Bophut Koh Samui

Bophut, Koh Samui, is a picturesque and culturally rich village that seamlessly blends traditional Thai charm with modern sophistication. Unlike the party-heavy Chaweng Beach or the laid-back vibe of Lamai, Bophut offers a perfect balance of tranquilly, luxury, and the local vibe.

The charming Fisherman’s Village boasts various culinary options, ranging from Thai cuisine to a broad selection of upscale Western dining establishments. With a laid-back vibe, Bophut is one of the most appealing destinations for both first-timers and return travellers to Koh Samui; however, it comes with some negatives.

The main reason visitors stay in Bophut is to be close to or inside Fisherman’s Village, which, of course, is one of the most popular places to visit in Koh Samui; therefore, it’s very touristy and, for some, maybe off-putting. Bophut Beach isn’t the best beach around Koh Samui; however, the awesome resorts make up for it with fabulous pool areas to relax in.

Introduction to Bophut, Koh Samui

Tip: Bophut is also a district in Koh Samui, which includes Chaweng, Chaweng Noi, Cheong Mon, Plai Leam, Bangrak, and Bophut. Bophut ends at Zazen Boutique Resort and Spa and Samui Bayview Resort & Spa (formerly The Best Western). Therefore, check the beach location when choosing a resort.

Bophut (pronounced boh-put) is one of Koh Samui’s oldest settlements and holds a unique place in the island’s history. Originally a quiet fishing village inhabited by Chinese-Thai families, it has transformed over the years into a stylish and upscale area while preserving much of its historical architecture and local culture. Today, Bophut is best known for the Fisherman’s Village, a charming street lined with old wooden shop houses, boutique hotels, and seafront restaurants.

What sets Bophut apart is its ambience—a fusion of laid-back island life and boutique sophistication. Here, you can sip cocktails on a rooftop bar while listening to soft jazz, shop for handmade crafts at a local market, or take a cooking class to learn authentic Thai cuisine.

The Fisherman’s Village is the focal point of Bophut and arguably one of the most beautiful and atmospheric places on Koh Samui. This narrow, beach-adjacent street features preserved Chinese-style shop houses, many of which have been converted into stylish cafes, restaurants, boutique hotels, and souvenir shops.

The village comes alive particularly on Friday nights, when it hosts the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street Market. This weekly event is a feast for the senses—live music, fire dancers, and a wide array of street food stalls offering everything from spicy papaya salad to grilled seafood. It’s also a wonderful place to buy handcrafted souvenirs, clothing, and local artwork.

Despite its growing popularity, Fisherman’s Village retains a peaceful charm, especially during the day when the crowds thin and the ocean breeze cools the narrow alleys.

While Bophut Beach itself may not have the powdery white sand of some other Koh Samui beaches, it more than makes up for it with its tranquillity and stunning views of Koh Phangan across the water. The calm waters also make it suitable for kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.

A range of water activities is available from Bophut Beach. Although no shared boat tours leave from Bophut Beach Koh Samui, the surrounding piers are not far away. Some private catamarans or speedboats will depart from Bophut Beach.

Go-karting race track is an awesome few hours spent with family.

Where to find Samui Karting โกคาร์ท Go-Karting (Ko Samui, Fisherman’s Village)

Dining and Nightlife

Bophut is a gastronomic hotspot with something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving Thai street food or haute cuisine, the village delivers with flair.

Thai Cuisine

Local eateries serve up classic dishes like green curry, pad Thai, massaman curry, and grilled seafood caught fresh daily. Don’t miss the beachside restaurants, where you can dine with your feet in the sand under swaying palm trees.

If you’re a foodie and interested in eating like a local, click the link below for the best local Thai restaurants around Bophut.

Eat like a local in Koh Samui

International Flavours

Fisherman’s Village is also home to a diverse range of international restaurants, offering French, Italian, Indian, Japanese, and Mediterranean cuisines. Venues such as Coco Tam’s are especially popular, known for their excellent pizzas, cocktails, and beachfront seating complete with bean bags and fire shows.

To find international restaurants, click the link below to view Samui Explorers’ list of the top 7 restaurants, which includes several located in Bophut.

Top 7 Restaurants in Koh Samui by Samui Explorer

Nightlife

Nightlife in Bophut is more refined than in Chaweng. Think elegant cocktail bars and open-air lounges with DJs like Coco Tam’s. Live bands at the awesome restaurant bar, Karma.

Spas

Bophut is home to several high-end spas offering everything from traditional Thai massages to holistic treatments. Wellness centres offer yoga classes, BDMS, and detox programs, making them ideal for travellers seeking rest and rejuvenation.

Wild Cottages Elephant Sanctuary, Celes Samui Resort, Peace Resort & Spa, Anantara Bophut Resort & Spa, and Cyan Spa.

Bophut offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cosy guesthouses. Many are located directly on the beach or within walking distance of the village.

Luxury Resorts:

Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort and Hansar Samui Resort & Spa

Romantic & Boutique Resort:

Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa

Where to find it Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa

Karma Beach Resort & Villas

Where to find it Karma Resort Samui

Child-friendly hotels with children’s clubs & activities

Families will appreciate the safe, calm waters and child-friendly hotels. Bophut offers the best child-friendly resorts, with the Holiday Inn Samui ranked as number one and the Bandara Resort & Spa ranked as number two.
For more family-friendly resorts in Koh Samui, click on the link below.

Koh Samui with Children

Budget Guesthouse

Various guesthouses and small hotels offer good value, clean rooms, and easy access to the beach and restaurants. These are perfect for backpackers or long-time travellers.

Highly recommended—Baan Yaimai Boutique Samui.

Bophut Hills has awesome villas dotted around, accommodating larger groups or families, all with amazing views; however, transport is required for those who like to explore.

Where to find it Baan Yaimai

Bophut is more than just a beach and a market. There are plenty of activities for tourists who want to explore, learn, or relax.

Thai Cooking Classes

Numerous cooking schools in Bophut offer half-day or full-day classes where you can learn to make authentic Thai dishes. Some include visits to local markets to shop for ingredients.

Temples and Cultural Sites

While Bophut itself is better known for its beach and market, it has one main temple, Wat Bophut, which is missed, being located on a very busy corner in Bophut as you enter the area of Fisherman Village.

Luang Pu Thuad is located inside Wat Bo Phuttharam, a temple that most visitors drive past while visiting Koh Samui, oblivious to its presence. Luang Pu Thuad-Wat Bo Phuttharam, Bhoput, is located just before Fisherman Village at one of the busiest junctions in Koh Samui. A moat surrounds a boat where a large black Buddha stands tall. You can walk inside and find items to purchase to pay your respects.

Where to find it Wat Bo Phuttharam

Getting Around Koh Samui

Bophut is easily accessible and well-connected to the rest of Koh Samui. It’s located just 15 minutes from the Samui International Airport and about 20 minutes from Chaweng Beach.

Walking: Fisherman’s Village is best explored on foot. Scooters: Rent a scooter for flexibility if you plan to explore the island. Songthaews (shared taxis): Inexpensive and common across the island. Private taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are also available, though generally pricier.

Bophut is an excellent choice for a variety of travellers, including couples and honeymooners who will love the romantic restaurants and quiet beaches.

Couples and honeymooners will love the romantic restaurants and quiet beaches. Families with young children seek a hotel that prioritises the needs of their children and parents. 

Bophut is a destination that manages to feel both timeless and contemporary. It retains the spirit of a traditional Thai fishing village while offering the amenities and experiences that today’s travellers seek.

Whether you’re coming for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or simply to soak in the island’s natural beauty, Bophut promises a memorable stay.