Koh Samui

Travel Guide

Lamai Beach which includes a beach
Bo Phut Beach showing general coastal views and kayaking or canoeing
Bo Phut Beach featuring 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

Chaweng City Center is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Chaweng Beach and Central Festival Samui Shopping Center, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Bophut.

Chaweng City Center
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Lamai City Center

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 Lamai Night Market.

Lamai City Center
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Bophut Hills

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Bophut Hills and surrounding area, you can visit Fisherman's Village and Bo Phut Beach.

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 P4,837 per night from Sep 26 to Sep 27
P4,837
P5,742 total
Sep 26 - Sep 27
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (450 reviews)
"Very friendly clean and the food was amazing"

Reviewed on Sep 6, 2025

Explorar Koh Samui – Adults Only Resort and Spa
Crystal Lamai Hotel

Crystal Lamai Hotel

3 out of 5
136/92 Moo 4, Maret, Koh Samui, Suratthani
The price is P2,264 per night from Sep 18 to Sep 19
P2,264
P2,688 total
Sep 18 - Sep 19
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Lamai Beach and Chaweng Beach are located ...
9/10 Wonderful! (100 reviews)
"We had a family room which was two rooms together with an adjoining door. Very spacious and very nice. Would definitely go again."

Reviewed on Sep 7, 2025

Crystal Lamai Hotel
Fair House Villas & Spa

Fair House Villas & Spa

4.5 out of 5
39 Moo 1, Maenam, Suratthani, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The price is P5,789 per night from Sep 18 to Sep 19
P5,789
P6,872 total
Sep 18 - Sep 19
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury resort in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (601 reviews)
"Everything was absolutely amazing during my stay! I did require some extra services at the resort and they happily helped and exceded any expectations I had. A special thank to Tien for all of his help and his attention to details! The pool villa is always so peaceful and relaxing. The staff is always ..."

Reviewed on Aug 23, 2025

Fair House Villas & Spa
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.
Skye Beach Hotel

Skye Beach Hotel

4.5 out of 5
8/135 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury villa in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 14 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (51 reviews)
"A great place to stay on the quieter side of the island. Staff were lovely, and the area is walkable to shops and temples"

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2025

Skye Beach Hotel
Horizon Residence Rentals

Horizon Residence Rentals

3.5 out of 5
10/11 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani
Stay at this 3.5-star beach aparthotel in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Bo Phut Beach and Chaweng Beach ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (26 reviews)
"Amazing staff amazing facilities"

Reviewed on Feb 29, 2024

Horizon Residence Rentals
Villa Palm Vista - Luxury, Private Pool Villa

Villa Palm Vista - Luxury, Private Pool Villa

4 out of 5
19/6 Moo 4 Bophut Bangrak, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly villa in Koh Samui. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private pools. Popular attractions Bo Phut Beach and Fisherman's ...
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
"Great place to stay. Very nice, clean, everything is there at the villa to make for a good stay"

Reviewed on Apr 23, 2024

Villa Palm Vista - Luxury, Private Pool Villa
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

Things to do