With its vast stretches of white sand framed by coconut trees and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, it's no surprise that Koh Samui has become one of the world's favourite tropical destinations. The island has acquired a reputation as an international party location but for those who arrive in search of peace and quiet there are also plenty of secluded coves and pockets of forest calm waiting to be discovered.
Koh Samui is great for
- Cultural Insight
- Historical Sites
- Handicrafts and shopping
- Festivals
- Local Markets
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Trekking
- Music
- Coral Reefs
- Wildlife
- Sailing
- Snorkelling
- Sun and Sea
- Hiking/Walkinge
- Nightlife
Thailand's third largest island can be found 20km from the mainland near Surat Khani and first became popular with backpackers in the 1970s. They stayed in primitive huts on the beach but Koh Samui now boasts plenty of world-class accommodation and the scenery to match. Hire a moped and ride the coastal ring road to see the beaches of Chaweng and Lamai with their nightclubs and restaurants, the quieter bays in the west and the coconut plantations and huge granite rocks of the interior. If you can tear yourself away from the beach, a trip to the limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons of nearby Ang Thong Islands National Marine Park is also highly recommended.
Recommended highlights
The following experiences are possible from Koh Samui. Talk to our expert travel consultants about how to make your holiday extra special:
Around Samui Island in Half a Day
Visit Samui's attractions such as the Big Buddha, the Grandma and Grandpa Rocks and the Lamai fishing village by boat, which will take you around the whole island in half a day.
Ang Thong Island
We strongly recommend that you take a boat from Koh Samui to visit one of the most beautiful national parks in Thailand with more than 40 small clusters of islands. Climb a peak for a breathtaking view of the islands and enjoy the beauty of a salt-water lake.
Snorkelling and Coral Reef Exploration at Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuang
If you'd like to explore the best Thailand's reefs have to offer cruise out to Koh Nang Yuan passing the beautiful island of Koh Tao en route. Koh Nang Yuan is the ideal place to go snorkelling in the spectacular coral reefs, swim in the crystal blue sea or sunbathe on the sandy beach.
Koh Phan-Ngan By Speedboat
To the north of Koh Samui you'll find Koh Pha-Ngan, yet another beautiful island. If you like peace and quiet, head to Koh Pha-Ngan, which has so little development that only a few roads exist and the best way to get around the island is by speedboat to visit the many beaches.
Around Samui Island with Elephant and Monkey Show
Samui is a small island, and so you can get through a lot the island has to offer in one day. Why not visit a few of the magnificent beaches, enjoy hilltop views over the sea, enjoy a delicious coconut drink from a fresh coconut, see Grandma and Grandpa Rocks and a fishing village at Lamai. If you've got time, you should see an Elephant show and a Monkey School where monkeys collect coconuts. If you've got the energy, go shopping at Nathon and a visit to the huge Seated Buddha.
