The Essential Koh Samui Travel Guide
Your practical, one‑page guide to Koh Samui – Thailand’s most accessible island destination, blending beaches, resorts, jungle interiors and an easygoing lifestyle. Whether you’re visiting for a few nights or settling in for a longer stay, this guide covers the essential information you need to plan well and avoid common first‑timer mistakes.
1. Why Visit Koh Samui?
Koh Samui sits in the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its balance: relaxed beaches, reliable infrastructure, a wide range of accommodation, and enough restaurants, nightlife and activities to suit most travel styles. Unlike most Thai islands, Samui has its own airport, paved roads around much of the island, international hospitals, and year‑round services – making it popular with couples, families, digital nomads and long‑stay visitors.
Beyond the beaches, Samui offers coconut groves, waterfalls, hilltop viewpoints, Buddhist temples and easy access to nearby islands such as Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. It works equally well as a short island escape or as a base for slower, longer stays.
2. Getting to Koh Samui
By Air
Koh Samui Airport (USM) is located in the island’s northeast and is one of Thailand’s most distinctive airports. Direct flights operate from Bangkok and a limited number of regional hubs. Flights are frequent but typically more expensive than flying to the mainland and transferring by ferry.
Via Surat Thani (Mainland + Ferry)
A common alternative is flying or taking a train or bus to Surat Thani, then continuing by ferry to Samui. This route is slower but often significantly cheaper and gives you more flexibility with schedules.
By Sea (Island Connections)
Regular ferries connect Koh Samui with Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, making island‑hopping straightforward.
3. Arrival & Getting from the Pier or Airport
From the airport, official taxis and ride services operate to all major areas of the island. Transfer times typically range from 10–30 minutes depending on your destination.
If arriving by ferry, shared minivans and taxis meet most boats. It’s best to confirm your destination clearly before boarding and check whether your accommodation offers pick‑up services.
Arrival tips:
- Carry your accommodation details in Thai if possible
- Expect higher taxi costs than on the mainland
- Late arrivals are easiest if staying in the northeast (Chaweng, Bophut, Choeng Mon)
4. Getting Around Koh Samui
Koh Samui is larger than many visitors expect, and transport choices affect how easily you can explore.
Transport options include:
- Songthaews (shared pickup trucks): Run fixed routes around the island, especially between major beach areas.
- Taxis & ride services: Convenient but relatively expensive compared to other Thai destinations.
- Scooter or motorbike rental: Popular and flexible, though road conditions and traffic can be challenging (and dangerous) for inexperienced riders.
- Car rental: A good option for families or longer stays; roads around the island are mostly paved.
Walking works within beach areas, but exploring beyond your local neighbourhood usually requires transport.
5. Where to Stay – Area Overview
Choosing the right part of the island is key, as Samui’s beaches and towns have distinct personalities.
Chaweng
The island’s busiest area, with the largest beach, shopping centres, restaurants and nightlife. Suitable for visitors who want energy, convenience and easy access to services.
Bophut & Fisherman’s Village
More relaxed and walkable, with boutique hotels, dining and a weekly walking street. Popular with couples and families.
Choeng Mon
Quiet, scenic and close to the airport. Known for smaller beaches and resort‑style accommodation.
Lamai
A good middle ground: lively but less intense than Chaweng, with a mix of local life, beaches and dining.
Maenam & Bang Por
Calmer northern beaches with longer stretches of sand, slower pace and sunset views — well‑suited to longer stays.
6. Best Time to Visit & Climate
Koh Samui has a different weather pattern to Thailand’s west‑coast islands.
- Dry, sunny conditions: Roughly December to April
- Hot season: March to May
- Rainiest period: Typically October to December, with heavier storms possible
Because of this pattern, Samui can be a good alternative when destinations like Phuket experience heavier monsoon rains.
7. Things to See & Do – Highlights
Beaches & Relaxation
Samui’s main appeal remains its beaches, ranging from lively stretches with watersports to quieter coves suitable for swimming and long walks.
Temples & Culture
- Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai): One of the island’s most recognisable landmarks
- Wat Plai Laem: A colourful temple complex near the northeast coast
Nature & Viewpoints
- Waterfalls such as Na Muang (seasonal)
- Hilltop viewpoints offering panoramic island views
- Interior jungle roads and coconut plantations
Island & Marine Excursions
Day trips to nearby islands and marine parks are widely available and offer snorkelling, boat tours and hiking opportunities.
8. Food, Drink & Nightlife
Dining on Koh Samui ranges from casual beachside eateries to upscale international restaurants.
- Local Thai food: Easily found across the island, with fresh seafood a highlight
- International dining: Strong presence of Western, Japanese and fusion options
- Beach bars & lounges: Concentrated around Chaweng, Lamai and Fisherman’s Village
Nightlife varies significantly by area, from lively late‑night venues to relaxed sunset bars.
9. Practical Tips & Essentials
- Money: ATMs are widely available; cash is useful for taxis, markets and smaller venues
- Health & safety: Samui has reputable international hospitals and clinics
- Driving: Helmets and licences are legally required for motorbikes
- Connectivity: Mobile data coverage is strong across most of the island
- Respect & etiquette: Dress modestly at temples and behave respectfully in local communities
Travel insurance is strongly recommended, particularly if riding scooters or joining boat excursions.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Koh Samui good for first‑time visitors to Thailand?
Yes. Its infrastructure, airport and range of accommodation make it one of Thailand’s easiest island destinations.
How many days should I spend in Koh Samui?
Three to five days suits many visitors; longer stays allow for slower exploration and nearby island trips.
Is Koh Samui expensive?
Costs are generally higher than the mainland but vary widely depending on accommodation and dining choices.
Can I visit Koh Phangan or Koh Tao from Samui?
Yes. Regular ferries make day trips or onward travel straightforward.
11. Planning Your Stay
Koh Samui rewards visitors who match their base to their travel style – lively or quiet, central or secluded. Book your first night close to the airport or ferry if arriving late, allow at least one day to explore beyond your beach, and factor in slower travel times around the island.
Essential Koh Samui is designed as a calm, practical starting point. As the site evolves, this guide can expand into detailed neighbourhood guides, transport pages and activity resources.
Welcome to Koh Samui – and enjoy island life at your own pace.