Looking for a Koh Samui travel guide? I’ve got you covered! In this article, I’ll share everything you need to know before visiting this stunning Thai island.
Koh Samui is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, scenic waterfalls, and exciting attractions. It’s the perfect destination for couples and families looking to find their own slice of paradise.
I’ll walk you through the must-see attractions, top restaurants, and helpful tips for making the most of your trip. Ready to explore the beauty of Koh Samui? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Koh Samui Travel Guide: Koh Samui at Glance
Koh Samui, the second-largest island in Thailand (only smaller than Phuket), covers about 230 km² (56,800 acres).
Famous for its long sandy beaches, picturesque coconut trees, and vibrant coral reefs, the island has seen a big economic change.
Once dependent on agriculture and fishing, Koh Samui changed dramatically in the 1980s with the opening of an airport, which led to mass tourism.
The island is perfect for water sports like diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, and it offers a wide range of accommodations, drawing over 1.2 million visitors each year.
Beyond its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Koh Samui has a lot to offer.
From scenic waterfalls to a giant Buddha statue, lively night markets, and the stunning Ang Thong National Marine Park, there’s plenty to see and do in this unique destination.
Best Time to Visit Koh Samui
The best time to visit Koh Samui is during the dry season from December to February. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Dry Season (December to February): Best weather with sunny skies and low humidity. Great for beaches, diving, and snorkeling. Most crowded and pricier.
- Hot Season (March to August): Hot and humid. Still good to visit, especially in March and April. The Songkran Festival in April is a must-see.
- Rainy Season (September to November): Lots of rain and occasional storms. Fewer tourists and cheaper accommodations. You might still catch some sunny days.
I was on the island in December, and it was sunny pretty much the whole time.
There were a few short rain showers, but they didn’t mess with my beach time or exploring at all.
Koh Samui Travel Guide: How to Get There?
The easiest way to get to Koh Samui is by taking a direct flight from Bangkok (just 1 hour 15 minutes). You can fly from either Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK).
Most flights are with Bangkok Airways or Thai Airways, and prices start around 2800 baht one way, though they can go up to 6000 baht during peak season.
If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani (10-12 hours, 400-600 baht), then a transfer to the port (100 baht), and finally a ferry to Koh Samui (1.5-2 hours, 400-500 baht), costing around 900-1200 baht in total.
Another option is the train from Bangkok to Surat Thani (12 hours, 400-1500 baht), which could cost you anywhere between 900 and 2100 baht depending on the class.
Booking in advance usually gets you cheaper tickets, and some companies offer combined tickets for bus + ferry.
Koh Samui Travel Guide: Where to Stay?
If you’re trying to figure out where to stay on Koh Samui, here are some great spots to consider:
Chaweng Beach
This is the place if you’re looking for nightlife and action. There are tons of bars, restaurants, and of course, a gorgeous beach.
You’ll find both fancy hotels (10,000+ baht per night) and more budget–friendly guesthouses (500–1500 baht per night).
Bophut
A cute fishing village, perfect for families and anyone interested in culture. There are old buildings, great places to eat, and a cool night market.
Accommodation options include boutique hotels (3000–8000 baht per night) and family–friendly resorts (2000–10,000 baht per night).
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Lamai Beach
If you want a quieter, more relaxed vibe, Lamai’s the spot. It has a chill atmosphere and a good mix of restaurants.
You can stay in luxury resorts (5000–15,000 baht per night) or more affordable bungalows (800–2000 baht per night).
We went with Lamai Beach as our base for exploring the island. The stunning, golden beach and laid-back vibe (compared to Chaweng’s hustle) made us fall for it instantly!
Zara Beach Resort
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Lamai Beach, check out Zara Beach Resort. We stayed there and absolutely loved it!
The resort has spacious villas nestled in a lush garden, and some even come with private pools—perfect for relaxing with a drink in the evening.
Every morning, we enjoyed cocktails at the beachfront restaurant, which offers stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.
By afternoon, it turns into a cozy spot with delicious Thai food and friendly service.
The resort also offers outdoor massages, spa treatments, free beach loungers, and an infinity pool—ideal for unwinding.
We highly recommend it if you’re after a luxurious getaway.
Best Things to Do on Koh Samui
Ang Thong National Park
One of the best things to do on Koh Samui is to take a speedboat ride to Ang Thong National Marine Park, located about 30 km (19 miles) away.
This stunning group of 42 islands, covering 102 km² (about 25,200 acres), features breathtaking landscapes like limestone cliffs, hidden coves, white sandy beaches, and emerald lakes.
The park is teeming with wildlife, including otters, langurs, eagles, hornbills, turtles, and iguanas. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling.
Don’t miss the viewpoint on Ko Wua Ta Lap Island. The short but steep hike up offers spectacular panoramic views.
While many visitors opt for day trips from Koh Samui or nearby Koh Pha Ngan, staying overnight on Ko Wua Ta Lap Island is also an option. There are six bungalows and a camping area available.
For the best experience, visit between March and April. Avoid November and December due to the monsoon season.
Note that there’s a 300 baht entrance fee per person, usually not included in the tour price.
Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks (Grandma & Grandpa)
Another must-see on Koh Samui is the fascinating rock formations known as Hin Ta and Hin Yai, also called Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks.
Located on the southeast coast between Lamai and Hua Thanon, these rocks are tied to an interesting local legend.
According to the story, Grandpa Ta Kreng and Grandma Yai Riem set out to propose on behalf of their son but tragically disappeared at sea during a storm.
They are said to have been transformed into rocks resembling genitalia, adding a unique touch of folklore to the site.
To get there, stroll down a narrow alley lined with local shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, drinks, and traditional Thai sticky candies called kalamae.
When you reach Hin Ta and Hin Yai, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the bay—an ideal spot for memorable photos of your vacation.
Na Muang Waterfalls
No Koh Samui travel guide is complete without mentioning Na Muang Waterfalls.
Set among lush tropical greenery, these stunning waterfalls offer great views and the chance to cool off in natural pools.
The first waterfall, Na Muang 1, is just a two-minute walk from the parking area and is very popular with tourists and locals alike.
A short 30-minute hike will take you to the second waterfall, Na Muang 2, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and a peaceful setting.
The best part? Visiting Na Muang Waterfalls is free, making it an easy and enjoyable experience for everyone.
For the best experience, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy this natural wonder on Koh Samui.
Sunday Night Market in Lamai
If you love street food and shopping, Lamai Night Market is a must-see, happening every Sunday.
Starting around 4:00 PM, you’ll find stalls lined up along Had Lamai Street, serving a wide range of classic Thai dishes like stir-fry and curry.
Make sure to try the freshly caught fish and seafood, and treat yourself to sweet roti (Thai pancakes) with banana, condensed milk, and chocolate.
The lively atmosphere is enhanced by live performances from local artists and musicians.
Lamai Night Market promises a great mix of delicious food and fun shopping, making it a highlight of your visit to Koh Samui.
Big Buddha Temple
Another one of the best things to do on Koh Samui is to visit the stunning Big Buddha Temple, also called Wat Phra Yai. This popular spot is one of the island’s biggest attractions.
At the temple, you’ll see a huge golden Buddha statue standing over 12 meters (39 feet) tall on a high pedestal. It’s one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand.
The temple grounds also have a smaller Buddha statue and a lively souvenir market. Nearby, you’ll find various restaurants, shops, and the beautiful Big Buddha Beach.
When you visit, be sure to dress modestly (covering your arms and legs) and take off your shoes before entering.
The temple is free to visit, making it a great way to experience the cultural side of Koh Samui.
Koh Samui Travel Guide: Where to Eat?
Kob Thai Restaurant, Lamai
If you’re craving authentic Thai flavors on Koh Samui, check out Kob Thai Restaurant.
Located in a peaceful garden setting, this hidden gem serves traditional Thai dishes and features a communal pool, making it a great spot for families.
As evening approaches, the restaurant transforms with charming lighting that creates a magical atmosphere.
Run by a French owner—a common theme on the island—Kob Thai offers a tasting menu for two starting at 1,390 baht.
During our visit, the standout dish was the delicious seafood curry.
(photo: TripAdvisor)
Tandoori Nights, Lamai
For fans of Indian food, Tandoori Nights near the center of Lamai is a must-visit.
Enjoy delicious dishes, friendly service, and great prices, with lunch sets starting at just 300 baht.
Tandoori Nights is known for its flavorful curries served in generous portions.
During our visits, the sizzling chicken and mango lassi were standout favorites.
Sala Thai Restaurant, Lamai
Sala Thai stands out as the top dining spot in Lamai, receiving rave reviews.
Enjoy a range of authentic Thai dishes, with fresh seafood on ice catching the eye from the moment you enter.
Set in a traditionally styled Thai environment with charming garden lighting, Sala Thai caters mostly to tourists but maintains high culinary standards.
Savor signature dishes like red snapper and lobster, with the beef in oyster sauce and chicken with Thai basil being standout choices.
Prices range from 140 to 1000 baht, offering a tasty journey through Thai cuisine in Lamai.
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Koh Samui Travel Guide: Summary
Koh Samui should definitely be on your must-visit list for Thailand.
With its beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable vacation.
Whether you want to relax on the sandy shores, explore the lush jungles, or enjoy local culture, Koh Samui has something for everyone.
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