ISLAND GUIDE
Koh Samui travel guide: beaches, waterfalls and island life
Coconut palms, soft sand and a relaxed island vibe in the Gulf of Thailand, with great weather when the Andaman coast is rainy.
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island and one of its most comfortable, with an airport, good roads and everything from beach huts to luxury villas.
Its weather pattern is different from Phuket’s, so it’s a great choice from January to August. It’s also the gateway to Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and the Ang Thong Marine Park.
On this page: Quick facts · Top things to do · Nightlife · Shopping · Where to stay · FAQ
Quick facts
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | January to August |
| Rainiest months | October to December |
| How many days | 4 to 6 days |
| Getting there | Flights to Samui Airport (USM), or bus and ferry from Surat Thani |
| Getting around | Taxis, Grab, rented car or scooter |
| Nearby islands | Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Ang Thong Marine Park |
Top things to do in Koh Samui
Beaches, temples and boat trips, all within an hour of each other.
1. Chaweng Beach
Samui’s longest and busiest beach, with soft white sand, clear water and plenty of restaurants and bars just behind it.
- Best for: Swimming, nightlife and convenience
2. Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)
A 12-metre golden Buddha on a small island joined to the north-east coast by a causeway, with views over the sea.
- Entry: Free
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered
3. Ang Thong Marine Park
A protected group of 42 islands with emerald lagoons, kayaking and a viewpoint hike. Day trips leave from Samui.
- Price: Usually 1,500–2,500 THB, plus the national park fee
- Season: Best from February to September
Our tip: The Emerald Lake viewpoint climb is steep, so wear proper shoes.
4. Na Muang Waterfalls
Two waterfalls in the jungle in the south of the island. Na Muang 1 is easy to reach and has a pool for swimming.
- Entry: Free
5. Fisherman’s Village, Bophut
Old Chinese wooden shophouses turned into boutiques, cafés and restaurants, with a famous Friday night walking street.
- Best time: Friday evening
6. Lamai Beach and Hin Ta Hin Yai
A slightly quieter alternative to Chaweng, plus the famous Grandfather and Grandmother rocks at its southern end.
7. Day trip to Koh Tao or Koh Phangan
Fast ferries take 30 minutes to Koh Phangan and about 1.5–2 hours to Koh Tao, famous for snorkelling and diving.
Prices and opening hours were checked in 2025–26 and change often. Please confirm with the official site before you go. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.
Nightlife in Koh Samui
Most of Samui’s nightlife is in Chaweng, with beach clubs and quieter bars across the island.
Ark Bar
Chaweng Beach
A beach club with DJs, fire shows and parties on the sand. Wednesday nights are the biggest.
Chaweng Beach Road and Soi Green Mango
Chaweng
Samui’s busiest bar street, with clubs open late.
Coco Tam’s
Fisherman’s Village, Bophut
Beanbags on the sand, cocktails and fire shows. Relaxed and fun.
Full Moon Party
Haad Rin, Koh Phangan
The famous monthly beach party is a short boat ride away. Special late-night boats run from Samui.
Good to know: Book transport and accommodation early.
Shopping in Koh Samui
Samui’s shopping is about evening markets and a couple of malls.
Fisherman’s Village Walking Street
Bophut
Every Friday evening, the village street fills with crafts, clothes and food stalls.
Good to know: Fridays from about 5:00pm.
Lamai Night Market
Lamai
A Sunday evening market with street food and souvenirs.
Central Samui
Chaweng
The island’s main mall, with fashion, a supermarket and restaurants.
Maenam Walking Street
Maenam
A quieter Thursday night market on the north coast.
Where to stay in Koh Samui
| Area | Best for | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Chaweng | Nightlife, restaurants, busy beach | All budgets |
| Lamai | Good beach, a bit calmer | Budget to mid-range |
| Bophut | Charming village, families and couples | Mid-range |
| Maenam | Quiet, relaxed, good value | Budget to mid-range |
| Choeng Mon | Small bays and luxury resorts | Luxury |
Frequently asked questions
Is Koh Samui expensive?
It’s pricier than mainland Thailand, especially flights and taxis, but there are still plenty of affordable guesthouses and street food.
Can I see Koh Phangan and Koh Tao from Samui?
Yes, both are easy day trips by ferry, though staying a night or two on each is better.
