercy in the pantheon of Chinese Buddhism.

4. Bangrak Market

We’re still in the same region of Koh Samui where you can visit the Bangrak market. Freshly caught fish, as well as many fruits and vegetables, are sold there.

If you go there in the evening, and for only a few bucks, you can get a taste of the local dishes in the small bar in front of the market.

5. Samrong Beach

If you want to relax on a beautiful uncrowded beach, head to Samrong, towards the northeast of the island. If you’re planning to go there in the afternoon, I recommend going to another nearby beach to enjoy the most memorable of sunsets! This beach is located here and is a bit difficult to access but as you can see in the picture below, it’s worth it. 🙂

By the way, for more beach recommendations in Koh Samui, feel free to check out this blog post: Best Beaches in Koh Samui .

6. The Bophut Fisherman’s Village

The village of Bophut was definitely one of my favorite places in Koh Samui. I spent a couple of weeks there while I was in Koh Samui. As a fisherman’s village, I expected to come across many fishermen during my stay.

But the name comes from the fact that several Chinese fishermen immigrated to this village during the 19th century. Several families in Bophut are direct descendants of those fishermen and that’s how the village’s name came about.

What’s so special about the village of Bophut? Mainly the very relaxed atmosphere but also its beautiful beach. It reminded me a bit of Canggu in Bali .

If you’re looking for nice beach bars and restaurants, get down to Coco Tam’s, this blog post was born there! You can try their great fusion cuisine and enjoy the beachfront setting. There’s a great atmosphere both day and night at Coco Tam’s.

I highly recommend La Cantina if you’re looking for a good restaurant. This one serves delicious Mexican food. A wonderful sea view will accompany you while you enjoy your meal.

A friend of mine and I had chicken fajitas, roasted camembert and some more roasted chicken with a Martini and a Mojito to wash it all down with. A treat!

By the way, La Cantina is run by a very nice Frenchman who goes by the name Tato (meaning big eyes in Thai). If you go there, say hi to Tato for me, please! 🙂

7. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park

In the mood for a mindblowing boat tour? This is a tour that will take you to the magnificent Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine Park, more commonly known as Ang Thong. This is actually a group of really beautiful small islands that are located west of Koh Samui.

A car will first pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the harbor.

You will then make several stops on some of Ang Thong’s islands and you will be given enough time to visit the surrounding area. However, make sure to stick to the scheduled departure times so as not to keep your group waiting.

I don’t think you need a detailed description of the tour, so I’ll leave it to you to discover the rest of it. In any case, keep in mind the tour includes a kayak tour, lunch, and a great snorkeling session.

To book this tour, you can buy your tickets online ahead of time (recommended option) or at a travel agency in Koh Samui.

8. Silver Beach In Crystal Bay

If you ask me, the most beautiful beach in Koh Samui would probably Silver Beach. It is located just north of Lamai, in Crystal Bay (about the bay’s clear water). I remember it was the first beach I visited in Koh Samui and when I got in the water and saw the beautiful mountains surrounding the bay, I remember thinking, how beautiful is all of this! 😀

By the way, if you want to have lunch with a breathtaking view of Crystal Bay, you can go to the restaurant called The Cliff which, as its name suggests, is located on a cliff overlooking the bay. It serves excellent Mediterranean cuisine!

9. Lamai Beach

Lamai Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Koh Samui. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing and the beach is mostly visited by couples and families with children. It has lots of shops and is a convenient starting point to visit the attractions in the south of the island. As far as nightlife is concerned, there are of course a few bars and good restaurants, but it is still a bit less popular, especially compared to Chaweng.

And if you really want to relax in Lamai Beach, you can also book this amazing Yoga Retreat .

10. The Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks

Going down south from Chaweng Beach, you will come to a rocky point where the famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks are found. Hin Ta and Hin Yai literally mean granny and grandpa’s rocks. It’s actually about two rocks that have quite suggestive shapes. This is Grandma’s rock:

And this is Grandpa’s rock, still very much in shape as you can see! 😀

This place is fun and the view is great so I really recommend you visit it. And don’t hesitate to have some coconut ice cream at the entrance, just thinking about it is mouth-watering!

11. The Guan Yu Chinese Shrine

On my way back to Lamai one evening, I came across this huge statue representing Guan Yu, a Chinese warlord. The statue is made of bronze and is 16 meters tall. There’s also a small (although slowly expanding) Chinatown in front of the temple.

12. Namuang Waterfalls

In the mountains of the south of the island, you can visit the beautiful waterfalls of Namuang. They are accessible quite easily by motorbike or car. You will have to walk for about 10 more minutes and you’ve reached the waterfalls. Many people swim at the foot of these waterfalls so don’t hesitate to jump in if you like.

13. The Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim & Magic Garden)

This garden is one of the most beautiful places I have visited in Koh Samui! Nestled in the heights of the south of the island, it has a really pleasant atmosphere and good vibes. I understand why it is called the Magic Garden.

The garden is not part of a temple but is private property. It belongs to a farmer who made a fortune selling durian (the famous stinky fruit). The entrance costs 80 baths (~ $2) I think.

14. Nikki Beach

Let’s end our tour of the island of Koh Samui with even more relaxation in one of the trendiest beach clubs of the island. Nikki Beach is on the west coast of the island and I spent a really nice afternoon there. The setting is really great and since it is facing west, it has the dreamiest of sunsets!

Don’t I look tough? :p

Prices are of course a bit more expensive than in other bars. Food is still affordable but the wine is the most expensive (~$80 per bottle).

Don’t Miss The Night Markets

There are night markets four days a week in Koh Samui. They take place in different spots depending on the day of the week:

• Wednesday at Choeng Mon Beach
• Thursday at Maenam Beach
• Friday in the village of Bophut
• Sunday at Lamai beach

Night markets in Thailand have a really special atmosphere and Koh Samui is just as special. You can find a little bit of everything there, from clothes to souvenirs and local specialties. The atmosphere is always festive, so make sure to visit at least once during your stay. 🙂

Visit Koh Tao

That’s it for Koh Samui, people! But you should also visit its beautiful neighboring island, Koh Tao. People have been recommending it to me for quite some time now and when I got there, I immediately understood why. I tell you more about it in this dedicated blog post: Koh Tao Thailand .

I hope you liked this post about the island of Koh Samui. I spent a whole month there and I’ll surely go back regularly because I loved it.

If you have a question or a comment, leave it in the comments below. And even if you don’t, let me know if this blog post was helpful to you in any way, I’d really love to know! 😀

You can find also check out my best shots on Instagram .

See you soon for more adventures in Asia! 😉

PS : For more tips on Thailand, this is where it’s at: The Best Places To Visit In Thailand .

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• A 101 Guide to Ko Samui: A Tropical Paradise of Leisure and Culinary Delights

First time in Ko Samui? Here are places you should know about.

Southeast Asia Surat Thani Koh Samui travel Thailand

With its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush tropical landscapes, Ko Samui has long captured the hearts of travellers seeking tranquillity and adventure. Whether you're a sun-seeker, a cultural explorer, a nature enthusiast, or even a naturist, this island has something to offer everyone. Thailand’s second-largest island offers an incredible range of activities, hotels, and gastronomy to suit all budgets. It’s also a fantastic launchpad for partiers and yogis visiting the lush, green island of Ko Phangan and diving enthusiasts from around the world who descend on the smallest island, Ko Tao. To help you navigate the lay of the land, we've compiled a tour of the beaches, an overview of the island’s main activities, and handpicked some of the finest hotels, so you don’t have to…

For convenience, Karma Samui is close to all the amenities. The hotel inhabits a remote ocean-side position. Staggered down a hillside above the ocean, Karma Samui’s 36 pool villas all have water views. It has its own private beach, as well as a health spa and gym, rendering trips into town completely optional. Located on the far northeastern tip, Six Senses Samui is the place to embrace wellness and sustainability. This eco-friendly resort offers stunning ocean views, private pools and rejuvenating spa experiences. The hotel itself is a collection of private villas dotted about the landscape of natural vegetation on the northeastern tip of the island. Further round the headland to the east, Choeng Mon Beach is a smaller and more secluded beach. The beach is both convenient and surprisingly tranquil and ideal for travellers looking to escape the crowds to enjoy a quieter environment. The bay is sheltered and features clear waters, making it suitable for swimming and relaxation. Kimpton Kitalay Samui is a California-born brand that has made itself at home here in Thailand. The hotel stands over Choeng Mon Beach, and in its style, it’s a lively blend of contemporary design and traditional Thai motifs. It’s a substantial resort, encompassing some 138 rooms, suites and villas. While there’s some variety across the range, even the smallest rooms are a sizable 60 sqm.

Adventures Beyond the Beach

• Explore Angthong National Marine Park: Embark on a day trip to this archipelago of 42 islands, where you can kayak, snorkel, and hike to breathtaking viewpoints.
• Try water sports galore: Try your hand at scuba diving, kite surfing, or paddleboarding. The island's clear waters and vibrant marine life make it an ideal destination for water enthusiasts.
• Visit the temples: Marvel at the 12-metre-tall golden statue at Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) and soak in the panoramic views from the temple grounds. Nearby Wat Plai Laem, meanwhile, boasts intricate architecture and a striking statue of the Guanyin, the goddess of compassion.
• Jungle adventures: Explore the island's lush interior on an ATV or zip-lining through the treetops. The Secret Buddha Garden offers a serene escape amidst nature. Explore Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks: Explore these cheeky and unique rock formations, at the south end of Lamai Beach, that resemble male and female genitalia. They’re not only a geological wonder but also a quirky photo opportunity.
• Discover Secret Buddha Garden: Trek through the jungle to discover this hidden garden filled with sculptures and statues, showcasing the island's spiritual side. Embibe in the nightlife and entertainment: From beach parties to cabaret shows, Ko Samui's nightlife caters to every mood. Chaweng Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife scene.

Ko Samui beckons with its captivating landscapes, rich culture, and diverse activities. Finding the right place to stay is pivotal to crafting a memorable vacation. Whether you prefer opulent resorts, charming boutique hotels, or wellness retreats, the island caters to all tastes. And with a plethora of activities to choose from, your days will be as exciting or relaxed as you desire. Prepare to fall in love with the allure of Ko Samui. Looking for a place to enjoy amazing food? Check out our recommended spots selected by our experts here .

A writer and editor for the worlds of international development and business management, James balances this serious side with his creative pursuits; namely music production, a DJ podcast and food blogging.

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A guide to visiting Koh Samui, Thailand

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I will receive a small commission if you use these links.

Koh Samui is an island paradise in the south of Thailand, known for its nightlife, scenic viewpoints and long stretches of sandy beach. Popular with holiday-makers and travellers alike, there’s also a thriving expat community residing on Koh Samui. This definitely brings a more western feel compared to some other smaller islands in Thailand, but don’t rule it out because of that, there’s lots of great attractions and scenery here, including my top 15 things to do on Koh Samui.

Table of Contents

Which is better - koh samui or phuket.

Before we get into some of the things you need to know before planning your trip to Koh Samui, let’s answer this question. Koh Samui is often compared to Phuket, so which is better? Well, both are great choices for tourists and digital nomads as there’s a decent amount of infrastructure and modernisation that comes in handy when working remotely, as well as lots of sights to be explored!

Both Phuket and Koh Samui have a great nightlife scene – as well as plenty of scenic spots. Having been to both places, it is really hard for me to choose between the two! If pushed, I would say that Phuket has nicer beaches , although Koh Samui does have some great viewpoints which make up for it! If you have time on your Thailand itinerary, I would definitely try to incorporate them both, Koh Samui is definitely worth visiting!

How to get to Koh Samui

If budget is not an issue, then the easiest way to get to Koh Samui is to fly in. Koh Samui has an international airport located between Bophut and Chaweng and there are regular flights from the mainland if you are travelling from elsewhere in Thailand.

By bus / ferry / taxi :

If you’re travelling to Koh Samui from elsewhere in Thailand, there are regular ferries that run from the mainland, with buses and minivans available to catch to the ferry port. Regular ferries also run between Koh Samui and the islands of Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. Being the budget conscious backpacker that I am, I chose the cheaper option of using public transport to reach Koh Samui. I travelled from Railay beach, Krabi to Koh Samui and booked a ticket with a local tour operator in Railay. What promised to be a 6.5 hour journey consisting of a bus, ferry and taxi turned out to involve a whopping 5 buses, 1 long tail boat, 1 ferry, and a taxi ride! Oh…and it took 12 hours!

If you’ve backpacked in Thailand before, I’m sure at some point you’ve had one of those journeys where you just get moved on and off buses, each time getting a new sticker and you don’t really have a clue what’s going on! Sound familiar?! Well, this was one of those journeys! (If you have not been to Thailand before and are wondering what I’m talking about, make sure you read my 50 essential tips for first time backpackers travelling to Southeast Asia )

My advice for a smoother journey than mine would be would be to book your transport to Koh Samui online instead of using a local operator. I used 12go for all of my transport bookings throughout Southeast Asia and this was the only time I didn’t and look what happened!

Getting around Koh Samui

The best way to get around Koh Samui if you want to have freedom and flexibility is to hire your own scooter. However, be careful if you are not confident or experienced on a scooter, the traffic in Koh Samui is much busier than some of the smaller islands. I personally didn’t ride a scooter in Koh Samui and didn’t have a problem getting around.

There is a local Songthaew bus which drives laps on the main ring road around Koh Samui. You simply flag it down, tell the driver where you want to go and confirm the price and off you go. Just note that this is a bus so you will be making stops and pick ups along the way, so factor that into your journey time. There are also lots of private songthaews, taxis, and motorcycle taxis which you can flag down too.

How many days do you need on Koh Samui?

Personally, I would recommend having at least 5 days on Koh Samui. This will give you time to explore the different areas of the island, and get a day trip in too. Koh Samui is a large island and anything less than 5 days would feel rushed.

Where to stay and what to do on Koh Samui?

Despite the fact that the ferry terminal is located on the east side of the island, most of the tourist areas and accommodation can be found on the west side. I spent three weeks exploring Koh Samui and stayed in three different areas of the Island: Lamai, Chaweng and Bophut / Fisherman’s Village. These three areas are considered to be the most popular places to stay on Koh Samui, with plenty to see and do around each of them.

So, where is the best place to stay on Koh Samui? Well, it really depends on what kind of atmosphere you want. There are many different areas of Koh Samui where you can choose to base yourself, but I can only compare the three areas I’ve stayed in. I will say, however, that unless you want to be very secluded and have utter peace and quiet, then you will want to base yourself in one of the three main areas: Lamai, Chaweng or Bophut / Fisherman’s Village.

For a quick round up of the best sights and attractions on Koh Samui, check out my post on 15 Great things to do on Koh Samui!

Lamai is a good place to base yourself if you want to have a more relaxed break, but still have access to a great selection of bars and restaurants. It is popular with couples, families and older holiday-makers but that doesn’t mean that it’s boring! Whilst there are not large nightclubs here, there are plenty of bars with live music open until late, and there’s a lively atmosphere in the evening along the main street.

The accommodation in Lamai is varied, with a range of apartment rentals and smaller hotels. The prices of accommodation tend to be lower in Lamai compared to Chaweng and Fisherman’s village. I stayed at Amarina Green – a fabulous small boutique hotel tucked down a quiet road at the end of Lamai main street. I would recommend staying away from the main street of Lamai as it can get quite noisy in the evening.

Where to eat in Lamai?

In terms of places to eat in Lamai, you’ll find pretty much everything here – upscale western restaurants, sports bars, cocktail bars and small, local cafes tucked down the side streets. Here’s a couple of recommendations from my stay in Lamai:

Lamai Viewpoint cafe

This cafe is at the top of Lamai viewpoint. Entrance is 50 THB (£1.20) to walk the 15-20 minutes uphill, or you can pay 100 THB (£2.30) to take the short hill train. Go to the top deck of the cafe for the best views over Lamai beach. When you get there, order a delicious smoothie to go with the view – the blueberry and yoghurt smoothie is to die for! They also serve fresh coconut juice and beers, as well as a selection of snacks and lunch items. Prices are relatively reasonable for the location.

The Secret Brunch

Come here for delicious sugar free juices, organic coffee and vegan sweet treats! They also have a great healthy breakfast and lunch menu, again with lots of vegan and gluten free options. The cafe is cosy and has a great atmosphere. It is located on the main road south of Lamai with on street parking.

Pure Vegan Heaven

Another great vegan option, this small cafe sits at the end of the main street in Lamai. Serving a wide range of coffees, smoothies and juices alongside acai bowls, poke bowls, wraps and Thai food, this place is popular. The prices are a little higher than others nearby but the portions are good and the food is fresh and tasty.

If you are just looking for tasty, non fussy Thai food to keep your budget in check, pop into Harry’s. The cafe decor is basic but the food is good and prices are very reasonable for the huge portion size!

They have a great western and Thai menu and a good selection of cocktails too. The service was good when we were dining and it is a nice restaurant if you are after something more formal yet affordable.

What is there to do near Lamai?

Lamai is a great place to stay if you want to visit some of the beautiful scenery on Koh Samui. The Na Mueang waterfall (a must for all hikers and waterfall lovers visiting Koh Samui!) is easily accessible from Lamai and the Lamai Viewpoint cafe and Grandmother and Grandfather rocks lookout are also both close by. In fact, you can visit most of Koh Samui’s popular viewpoints from Lamai, including the now instagram-famous Overlap Stone. There’s lots to see and do near Lamai (including lots of free places to visit!), so this is a great place to stay if you like to go out exploring and are on a budget.

If you want a party atmosphere on Koh Samui, then Chaweng is the place for you! Chaweng is popular with younger backpackers, couples and groups and has the liveliest nightlife on the island, with lots of nightclubs, pubs and beach bars.

As well as having a great nightlife scene, Chaweng is also a great place to stay if you want a central location to base yourself on the island. From Chaweng, you can easily access the sights near Lamai in the south and up to Fisherman’s Village in Bophut. It is also conveniently located for the airport.

Where to eat in Chaweng?

There’s a huge selection of restaurants in Chaweng, from popular western chain restaurants to low cost local cafes and beach bars. Here’s a couple of my recommendations:

The islander

If you are craving some home comforts, this is the place to go in Chaweng! They have an extensive list of both Thai and western food, including pies, mash and yorkshire puddings! They also show a lot of sports matches on the big TVs, so it can get quite busy, but there’s a great atmosphere and the food is good.

Central Samui food court

In the centre of the Central supermarket is a food court where you can buy fresh sushi, roast dinners, pasta and salads. There’s also a bakery. You can sit in the food court to eat your lunch or take it away with you. I was a regular in the food court making up my own fresh salad to take to the beach with me each day! I don’t know about you, but I struggle with balancing trying to stay on budget and trying to eat healthy when I’m travelling, so this was a great option for me.

Tip: Have a wander around the supermarket before you leave to shop for some home comforts – I jumped on the chocolate hobnobs when I saw them!

Elephant Beach Club

There are several beachfront clubs and bars to choose from in Chaweng. In fact, heading to the beach is one of the best ways to spend the evening in Chaweng. Elephant beach club has a really nice atmosphere if you want a more relaxed vibe. There’s also a fire dancer show at night (it wouldn’t be Thailand if there wasn’t fire dancing on the beach!).

Lub d Chaweng Beach

Next to Elephant beach club is Lub d beach bar. Lub d is a hostel and there’s definitely more of a party vibe here, with it getting quite lively at night. During the day you can relax in their infinity pool sipping cocktails.

What is there to do near Chaweng?

Living up to its party reputation, most activities in Chaweng revolve around two things: the beach and going out! One of the best things to do in Chaweng is to enjoy happy hour cocktails at one of the many beach bars. When you need a break from that, Chaweng is a great place to go shopping on Koh Samui. The Central shopping centre holds many western high street brands as well as a cinema. Across from the shopping centre is a small market, which extends to the opposite side of the road, by Chaweng lake, every weekend for Chaweng’s night market.

You’ll also find plenty of local market stalls off Chaweng beach road, which are open well into the evening.

Fisherman's village / Bophut

Fisherman’s Village in Bophut is in the north of the island and is where you will find more upscale luxury resorts and large hotel complexes. This area is popular with couples and those who are on vacation, with a bit more money to spend on accommodation, rather than long term travellers or budget backpackers. However, there are some affordable places here too. We stayed at The White Cottage – a small independent hotel which sits behind the popular beachfront Karma resort. It was a little walk along the beach to the Fisherman’s village area, or a short taxi ride. Some of the other larger hotel resorts include the Anantara resort and Hansar hotel, both with infinity pools overlooking Bophut beach.

Where to eat in Fisherman’s Village?

Fisherman’s village has less choice for diners on a budget, as most of the restaurants here are slightly more expensive than average for Thailand.

Bar Baguette

This is one of the best places in Fisherman’s Village for breakfast. They also serve great coffee and tasty smoothies. The cafe is open all day and the casual vibe is a great alternative for evening dinner.

One of the most famous beach bars on Koh Samui, Coco Tams is always busy! If you want to watch the sunset here, you need to arrive early to grab a bean bag on the beach, or a table by the window. There is often entertainment on the beach, such as fire dancers or fireworks. The prices here are quite expensive compared to other places nearby but there’s a great atmosphere and both the food and service is good quality.

Frog and Gecko

In contrast to some of the more upscale places to eat in Fisherman’s Village, the Frog and Gecko is a simple, casual pub with great food and generous portions. They often have live music and quizzes so it can get noisy but it’s a great atmosphere and perfect if you fancy fish and chips or a burger.

Beach Coconuts Bowls

Famous for making some of the most photogenic smoothie and acai bowls, the food here not only looks pretty, but it is also delicious, fresh and healthy. The atmosphere is lovely and relaxed too.

What is there to do near Fisherman’s Village and Bophut?

Bophut has some of the best beaches on Koh Samui, boasting long stretches of soft, clean, sand. With gorgeous beaches and great places to eat, it’s not surprising that Fisherman’s Village and the wider Bophut area have some great beach bars. Coco Tams is the most popular, on Bophut beach, however you will also find Tembo beach club and Chi Samui, further along the coast. These are both popular spots for watching the sunset.

Outside of Fisherman’s Village, Bophut is also where you will find the Koh Samui Big Buddha. After paying your respects at the Big Buddha, and taking in the view along the coast, take some time to wander around the small market here and treat yourself to a smoothie or ice cream before you leave. Finally, no trip to Koh Samui is complete without visiting Wat Plai Laem, known locally as the ‘Temple on the lake’. Built on a lake filled with Coy Carp and turtles, this colourful temple is beautifully unique and is one of the best things to do on Koh Samui.

Day Trips from Koh Samui

If you have more time to spare on Koh Samui, a day trip is a great addition to your itinerary. Here are three of the best day trips from Koh Samui.

Ang Thong Marine Park

This is an absolute must for anyone visiting Koh Samui! Ang Thong Marine Park consists of 42 limestone islands surrounded by bright blue sea and is just breathtaking. The day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park was not only one of the best things I did whilst I was staying on Koh Samui, but it’s up there as one of my favourite day trips during the whole 3 months I spent in Thailand!

There are many tour companies that operate day trips to Ang Thong from Koh Samui, ranging from budget to luxury. I booked a mid-range tour with Mr Tu tours and was impressed by the organisation and service throughout the day.

The full day tour includes four stops at four different locations within the archipelago. After you’ve received breakfast whilst checking in, you’ll board the small speed boat and head to your first stop of the day where you can snorkel in a small protected cove. Next, you’ll continue to Mae Koh Island, famous for the Emerald Lake. There’s a short walk to reach the viewpoint where you can see the bright green lake, or, you can just relax on the beach instead! 

The third stop on the tour is to another island where you will be served a delicious buffet lunch on the beach before having some free time to enjoy some self guided kayaking. The final stop on the tour is to Koh Wua Talap, where you can hike to the most beautiful viewpoint in the whole marine park! The hike is a 500m steep climb, but it’s worth it for this view! After your hike to the viewpoint, enjoy some free time at the beach and in the cafe.

Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is most known for its famous Full Moon Party but it also has some stunning beaches. Watch the sunset at Zen Beach, relax at Chakolum beach and hike to the secluded Bottle beach . There’s also some great food courts and night markets on Koh Phangan, with lots of vegan options too!

Visiting Koh Phangan from Koh Samui is so easy. It’s only a 30 minute ferry ride between the two islands, so you can easily do this yourself if you don’t want to book a tour. If you are catching the ferry by yourself, I would recommend booking this in advance during the peak season (December – February). You can catch the ferry from Maenam or Bangrak pier in Koh Samui to Thong Sala on Koh Phangan. During the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, there are also ferries which you can take directly to Haad Rin.

Although Koh Phangan is smaller than Koh Samui, there is still lots to do here. If you have time, I would recommend spending at least 3 days on Koh Phangan visiting all the popular spots. However, you can see some of the highlights in one day, especially if you rent your own scooter from the ferry port, or hire a taxi driver for the day.

Koh Tao Snorkel or Dive Tour

Koh Tao is one of the best places in Thailand to go snorkelling and diving. In fact, many people will travel to Koh Tao to complete their diving certification, as it is one of the cheapest places to do it.

The ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is 90 minutes (plus waiting / check-in time etc.) so I wouldn’t recommend visiting Koh Tao on your own for the day as you wont get much time actually on the island to explore. Personally, I would highly recommend having at least 3 days on Koh Tao. The island might be small but it’s beautiful and has a great atmosphere. Spending 3 days here will give you time to go snorkelling, enjoy the cafes and bars and visit the famous John Suwan Viewpoint.

However, if you don’t have enough time to spend several days on Koh Tao, then a snorkel or dive tour from Koh Samui is a great way to experience the beautiful marine life around the island.

I hope that you’ve found this guide to Koh Samui useful for planning your trip. Make sure you check out 15 Great things to do on Koh Samui for more on the best sights and attractions on the island!

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Discovering Koh Samui: A Comprehensive Guide for Avid Travelers

Introduction to the enchanting island of koh samui.

Welcome to the magical world of Koh Samui , a tropical paradise nestled in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant nightlife, Koh Samui is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

As Thailand’s second-largest island, Koh Samui boasts a rich history and a unique cultural heritage. The island was once a haven for fishermen and sea traders, and today, it’s a bustling tourist hotspot that seamlessly blends the charm of the old world with the luxuries of the modern era.

Geographical Wonders

One of the most striking features of Koh Samui is its diverse landscape. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Maenam Beach. Each beach has its own unique charm, from the lively atmosphere of Chaweng to the serene beauty of Maenam.

But it’s not just about the beaches. Koh Samui is also known for its lush, verdant rainforests, which are teeming with exotic wildlife. The island’s interior is dominated by the majestic Khao Pom, a mountain that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Heritage

Koh Samui’s rich cultural heritage is another aspect that sets it apart. The island is dotted with ancient temples and shrines, the most famous of which is the Big Buddha Temple. This iconic landmark is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism or Thai culture.

But the cultural experience doesn’t stop at the temples. Koh Samui is also known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Buffalo Fighting Festival and the Samui Regatta, which showcase the island’s unique traditions and customs.

Modern Luxuries

Despite its rich history and cultural heritage, Koh Samui is no stranger to modern luxuries. The island is home to a plethora of high-end resorts, spas, and restaurants, offering world-class amenities and services. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing spa day or a gourmet dining experience, Koh Samui has it all.

In conclusion, Koh Samui is a destination that offers something for everyone. From its stunning beaches and lush rainforests to its rich cultural heritage and modern luxuries, the island promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. So why wait? Start planning your trip to this enchanting island today!

Top Attractions to Explore in Koh Samui

When it comes to the enchanting island of Koh Samui, there’s no shortage of captivating attractions to explore. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a beach lover, this tropical paradise has something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the must-visit spots on this island that you simply can’t afford to miss.

The Majestic Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

Perched on a tiny island connected to Koh Samui by a causeway, the Big Buddha Temple is a sight to behold. The 12-meter tall golden statue is not just a spiritual symbol but also offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Remember to dress modestly as it’s a place of worship.

Experience Serenity at Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village

For a taste of the island’s history, head to Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village . This well-preserved village offers a glimpse into the island’s past with its rustic wooden houses, quaint boutiques, and beachfront restaurants. Don’t miss the lively night market every Friday for local crafts and delicious street food.

Marvel at the Natural Beauty of Na Muang Waterfalls

For nature lovers, the Na Muang Waterfalls are a must-visit. Nestled amidst the island’s lush jungle, these waterfalls offer a refreshing dip and stunning photo opportunities. The hike to the falls is equally rewarding with its scenic views.

Explore the Mystical Secret Buddha Garden

Hidden high in the hills, the Secret Buddha Garden is a unique attraction. It’s filled with statues depicting various Buddhist and Hindu motifs, all set within a lush, jungle setting. It’s a tranquil spot perfect for meditation and reflection.

Unwind at Chaweng Beach

And of course, no visit to Koh Samui would be complete without spending time on its stunning beaches. Chaweng Beach is the most popular with its pristine white sands, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you want to relax, swim, or party, this beach has it all.

Remember, these are just a few of the many attractions that Koh Samui has to offer. The island is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Unique Cultural Experiences to Dive Into in Koh Samui

When you visit the enchanting island of Koh Samui, you’re not just stepping into a tropical paradise, but also a rich cultural tapestry that’s waiting to be explored. This island offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Experience the Spiritual Side of Koh Samui

Start your cultural journey by visiting the Big Buddha Temple , locally known as Wat Phra Yai. This 12-meter tall golden statue is not just a marvel to behold, but also a place of deep spiritual significance for the locals. Don’t forget to dress modestly and respect the local customs when you visit.

Immerse Yourself in Local Traditions

Next, head to the Fisherman’s Village in Bophut. This charming village is a throwback to the island’s humble beginnings as a fishing community. Here, you can stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, shop for local handicrafts, and even catch a glimpse of the fishermen bringing in their daily catch.

• Tip: Visit on a Friday evening to experience the lively night market, where you can sample local street food and enjoy live music.

Discover the Art of Thai Cooking

What better way to understand a culture than through its cuisine? Enroll in a Thai cooking class and learn how to prepare classic dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry from scratch. Not only will you gain a new skill, but you’ll also get a deeper appreciation for Thai cuisine and its rich flavors.

Witness the Spectacle of Thai Boxing

Finally, no trip to Koh Samui would be complete without watching a Muay Thai match. This traditional martial art is an integral part of Thai culture and watching a live match is an experience like no other. The energy, the skill, and the spirit of the fighters will leave you in awe.

• Tip: For an authentic experience, watch a match at the Petchbuncha Boxing Stadium in Chaweng.

In conclusion, Koh Samui is not just about beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in a vibrant culture that’s both fascinating and welcoming. So, on your next trip, make sure to dive into these unique cultural experiences and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Exotic Cuisines of Koh Samui: A Food Lover’s Paradise

When you step foot on the enchanting island of Koh Samui , you’re not just entering a tropical paradise, but also a food lover’s haven. The island’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes, offering a unique blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

1. Traditional Thai Cuisine

At the heart of Koh Samui’s food scene is, of course, traditional Thai cuisine . From the bustling street food stalls to the high-end restaurants, Thai food is everywhere. The dishes are a symphony of flavors – sweet, sour, spicy, and salty, all perfectly balanced. Must-try dishes include Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and Massaman Curry , a rich and fragrant dish often made with chicken or beef.

2. Fresh Seafood

Being an island, Koh Samui is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled fish, squid, prawns, and crabs are common sights at the local markets. One of the must-try dishes is Pla Pao , a whole fish stuffed with lemongrass, coated in salt, and grilled over charcoal. The result is a deliciously moist and flavorful fish that’s a true taste of the sea.

3. International Cuisine

While Thai food is the star of the show, Koh Samui’s culinary scene also boasts a wide range of international cuisines. From Italian to Indian, French to Mexican, you’ll find it all here. This diversity is a testament to the island’s cosmopolitan character and its appeal to food lovers from around the world.

4. Tropical Fruits

No trip to Koh Samui would be complete without sampling the island’s array of tropical fruits. From the sweet and juicy mangoes to the unique and aromatic durian, these fruits are a delight to the senses. Don’t miss the chance to try Mangosteen , often referred to as the “queen of fruits”, and Rambutan , a lychee-like fruit with a unique hairy shell.

5. Street Food

For a truly authentic experience, don’t miss the island’s vibrant street food scene. Here, you can sample a variety of dishes, from spicy Som Tam (green papaya salad) to sweet Mango Sticky Rice , all at incredibly affordable prices. It’s a feast for the senses and a must-do for any food lover.

In conclusion, the exotic cuisines of Koh Samui offer a culinary journey like no other. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries, fresh seafood, or sweet tropical fruits, there’s something for everyone on this enchanting island. So, come with an open mind and an empty stomach, and prepare to be delighted by the flavors of Koh Samui.

Tips and Tricks for a Memorable Stay in Koh Samui

Planning a trip to the enchanting island of Koh Samui? Here are some insider tips and tricks to ensure you have a memorable stay in this tropical paradise.

Choose the Right Time to Visit

Timing is everything when it comes to visiting Koh Samui. The island enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, so it’s important to plan your trip around the weather. The best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are comfortable.

Book Accommodation in Advance

With its popularity among tourists, finding the perfect accommodation in Koh Samui can be a challenge, especially during peak season. Booking in advance not only ensures you get the best deals, but also gives you a wider range of options to choose from.

Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Koh Samui is rich in culture and tradition. As a visitor, it’s important to respect local customs . For instance, dress modestly when visiting temples and always ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

Try Local Cuisine

One of the best ways to experience Koh Samui is through its food. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup) and Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles). Street food stalls are a great place to start your culinary adventure.

While Koh Samui is generally safe for tourists, it’s always wise to take precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night, keep your belongings secure, and stay hydrated in the tropical heat.

Explore Beyond the Beaches

While the beaches of Koh Samui are undoubtedly beautiful, there’s much more to the island. Explore the lush jungle, visit the local markets, or take a cooking class to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

With these tips and tricks, you’re well on your way to having a memorable stay in Koh Samui. Remember, the key to a great trip is to plan ahead, respect the local culture, and most importantly, enjoy every moment!

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How to Plan a Trip to Koh Samui

How long to stay, the top things to do in koh samui, the best time to visit koh samui, how to get there and get around, where to stay in koh samui, meals in koh samui.

Koh Samui now reopens. From April 1, 2022, all international travelers traveling to Thailand don't need to do nucleic acid test before departure as long as you're fully vaccinated .

Koh Samui, with its natural and casual atmosphere and tropical scenery with acres of coconut trees and crystal-blue waters, has won the hearts of hundreds of visitors. It is especially popular among couples for its romantic and quiet vibe.

In this article, we will give some suggestions on how to plan a trip to Koh Samui . Use this page to get inspired and prepare for your upcoming trip!

It takes 3 to 7 days to explore Koh Samui depending on which attractions you would like to see and your preferred pace of travel. If this is your first trip to Thailand and Koh Samui is one of your stops, a 4-day visit is recommended .

• Day 1: explore the beaches
• Day 2: dive in Koh Tao
• Day 3: visit Ang Thong Marine Park
• Day 4: departure

If you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday and Koh Samui is your main destination, then you can explore the island over 6 or 7 days. Spend one or two days island hopping, explore Koh Samui's cultural landscape in a day, and spend at least one day relaxing and get some quiet time in your resort.

Read more on Ultimate Koh Samui Itineraries: from 3 Days to 7 Days

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With an area of 225 sq km (85 sq miles), Koh Samui is the third-largest island in Thailand. Its exotic vibe and picturesque landscape offer all kinds of activities for visitors from all over the world.

Enjoy Relaxing on the Beach

The most popular beaches are Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, Maenam Beach, and Bophut Beach. If you prefer a quiet environment, you can choose the last three beaches. You can read more in our Beach Guide to Koh Samui .

Go to Koh Tao for Diving

Koh Tao is a small island about a 2-hour journey by ferry from Koh Samui. Rich in colorful coral reefs and various kinds of fish, Koh Tao is an excellent diving spot in Thailand.

Explore Ang Thong Marine Park

Ang Thong Marine Park consists of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. There are numerous landforms to explore, including natural caves, serene beaches, and limestone hills. The best way to admire this spectacular archipelago is by sea kayaking across crystal-clear waters.

Escape to Koh Nangyuan

Koh Nangyuan is a private island with only one resort and one restaurant. Its peaceful environment makes it popular among honeymooners. At dusk, enjoy a gorgeous sunset coupled with a romantic dinner.

Enjoy a Refreshing Spa

Koh Samui has many world-class spa resorts. Indulge in spa treatments and wash away the fatigue of the day.

Take a Cruise Trip

Join a cruise to the Gulf of Thailand and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere around the Samui Archipelago. You will experience the serene natural beauty of its many islands and tropical waters.

Take Part in a Thai Cooking Class

Go to the local market and pick up Thai herbs, spices, vegetables, and other cooking ingredients, and learn local recipes from a professional chef to explore the flavors and techniques of Thai cuisine.

Revel at the Full Moon Party

As the name implies, the Full Moon Party is held on the night of the full moon every month on the island of Koh Phangan. Backpackers and electronic-music fans from all over the world gather to celebrate, covered in fluorescent paint and dancing under the moonlight.

December to February is the best season to visit Koh Samiu , as temperatures are cooler and there is less rainfall.

July to September is the rainy season in Phuket, while Koh Samui has better weather conditions in these months. So, this is a good time to travel to Koh Samui if you would like to avoid Phuket's monsoon.

The weather in the rainy season (October to December) is unpredictable. Heavy rains result in many water sports being cancelled during this time, but showers usually do not last long. However, many visitors take advantage of the quieter beaches and better deals during the off-season.

Learn more about Weather in Koh Samui .

Getting to Koh Samui : Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi have direct flights to Koh Samui. Several cities in Asia such as Chongqing, Hong Kong, and Singapore also have direct flights. From Bangkok, it is a quick and easy 1-hour flight to Koh Samui.

• 4 Ways to Get from Bangkok to Koh Samui
• How to Get to Koh Samui from Phuket?

Getting around Koh Samui : Speedboat or ferry is the best way to travel to the nearby islands. Songthaew is a common mode of transportation in Koh Samui — you can consider it if you are traveling short distances. Taxis are also available, but remember to negotiate a fare with your driver before getting in, because meters are not used in taxis on the island.

If you want to know more details about transportation on Koh Samui, please check How to Get in and around Koh Samui .

There are many accommodation choices in Koh Samui, whether you prefer a hedonistic party atmosphere, peaceful isolation, plenty of activities, or a traditional feel.

Chaweng Beach, known for its lively nightlife, great shopping, and wonderful food is perfect for travelers who want a busy beach and nightlife .

Bophut Beach, which offers a modern beach, boutique shops, and chic and retro restaurants is ideal for young travelers and families .

Maenam Beach is suitable for honeymooners and travelers seeking romance .

If you want to enjoy a pool and an ocean view , you can choose a high-end hillside hotel at Chaweng or Lamai Beach.

Here are our recommended hotels on these beaches for your reference:

• Chaweng Regent Beach Resort (Chaweng Beach)
• Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui (Chaweng Beach)
• Mantra Samui Resort (Bophut Beach)
• Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort (Bophut Beach)
• Belmond Napasai (Maenam Beach)
• Sensimar Resort and Spa (Maenam Beach)

10-Day Best of Thailand in Yi Peng Festival:

Koh Samui boasts a wide range of dishes from the local cuisine to multinational dishes.

Like in the other islands of Thailand, fresh seafood features heavily in dishes in Koh Samui. Cooked in the Thai style with special herbs and spices, they are very appetizing.

As the most popular beach in Koh Samui, Chaweng Beach hosts a number of restaurants from affordable stalls to luxury restaurants. It is a must-visit destination for foodies who love Thai food.

Koh Samui is Thailand's largest coconut producer, with about 2 million coconuts harvested a year. Both locals and travelers of all ages enjoy sipping the delicious coconut water and feasting on coconut meat.

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My 9 Favorite Experiences On Thailand’s Stunning Koh Samui Island

• Destinations

Koh Samui ( koh meaning “island”) embodies a tropical island paradise for the 2 million-plus annual visitors. Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, off the lower east coast of the Thai-Malay peninsula, it is the kingdom’s second most popular island destination. And for good reason. 

It has long sandy beaches, inviting turquoise waters, coconut palm-filled lowlands, densely forested mountains, and that year-round tropical climate. Water sports, jungle adventures, entertainment and shopping for all ages, plus spa and wellness for every budget. Add in the famous Thai hospitality and world-renowned cuisine, and Samui has it all.

With the construction of roads on the island in the 1970s, backpackers started flocking here to hang out in beachside bamboo huts enjoying languid island life. Today, Samui’s tropical beach holiday options cater to all with accommodations from simple to high-end international resorts. Notably, the island has retained a more natural tropical feel due to a long-held requirement that buildings be no higher than the tallest coconut palm.

1. Beautiful Beaches 

Koh Samui, at 13 miles long and 10 wide, is easy to navigate, with a ring road getting you to most corners. With 20-plus beaches around the island, the east and north coasts host the most popular selection.

Chaweng Beach

Chaweng Beach on the central east coast is Samui’s most famous beach, and at 2.25 miles of fine sand and calm waters, its attraction is understandable. By day, sunbeds, friendly beach vendors, swimming, and water sports like jet skiing abound. As the evening arrives, sun loungers make way for fairy lights and lanterns as the beachfront resorts entice diners. 

Lamai Beach

A short drive south is my favorite, Lamai. A gentle crescent-shaped beach just under 1.5 miles long and easily accessed by beachfront roads. Bring your own beach mats or rent a shaded beach chair or cozy bean bag at beachfront restaurants. Lamai is beach bliss with great swimming and a relaxed holiday feel. In the streets behind the beach are casual boutiques, laid-back bars and cafes, and low-key resorts.

Bo Phut Beach

On the island’s central north coast is the family-friendly Bo Phut beach with its coarse golden sands. Bo Phut is also home to Fisherman’s Village Walking Street Market on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights, beachside bars and restaurants, and trendy boutiques. 

Many visitors hire motorbikes and spend their days exploring the island’s lesser-known and glorious beaches. 

2. Ang Thong National Marine Park

Though snorkeling opportunities are available from some of Samui’s beaches and headlands, Ang Thong National Marines Park is the best option for exploring these tropical waters. Situated 17 miles west of Ko Samui, this marine national park comprises 42 islands. Visitors can experience towering limestone cliffs, thick jungles, white sand beaches, waterfalls, hidden coves, and marine lakes. It’s a 35-square-mile area of rich biodiversity.

Activities to expect when on the highly popular day trips to Ang Thong include snorkeling, hiking, sea kayaking, diving, and simply relaxing.

Pro Tip: With numerous tours on offer, I recommend choosing a long-established, safety-first operator who places guests’ comfort and overall tour experience as their top priority. One such company is 100 Degrees East , and we loved our day at Ang Thong with them. Restricting guest numbers to 12 on their 35-foot twin-engine boats means space and comfort. And with a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:3, the staff’s attention was outstanding, in and out of the water. The quality of equipment, snacks, and lunch provided by the English-speaking crew added to the overall experience.

3. Koh Samui Boat Charter

A collection of islands newly opened to day visitors is visible from the southern end of Samui. You could negotiate with local fishermen to take you to the islands on his long-tail boat, but I recommend an outing on a classic Thai wooden yacht with Ko Samui Boat Charter .

Snorkel the coral reefs off Koh Taen and savor the onboard chef’s freshly prepared Thai-fusion lunch. Visit Koh Rap and feed the resident deer, relax on a secluded beach, loll in the clean, clear waters, or head to the island’s bar for a cooling beverage. The return journey along Samui’s southern coastline provides lasting memories of this tropical paradise.

4. Samui Elephant Sanctuary

Elephants have long been part of the Kingdom of Siam’s history, leading kings and armies into battles. To this day, Thai people hold the elephant in the highest reverence. Elephants were used in logging Northern Thailand’s teak forests until logging was banned in 1989. Those elephants were then used for trekking and other tourist-related activities. 

Wild elephants continue to be captured, broken, and used for tourism or breeding programs. However, in recent years trends have changed. Additionally, international visitors have moved away from riding and elephant bathing scenarios, where elephants are chained and there for the visitors’ “entertainment.”

Samui Elephant Sanctuary is where rescued elephants are provided with a chains-free home and can live the remainder of their lives being elephants and released from the need to amuse, entertain, or transport people. Ethical sanctuaries like this allow visitors to observe, feed, and be near the elephants while these aging giants live in peace. 

We loved our afternoon making and feeding nutritious snacks to the herd as we wandered with knowledgeable staff around the sanctuary’s bushland, learning about these rescued animals’ sad backstories. Your tour admission fee goes directly to the feed, upkeep, and medical care for the now-retired elephants. This is humanity in action in the best possible way.

5. Tamarind Springs Forest Spa

Thailand’s ancient massage and natural therapy traditions are well known, and most international visitors experience this first-hand when traveling in the Land of Smiles. Pampering options seem endless, from the beach and street-side massage parlors to high-end day spas in the island’s hotels and resorts. 

Tamarind Springs Forest Spa is a must-do when looking for therapeutic pampering. Since opening in 1998, it has achieved international recognition, with some heralding it as one of Asia’s most unique and outstanding destination day spas.

Tucked away on a forested hillside in Lamai, Tamarind Springs is a stunningly beautiful green hideaway. The facilities are integrated into the giant granite rock formations native to the site. For example, steam rooms are built between 20-foot tall rocks that have kissed together at their skyward tips, while walkways and plunge pools also utilize the natural granite formations of the site.

Pro Tip: Try the 4-hour Forest Dreaming package. You spend the first hour and a half drifting between the steam caves and plunge pools, which are interspersed with self-administered organic body scrubs. Then comes your choice of massage (2.5 hours) in one of the open-air forest pavilions. Pampering while surrounded and ensconced in nature? Bliss!

6. X-Quad Samui ATV Tours

Getting atop Samui’s highest hills and close to its jungle vegetation, plus experiencing incredible panoramic island vistas and a visit to a hidden waterfall, is what X-Quad Samui ATV Tours promised, and they delivered. 

With a 1.5-hour beginner’s tour and a 4-hour mountain top tour for experienced Quad bikers, anybody 12 years of age and above can experience the more natural side of Samui’s hinterland, with the adventure of Quad biking as a glorious bonus. 

You can pilot your own vehicle or buddy up as we (Quad bike newbies) did. The hilly trails were on wide dirt roads surrounded by green. Attendants at the front and back kept the group together, allowing for a leisurely pace while two “outriders” scooted alongside overseeing Quad bikers.

We 60-something first-time Quad bikers loved this adventure and thoroughly recommend it to those keen to add some more kicks to their holiday.

7. Beach Clubs

Beach clubs are much more than restaurants or beach bars with sunbeds. They differentiate themselves by offering guests the experience of enjoying a beach day while combining luxury, comfort, design, music, good food, delicious cocktails, and excellent service. Here are two Samui beach clubs I can personally recommend.

On the island’s north, Chi Samui sees itself as Samui’s premier beach bar and restaurant, serving modern, fresh cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails. Its 82-foot saltwater infinity pool with a swim-up bar fronts Bangrak Beach. Spend your day lazing on the beanbags, sunbeds, loveseats, and sunloungers, hang out on the swings, or party into the night with the DJ’s vibe. Their new cannabis-infused experiences may add an extra buzz to your day. Open daily from 10 a.m. till late.

Nikki Beach Club

On Samui’s western shoreline — ideal for stunning sunsets — Nikki Beach Club traces its roots to the original Florida beach club of the same name. Now with beach clubs across the Med, Caribbean, Oman, and Miami, Nikki Beach Clubs have been dubbed the “Sexiest Place on Earth.” Guests at Nikki Beach Club Samui can relax on day beds around the pool and by the beach while sipping signature cocktails and dining on Nikki’s globally inspired menu.

8. Coco Tam’s

A day out and about experiencing Samui’s delights is often made complete with well-crafted cocktails on or near the beach. Sun setting, a balmy tropical night descending, friends or loved ones at your side, and attentive staff keeping the drinks flowing. One beachside bar in Bo Phut’s Fishermans Village has turned sunset drinks into a must-do experience. 

Coco Tam’s extends onto the sand each afternoon with rows of large comfy bean bags and low occasional tables. Mixologists turn out the drinks while cool DJ house beats set the relaxed, linger-longer mood. Sunken into your bean bag, toes in the sand is the ideal way to enjoy your sundowners. Stay (or return after dinner) for the nightly fire show.

9. Supattra Thai Dining

Many consider Thai cuisine a favorite, and it is recognized accordingly on the international stage. From street-side vendors, local family-run noodle shops, and beachside eateries to upmarket restaurants, it’s all available on Samui. Add to those options cafes and restaurants specializing in international cuisines from Japan to Europe and beyond. 

Given that depth of offering, it’s challenging to create a list of recommended dining. So instead of plowing into a Samui dining list, I want to highlight one local restaurant that was a happy surprise. 

Supattra Thai Dining is a small, unassuming alfresco restaurant in Bangrak, open evenings only from Tuesday through Saturday. Lady Thai Chef Supattra helms the kitchen and produces an ala carte daily blackboard menu focused on the quality fresh seafood and ingredients she has sourced from trusted local suppliers and markets. Partner Thomas, originally from Austria, looks after the service team and has curated an inventive wine list, including several natural, biodynamic Demeter-certified wines .

What To Order At Supattra Thai Dining

Though seafood is dominant, meats and vegetarian dishes are also available. Regularly available signature dishes include blue crab in yellow southern curry with betel leaves and the Australian free-range lamb with massaman curry sauce. Reservations are essential.

Getting There And When To Visit

Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, and it sits in the lower Gulf of Thailand. Surat Thani, with its rail and bus connections and a major regional airport, is its nearest mainland city. Access to the island is easy, either by a 45-minute direct flight from Bangkok or ferry from the mainland port of Donsak in Surat Thani province. 

Samui’s 31-mile ring road makes navigating the island easy, with car and motorbike rentals available for those wanting independence. Taxis and local transport called Songteaw are readily available in all the main tourist areas, and your hotel concierge will quickly arrange one as needed.

Thanks to its year-round tropical climate, you can visit Samui throughout the year. There are both dry and rainy seasons, although there are usually plenty of hot, perfect sunny days, even during the wetter months. Any rainfall usually comes in heavy showers that clear quickly. 

The best (and most popular) time to visit is between December and March when the weather is most settled (72 to 82 degrees), and ocean water visibility is excellent. April to September are the hottest months, with daily averages ranging from 75 to 91 degrees. October to early December sees the most rain, with daily average temperatures around 80 degrees.

Editor’s Note: Planning your trip? Don’t miss Michael’s 3 Meaningful Travel Experiences I Loved In Northern Thailand .

Michael is a member of TravMedia , and IFWTWA (International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association).

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A First-Timer’s Guide To Koh Samui, Thailand

By Georgia Condon

28th Feb 2024

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With incredible beaches, a vibrant dining (and drinking) scene, and gorgeous natural and cultural sites, it’s no surprise we love Thailand.

Lying east of the Thai mainland, Koh Samui is a must-visit slice of paradise in the Land of Smiles, whether you’re a first-timer to the country or you’ve already hit (and fallen in love with) Bangkok and Phuket.

Here’s how you should spend your first trip to Koh Samui, Thailand.

Koh Samui Accommodation

With three stunning pools, varied dining experiences and a retro-glam vibe, Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel & Beach Club is your one-stop-shop for your first stay on Koh Samui, Thailand. Located on the breathtaking Chaweng Beach, you’ll want to settle on a sun lounge with a coconut, swing by a bottomless rosé sunset session overlooking the beach, or feast on local seafood in the restaurant.

Things To Do On Koh Samui

For foodies.

Koh Samui is awash with spots to chow down on local Thai cuisine, from high-end oceanfront restaurants to the tiniest street food stalls. For your first visit to Koh Samui, explore the Chaweng Night Market and various stalls selling skewers, noodles, fried snacks and pop-up bars. On the north coast, the fisherman’s village in Bophut is an interesting historical area to visit packed with, go figure, plenty of local seafood straight out of the Gulf of Thailand at various price points.

For Partygoers

For Culture-Seekers

For Active Travellers

A veritable natural paradise, Koh Samui, Thailand offers so much for the traveller who loves to get active outdoors. The calm bays and beaches including Chaweng, Choeng Mon, Bangrak and Bophut offer the perfect location for stand-up paddleboarding. On your first trip to Koh Samui, get the lay of the land by hiking through lush rainforest to sites like the ​​Lamai overlap stone (a precariously balanced rock formation), Hin Lad Waterfall, and the Secret Buddha Garden.

Getting To Koh Samui

Most visitors fly to Koh Samui, either from Bangkok (where all domestic flights to Koh Samui depart from) or internationally. As this typically short flight can get expensive, a common alternative is to fly to Surat Thani and then ferry to Koh Samui.

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Koh Samui’s Cultural Heritage: Temples, Traditions, and Tales

Exploring the spiritual essence of koh samui.

Koh Samui, a jewel in the Gulf of Thailand, is not just a haven for beach lovers but also a mosaic of cultural and spiritual experiences. The island’s cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with Buddhism, which is reflected in the daily lives of its inhabitants and the many temples scattered across its landscape. Koh Samui’s history, a blend of myth and reality, paints a vivid picture of the island’s evolution from a fishing community to a world-renowned tourist destination. The spiritual aspect of Koh Samui, often overshadowed by its natural beauty, offers a profound experience for those seeking to explore the deeper aspects of Thai culture.

The island’s temples, known locally as ‘wats,’ are not just places of worship but also centers of learning and community gatherings. They serve as a living testament to the island’s dedication to preserving its religious and cultural traditions. Each temple has its unique story, architectural style, and spiritual significance, contributing to Koh Samui’s rich tapestry of cultural heritage. For travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, a visit to these sacred sites provides an invaluable glimpse into the spiritual heart of Koh Samui.

The Majestic Wat Phra Yai: A Golden Beacon

Route 4171, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand

Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple, is more than just an iconic landmark; it’s a symbol of spiritual awakening and serenity. Perched on a small rocky island connected to Koh Samui by a causeway, the temple is home to a magnificent 12-meter high golden Buddha statue, a sight that leaves visitors in awe. This statue, visible from several kilometers away, beckons travelers from all walks of life to bask in its glory. The temple grounds are a blend of tranquility and subtle spiritual energy, making it a popular spot for both meditation and admiration of the breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and islands.

As you climb the temple’s steps, each one brings you closer to a state of peaceful introspection. The gentle sea breeze and the rhythmic sounds of chanting from the temple create an ambiance of pure bliss. The nearby market offers a chance to explore local crafts and cuisines, providing a taste of Koh Samui’s vibrant culture. For those looking to stay close to this spiritual landmark, there is a wide range of nearby accommodations from luxurious resorts to quaint guesthouses. Find the perfect place to stay while soaking in the spiritual ambiance of Wat Phra Yai. Find your serene retreat near Wat Phra Yai

Wat Plai Laem: A Fusion of Thai and Chinese Spirituality

Road 4171, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand

In the northeastern corner of Koh Samui lies Wat Plai Laem, a stunning embodiment of Thai-Chinese religious synergy. The temple, with its sprawling complex and serene lake, is a masterpiece of spiritual artistry. The centerpiece, an 18-arm statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, is an awe-inspiring sight that encapsulates the essence of compassion and kindness inherent in Buddhist and Taoist teachings. The statue, with its tranquil expression and multiple arms, symbolizes the all-reaching compassion of Guanyin, offering solace and hope to those who visit.

Surrounding the Guanyin statue, the temple grounds are adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant murals that narrate tales from Buddhist and Chinese folklore. These artistic depictions are not just visually stunning but also serve as a medium for imparting wisdom and moral values. The temple’s architecture, with its multi-tiered roofs and elaborate carvings, reflects the fusion of Thai and Chinese cultural influences, creating a space that is both sacred and artistically significant. The peaceful atmosphere of Wat Plai Laem makes it an ideal spot for contemplation and exploration of the spiritual traditions that shape Koh Samui’s cultural identity.

Wat Khunaram: The Mummified Monk of Koh Samui

Route 4169, Na Mueang, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand

Wat Khunaram offers a unique and somewhat mystical experience to its visitors. It is most famous for housing the mummified body of Luang Por Daeng, a revered monk who passed away in 1973 in a meditative lotus position. Remarkably, his body has remained in a near-perfect state of preservation, making it a source of fascination and reverence. This temple is a poignant reminder of the Buddhist belief in the impermanence of life and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. The monk’s peaceful demeanor and the modest surroundings of the temple create an atmosphere of deep respect and contemplation.

The temple’s traditional Thai architecture, with its sloping roofs and ornate decorations, blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The temple serves as a spiritual center for the local community, where people come to pay their respects and seek spiritual guidance. The presence of the mummified monk adds a unique dimension to the temple, making it a must-visit for those interested in the more unusual aspects of Buddhist practice. Visitors often leave the temple with a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings and a renewed perspective on life and mortality.

Hidden Gems: Hin Lad Waterfall Temple and Nathon Hainan Shrine

Hin Lad Waterfall Temple: Moo 2, Ang Thong, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand

Tucked away from the bustling tourist spots, Hin Lad Waterfall Temple offers a serene retreat into nature’s embrace. This temple, set before the path to the Hin Lad Waterfall, is a perfect blend of spiritual sanctuary and natural wonder. The temple grounds, with their lush greenery, calming water features, and Buddha statues, provide a tranquil environment ideal for meditation or a peaceful walk. The temple is often less crowded, offering a more intimate experience of the island’s spiritual side.

Nathon Hainan Shrine: Moo 3, Nathon, Ang Thong, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand

Nathon Hainan Shrine, on the other hand, is a vibrant display of Chinese cultural influence in Koh Samui. This small yet colorful shrine, located in the heart of Nathon town, is adorned with elaborate dragon motifs and traditional Chinese decorations. The shrine is a testament to the Chinese community’s strong presence on the island and their integration into the local culture. Visiting this shrine is an opportunity to experience a different facet of Koh Samui’s religious diversity and to appreciate the coexistence of various cultural traditions on the island.

Discovering the Secret Buddha Garden

Na Mueang, Ko Samui, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand

Amidst the dense foliage of Koh Samui’s hills lies the Secret Buddha Garden, a mystical and enchanting space created by the vision and dedication of one man, Nim Thongsuk. This hidden gem, also known as the Magic Garden, is filled with statues and sculptures that reflect Buddhist mythology and the imaginative mind of its creator. The garden is a labyrinth of paths leading to various statues, each with its own story and symbolism, set against the backdrop of Koh Samui’s lush jungle.

The Secret Buddha Garden is more than just a collection of sculptures; it’s a journey into the heart of creativity and spirituality. The tranquility of the garden, coupled with the artistic representation of Buddhist themes, offers a unique and reflective experience. Visitors to the garden are often struck by the harmony between art and nature, making it a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the island’s more frequented spots.

Laem Sor Pagoda: A Golden Marvel by the Sea

99/9 Laem Set Rd, Na Mueang, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand

Laem Sor Pagoda, situated on the southern tip of Koh Samui, is a beacon of tranquility and spiritual reflection. This striking golden pagoda, set against the backdrop of the sea and sky, offers a picturesque and peaceful setting. The pagoda’s unique yellow-gold hue and beachside location make it a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting destination. Visitors are often mesmerized by the combination of the pagoda’s sacred ambiance and the natural beauty of its surroundings.

The area around Laem Sor Pagoda is relatively quiet and less commercialized, providing a perfect setting for meditation or quiet contemplation. The pagoda is surrounded by smaller shrines and statues, each adding to the spiritual narrative of the place. The beachside location also offers an opportunity for a leisurely stroll along the shore, making it an ideal spot for those looking to combine spiritual exploration with relaxation amidst nature.

Wat Ratchathammaram: The Red Temple

60/22 Moo 2, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand

Wat Ratchathammaram, commonly referred to as the Red Temple, is a unique addition to Koh Samui’s temple landscape. Its distinctive red clay construction sets it apart, offering a modern interpretation of traditional Thai temple architecture. The temple’s deep red hues stand in stark contrast to the lush greenery surrounding it, creating a visually striking landmark. The intricate designs and patterns on its walls, depicting scenes from Buddha’s life, are a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Thai temple architecture.

The Red Temple’s tranquil environment is ideal for visitors seeking a quiet and contemplative space away from the more tourist-heavy areas of the island. The temple’s unique aesthetic and serene atmosphere make it a favorite among photographers and those interested in contemporary religious architecture. Wat Ratchathammaram is a symbol of Koh Samui’s evolving cultural identity, blending traditional religious motifs with modern architectural elements.

Celebrating Faith: Festivals and Traditions in Koh Samui

The spiritual life of Koh Samui is vividly expressed through its festivals and traditions, which are deeply rooted in Buddhist beliefs. Visakha Bucha, Kathina, and Makha Bucha are among the most significant festivals celebrated on the island, each marking important events in the life of the Buddha. During these festivals, the island comes alive with a sense of devotion and community spirit. Locals and visitors alike participate in various religious activities, including merit-making, temple visits, and candlelight processions, creating a vibrant and spiritually charged atmosphere.

These festivals not only offer a glimpse into the religious practices of the island but also provide an opportunity for cultural immersion. They are a celebration of faith, unity, and the enduring spirit of the local community. Participating in these festivals allows visitors to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage firsthand and to gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions that shape the spiritual life of Koh Samui.

A Culmination of Cultures: Other Religious Buildings on the Island

Koh Samui’s cultural diversity extends beyond its Buddhist heritage, encompassing a variety of religious beliefs and practices. Koh Samui Central Mosque and Mary help of Christians Catholic Church are prime examples of this religious diversity. The mosque, a focal point for the island’s Muslim community, showcases Islamic architectural elements, while Mary help of Christians Catholic Church serves as a gathering place for the Catholic community, offering services in both English and Thai.

These religious sites, though less prominent than the Buddhist temples, are integral to the island’s multicultural fabric. They reflect the peaceful coexistence of different faiths and contribute to the rich tapestry of Koh Samui’s cultural landscape. Visiting these places of worship offers an insight into the varied religious traditions that thrive on the island and the harmonious integration of different cultural influences.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Na Muang Waterfall 1

Spilling down from the island's highest points, this is the first of two waterfalls – close to each other – that are lovely in full spate, pouring frigid…

Fisherman's Village

This concentration of narrow Chinese shophouses in Bo Phut has been transformed into cool boutique hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars. The accompanying…

Wat Phra Yai

At Samui’s northern end is Wat Phra Yai. Erected in 1972, the modern golden Buddha (sitting in the Mara posture) stands 15m high surveying an area…

Hin-Ta & Hin-Yai

At the south end of Hat Lamai, you’ll find these infamous genitalia-shaped stone formations (also known as Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks) providing…

Laem Sor Pagoda

Framed against the sea, Laem Sor Pagoda, at the southern end of Samui, is home to an intriguing, highly venerated old Srivijaya-style stupa with scenic…

Samui Elephant Sanctuary

The (high) entrance fee here reflects visitors desire to support a project genuinely caring for rescued elephants, and the half-day experience is more an…

Ko Samui Central Mosque

This photogenic green and gold, domed mosque, built in the Mughal style, sits in the heart of Ko Samui's historic Muslim village. Arrive outside of prayer…

Orthodox Church of the Ascension

Ridiculously photogenic, this beautiful, baby blue, Russian orthodox church with gold onion domes (similar to the nearby mosque) sits halfway up a…

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10 mistakes to avoid on your first trip to thailand.

Are you planning your first time to Koh Samui or elsewhere in Thailand? If so, borrow my "older and wiser" list of top 10 mistakes to avoid.

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Strange but true ... I packed so badly for my first trip to Thailand that my failure inspired this entire website and, later, The Koh Samui Guide .

Are you planning your first time to Koh Samui or elsewhere in Thailand? If so, borrow my "older and wiser" list of top 10 mistakes to avoid. Enjoy!

10 mistakes to avoid on your first trip to Koh Samui, Thailand

1. don't pack what i packed.

Twenty years ago this August, I was a first-time visitor to both Thailand and Koh Samui. I thought I was just headed on a "typical beach vacation", so I was surprised at how badly wrong I got the Thai dress code . Culture-wise and climate-wise: my packing got an F. An F minus. ‍

My packing and dress code mistakes

‍ 2003 Fashion Crimes included J-Lo sunglasses, visors ... and worse. Add at least five Bacardi Breezers to every photo and it's not pretty. Yet, the worst of a bad bunch was a pair of cut-off jean shorts – they were way too short for Thailand's modest culture and way too hot for the tropics. To make matters worse, I paired the shorts with an Avril Lavigne-esque tube top ... and went sightseeing at Koh Samui's Big Buddha. A temple. Bad bad bad, but I didn't know any better.

‍ How to avoid my mistake?

‍ Five years on, I had returned to Koh Samui regularly and I decided it was my duty to mankind to help well-intentioned people arrive in Thailand with half a clue.

In 2008, this blog was born with two posts: How to Pack for Thailand and What to Wear in Thailand

Read through these two tried-and-tested guides, and immediately you'll be able to pack for Thailand like a pro. For a quick head-start, your Koh Samui packing should definitely include clever mosquito protection, slip-off shoes and lots of linen.

2. Avoid a beach mistake

Before blogs, WiFi, iPhones or Pinterest, it was thanks to good luck (and a great travel agent) that my first visit to Thailand included a stay on Koh Samui's Choeng Mon Beach . I fell in love with it immediately, and it's a bias that's remained. I've since tried others, but it will always be my particular favourite.

‍ How to avoid a bad beach mistake?

‍ Today, you have a lot more research material available to you – and the decent probability of it overwhelming you. How to find what will be *your* favourite beach?

Start with my recommendations for where to stay on Koh Samui . As a great head-start, see all of your many choices – distilled in a beach-by-beach list. As for "which beach is best"? It's nothing but personal preference.

3. Over-enthusiastic shopping

My mistake: I bought a ubiquitous triangular Thai cushion... and then wondered how to transport it home. Triangle peg into a rectangular suitcase? Not the best way to spend the last hour of your vacation.

‍ 1. Shop Koh Samui's best: If you love to shop, jump right into the helpful shopping chapter of The Koh Samui Guide . Use its expert tips to swap your play money for the island's best souvenirs (or perhaps some of its weirdest).

2. Buy something better: Sneak a peek at the best things to buy in Thailand , and remind yourself often that Thai silk is much easier to pack than an enormous triangle.

3. Plan ahead: Hoping to leave Koh Samui with lots of goodies? A foldable duffel bag is easy to store in your main piece of luggage as an eleventh-hour 'just-in-case'.

4. World's worst animal-lover

Aside from the visor, my biggest regret on my first visit to Thailand was riding an elephant. I had no idea and, at the time, thought I was being all kinds of "intrepid in Asia". Only later did I learn what I really wish I'd known. (In my weak defence – this was in 2003, two years before YouTube existed).

Perhaps, like me, you're a massive animal-lover? It's a big regret that I supported such a cruel practice – something I try to atone for with a little soapbox 'do as I say, not as I did' oration.

‍ Before getting anywhere near an elephant in Thailand, take full advantage of (A) my hindsight and (B) today's internet to do your essential research. Find out what I wish I'd known about elephants on Koh Samui.

5. $$$ on sunscreen

How to tell a first-time Thailand visitor? Look for the person who has seriously underestimated Thailand's sun. My entire family brought just one sun-hat between us, and we spent more money on sunscreen than on any souvenir. (Want to literally save your hide? See my tried-and-tested favourites – the best toiletries for Thailand , plus how to avoid mosquitoes in Thailand ).

‍ Note that sunscreen on Koh Samui costs between 150-300% more for the same bottle than on Amazon. There's much less selection, too: not much for sensitive skin and next-to-nothing that's cruelty-free. Bring lots, and bring it from home!

6. Samui sunshine vs your skin

I got sunburned. Badly. Now I know exactly where Koh Samui sits, latitudinally.

‍ Never say the words "Oh, I never burn" in Thailand. Instead, run and hide like a scared kitten as noon approaches. As for your sun-hat for Thailand? The bigger the brim, the better.

7. Beware the cheap Jeep

Beep beep, it's a cheap Jeep. To explore Koh Samui, we rented a Jeep without air-conditioning. It was cheap, but a big mistake! We stuck to the seats and hung out the windows like hot dogs for our first island road-trip.

‍ What to do instead?

‍ Discover how to arrive savvy on your car rental options on Koh Samui (and – crucially – pay the extra for an air-conditioned vehicle). Good news for you – there's much more choice in rental car inventory these days. Honda Civic, here you come.

• How to get around Koh Samui
• Koh Samui airport transfers
• Rent a car on Koh Samui

‍ Crucial safety tips

‍ Note that Koh Samui has a crazy-high accident rate for its most common form of tourist-transport: scooters and motorbikes (and, as such, I recommend car rental over scooters). If you absolutely have to scoot, wear a helmet. No matter what – no matter when you come, where you stay, or what you hope to do while on Samui – make sure you come with quality travel insurance.

8. Don't drown

Our 'Ocean Incident': We went kayaking, loved it, kept going, and going ... out into the big, scary ocean. If you let me tell the story after some wine, we kayaked to Cambodia*. We were "those" tourists, and totally underestimated ocean currents. There's a reason long-tail boats have motors!

*Since writing this, I received an irate email from someone, along the lines "you can't possibly kayak to Cambodia, you're a fraud, you've never been to Koh Samui." We all understand this is nearly marooned hyperbole, yes? It was closer to Koh Farn ... but distances can deceive at sea.

‍ How to expect the unexpected?

‍ Arrive in Thailand with a healthy respect for the ocean, especially around Koh Samui where currents and creatures do cause the occasional tragedy. (Jellyfish are rare but known in the region). With each update of The Koh Samui Guide , I add more and more to the safety section – clearly having left the "youthful infallibility" decade of my life behind.

9. Death by Pad Thai

I ate SO.MUCH.PAD.THAI. on my first Koh Samui trip. Breakfast, lunch, dinner ... as soon as I could specify chicken or shrimp in Thai, there was no stopping me.

This early noodle enthusiasm means I'm still not quite ready for more Pad Thai, ensuring much broader menu exploration ever since. The current tally of Piggy McGreedyson research? The better part of two decades' eating the entire island, nearly every cuisine known to man.

‍ Try this instead...

‍ If you want Pad Thai, it will find you. If you'd like to try it all, then discover where to eat on Koh Samui .

10. Missing the magic

Only at the end of my trip did I realise that Koh Samui sunrises are such a secret, magical show. (I'm not an early-riser, so I can encourage you to enjoy a Thai sunrise and not sound like a smug yogi). There's a lazy way, I promise.

‍ How to see it all?

The fun way:   Book a sunrise stand-up paddleboard tour .

The lazy way: Here's how to enjoy a "lazy sunrise" every day of your vacation: You get up, watch the sunrise, then go back to bed and hope there's some bacon left at breakfast later. When to get up? Set your alarm to Koh Samui's dawn and sunrise times.

Bonus: Mistake #11. Last drop of alcopop

As confessed, I was drinking Bacardi Breezers in August 2003 (and thinking I was coooool ). On my last day I ‘discovered’ Koh Samui rum (and have never touched another Breezer).

‍ Don't miss the local stuff

‍ Thanks to the passage of time, there's a world more option for drinks on Koh Samui today. Help yourself to nearly twenty years' dedicated booze research in The Koh Samui Guide. Should you want to drink the Bacardi rainbow, Koh Samui Tesco has your back.

Koh Samui for first-timers

I often say that The Koh Samui Guide is 'the guide I wish I'd had' from the start. But my 'live and learn' first trip to Koh Samui was still a perfect vacation – as I hope yours will be. Still, if you want the cheat-sheet to enjoy Samui like total pros... I've literally written the manual. Enjoy!

• Hotels: Where to stay on Koh Samui
• My favourites: Thailand essentials
• Mosquitoes: How to avoid mosquitoes in Thailand

P.S. You can find every tip for planning your Koh Samui travel in the archive, or subscribe by email and get all the details straight to your inbox. Enjoy!

"The most enjoyable vacation of my life"

How do I…? Where do I…? What's the best ...? Use The Koh Samui Guide to enjoy every second: from how to choose your perfect beach to planning romantic nights out.

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The Best Hotels and Resorts in Koh Samui, Thailand

By Hannah Summers

From safari-style tents to private island villas and life-altering wellness retreats to splash parks and ball pits, the small Andaman island of Koh Samui in Thailand has it all when it comes to hotels. The island’s first five-star hotel opened here back in the mid-1980s, followed by a slow trickle of new openings to what exists today: Thailand’s most luxurious island, but also somewhere with hotels for virtually every type of traveler. And where there’s a beach, there’s now a palace to sleep—and drink and eat—right next to it.

Many of Samui’s most luxe places sit in the northeast corner, some with their own bays—some even on their own islands. And although it’s one of Thailand’s livelier destinations—with its bars, markets, massage parlors, and impressive restaurant scene, you will still find serene stays. It’s also the starting point for hops over to the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao—but with Koh Samui hotels this good, you may not see the need to leave.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui Arrow

It’s the island’s priciest place to stay (just shy of $1,250 a night in the low season, and double that in high), but it is also the very best. A stay at Four Seasons Samui is like stepping into the White Lotus life—part of the reason why season three of the hit HBO series was reportedly filmed here. It’s easy to see why it was chosen—it’s serene and seriously photogenic, with 78 residences and villas cut into a steep jungly hillside (and former coconut plantation). Architect and interior designer Bill Bensley can take full credit for the stylish and luxe feel, from the jazzy artwork to the very cool Coco Rum pool bar, where striped sofas line a palm-dotted pool with sea views beyond.

Koh Thai, the open-air restaurant, has food as good as the views (handily, you don’t have to stay to eat here). It’s the same spot for breakfast, where an incredible French pastry chef prepares the most delicious matcha madeleines, vanilla brioche, and chocolate financiers—every morning is a surprise. There’s a spa, naturally, with treatments using Thai herbal products, a breezy outdoor yoga pavilion, and a small kid’s club in a treehouse. Snorkel offshore, laze on a lounger the size of a super-king bed on the beach, or sip spirits in the rum vault (one of the many drinking spots) before a lantern-lit meal on the beach.

Six Senses Samui Arrow

One of the most sustainable stays on Samui is on a sloping jungle-clad headland on the island’s northeastern tip. The bamboo walls and high thatched roofs of 66 multi-level villas (most with private pools) give the feeling of staying in a luxe treehouse.

The vibe is chic, yet fun: natural wood tones are combined with pops of color from the neon-green and sherbet-yellow cushions and loungers, and staff stroll around in millennial pink and dusty rose linen two pieces. The first is quiet (one of the island’s best and biggest infinity pools), the other buzzier and next to the beach, on a cove shared with neighboring hotels—one of the only clues that you’re on a popular island rather than a remote hideaway. Mornings start with a shot of ‘rocket fuel’ (cider vinegar and citrus) at breakfast, and there’s an excellent menu of mocktails, free ice cream, and several scenic restaurant options, where fragrant curries are served up next to sunset views (although the best views at sunset are from the spa). Little and large guests love the on-site farm, where they can pet and feed a herd of well-preened goats.

Anantara Lawana

Couples and families mingle happily together at Anantara Lawana, a resort-style hotel located close to the nightlife of Chaweng on Samui’s east coast. Sociable types should go for one of the standard bedrooms, located in the soft gray two-story Thai-style houses. For sunshine? You’ll need to head to the buzzy pool or beach, a great spot for a paddle at low tide or a proper swim at high tide, when colorful long-tail boats bob on the water just along the shore.

Those seeking quiet may prefer the private pool villas—with their tiled floors and traditional dark wooden furniture, including four poster beds, they feel very grown up. The spa is another sanctuary in the hotel, where discreet therapists deliver back-crunching bamboo massages and Ayurvedic Shirodhara therapy. Crab Shack is your sand-between-the-toes sunset cocktail spot, while Tree Tops, built in a treehouse-style wooden structure wrapped around a century-old tree, is the hotel’s romantic dining option (book early to catch the sunset here). The kids club is a hive of activity, with wooden tractors and play kitchens.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

There are plenty of lovely beaches on Samui, but Tongsai Bay? This curve of golden sand, with its gently tumbling turquoise waves, feels impossible to beat—and, unless you’re willing to paddle in by kayak, it’s only accessible to Garrya guests. The hotel that opened here back in the mid-80s was the first five-star resort on the island and has been welcoming loyal guests, some of them as many as 20 times, since.

A recent rebrand to a Garrya resort has kept some of the much-loved elements of the hotel, like outdoor bathtubs, and refreshed others: high-ceilinged rooms are simple yet luxurious, with calming beige and burnt orange palette and varnished wooden floors. There’s a spa, breezy outdoor massage cabanas set inches from the waves, and three restaurants, including beachside dining at Fish Tales (don’t miss the vegan chocolate ice cream), and Evo, where much of the food is made with produce taken from the hotel’s garden. Then there are decisions to make—the half-moon adults-only pool, the curvy beach-level pool, or a spot on the beach itself.

CNT Editors

Jillian Dara

Charlie Hobbs

Alexandra Hall

Ritz Carlton Koh Samui

This sprawling hotel, built across 58 hilly acres on a former coconut plantation, works hard to impress—and delivers. Kids will be overjoyed at the island’s best kids club: a huge light-filled space of ball pits, slides, and toys, with an outdoor crazy golf course and playground. For adults there’s the Spa Village, which is indeed a village—with eight standalone treatment rooms (try the pre-spa Songkran Spa Ritual) and a large barely-used adult-only pool dotted with cabanas.

The View serves up some of the island’s highest sea views alongside creative tasting menus, while Baan Talta is modeled on a Thai street food market, but there are several more options should you dine here each night. A Muay Thai boxing ring, basketball, and tennis courts are great if you get restless, while a beautiful beach of cream-colored sand and a large curvy pool if you long to just laze. There are 175 bedrooms, suites, and villas, but oceanfront pool villas have the real wow factor: outdoor decks and infinity pools, you can gaze over the edge and see nothing but turquoise water and hear nothing but the waves meeting the rocks below.

Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa Arrow

To call Kamalaya a hotel wouldn’t be doing it justice: yes, there are hotel rooms and villas dotted across this bougainvillea-draped hillside on the island’s quieter south coast, but at the heart of this sanctuary is a focus on wellness, both physical and mental. Most guests here book in on dedicated programs, whether it’s detoxes and cleanses or programs such as Embracing Change, in which you’ll spend time with Life Enhancement Mentors, unravelling past trauma with talk therapy and meditation. Treatments—many of them Ayurvedic—are all tailored to your specific issues, with acupuncture and heavenly massages. The site is built around a 300-year-old mediation cave, which you can still use today, plus there’s walking meditation, yoga, and a peaceful stretch of sand for late-afternoon siestas. Solo travelers here may like the communal dining, where everyone from opera singers to burnt out CEOs gather to knock back green juices at breakfast and feast on sugar-free curries in the evening, but you’d also feel entirely comfortable dining solo, reading a book over meals, or simply gazing out at the water.

One of Samui’s best—and most luxurious—places to bed down isn’t actually on Samui, but even better: a private island around 100 yards offshore (you’ll be whisked there and back in a small speedboat or glorified tractor depending on the tide levels). Here, you’ll find 24 villas, from Ocean Cottages to two-bed family villas, all with private pools where you can snooze to the sound of birdsong and gently lapping waves.

All other spaces are pure bliss, too: like the breakfast terrace views and the peaceful, sun-soaked adjoining room, not just because of its pretty canary yellow cushions and bamboo-style chairs, but for its spread of pastries, baked in house; or Hue restaurant, where you can gaze out past the pin-stripe loungers, pool, and palms to the shimmering sea beyond. Long Dtai, overseen by Michelin-recognized chef David Thompson, is worth a visit even if you can’t stay here: not just for the panoramic views over the turquoise Andaman, which are arguably some of the best restaurant views on the island, but for the menu: the Southern egg curry being a highlight. Despite being one of the Samui’s most expensive stays, it’s also one of the most relaxed: where retired business owners wander the same winding paths around the small island as young honeymooners .

Twenty-three contemporary villas, cut into a meticulously landscaped flower-filled slope on the north-east of the island, every one staggeringly luxurious and big on views: strictly speaking Samujana isn’t a hotel, but it operates very much like one, with added privacy and space, making it particularly popular with large groups of family and friends.

Unlike a lot of villa stays, you won’t need to lift a finger: breakfast is provided in the villa every morning, rooms are made up and turned down, and there are team members on hand to rustle up meals. It’s hard to choose the best: perhaps it’s villa 12, with its own boxing gym, basketball court, games room, and cinema room, or maybe the ludicrously photogenic villa 30, with 360-degree views and the country's best infinity pool—a serious accolade when the competition is fierce. Others, with their sun-flooded, open-plan, open-air communal areas, large pools, and calm-inducing minimalist styling are so lovely that you could happily lose a week or two here, never venturing out at all.

Kimpton Kitalay

Choeng Mon beach, with its fire shows, jet skis, and beach bars, sets the tone for Kimpton Kitalay , a buzzy hotel in Samui’s north. It’s built in the style of a fisherman’s village, with six low-rise blocks of rooms wrapped in dark wood. You can bed down in two-bed villas, but entry level rooms are large and stylish, with Victorian-style tiles, curvy freestanding bathtubs, and jazzy blue rugs.

The main pool is a sociable spot, as is the splash park and kids club, but there’s always a quieter place to escape to—especially if you opt for a swim up suite on the ‘quiet’ side, or book time in the spa. There are four restaurants and bars, and if you tire of Thai food, Fish House serves excellent steak and huge sides, plus fresh-off-the-boat fish. You may spot one or two dogs strolling the grounds: the hotel works with a local rescue dog charity, and dogs that are up for adoption visit every fortnight to meet guests.

Silavadee Resort

Young honeymooning couples and equally loved-up retirees happily mingle at Silavadee, a boutique resort built across a hillside on a quiet peninsula on the east coast of Samui. Although the entry-level rooms are pretty, with their outdoor hot tubs and airy interiors, if you’re staying here it should be an Ocean Front Pool Villa. Our pick? Number three: With its separate living room, freestanding bathtub, huge bedroom, and even bigger pool, you could happily spend your entire stay in the privacy of your villa, floating in your pool or gazing out at miles and miles of empty sea. There’s a simple spa where efficient therapists expertly deliver tension-relieving Thai massages, and the two open-air dining spots are both romantic and well-priced (the wine pairings, in particular, are generous and a steal). Lively Lamai beach is a short scooter ride away, or if that’s too taxing, you’ll find some of the best snorkeling on the island right off the hotel’s quiet curve of beach—handily, for guests, it’s a small cove that’s near impossible for anyone else on the island to access.

Travelers gather for days to months to work from their laptops, live well, and eat well at Kapuhala, a boutique hotel that has the relaxed vibe of an Airbnb . Food is central to a stay here—a small but perfect menu of Sicilian plant-based recipes (Kapuhala’s second outpost is on the Italian island), features delicious spaghetti soy ragu and light arancini, all topped with pipettes of extra virgin olive oil, with the olives plucked and pressed at their Sicily property. Breakfast, meanwhile, is a feast of fruit and freshly baked muffins and strong Italian coffee.

You can venture high up the hill in Chaweng Noi on a moped for a meal, but then you’d miss what makes this place so special: easing into your day in the open air restaurant space, with its swaying rattan lamps and hessian bean bags, getting to know the friendly team and feeling inspired by the island’s remote working views across the infinity pool and over the sea below. Choose from four simple light-filled ‘ tiny houses ’ or one of five large safari-style tents, where the sides fold up so the breeze can flow in while you gaze out.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Trip report April 17-29th/2024 Part three- Koh Samui - Thailand Forum

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We were met by our guide and driver and drove only 5-1 0 minutes to our resort Amari Koh Samui . We were able to get into our rooms right away which was great. We changed into beach wear and headed to the pool and beach. The resort has two sides to it. The beach side and across the road is the garden side. We stayed in the garden side and it was nice and quiet. No problem crossing the street as there was a crossing guard that stopped traffic. There was water in glass bottles in our room but were not cold so we had to get water from the restaurant . It was 80 baht for a bottle of water which was outrageous. There was a local stand on the beach where a guy sold bottles of water for 20 BAHT which we bought everyday. We drink alot of water. We brought our own water jugs and would fill up with water from our room and from the guy with the cart on the beach. The temperature in Koh Samui was about 34 C and i think the sea water was hotter. It was not refreshing at all in front of our resort.

That night we walked to Baan YA Jai restaurant not far from hotel at the start of the main street in Chiang Mai . Our food was so good and highly recommend. We walked back to hotel for early to bed.

Today we did a full day tour with 100 Degrees East to Angthong National Marine Park. We were picked up at our hotel at 9am and drove to their office on the Bangrak beach. We got safejty information, paid for our tour and info on how our day was going to look like. They was only 9 people total including us in our group plus the 4 guides. Lots of room on the boat .We went on the speedboat (very smooth ride) for about 1 hr to a snorkeling spot in the Marine Park. We snorkeled for about 1 1/2 hrs hours and went into some amazing caves. Every two persons were teamed up with one guide., The snorkeling was great with beautiful fish and coral. We were given drinks and fruit throughout our time on the boat. After the snorkeling we drove a short distance to a beautiful white sand beach . The marine park had beautiful limestone formations. We were given beach mats to sit down on and relax while lunch was being set out. Lunch was amazing with fried chicken and many other dishes. After lunch we had about 2 hrs to just chill, go in water or have a nap. After that we went for a short drive to another beach where we got in kayaks and kayaked around the shorelines of the islands and ended up on another beach where Emerald Lagoon was. Emerald Lagoon was breathtaking. The climb up and down is very steep. We went slow and steady and had no problems. Someone with height issues might have a problem. We had some time on the beach after getting back from our climb. We then started our journey back. It was rough waters going back. Some people were sick but I also think they should not been at back of boat where the motor was , in my opinion. We always sat up at the front of the boat so we could see everything and had no problems. We were still on boat for sunset which was great. We got back to the beach we were started and was taken back to our hotel. I would highly recommend this tour operator. They went above and beyond for everyone.

After a shower and change of clothes, we got a taxi in front of our hotel to Fisherman's village for 300 BAHT. We walked around the village and ate dinner at BA CA Ba restaurant on the beach. I wanted a change in food so I got the WAGYU beef burger and fries and it was very tasty. My hubby got Pad Thai. All food and drinks were awesome. Loved the location on the beach. The service was amazing also. After dinner I had to go to one of the carts and get rolled ice cream and it was delightful. We then walked around and ended up getting another 1 hr massages which were great and cost $350 BAHT each. We caught a cab back to hotel and to bed we went.

Got up early and had breakfast which is amazing at our resort. Cook to order any type of eggs even Eggs Benedict. After breakfast we decided to walk north and walk all the way to the end of Chaweng Beach . We did notice as we got to about the middle travelling north that the water was deeper and a way lot cooler. There was nice waves also. I would definitely stay at this part of Chaweng Beach rather than our beach at the Amari . After we got back from our walk we just chilled at the beach in the shade as cooler than at the pool. The pool did have sun umbrellas if you wanted shade. The pool was very hot also. We added up ordering pizza for lunch which was very taste at our resort and not too expensive. We had showers after lunch and then was picked up for our Sunset Dinner Cruise at 3:30pm on the Red Baron wooden ship. It was a nice boat but it was very hot and not a lot of shade so we sat inside but still warm as all open. They stopped for some fishing and for people that wanted to jump off the boat and swim. When we first got on the Red Baron we were given a welcome cocktail and spring rolls and watermelon. For dinner there was a mix of fish, chicken and vegetarian dishes. We finished with coconut ice cream. All the food was very good. Some how they knew that I had birthday that week and gave us two drinks of our choice which was mango mojitos. We saw the beautiful sunset then back to the dock and we were driven back to our resort. The cruise and the staff was great but we would not do it again. We would rather of had maybe 1/2 day tour of the island.

Another chill day to get ready for our trip home starting on the 28th. We hung out on the beach again then showers then walked down south of our hotel to the Lotus restaurant. They had greek food there and also Thai and options. We both had Gyros and fries which were tasty. We saw a massage place across the street so went and go 1 hr massages again. Great massages once again for $350 BAHT pp. Back to hotel for showers and walked north to the main street in Chaweng Beach. We ate Home Samui restaurant and was there for happy hour so got a couple of drinks each. My husband had grilled calamari ,potatoes and corn and I had the Chicken Cashew dish. The food and service was good. After dinner we went and walked the length of the downtown area. It was a Saturday night , so busy and lots and lots of options for more restaurants and bars. We thought it was a cool place to just walk and hang out and stop for a drink along our way. Stopped and got the banana nutella roti again. Was tasty like before. We walked back to hotel and to bed.

Tonight we start our travels home to Toronto. We were able to get a late check out for 3pm. So had lunch at resort after hanging at beach in morning then back to room at 2pm to finish packing and showers. We were picked up at 3:30pm for our 5:25pm flight from Koh Samui to Bangkok. We flew again with Bangkok airways. We had about 1 1/2 hr to walk around this cute airport and went to a beer cafe for some bevvies. We had to collect our luggage once we got to Bangkok and check in with Korean airlines . We had about 4 1/2 hrs layover here. We have credit cards that give us lounge passes so we went to the Coral Lounge. Wow, the lounge here was top notch compared to what we have been to in North America and even Dubai. Lots of couches to relax in and lots of food and beverages which included alcohol. Our flight departed for Seoul at 11:30pm. I took my evening meds and got about 4 hrs sleep but hubby got none. We were served two meals and one snack. I did not eat that late of night and went to sleep. We got to Seoul at 6:55am and our next flight to Toronto was at 9:35am.No need to get bags as same airline and checked through all the way. Now this flight for us was terrible. We could not sleep and we were so tired especially my husband. It was 13 1/2 hr flight home. By the time we landed in Toronto in the morning of April 29th we were exhausted. We got our car from Park N Fly and drove the 1 hr home. My hubby should not of driven because he was soooo tired. Made it home and tried to stay up as long as possible which was about 3 pm, where we fell asleep on couch.

Coming home we traveled 29hrs in total. We will never travel that long again at one time. We are in the process of trying to plan our trip for next March to Cambodia/ Vietnam and will be breaking up the travel time for when coming back. We also will make sure that if our flight arrives late in evening that we do not schedule a tour the next morning. IT was way too short of a trip this time.

We loved our Thailand trip. We would definitely go back. Would spend more time in Chiang Mai and also go to Chiang Rai and Koh Samui but different location.

Thanks to everyone that answered my questions before we left for our trip and during our trip. It was much appreciated.

2 replies to this topic

Nice report, thanks!

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‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 Is Being Filmed At These Luxury Thailand Resorts

The hit hbo series has announced where the next season is being shot—and wherever the show goes, travelers tend to follow..

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The Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui in Thailand is among the filming locations for the upcoming season of the hit show.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Fans of The White Lotus , the popular HBO anthology miniseries, have speculated since early last year that the third season will likely be set in Thailand, but no one knew exactly where it would be filmed.

Now, with production having begun earlier this spring, the shoot locations in Thailand have been revealed. Filming is taking place in the capital city of Bangkok and on the islands of Phuket and Ko Samui, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and HBO revealed in February.

“We are pleased to partner with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to execute Mike’s creative vision and showcase all that the beautiful country of Thailand has to offer, as the next group of guests check in to The White Lotus ,” Janet Graham Borba, executive vice president of production for HBO & Max, said in the statement.

Given that the last two seasons were filmed at Four Seasons hotels, many expected this season to be filmed at a Four Seasons as well—and they were right. Thai tourism authorities have recently confirmed that season three is being filmed at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui , set among the rolling, lush hills of the island of Koh Samui. Accommodations at this ultra-luxurious property range from villas with their own private pools to multi-bedroom sprawling residences where families and groups can spread out.

But Four Seasons Koh Samui won’t be the only resort featured in the upcoming season. The Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas , a collection of luxury villas on the island of Phuket, will also serve as a backdrop to some upcoming scenes.

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas is among the high-end resorts where the next season will be filmed.

Courtesy of Anantara

Created by Mike White, who also serves as executive producer and director, The White Lotus is a satire-cum-dramedy set in the fictional and luxurious White Lotus resort in popular tourist destinations. There, dysfunctional guests and hotel staff reveal new sides of themselves, all the while skewering insensitive tourists. Season 1, which debuted in 2021, was set in Hawai’i and filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea , while the second season, which was released at the end of 2022, was set in Sicily , this time filming at San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel .

The locations and the hotels themselves saw a massive boom in visitors both during those seasons and since they aired, and the show is one of the drivers of the so-called set-jetting trend, in which travelers go to filming locations of their favorite shows or movies (see also The Crown , Ted Lasso , Outlander , and Lord of the Rings ). It’s reasonable to expect that Thailand—already a popular tourism destination—will be no different.

“We are honored to have amazing Thailand featured as the filming location for the highly anticipated upcoming season of The White Lotus ,” TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said in a statement. Thailand’s “exotic natural beauty, rich historical sites, and diverse landscapes are the perfect settings to share our fascinating culture, fantastic cuisine, top-notch wellness and luxury offerings, and most importantly our people and Thai hospitality. Thailand has long been considered one of the world’s favorite filming locations.”

We’re already imagining what kind of dramas could play out at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.

The series is known for new casts each season, and the one character who was in both Seasons 1 and 2 will not be returning for the third season—fans mourned the demise of Tanya, played by Jennifer Coolidge, at the end of the second season. While it was known she wouldn’t return, the rest of the new season’s cast was shrouded in mystery until recently. It has been announced that the third installment will star Leslie Bibb, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Parker Posey, and Natasha Rothwell, as well as two Thai actors, Dom Hetrakul and Tayme Thapthimthong. Rothwell is the only returning cast member—she played the spa manager Belinda in season one.

The White Lotus Season 3 is slated to premier on HBO and stream on Max in 2025.

This story was originally published in February 2024, and was updated on May 10, 2024, to include current information.