Thailand's second-largest island in the Gulf · powder-white Chaweng & Lamai beaches · the golden Big Buddha · Fisherman's Village in Bophut · jungle waterfalls · and the turquoise lagoons of the Ang Thong Marine Park
Koh Samui is Thailand's second-largest island, set in the Gulf of Thailand off Surat Thani province. A ring road loops past coconut plantations and more than 20 beaches — from buzzing Chaweng and mellow Lamai to the boutique calm of Bophut. Add the golden Big Buddha, jungle waterfalls, the turquoise lagoons of the Ang Thong Marine Park, and an easy airport just minutes from the sand, and you have one of Asia's most loved island escapes.
On Samui your choice of beach shapes your whole trip. Most visitors base themselves in one of four areas — lively Chaweng, relaxed Lamai, boutique Bophut, or the quieter southern and western coves. Pick the one that matches what you came for.
Samui's longest and liveliest beach — a wide white-sand strip backed by hotels, malls, restaurants and the island's main nightlife. The easiest base for first-timers who want everything on the doorstep.
Chaweng's mellower neighbour to the south — a lovely curve of sand with a more laid-back village, good-value stays and the famous Hin Ta & Hin Yai rocks nearby.
A charming old teak-shop-house village turned boutique-chic — Friday Walking Street, stylish small hotels, beach-front dining and calm sunset views toward Koh Phangan.
The island's tranquil side — long quiet beaches, coconut groves, hideaway resorts and the calmest water. Where Samui slows right down, away from the crowds.
Selected for their prime beach locations across Chaweng, Lamai and Bophut — from clifftop villas to great-value beach hostels. Compare prices across 3 booking platforms in one click.
A hillside hideaway of private pool villas tumbling down to a secluded bay, with an infinity pool, world-class spa and sweeping sunset views toward the Five Islands.
A big, family-friendly beachfront resort in a tropical garden right on Chaweng — a lagoon pool, spa and direct beach access, steps from the shops and nightlife.
A bright, social poolside flashpacker spot right on Chaweng Beach — dorms and private rooms, a buzzing bar and a great-value base for younger travellers.
An all-villa sanctuary set on a private bay above Lamai, with infinity pools, a signature spa and dramatic sunrise views over the Gulf — pure romantic seclusion.
A chic white-and-teak design resort on quieter North Chaweng, where many suites and villas have their own private pool — stylish, calm and right on the sand.
A lush tropical resort at the quieter north end of Chaweng, with lagoon-style pools, treehouse-inspired suites and direct beach access — relaxed luxury near the action.
Found your ideal beach? Compare prices from three leading booking platforms — Samui has great-value stays on every coast, from Chaweng beach hostels to clifftop pool villas.
Island cooking on Samui leans on the sea and the coconut — grilled Gulf seafood, fiery southern curries and the sweet flesh of the island's famous coconuts. From beach barbecues to the Fisherman's Village, here is what you absolutely cannot miss.
Samui's signature treat — fresh prawns, squid, snapper and crab grilled over charcoal and served right on the sand with spicy seafood dip. Choose your catch on ice, then eat it with your toes in the water.
Island SignatureSamui's hills are carpeted with coconut palms, and the fruit turns up everywhere — chilled coconut water, coconut ice cream, and rich curries cooked in fresh coconut milk. Sweeter and creamier than anywhere on the mainland.
Island SpecialtySouthern Thai food is the country's spiciest — fiery gaeng som (sour orange curry), turmeric-yellow fish curry and stir-fried sator beans with shrimp. Bold, hot and deeply flavoured; ask for it mild if you're unsure.
Southern HeatA southern Thai-Muslim biryani of fragrant turmeric rice and tender spiced chicken, served with a sweet-sour dipping sauce. A favourite quick lunch reflecting the south's Malay-Muslim heritage.
Local StapleBophut's old teak shop-houses now hold some of Samui's best restaurants — beach-front seafood, international kitchens and a buzzing Friday Walking Street of food stalls. The island's most atmospheric place to eat.
Foodie HubPad thai carts, mango sticky rice, fresh fruit shakes, chicken satay and roti pancakes line the beach roads and night markets of Chaweng and Lamai. Cheap, delicious and everywhere after dark.
Street EatsSamui pairs its famous beaches with a golden Buddha, jungle waterfalls and boat trips to some of Thailand's most beautiful islands. Here are the sights you shouldn't miss.
Samui's defining landmark — a 12-metre golden Buddha seated on a tiny island in the north-east, reached by a causeway and a naga staircase. Visible from the air as you land, and stunning at sunset.
Island LandmarkThe island's two star beaches — long, white and palm-backed. Lively Chaweng for action and nightlife; mellower Lamai for a more relaxed day. Both have calm, swimmable water for much of the year.
Best BeachesA charming strip of restored teak shop-houses on the north coast, full of boutiques, cafés and beach-front restaurants. The Friday-night Walking Street is the island's most atmospheric market.
Culture & DiningTwo jungle waterfalls in the island's interior — Na Muang 1 has a natural swimming pool at the base, while taller Na Muang 2 plunges down a purple-rock cliff. A cool, green break from the beach.
Nature & SwimmingA protected archipelago of 42 limestone islands west of Samui — emerald lagoons, viewpoints, kayaking and snorkelling. The day boat trip from the island is one of the highlights of any Samui visit.
Day Trip · IslandsAt the south end of Lamai, two famous rock formations — the cheekily shaped "Grandfather and Grandmother" stones — sit above a scenic stretch of coast with crashing waves and souvenir stalls.
Quirky LandmarkTwo days is a great first taste of Samui — day one for the island's beaches, Big Buddha and Fisherman's Village, day two on a boat trip out to the Ang Thong Marine Park. Easy to tweak to your own pace.
Essential info and getting-around tips to help your Koh Samui trip run smoothly from the very first step.
The quickest way is a direct flight to Samui Airport (USM), about 1 hr 5 min from Bangkok. Cheaper option: fly or bus to Surat Thani, then a ferry from Donsak pier (about 1.5 hr) to the island.
Carry cash for markets, beach vendors and street food. Cards and PromptPay QR are accepted in resorts, malls and most restaurants, and ATMs are everywhere (expect a per-withdrawal fee).
Shared songthaew trucks loop the ring road by day, or use the Grab app and metered-ish taxis. Many visitors rent a scooter or car — but ride carefully, as Samui's roads can be hilly and busy.
Pick up a tourist SIM (AIS, TrueMove or dtac) at the airport, or activate an eSIM before you board. 4G/5G coverage is strong across the island.
Click any pin for details — plan your route with ease
Samui has great-value stays on every coast — from Chaweng beach hostels to clifftop pool villas. Pick your ideal beach and start comparing right now.
A good trip doesn't end at one island — 3 more southern Thailand destinations easily reached from Koh Samui.