Thailand’s second largest island in the Gulf of Thailand
Koh Samui is a stunning Thai island known for its white-sand beaches, lush jungle landscapes and spectacular viewpoints. Koh Samui offers a perfect blend of vibrant nightlife, serene retreats, cultural temples, and outdoor adventures. Ideal for all types of travellers, Koh Samui is a tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand.
Koh Samui offers a wide range of accommodation, from 5-star to budget. You can choose from beachfront or hillside accommodations, catering to those seeking a vibrant nightlife, a relaxed atmosphere, or privacy.
Whether you prefer sun worshipping, relaxing in a hammock, indulging in world-class cuisine, partying on the beach, or discovering wellness in an exclusive spa, Koh Samui caters to all your needs. There is truly something to do for everyone.
The island doesn’t have ancient sites, but it offers a wide range of tours to the surrounding islands: Koh Madsum (Pig Island), Koh Taen, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and Angthong National Marine Park. For those interested in Thai culture, there are numerous modern temples and waterfalls, and for the more active, there is waterfall hiking and breathtaking viewpoints.
You can engage in activities such as zip-lining, ATV off-road tours, off-road 4×4 tours, and cooking classes.
Koh Samui is famous for its 19 stunning beaches, each offering a different vibe—from party scenes to quiet retreats. Here’s a list of the most popular and scenic beaches around Koh Samui, grouped by popularity and type of experience: For additional information follow this link here Koh Samui Beaches & Awesome Resorts.
Throughout the week, you can visit walking street markets, offering street food and souvenirs. The most popular walking streets are Fisherman Village (Friday, Monday & Wednesdays evenings) and Lamai (Sunday evening). Chaweng Lake is a walking street market, which also includes a large food market.
Koh Samui Beaches
Chaweng Beach – Vibe: Lively, vibrant, and touristy
Highlights: nightlife, restaurants, beach clubs, and water sports. Best for: Party-goers and first-time visitors
Lamai Beach – Vibe: A slightly quieter version of Chaweng
Highlights: good swimming, bars, spas, and Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks. Best for: Couples and solo travelers looking for a mix of fun and calm
Bophut Beach (Fisherman’s Village) – Vibe: Trendy and charming
Highlights: Upscale dining, boutique shops, laid-back atmosphere. Best for: Families, couples, and food lovers
Maenam Beach – Vibe: Quiet, relaxing, great views of Koh Phangan
Highlights: Long sandy beach, calm waters, family-friendly resorts. Best for: Budget travelers and families
Choeng Mon Beach – Vibe: Quiet and upscale
Highlights: clean beach, calm waters, luxury resorts. Best for: Honeymooners and those seeking peace
Bangrak Beach (Big Buddha Beach) – Vibe: Peaceful with local charm
Highlights: Big Buddha Temple nearby, ferry to Koh Phangan. Best for: Island hoppers and spiritual explorers
Lipa Noi Beach – Vibe: Secluded and kid-friendly
Highlights: Shallow waters, sunsets, few rocks. Best for: Families with small children and romantic escapes
Taling Ngam Beach – Vibe: Untouched, natural beauty
Highlights: stunning sunsets, traditional Thai villages, Ang Thong Marine Park views. Best for: Nature lovers and photographers
Silver Beach (Thongtakian Beach) – Vibe: Small and serene
Highlights: crystal-clear water, snorkeling, granite boulders. Best for: Snorkelers and peaceful beach days
Coral Cove Beach – Vibe: Secluded and scenic
Highlights: clear water, great snorkeling, rocky coastline. Best for: Couples and adventurers
Getting to Koh Samui
A convenient way to book is by using 12Go’s booking platform for shared transfers via buses, trains, flights, ferries, and speedboats. Use this link here to book now!
Koh Samui International Airport (USM): Domestic Arrivals from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi and Chang Mai.
Internationally: Singapore, Malaysia, and China.
Surat Thani International Airport (URT): AirAsia joint ticket from Bangkok, Don Muang Airport. For more information click here Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui Island Information.
Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST): AirAsia (Joint Ticket), Nok Air( Joint Ticket) Thai Smile from Bangkok Don Muang.
Ferries arriving from the mainland, Donsak.
Seatran Ferry: Arrives into Nathon Town.
Songsern Ferry: Arrives into Nathon Town.
Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran: Arrives from Suratthani at Nathon Pier.
Raja Ferry: Arrives at Lipa Noi Pier.
Surat Thani Train Station from Bangkok.
