Chaweng Beach
The island's most popular beach stretches over seven kilometres of white sand, lined with hotels, restaurants and a lively nightlife scene.
Koh Samui
Thailand's second-largest island, Koh Samui charms visitors with white-sand beaches, coconut palms and a jungle-covered mountainous interior. Between beach relaxation, golden temples and excursions to nearby islands, it offers a slice of tropical Thailand at its own pace.
Why visit Koh Samui?
Koh Samui is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and a drier climate than the rest of southern Thailand. The island combines well-developed tourist infrastructure, iconic Buddhist temples and easy access to neighbouring archipelagos in the Gulf of Thailand.
What to discover in Koh Samui?
Koh Samui owes its enduring reputation to palm-lined beaches, starting with Chaweng and Lamai, the island's two liveliest and most visited beach resorts, both lined with hotels and restaurants. Beyond the coastline, the island's interior reveals a mountainous jungle crossed by waterfalls, such as Na Muang, and winding roads offering views over the coast and the island's coconut plantations. Travellers seeking quieter beaches tend to head north instead, towards Bophut or Maenam.
The island also holds a notable spiritual heritage, with several remarkable Buddhist temples, including the golden Big Buddha overlooking the northeast coast. Nathon, the main town, retains the relaxed atmosphere of a fishing port and remains the island's administrative heart. Koh Samui also serves as an ideal gateway to the nearby islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, as well as the Ang Thong marine park, all of which are reachable by boat for a full day trip.
Cities to visit in Koh Samui
Featured destinations appear first.
Coming soon.
Koh Samui in pictures
Koh Samui highlights
Six experiences to make the most of this iconic island in the Gulf of Thailand.
Big Buddha
A twelve-metre golden statue set within a temple on the island's northeast coast, a pilgrimage site that also offers fine coastal views.
Na Muang Waterfalls
Two successive waterfalls tucked into the island's jungle interior, with natural pools for cooling off away from the busy beaches.
Hin Ta Rocks
Naturally shaped rock formations with distinctive silhouettes, now a must-visit photo spot for visitors exploring Koh Samui's quieter southeast coastline.
Ang Thong Islands Trip
A marine park made up of small karst islands with emerald waters, reachable by boat for a day of snorkelling and hiking.
Nathon Market
The island's port and administrative capital, where local markets, small shops and ferries to the mainland still shape everyday daily life.
Practical information
- Province
- Surat Thani
- Area
- About 228 km²
- Population
- About 60,000 inhabitants
- Language
- Thai (English widely used in tourism)
- Currency
- Thai baht (THB)
- Time zone
- UTC+7
- Climate
- Tropical, drier than the rest of the South, short rainy spell in November
- Best time to visit
- December to April
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Koh Samui?
December to April offers the driest and most pleasant climate. Unlike the rest of southern Thailand, the island mainly sees rain in November, which falls outside the usual high tourist season.
How do you get to Koh Samui?
The island has its own airport connected to Bangkok and several Asian cities. Ferries from Surat Thani or Don Sak on the mainland also reach Koh Samui within one to two hours of crossing.
How many days should you spend in Koh Samui?
Four to six days allow time to enjoy the main beaches, visit the Big Buddha and the interior's waterfalls, and fit in a boat excursion to the archipelago's neighbouring islands.
Which beach should you choose in Koh Samui?
Chaweng appeals to those seeking nightlife and energy, Lamai offers a bit more calm, while Bophut and Maenam in the north suit travellers looking for quieter, more family-friendly beaches instead.
Is Koh Samui suitable for families?
Yes, the island offers shallow, safe beaches, plenty of family-friendly accommodation and a wide range of activities, from waterfalls to boat excursions, all enjoyed by both children and adults alike.
Can you visit other islands from Koh Samui?
Yes, fast ferries connect Koh Samui daily to both Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, and day trips let visitors discover the Ang Thong marine park and its scattered karst islands.
Plan your trip to Koh Samui
Day-by-day itinerary, budget, bookings and packing in a single app.
