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Koh Samui, Thailand
SouthernSurat Thani Province
Travel Guide

Koh Samui

The moment the plane dips low over the Gulf of Thailand and Koh Samui appears below — a lush green jewel fringed by white sand and turquoise water — you know this island is something special. I landed...

About Koh Samui

The moment the plane dips low over the Gulf of Thailand and Koh Samui appears below — a lush green jewel fringed by white sand and turquoise water — you know this island is something special. I landed at the charming open-air Samui Airport, where the terminal is essentially a collection of thatched-...

Population

63,000

Region

Southern

Hidden Gems

Secret Buddha Garden

"Hidden in the jungle-covered hills of Samui's interior, this mystical garden features dozens of stone statues and figures scattered among moss-covered rocks and towering trees. Built by a local farmer in 1976, it offers a magical escape from the beaches below."

Lipa Noi Beach

"A tranquil west-coast beach largely untouched by tourism, perfect for watching spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand. Local fishing boats dot the shoreline and the shallow water stretches far out, making it ideal for families."

Where to Stay in Koh Samui

Budget Hotels

Great value accommodations from $10-30/night

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Mid-Range Hotels

Comfortable stays from $30-80/night

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Luxury Hotels

Premium experiences from $80+/night

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Best Restaurants

The Hut Cafe

Thai-International

A beloved beachfront restaurant in Fisherman's Village serving fresh seafood and authentic Thai dishes. Their grilled red snapper with tamarind sauce is legendary among locals and expats alike.

Laem Din Market Stalls

Thai Street Food

The most authentic street food on the island, located at the southern end of Chaweng. Local vendors serve pad kra pao, som tam, and grilled chicken at unbeatable prices. The moo ping (grilled pork skewers) here are the best on Samui.

Dining on the Rocks

Fine Dining Thai Fusion

Part of Six Senses Samui resort, this stunning cliffside restaurant offers multi-course tasting menus with panoramic ocean views. A once-in-a-lifetime dining experience with creative Thai-inspired cuisine by top chefs.

Khun Noi's Pad Kra Pao

Thai Home Cooking

A humble stall at the Friday Night Market in Bophut serving what many consider the best pad kra pao on the island. Khun Noi uses fresh holy basil from her garden and a secret chili paste recipe passed down from her grandmother.

Barracuda Restaurant

Mediterranean-Thai

A stylish Lamai Beach restaurant blending Mediterranean and Thai flavors. Known for their excellent wine list, fresh oysters, and superb duck massaman curry. Romantic atmosphere with candlelit tables and ocean breezes.

Recommended Hotels

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

$$$

Perched on a hillside overlooking a private beach, this world-class resort features private pool villas with stunning Gulf views. Impeccable service, a renowned spa, and multiple dining options make it the island's premier luxury stay.

Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort

$$$

A beachfront luxury resort in the heart of Fisherman's Village. Thai-inspired architecture, an infinity pool overlooking the sea, and easy walking access to Bophut's restaurants and night market.

Chaweng Regent Beach Resort

$$

Well-positioned mid-range resort right on Chaweng Beach with spacious rooms, a large pool, and excellent breakfast buffet. Great value for a beachfront location on Samui's most popular stretch of sand.

Samui Hostel

$

A clean and sociable hostel near Chaweng, popular with backpackers and solo travelers. Air-conditioned dorms, a small pool, and a communal kitchen keep costs low while the location keeps you close to everything.

Travel Tips

  • Rent a scooter (200-300 THB/day) to explore Samui's ring road at your own pace. Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) run along the coast for 50-100 THB per ride. Avoid taxi touts at the airport — book transfers in advance or use the Grab app.
  • Chaweng is for action and nightlife, Lamai for a balance of buzz and relaxation, Bophut for culture and dining, Maenam for quiet seclusion, and Lipa Noi for the best sunsets. Match your beach to your vibe.
  • Book day trips to Ang Thong Marine Park (1,500-2,500 THB) or ferries to Koh Phangan (300-600 THB, 30 min) and Koh Tao (600-1,000 THB, 2 hours). Full Moon Party ferries to Phangan run monthly with late-night return boats.

Quick Facts

Region:Southern
Province:Surat Thani
Population:63,000
Coordinates:9.5120, 100.0136

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Best Time to Visit

Cool SeasonRecommended

Most comfortable weather

Local Festivals

Buffalo Fighting Festival (seasonal, check locally)Full Moon Party boats to Koh Phangan (monthly)Loy Krathong FestivalKing's Birthday (Father's Day - Dec 5)New Year celebrationsMakha Bucha DayChinese New Year (varies)Songkran Water Festival (April 13-15) - celebrated nationwide

Daily Budget

Budget:$25-40
Mid-range:$60-120
Luxury:$200+

Tags

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