If Phuket is the largest and most popular island in the Andaman Sea in Thailand, then Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand is similarly prominent within its region. This part of the world has a different climate compared to the rest of the country, which adds to its appeal, and Koh Samui is the largest island for thoroughly exploring it.
Although Thailand has many archipelagos mass tourism tends to concentrate on two main areas. Some of them very beautiful but less traveled, like Koh Chang. The first is the Andaman Sea, highlighted by Phuket and popularized by the Phi Phi Islands, with other beautiful remote places such as Koh Lipe. The second is the Gulf of Thailand, centered around Koh Samui.
Known mostly for its three main islands, the Gulf of Thailand offers an alternative for those seeking something different. It is more challenging to reach, and the rain is relatively mild during the European summer, which coincides with the travel period for many Europeans.
In the Gulf of Thailand, you’ll find Koh Tao, the most popular island among Spanish speakers (locals sometimes call it “the Spanish island”) and Koh Phangan, known for its paradisiacal qualities.
The largest and most visited island in the Gulf of Thailand is Koh Samui. Although its size allows for exploration in a day, it offers all the amenities of a large city: large hospitals, supermarkets, and even cinemas. Its beaches may not be the most spectacular in the area, but there are still some beautiful spots. It is undoubtedly the ideal base for exploring the entire archipelago, with Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and other idyllic locations just a short distance away.
If Phuket is the largest and most touristically developed Thai island, Koh Samui rivals it in many ways. It shares many characteristics: considerable size, extensive infrastructure, numerous roads, shops, massive resorts, hospitals, and a wide variety of bars. The island also boasts a mix of beaches, some very crowded and others more secluded.
What makes Koh Samui special? Primarily, it’s its relatively remote location and manageable size, making it feasible to explore in a day. The journey to the Gulf of Thailand is more expensive and challenging compared to many other destinations, which helps keep it less crowded. It is often considered expensive, but this is mainly true in the central areas.
While Samui’s beaches may not be as spectacular as those found elsewhere, there are still some beautiful spots worth spending several days at. Moreover, from this island, you can access one of the most impressive marine parks in Southeast Asia. For diving enthusiasts, this region is renowned for its stunning underwater scenery.
For those seeking an island in Thailand that combines development with numerous city-like services and a notable tourist industry, Koh Samui is the best alternative for avoiding the high crowds and prices of Phuket. If your travel dates fall during the European summer, the Gulf of Thailand archipelago is a great choice.
Many travelers worry about rain when planning a trip to Thailand, but the islands are enjoyable year-round. The Gulf of Thailand, with Koh Samui at its center, generally experiences minimal rain during the European summer, making it a popular destination for those with holidays in July or August.
Travel Advice: Check out our article on the best time to visit Thailand for month-by-month climate information.
Koh Phangan has been open to tourism for decades, so you’ll find almost everything you need there: ATMs, clothing stores, hospitals, diving centers, accommodations for all budgets, markets, and supermarkets. Moreover, most of its beaches are accessible by road. From our first visit to the last (over a span of 10 years), we’ve seen the development of new access routes to places that were previously difficult to reach by motorbike, especially during the rainy season.
Koh Samui is a large island with high-end hospitals, including a branch of Bangkok Hospital. In case of urgent and specific medical needs, they usually transfer patients to Bangkok by air. The biggest concern is traffic: if you rent a motorbike, be very careful and obtain an international license beforehand.
It’s essential to travel to Thailand with comprehensive insurance. We were among the first to offer the popular 5% IATI discount, and you can now get it with Heymondo Travel Insurance as well. You can find more information about both companies through the links provided above, or you can access the discount directly using the buttons below (in both cases, you’ll see the reduced final price on their website):
While many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in Thailand offer free Wi-Fi, some travelers prefer or need a constant connection. We’ve included details on obtaining a eSIM Thailand card with unlimited data (from Holafly) or with fixed data but cheaper (from Saily).
If you want to get it directly, here’s the link (with a discount) for both companies:
The options for reaching Koh Samui vary from expensive to cumbersome. While flying is the quickest way, it is also quite costly. Traveling by land or sea takes longer, so the best option might be a combination of different modes of transport.
Koh Samui Airport is unique, as it is a private airfield with limited traffic and does not adhere to the standards of the state agency.
Although the airport is beautifully designed and open-air, only Bangkok Airways operates flights to Koh Samui. This airline has a monopoly on the landing and takeoff rights, both to the capital and other national and international destinations.
The cost of a round trip from Bangkok can be around 250 euros in the low season, though it can be higher. It is fast and comfortable, and there is a dedicated Bangkok Airways lounge at the main airports, available to all passengers.
A more budget-friendly option is to reach Donsak Port in Surat Thani Province and then take a ferry to the island. This is similar to the method used to reach Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, as the same companies handle the three islands in the Gulf of Thailand.
You can travel from Bangkok and other central destinations, as well as from Phuket and other southern areas.
The leading and safest company for this journey is Lomprayah, which is also a convenient option for those staying in the backpacker district of Khaosan, as they have buses departing from there.
This method is the slowest and least comfortable, as traveling from the capital can take between ten and thirteen hours, with a one-way price starting at 1,450 baht (about 40 euros).
Boats dock at Pralarn Harbor, and a public van ride to the main beach areas costs around 150 baht. A taxi can be almost as expensive as the entire trip to the harbor, as taxis on Koh Samui are quite pricey.
This involves taking at least three types of transport. The idea is to fly to Surat Thani airport, then take a minibus and ferry to the island. This method is also used for traveling to Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.
You can buy a combined ticket directly from AirAsia for all three segments and follow the instructions from their staff from the time you board the plane to Surat Thani until you reach the island. You won’t get lost.
If you do it on your own, you’ll find that both Lomprayah and Seatrans agencies sell combined minibus tickets to the island at the airport for around 15 euros.
Seatrans does not go to Pralarn Port but to Nathon Port, which is a bit further from the main tourist center on the island. However, the cost of the public van is about the same.
The total trip usually takes between five and seven hours, including air, land, and sea travel, and is quite comfortable, with only about two hours spent on the road.
Interestingly, this method can be cheaper than taking the bus from Khaosan. AirAsia offers one-way tickets starting from 1,000 baht, which includes everything from the airport to the island, although this depends on the day and season.
Lomprayah operates many boats connecting the three islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Thus, a trip to Koh Samui can also serve as a way to visit Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, with travel between the islands taking about two hours at most.
Whether traveling from Surat Thani or Chumphon, boat companies offer tickets that include transport to the port (by ferry or bus) and boat transport (by ferry, catamaran, or speedboat).
In the links below, you will find different combinations, including direct pick-up from the airport if you prefer not to spend time in these cities. If you are in northern Thailand, it is best to fly to these cities and choose one of the following options.
By bus: The easiest option from Bangkok is to buy a combined bus and boat ticket, which will take you directly to Koh Samui without worrying about getting lost. Companies like Lomprayah provide a sticker for your shirt, which indicates your destination island.
You will arrive at your destination effortlessly, just like a group. It’s quite practical if you don’t mind traveling as part of a group. We’ve done it this way before, and it’s not bad at all.
By train: Railway lines also reach Chumphon (making it unnecessary to go to Surat Thani), and you can purchase a combined ticket for the train, bus transfer to the port, and ferry to the island.
By plane: If you are far away and prefer to fly, you can book flights to Chumphon, Surat Thani, or even directly to Koh Samui. You will then need to buy another boat ticket to Koh Phangan.
As we have mentioned, Koh Samui is the largest island in the Gulf of Thailand. Although its beaches may not be the most dazzling in the country, they are typically welcoming and beautiful. The island’s size means that some areas are very crowded, while others may be almost deserted.
The island is moderately sized; you can cover it in one day, but it can be quite a hassle. If you take a taxi, it’s best to stay in a place that meets all your needs, as even short taxi rides can be expensive.
Some people love Chaweng on Koh Samui for its vibrant nightlife or backpacker atmosphere. However, the central area of Chaweng is dominated by mass tourism, with overpriced restaurants and crowded hotels. This is where the negative aspects of tourism are most apparent.
Nevertheless, staying here is a good option if you want to enjoy nightlife or meet people. Be aware that this area also has the most sex tourism on the island, particularly near the major nightlife hub, Ark Bar, which attracts mostly young backpackers.
However, Chaweng Beach is vast, and Chaweng Noi offers a quieter and more peaceful alternative. While there is no noise or partying, there are good hotels and some interesting restaurants. Beach bar enthusiasts should not miss the stylish SEEN Beach Club.
Seen Beach Club in Chaweng is known for its beautiful waters, despite the crowds. It remains one of the most popular coastal areas on the island, though prices here are significantly higher than elsewhere on Koh Samui.
Those who prefer quieter beaches will enjoy Lamai, another great area of Koh Samui. Quiet, affordable, and secluded, this extensive sandy stretch is perfect for those who prefer relaxation over the hustle and bustle of bars in Chaweng.
Additionally, you will find two very famous rocks in Lamai that resemble male and female genitalia. These natural formations are truly a work of art, as they were not sculpted by anyone. However, it does require a bit of imagination to fully appreciate their shapes.
While the waters at Boh Phut Beach, the third and final major beach on Koh Samui, may not be as stunning as others, this area has become the most fashionable part of the island after the pandemic. It caters primarily to visitors seeking luxury.
The most beautiful end of Bo Phut Beach features Coco Tam’s, a large beach bar that also has a restaurant of the same name. It attracts a wealthy clientele, especially at night when it transforms with lively shows.
The beach’s luxurious atmosphere is reflected in the prices, which are significantly higher than elsewhere. Coco Tam’s is ideal for those willing to spend a little more. Visiting for a night out is a great option.
Not far from the main beaches, you’ll find the picturesque Silver Beach. It is small but renowned for its beautiful waters and unique rock formations that give it a distinct appearance.
Despite recent gentrification, including the addition of a restaurant, Silver Beach has retained its charm. Many people consider it the best cove on Koh Samui, and there are good reasons for this.
For those seeking the perfect sunset, Taling Ngam is an excellent choice. The beach remains relatively undeveloped in its first half, while the other half features the renowned Intercontinental Hotel. One option is to enjoy a drink at its luxurious bar.
Nature enthusiasts may prefer the more isolated parts of the Taling Ngam Beach for sunset views. There is a small family-run bar offering happy hour at sunset.
Located in the northeast of the island, Choengmon Beach is somewhat isolated and ideal for families seeking a quieter area of Koh Samui. The surroundings have few bars, making it a peaceful retreat.
Choengmon Beach is somewhat well-known due to the presence of the Sala hotel, a popular chain in Thailand offering reasonably priced luxury accommodations.
Mae Nam Beach is considered one of the quietest beaches on Koh Samui. It can be tranquil, depending on the season, and is situated far enough north to avoid heavy traffic. The only nearby hotel is the spectacular W Samui, which features ultra-luxury villas with private pools. You can visit for a coffee or drink and enjoy the stunning views.
Besides the hotel, Mae Nam Beach is a lovely place to stroll and enjoy a freshly opened coconut, as it is lined with coconut trees.
Nathon Beach should be quite popular as the Seatrans ferry docks there, but it remains largely empty and undeveloped. There is only a small maritime research center, and the area is very peaceful.
Nearby, Lipa Noi Beach is slightly larger but also undeveloped. It is next to a pier where boats dock, yet it remains relatively unpopulated.
In addition to visiting beaches and coves, Koh Samui offers a wide range of activities. Among the best sea excursions in Thailand is a visit to Ang Thong Marine Park, a group of 42 small islands located close to Koh Samui. You can also access it from Koh Phangan, but it is most easily reached from Koh Samui.
Typically, visitors explore Ang Thong Marine Park in a day, though overnight stays are possible. It is essential to book the tour in advance or through one of the many tourist agencies.
If the most recommended excursion from Koh Samui is to visit the 42 small islands of Ang Thong, we cannot forget that we are very close to the turtle island, known as Koh Tao, and that it is one of the tourist meccas for travelers.
Koh Tao is renowned for diving and a backpacker vibe. It is also home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, Koh Nang Yuan, which is more of an islet connected to the main island.
Koh Nang Yuan is a private area, so you need to pay and take a short trip from Koh Tao to visit. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Koh Samui through one of the island’s tourist agencies.
Temples and religious statues are prevalent throughout Thailand, and Koh Samui is no exception. The most popular area is a small piece of land in the northeast of the island, where you can find the Big Buddha and several religious statues in the sea.
While not as spectacular as Phuket’s enormous Buddha, this site is a pleasant place to spend a morning or afternoon.
These are some other activities you can enjoy in Koh Samui:
As we said before, Koh Samui is a large island, so having a motorbike or car can be very helpful. Your first decision will be whether to stay close to the tourist center in Chaweng or in a more secluded area like Choengmon or one of the luxurious resorts in Mae Nam or Taling Ngam. If you’re looking for something in between, Lamai could be a good option.
Since choosing where to stay in Koh Samui can significantly impact your trip, either making it more enjoyable or less comfortable, this guide to hotels and locations on the island details why you should consider staying at each of the different spots.
Exploring the underwater world is a fascinating yet sometimes daunting activity. Simply putting on a diving mask and peering beneath the surface reveals a whole new world of colors and unfamiliar life forms.
However, this world needs to be cared for and respected. If you’re planning to include snorkeling in your trip and want to ensure your presence doesn’t negatively impact the ecosystem, consider learning about responsible diving practices (whether with or without a tank)(coming soon).
Koh Samui is a place where, if you take it easy, you can find fantastic dining options at great prices. However, this is only true if you avoid the more crowded and touristy areas, especially those with extensive menus featuring both international and Thai cuisine.
Amid the inflation crisis, there are two trends to be aware of. First, the busiest beach resorts tend to charge high prices if they are located in popular tourist areas. Second, restaurants near the beaches but off the main roads often maintain reasonable prices, though they may offer lower quality or quantity.
Nevertheless, there are some excellent places to eat well in Koh Samui. Here are a few recommendations:
Koh Samui has everything, including a shopping center with luxury and international brands, Central Samu., which is located in the tourist area of Chaweng.
The island also boasts a vibrant nightlife, especially in Chaweng. Besides the bars found throughout the tourist center, clubs like The Green Mango and Ark Bar offer a lively atmosphere. Be prepared for a lot of energy and perhaps a few people losing their temper, but it can be a fun experience.
Throughout this guide, we’ve mentioned that Koh Samui can be expensive if you rely on public transport. Taxis can be costly for short trips, and with so many beaches, depending solely on taxis can be impractical.
An alternative is renting a motorbike, but this is only recommended for those with experience. Traffic on the island can be heavy and dangerous, and an international driving license is required, although many tourists do not have one. If you have an accident without a license, your motorbike insurance may not cover it, even if the accident wasn’t your fault.
Renting a motorbike typically costs between 200 and 300 baht per day for the simplest models. If you are traveling with a small backpack, you can rent a motorbike at the port connecting to Surat Thani.
A reliable option for rentals is Samui Goodwill, an agency that also rents cars and allows you to leave a 4,000 baht deposit instead of your passport. This way, you can avoid the 150 baht cost of public transport between the port and the center of the island.
Click on the image and it will take you to a new Google Maps window with all the points of interest to travel around Phuket.
