Koh Samui Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Bo Phut Beach showing kayaking or canoeing and general coastal views
Koh Samui is just like the island paradise from the movies with its pristine white beaches, sapphire blue waters and legendary nightlife. This small island off the east coast of Thailand draws different types of visitors, from young travellers who come here to party every night, those looking for its relaxed culture, and others simply for the pristine beauty of the beaches and the sea. Each side of the island has something different to offer. The south and west coasts are more relaxed and casual, perfect for those looking to chill on the beach with a good book or looking to experience the local culture. The north and east coast are popular for the famous beach parties, bars and night clubs.

On the west coast is Lipa Noi, a secluded beach that’s perfect for a romantic stay. Further to the south lies Phang Ka, with a number of first-class resorts and one of the best places to see the sun set into the sea. To the south lies the Bay of Thong Krut here you can explore the fishing village or take a charter boat to nearby islands Koh Tan and Koh Mudsum where you can go deep sea fishing.

Go dancing for the evening in Chaweng, then spend the day resting on the incredibly beautiful Chaweng Noi Beach. This beach, found south of the village, is a perfect place to escape from the maddening crowd. In the northeast lies Choeng Mon, the most exclusive part of the island, where the resorts and private beaches attract a bit more of mature, more family-friendly, crowd.

Visit the Great Buddha, just north of the airport. This 12 meter high bronze statue stands on its own little island just opposite the beach. Stroll through Bang Rak and Bo Phut to see the more traditional side of the island.

The beaches are easily accessible via the ring road that runs in a along the coast. When one beach is too busy, simply drive a few kilometres to the next beach. If you'd like to explore the surrounding islands, you're just a short boat trip from Koh Phangan and the spectacular Ang Thong National Park.

Where to stay in Koh Samui

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Chaweng City Center

4.5/5(51 area reviews)

Chaweng City Center is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Chaweng Beach and Central Festival Samui.

Chaweng City Center
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Lamai City Center

4/5(22 area reviews)

You'll love the stunning beaches in Lamai City Center, and you might want to stick around to check out Lamai Night Market, a top place to visit.

Lamai City Center
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Bophut Hills

When in Bophut Hills, you can plan a visit to Big C Supercenter and Fisherman's Village Plaza, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Bophut Hills
Fair House Villas & Spa
Fair House Villas & Spa
4.5 out of 5
39 Moo 1, Maenam, Suratthani, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The price is ₹4,988 per night from 16 May to 17 May
₹4,988
per night
16 May - 17 May
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa.
8.6/10 Excellent! (480 reviews)
"Awesome hotel …"

Reviewed on 10 May 2024

Fair House Villas & Spa
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui
5 out of 5
99/11 Moo 5, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The price is ₹11,525 per night from 22 May to 23 May
₹11,525
per night
22 May - 23 May
Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in their reviews.
9.2/10 Wonderful! (206 reviews)
"Very nice hotel staff was very friendly and helpful. Ideal for families with kids"

Reviewed on 4 May 2024

Hyatt Regency Koh Samui
Holiday Inn Resort Samui Bophut Beach, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Resort Samui Bophut Beach, an IHG Hotel
4.5 out of 5
Moo 2 Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The price is ₹7,971 per night from 29 May to 30 May
₹7,971
per night
29 May - 30 May
Our guests praise the family amenities in their reviews.
8.8/10 Excellent! (120 reviews)
Very nice room, rich breakfast
"The room was great and we had a wonderful time (a week). The pool was very nice. Very rich breakfast. The room is always perfectly cleaned, except for the balcony which is forgoten by the cleanladies for some reason. We got the room early which was great. However, the late checkout that we asked ..."

Reviewed on 1 May 2024

Holiday Inn Resort Samui Bophut Beach, an IHG Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Pawanthorn Luxury Pool Villa Samui
Pawanthorn Luxury Pool Villa Samui
4.5 out of 5
249, Moo 2, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury villa in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and 3 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach are located ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (67 reviews)
"The place is quiet and staffs are friendly. The next door restaurant is superb."

Reviewed on 10 Feb 2023

Pawanthorn Luxury Pool Villa Samui
Villa The Wave 2 Residence
Villa The Wave 2 Residence
4 out of 5
93/104 Moo 3, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and private pools.
9/10 Wonderful! (4 reviews)
"Like - amazing standalone property with superb ocean & sunrise view. Helpful staffs and definitely highly recommended if you are looking for a relaxing vacation."

Reviewed on 19 Sep 2023

Villa The Wave 2 Residence
CHUZ Villas Samui
CHUZ Villas Samui
3.5 out of 5
206/50-52 Moo 4, Lamai Beach, Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge).
10/10 Exceptional! (28 reviews)
"Everything perfect"

Reviewed on 6 Feb 2024

CHUZ Villas Samui
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Reviews of Koh Samui

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
165
" "5 - Excellent 57.69230769230769%
4 - Good
96
" "4 - Good 33.56643356643357%
3 - Okay
20
" "3 - Okay 6.993006993006993%
2 - Disappointing
5
" "2 - Disappointing 1.7482517482517483%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
21 Mar 2020

Loved it!!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
19 Mar 2020

Amazing place to visit. Would definitely recommend & go back.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
14 Mar 2020

Was only there 1 day.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
12 Mar 2020

Although there is more chaos than usual in Chewang due to the roads being taken up, still very lively!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
2 Mar 2020

It such a great destination , a great experience

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
18 Feb 2020

Great , but Cinnamon Beach Resort needs a rethink

Cities near Koh Samui