Are you looking for a guide to Koh Samui, and want to make sure you get the most from your time on this beautiful island? Find out right here whether Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, Maenam or maybe even another location will make the best base for your stay. Would you like to discover the best restaurants and bars the island has to offer? Let us share all this and more with you and make sure your visit is an unforgettable one!
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is world renowned for its stunning natural beauty, countless entertainment options and diverse range of attractions.
Popular Beach Locations
- Chaweng: Offering the widest array of accommodation, restaurants, and nightlife options, Chaweng Beach is Koh Samui’s most popular place to stay. The beach itself is absolutely stunning, the nicest of all the main destinations. Atmosphere: Lively and bustling, with a vibrant nightlife scene.
- Lamai: Slightly quieter and less developed than Chaweng, Lamai Beach still has plenty of entertainment, activities and amenities. It has accommodation to suit most budgets, some excellent restaurants and plenty of nightlife. Atmosphere: A more laid-back vibe than Chaweng, with a good balance of activity and tranquility.
- Bophut: Bophut Beach is famous for its Fisherman’s Village, which combines charming old-world architecture with modern convenience. The beach itself is clean and scenic. Atmosphere: Relaxed and culturally rich, with a touch of sophistication.
- Maenam: Known for its serenity and less touristic vibe, Maenam Beach is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful environment. Atmosphere: Quiet and relaxed, perfect for families and couples seeking tranquility.
- Bang Rak Beach: Also known as Big Buddha Beach, this area is close to the iconic Big Buddha statue and offers a range of accommodations and dining options. Atmosphere: A blend of cultural interest and beach relaxation.
- Lipa Noi Beach: Lipa Noi is favored for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets. It’s a great spot for families and those looking for a more secluded experience. Atmosphere: Tranquil & serene, with breath-taking sunsets.
How to Get To Koh Samui
1. By Air
Koh Samui has its own airport (Samui International Airport – USM), with direct flights from several major cities. Unless you are on an extremely low budget or are already in Surat Thani, we recommend taking a flight and avoiding the time/hassle of the bus/train/ferry combination.
- Bangkok: Multiple daily flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) mostly operated by Bangkok Airways. The flight takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Other Cities: Direct flights are also available from Phuket, Chiang Mai, and some international destinations like Singapore and Hong Kong.
- Tip: It’s best to book in advance whenever possible, especially during peak tourist seasons (November to April).
- Tip: Always check for deals on airlines’ websites or use flight comparison tools before booking.
2. From Bangkok by Bus/Train and Ferry
Tip: Many travel agencies in Bangkok can arrange the entire journey of bus/train and ferry for you. This will normally also include any shuttle services required (check when booking). These buses may also depart from close to your accommodation, saving you a trip to the bus station. This is highly recommended for the convenience, and in some cases can work out cheaper than booking each section separately.
By Bus:
- Step 1: Take a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani. Buses leave from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai). The journey takes around 10-12 hours.
- Step 2: From Surat Thani, take a shuttle bus to Donsak Pier. This takes about 1 hour.
- Step 3: Board a ferry to Koh Samui. Ferries take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Major ferry operators include Lomprayah and Seatran.
By Train:
- Step 1: Take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani. This journey can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours, depending on the train type.
- Step 2: Similar to the bus route, take a shuttle to Donsak Pier.
- Step 3: Board the ferry to Koh Samui.
3. By Ferry from Surat Thani
If you’re already in Surat Thani:
- Donsak Pier: This is the main port for ferries to Koh Samui. Ferries from Donsak Pier take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Operators: Lomprayah, Seatran, and Raja Ferry are the main operators. Tickets can be purchased at the pier or online in advance.
4. Ferries from Other Places
Koh Samui is well-connected by ferry from other nearby islands and destinations:
- Koh Phangan: Regular ferries run between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, taking about 30 minutes. Lomprayah and Seatran operate these services.
- Koh Tao: Ferries from Koh Tao to Koh Samui take about 1.5 hours, with services provided by Lomprayah, Songserm and other operators.
General booking Tips
- Ferry Tickets: It’s advisable to buy your ferry tickets in advance during peak seasons.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers cancellations and delays.
- Timing: Be mindful of ferry schedules, especially if you’re planning to arrive in Koh Samui late in the day.
Top 5 Attractions of Koh Samui
- Stunning Beaches: Koh Samui is famous for its picturesque beaches with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Each beach has its own unique charm, catering to different tastes and preferences.
- Lively Nightlife: The island boasts a lively nightlife scene, with countless bars, clubs, and beach parties, especially in Chaweng and Lamai.
- Shopping and Dining: Koh Samui has a excellent dining scene ranging from street food to fine dining. Fisherman’s Village in Bophut is particularly well-known for its charming shops and restaurants.
- Relaxation and Wellness: Koh Samui is a haven for relaxation, with luxury resorts, spas, and wellness centres offering traditional Thai massages and holistic treatments.
- Adventure and Activities: From snorkeling and diving to kayaking and trekking, the island offers a variety of outdoor activities. Popular spots for water sports include the clear waters around nearby islands Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan.
Why Koh Samui is So Popular
- Natural Beauty: The island’s lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life make it a visually captivating destination.
- Versatile Appeal: Koh Samui caters to a wide range of interests, from beach lovers and party-goers to those seeking peace and wellness.
- Accessibility: The island’s airport is well-connected by direct flights from major cities in Thailand and neighboring countries, making it an easy destination to reach.
- Excellent Infrastructure: The island has a well-developed infrastructure with high-quality accommodations, dining options, and entertainment, making it comfortable for all types of travelers.
