Koh Samui
A perfect tropical escape with its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re lounging on Chaweng Beach, exploring the famous Big Buddha, or indulging in local seafood, there's something for everyone. The island's laid-back vibe and stunning scenery make it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure. Plus, the friendly locals and endless activities will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
Ang Thong National Marine Park
This stunning archipelago offers incredible snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking opportunities, showcasing the natural beauty of Koh Samui's marine life and landscapes.
How to Book
Book day trips or overnight tours through local tour operators or online platforms like Klook or GetYourGuide.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera. Respect the natural environment by not littering and avoiding touching the coral.
Koh Tao Tour
This tour takes you on a scenic boat ride from Koh Samui to the pristine island of Koh Tao, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Enjoy a full day of snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing at some of the island's best beaches and coral reefs, including a visit to the picturesque Nang Yuan Island.
How to Book
Book through local tour operators in Koh Samui, online platforms like Klook or Viator, or at your hotel’s tour desk.
Bring snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, though most tours provide it. Pack a light lunch, snacks, and plenty of water. Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Beautiful Seaside Resorts
Koh Samui offers a range of beautiful seaside resorts, providing luxury and comfort right by the beach, ideal for relaxation and water activities.
How to Book
Use booking platforms like Agoda, Booking.com, or the resort's official websites.
Book well in advance, especially during peak season. Check for all-inclusive packages for a more cost-effective stay. Choose a resort that offers easy access to the beach and water sports.
Pig Island Tour
This unique tour takes you to Pig Island (Koh Madsum), where you can interact with friendly, free-roaming pigs on the beach. Enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, and relax on the island’s pristine sandy beaches.
How to Book
Book through local tour operators in Koh Samui, online platforms like Klook or Viator, or at your hotel’s tour desk.
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera for photos with the pigs. Carry cash for any additional purchases on the island. Ensure you have water shoes to protect your feet from the rocky areas.
Central Samui
Central Samui is the bustling heart of Koh Samui, featuring shopping, dining, and vibrant nightlife, making it a must-visit area.
How to Book
Accommodation in Central Samui can be booked via popular travel websites like Agoda and Booking.com.
Bargain at local markets for better deals. Stay vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Explore both high-end and local dining options for a variety of culinary experiences.
Full Moon Party Koh Phangan
The Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan is a globally renowned beach party held monthly, attracting thousands of party-goers with music, dancing, and fire shows.
How to Book
Accommodation and transport can be booked through travel websites like Agoda or directly with hotels.
Secure accommodation well in advance as it gets booked quickly. Stay hydrated and be cautious with personal belongings. Arrive early to find a good spot on the beach.
Get the transfer to Koh Phangan!
Coco Tam’s Fireworks
Coco Tam’s is a beachfront bar in Bophut, Koh Samui, famous for its nightly firework displays, live music, and relaxed ambiance with bean bags on the sand.
How to Book
No booking is required to visit Coco Tam’s, but arrive early to secure a good spot.
Arrive before sunset to get the best seats. Enjoy a variety of cocktails and snacks while watching the show. Check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies for the fireworks.
Muay Thai Training
Train with professional fighters and learn the art of Muay Thai. Whether you're a beginner or advanced, it's a great way to stay fit and learn a new skill.
How to Book
Book training sessions at local Muay Thai gyms like Superpro Samui or Lamai Muay Thai Camp.
Wear appropriate workout gear and stay hydrated. Sessions can be intense, so pace yourself according to your fitness level.
Spa Day
Indulge in a relaxing spa day at one of Koh Samui’s luxurious spas, offering treatments like Thai massage, aromatherapy, and facials.
How to Book
Book spa treatments through your hotel or directly at popular spas like Tamarind Springs or Anantara Spa.
Arrive early to enjoy the spa facilities. Inform the therapist of any specific preferences or areas of concern.
Chaweng Beach
The most famous and bustling beach on Koh Samui, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Relax on the Beach
Spend the day sunbathing or swimming in the warm sea.
Nightlife
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs along the beach.
Water Sports
Try jet skiing, parasailing, or paddleboarding.
Arrive early to secure a good spot and bring plenty of sunscreens.
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
An iconic 12-meter tall golden Buddha statue that is a must-visit for its cultural and spiritual significance.
Temple Tour
Explore the temple grounds and learn about its history and significance.
Viewpoint
Climb the stairs to the base of the statue for panoramic views of the island.
Souvenir Shopping
Browse the local stalls for unique souvenirs.
Dress modestly and respect the local customs and religious practices.
Fisherman's Village, Bophut
A charming area with traditional wooden houses, trendy boutiques, and beachfront dining.
Walking Street Market
Visit on Friday evenings for the bustling night market with street food and local crafts.
Dining
Enjoy a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Shopping
Browse the shops for unique clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Bargain politely at the market stalls for the best prices.
Lamai Beach
A quieter alternative to Chaweng, offering a more laid-back beach experience.
Relax on the Beach
Enjoy a peaceful day sunbathing and swimming.
Spa Treatments
Indulge in a relaxing massage or spa treatment at one of the many beachside spas.
Dining
Sample delicious Thai cuisine at the local restaurants.
Visit the Lamai Sunday Night Market for great food and local products.
Secret Buddha Garden
A tranquil garden hidden in the hills, featuring statues and waterfalls amidst lush greenery.
Explore the Garden
Wander through the statues and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Photography
Capture beautiful photos of the unique sculptures and natural surroundings.
Hiking
Combine your visit with a hike through the surrounding jungle.
Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Namuang Waterfalls
Two stunning waterfalls located in the island’s interior, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Swimming
Cool off in the natural pools at the base of the waterfalls.
Hiking
Hike to the second waterfall for a more secluded experience.
Picnicking
Enjoy a picnic in the scenic surroundings.
Bring water shoes to navigate the rocky areas safely.
Laem Sor Pagoda
A lesser-known pagoda located on the southern coast, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Temple Visit
Explore the pagoda and its surroundings.
Photography
Capture the beautiful architecture and coastal views.
Meditation
Take a moment to meditate in the tranquil environment.
Visit during sunset for the most picturesque views.
Wat Plai Laem
A colorful and elaborate temple complex featuring an 18-armed statue of Guanyin and a large Buddha statue.
Temple Tour
Explore the intricate statues and learn about the Buddhist and Chinese influences.
Photography
Take photos of the vibrant and unique temple structures.
Feeding Fish
Buy food to feed the fish in the temple’s lake.
Respect the temple grounds and dress appropriately.
Hin Ta Hin Yai
Hin Ta Hin Yai, also known as Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, are natural rock formations on Koh Samui that have become famous for their unique shapes.
Photography
Capture the stunning rock formations against the backdrop of the sea.
Legend and Lore
Learn about the local legends associated with the rocks.
Nearby Market
Explore the nearby market for local snacks and souvenirs.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serenity. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the rocks.
Koh Samui, one of Thailand's most popular islands, offers diverse accommodation options suitable for various preferences and budgets. To help you decide where to stay, here’s a detailed guide to the best areas on the island, including their pros, cons, and nearby tourist spots.
Chaweng Beach
Pros
Vibrant Nightlife: The area is famous for its bustling nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, making it ideal for party enthusiasts.
Wide Range of Amenities: Chaweng offers a plethora of restaurants, shops, and services, ensuring you have everything you need within walking distance.
Beautiful Beach: The sandy shores of Chaweng are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, with stunning views of the turquoise sea.
Cons
Crowded and Noisy: Due to its popularity, Chaweng can be crowded and noisy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Higher Prices: The demand for accommodation and services in Chaweng often leads to higher prices compared to other parts of the island.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Central Festival Samui, Chaweng Walking Street, Wat Plai Laem
Lamai Beach
Pros
Quieter Atmosphere: Lamai is quieter and more relaxed than Chaweng, making it suitable for those seeking a peaceful environment.
Beautiful Beach: Lamai Beach is wide and sandy, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Good Amenities: The area has a good selection of restaurants, bars, and spas, providing ample options for dining and relaxation.
Cons
Less Lively Nightlife: While there are bars and some nightlife, Lamai is not as lively as Chaweng, which might be a drawback for those looking for a vibrant nightlife scene.
Limited High-End Accommodations: There are fewer luxury hotels in Lamai compared to Chaweng.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Hin Ta and Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks), Lamai Night Market, Wat Lamai Temple
Bophut (Fisherman's Village)
Pros
Charming Atmosphere: Bophut is known for its charming, laid-back vibe with narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses and boutique shops.
Family-Friendly: The area is ideal for families and couples looking for a quieter, more relaxed setting.
Great Dining Options: Bophut has a variety of high-quality restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.
Cons
Less Ideal Beach: The beach in Bophut is not as pristine as those in Chaweng or Lamai, with some areas unsuitable for swimming.
Limited Nightlife: The nightlife is quieter, focusing more on relaxed bars and restaurants rather than clubs.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Fisherman's Village Walking Street, Samui Go-Kart, The Wharf Samui
Maenam
Pros
Peaceful and Secluded: Maenam is much quieter and less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat.
Budget-Friendly: The area is ideal for budget travelers and long-term stays, with a range of affordable accommodations.
Beautiful Beach: Maenam Beach is clean and suitable for swimming, providing a tranquil setting with less hustle and bustle.
Cons
Limited Nightlife: Nightlife and dining options are limited compared to busier areas like Chaweng.
Far from Main Attractions: It is further away from some of the island’s main tourist attractions and activities.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Maenam Walking Street, Chinese Temple, Santiburi Samui Country Club
Choeng Mon
Pros
Family-Friendly: Choeng Mon is quiet and safe, making it ideal for families with children.
Proximity to Airport: The area is close to Samui Airport, making it convenient for travelers.
Beautiful, Clean Beach: The beach is well-maintained with shallow waters, perfect for swimming and water activities.
Cons
Limited Nightlife: There are fewer bars and nightlife options compared to other areas.
Fewer Budget Accommodations: The area has more mid-range and luxury resorts, with fewer options for budget travelers.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), Wat Plai Laem, Samui Crocodile Farm
Bang Rak (Big Buddha Beach)
Pros
Convenient Location: Close to the airport and ferry piers, making it easy to travel to and from the island.
Budget-Friendly: The area offers many budget-friendly accommodations and eateries.
Tranquil Beach: The beach is quieter, providing a relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds.
Cons
Not Ideal for Swimming: The beach is not the best for swimming, with some areas being quite shallow and rocky.
Limited Nightlife: Nightlife options are limited, focusing more on relaxed bars and restaurants.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), Wat Plai Laem, Fisherman's Village
Lipa Noi
Pros
Very Quiet and Secluded: Ideal for those seeking complete peace and privacy.
Family-Friendly: The shallow waters and calm beach are perfect for children.
Beautiful Sunsets: The west-facing beach offers some of the best sunset views on the island.
Cons
Far from Major Attractions: The area is quite remote, making it less convenient for accessing the island’s main attractions.
Limited Dining Options: Fewer restaurants and entertainment options compared to busier areas.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Nikki Beach Club, Dusit Dhewa - Samui Cultural Center and Fine Art of South East Asia, Raja Ferry Port