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
Lamai
Travellers to Lamai praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Lamai Beach and Silver Beach.
The stunning beaches and popular shops are just a few highlights of Bophut. Make a stop by Chaweng Beach or Fisherman's Village Plaza while you're exploring the area.
Located in Koh Samui, this beachfront resort is in the city centre and within 1 mi (2 km) of Central Festival Samui, Chaweng Beach and Chaweng Lake. Chaweng ...…Located in Koh Samui, this beachfront resort is in the city centre and within 1 mi (2 km) of Central Festival Samui, Chaweng Beach and Chaweng Lake. Chaweng ...WWW…
4.8/5Exceptional! (118 reviews)
Wonderful stay
"Fabulous hotel! Beautiful room, very helpful and friendly associates. Excellent breakfast variety, pool bar team are awesome offered special service above and beyond! clean sunglasses glasses, cucumber facial a credit to the management! Very nice F&B executive Mananger (French guy) forgot his name ..."…""Fabulous hotel! Beautiful room, very helpful and friendly associates. Excellent breakfast variety, pool bar team are awesome offered special service above and beyond! clean sunglasses glasses, cucumber facial a credit to the management! Very nice F&B executive Mananger (French guy) forgot his name ..."WWW…"
Nestled on the beach, this Koh Samui resort is within a 15-minute walk of Bo Phut Beach and Fisherman's Village Plaza. Big Buddha Beach and Mae Nam Beach are ...…Nestled on the beach, this Koh Samui resort is within a 15-minute walk of Bo Phut Beach and Fisherman's Village Plaza. Big Buddha Beach and Mae Nam Beach are ...WWW…
4.5/5Wonderful! (311 reviews)
A little pocket of paradise.
"Awesome infinity pool & on the beach. Great location just a few minutes walk to Fisherman’s Village which is full of restaurants, shops, bars & great massage places. Staff were attentive & always greeted you with a smile. Breakfast was great too."…""Awesome infinity pool & on the beach. Great location just a few minutes walk to Fisherman’s Village which is full of restaurants, shops, bars & great massage places. Staff were attentive & always greeted you with a smile. Breakfast was great too."WWW…"
Located in Koh Samui, this beachfront hotel is connected to a shopping centre and within 1 mi (2 km) of Mini Golf International and Choeng Mon Beach. Chaweng ...…Located in Koh Samui, this beachfront hotel is connected to a shopping centre and within 1 mi (2 km) of Mini Golf International and Choeng Mon Beach. Chaweng ...WWW…
4.7/5Exceptional! (404 reviews)
"Great property, highly recommend. Can’t wait to go back and stay again"…""Great property, highly recommend. Can’t wait to go back and stay again"WWW…"
Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Chaweng Beach, a popular beach in Bophut. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this romantic area.
Relax on one of Koh Samui’s most beautiful beaches, enjoy a massage in one of the many resorts and explore the surrounding picturesque fishing villages and temples.
Genuine Thai with a Mediterranean vibe. Stay in one of the oldest villages on Koh Samui, where anything goes, from Chinese teahouses to funky young bars.
If you want to catch a glimpse of Koh Samui before tourism development, visit this wonderfully well-kept street of 19th-century Chinese shop-houses and French architecture.
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