Discover the laid-back atmosphere in Pai
January 27, 2020
Content
Koh Samui is one of the most popular islands in Thailand, and for good reason. The island offers a delightful combination of bustling beach towns, cultural attractions and beautiful nature. With its white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees, it is the ideal place to relax, for example as the last stop on a tour of Thailand. You'll find luxury resorts as well as small bungalows and boutique hotels on Koh Samui, making the island the place for anyone looking for sun, sea and beach. In this article, we share the best tips for Koh Samui, the most beautiful sights on Koh Samui, and what you should really do during your stay.
The island of Koh Samui in Thailand
The adventure actually begins as soon as you land at Koh Samui's charming airport. Unlike many large airports, here it feels like you are immediately on vacation. The airport is small, open and surrounded by lush greenery. As you are driven to the terminal in a golf cart, you already imagine yourself in a tropical resort. For us, it was one of the most relaxed arrivals we've experienced, and it immediately gave a taste of the laid-back vibe that prevails on the island.
Koh Samui is located about 400 kilometers below Bangkok in the Gulf of Thailand. The island can be reached from Bangkok by plane. If you want to travel to Koh Samui from the Netherlands, you will have at least one transfer (often to Bangkok). From Bangkok you can also travel by night train and bus to Surat Thani and from there by ferry (in +/- one hour and three quarters of an hour) to Koh Samui.
What to do on Koh Samui: the best tips and activities
The island of Koh Samui is less untouched and pure than other Thai destinations, but if you ask us, it's still a great place to add to your tour of Thailand. Especially if you are looking for coziness and a wide range of nice restaurants, bars and boutiques, it is a nice place to stay. That is not to say that there are no more authentic places and beaches to discover on the island, because there certainly are. We therefore share the best to do's!
1. Discover the most beautiful beaches on Koh Samui
Koh Samui may not be known for the most pristine beaches in Thailand, but there are more than enough pearly white beaches to relax on. Chaweng Beach is the largest and most popular beach, with plenty of bars, restaurants and boutiques nearby. It is ideal for a day of sunbathing and if you want to seek out the coziness of downtown. Prefer something quieter? Then head to Bo Phut Beach.
The most beautiful beaches in a row:
Lamai Beach
Bo Phut Beach
Maenam Beach
Lipa Noi Beach
Bang Kao Beach
Coral Cove Beach
A day at the beach in Koh Samui can be spent entirely as you wish. You can just lie on the beach with your towel, but if you are looking for something more luxurious, there are also plenty of beach clubs. We went to Elephant Beach Club on Chaweng Beach and Nikki Beach at Lipa Noi. Both are hotels, but you can also rent a bed for the day. Some beach clubs are on the pricey side, but you'll also find some where you can relax on a luxurious beach bed with a cocktail in your hand all day for a small fee.
Tip: rent a scooter to "beach hop" around the island. Do you still find this a bit exciting? Then you can also spend a day with a local driver and discover different beaches and sights.
2 . Go to the Bo Phut Night Market
Every Friday night, the fishing village of Bo Phut turns into a bustling night market. Here you will find local handmade products, delicious street food and often live music. A cozy place to experience the local atmosphere and have a nice drink, for example at the trendy hotspot CoCo's Tam.
3. Visit the authentic Hua Thanon Market
Want to experience the local culture on Koh Samui? Then head to Hua Thanon Market, where you can expect a more authentic market experience. It is a local market that mainly sells fish and fresh produce. It gives a good idea of daily life on Koh Samui away from the popular and tourist hotspots.
4. Take a day trip to nearby Ang Thong Marine Park
If you want to do more than just relax, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure on and around Koh Samui. For example, go island hopping to nearby Ang Thong Marine Park, one of the most beautiful natural areas in Thailand. Here you can kayak, snorkel and hike to the viewpoint for breathtaking views.
5. Stroll the Chaweng Walking Street at night and stop for a nice dinner
The Chaweng Walking Street is the most lively place on Koh Samui. It is bursting with restaurants and bars offering both typical Thai and international cuisines. If you go to Koh Samui, you really have to walk down this street at least once.
You will find many good restaurants, but keep in mind that they are sometimes a bit more expensive due to the location.
Powered by GetYourGuide
The most beautiful sights on Koh Samui in Thailand
Besides the beaches, Koh Samui also offers several sights worth seeing. Here are a few must-sees during your visit to the island:
1. Wat Plai Laem
This temple complex featuring the iconic 18-armed Buddha and the nearby Big Buddha is a cultural highlight on the island. The beautiful surroundings and stunning architecture make this one of the most impressive sights to visit on Koh Samui.
2. Wat Khunaram
The Wat Khunaram temple is known for the mummified monk on display in a glass case. You have to love it, of course, but it is a unique and spiritual experience that attracts many visitors on Koh Samui. Would you go here or do you already get the jitters at the idea?
3. Hin Ta and Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother rocks).
These natural rock formations attract many visitors for their unique shape and beautiful ocean views. A nice stop for a day of touring the island.
4. Namuang Waterfalls
During your stay on Koh Samui, you will definitely want to visit the Namuang waterfalls. The Namuang waterfalls consist of two levels, with the second waterfall being the most impressive. It is a beautiful piece of nature on the island!
5. Secret Buddha Garden
Hidden deep in the jungle of Koh Samui you will find the Secret Buddha Garden, a special place with beautiful statues and a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. Nature and art come together here. It's a nice place to escape the busier parts of the island.
Hotel tips: the best places to stay on Koh Samui
For a unique stay, we recommend The Jungle Club to. Located on a hill above Chaweng, this boutique hotel offers insane views of the coast. The infinity pool and upscale restaurant make the stay extra special. Combine a stay here with a hotel closer to the beach, such as in Chaweng. That way you have the best of both worlds: the lively atmosphere and friendliness of Chaweng and the tranquility of the mountains.
Tip: Don't want to stay at The Jungle Club, but still want to enjoy the view? Then you can also go here in the evening by cab for a bite to eat and a drink.
Take a tour of Thailand
With these tips for Koh Samui, you will make the most of your stay and discover both the popular spots and the hidden gems of the island. Would you like to combine a visit to Koh Samui with other beautiful destinations in Thailand? Then get inspired by our page full of travel tips for Thailand.
Customized travel proposal for Thailand
Are you planning a tour of Thailand? Then don't forget to add Koh Samui to your itinerary! With its heavenly beaches, lively markets and beautiful sights, Koh Samui is a wonderful end to your trip. Wondering which other places in Thailand are must-sees? Let us help you select the most beautiful places. We combine the highlights of Thailand with unique experiences that fit your needs and interests.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
The 7 Best Beaches in Aruba: Our Favorite Beaches & Hidden Gems
August 13, 2026
7 Best Things to Do in Tirana, Albania
July 22, 2026
More Thailand? Be inspired!
Thailand
October 22, 2024
