Koh Samui Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Lamai Beach showing a beach
Bo Phut Beach showing kayaking or canoeing and general coastal views
Bo Phut Beach which includes kayaking or canoeing and general coastal views
Koh Samui
Koh Samui
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 Shopping Center.

Chaweng City Center
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Lamai City Center

4/5(22 area reviews)

If you're spending time in Lamai City Center, you might enjoy its beaches and shopping. If you've got time to venture a little farther, you can make a stop by Lamai Beach or Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks.

Lamai City Center
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Bophut Hills

When in Bophut Hills, you can plan a visit to Fisherman's Village and Bo Phut Beach Pier, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Bophut Hills
Explorar Koh Samui – Adults Only Resort and Spa
Explorar Koh Samui – Adults Only Resort and Spa
5 out of 5
44/134 Moo 1, Mae Nam Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The price is ₹11,200 per night from 18 May to 19 May
₹11,200
₹13,294 total
includes taxes & fees
18 May - 19 May
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Koh Samui. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (414 reviews)
"Beautiful property and all of the staff were friendly and helpful"

Reviewed on 10 Apr 2025

Explorar Koh Samui – Adults Only Resort and Spa
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
5 out of 5
219 Moo 5 Tumbon Angthong, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The price is ₹91,897 per night from 10 May to 11 May
₹91,897
₹109,337 total
includes taxes & fees
10 May - 11 May
Stay at this 5-star luxury resort in Koh Samui. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Nathon Pier and Mae Nam Pier are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (135 reviews)
"Probably the best water side property and service in all of Thailand"

Reviewed on 22 Apr 2025

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
The Hive Hotel Samui
The Hive Hotel Samui
3 out of 5
124 / 264 Moo 3, T.Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The price is ₹6,273 per night from 26 Apr to 27 Apr
₹6,273
₹7,446 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Apr - 27 Apr
Stay at this 3-star beach resort in Koh Samui. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a beach locale. Popular attractions Lamai Beach and Chaweng Beach are located ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (429 reviews)
"We have had amazing time while staying at The Hive in Lamai Beach. Could the rooms (especially the bathroom) do with a refresh? Probably, but the beautiful staff and wonderful location. The staff, from reception, to restaurant, to housekeeping and grounds could not be more welcoming or friendly. ..."

Reviewed on 3 Apr 2025

The Hive Hotel 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.
Allure Resort
Allure Resort
3.5 out of 5
7/1 Moo5 Bo Put, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Stay at this 3.5-star beach villa in Koh Samui. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and private pools. Popular attractions Fisherman's Village and Chaweng Beach are ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
"Nice place"

Reviewed on 11 Mar 2025

Allure Resort
Villa The Wave 2 Residence
Villa The Wave 2 Residence
4 out of 5
93/104 Moo 3, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Stay at this 4-star villa in Koh Samui. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Lamai Beach and Chaweng Beach are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
"Great views and location"

Reviewed on 16 Apr 2025

Villa The Wave 2 Residence
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 Wi-Fi, free parking and 3 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Chaweng Beach and Fisherman's Village ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (80 reviews)
"This property was absolutely stunning. Every bedroom was massive and the views were amazing!"

Reviewed on 15 Apr 2025

Pawanthorn Luxury Pool Villa 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 58%
4 - Good
96
4 - Good 34%
3 - Okay
20
3 - Okay 7%
2 - Disappointing
5
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Loved it!!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

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

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Was only there 1 day.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

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

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

It such a great destination , a great experience

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Great , but Cinnamon Beach Resort needs a rethink

Cities near Koh Samui