Koh Samui

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Koh Samui

With its breathtaking beaches, secluded waterfalls, bustling night markets, and electric nightlife, Koh Samui offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—maybe that explains why this small island in the Gulf of Thailand attracts more than 2 million visitors every year.

The Island Beach Life

The Island

Koh Samui, or 'Samui' for vernacular speakers, is located in the Gulf of Thailand. It is the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket and measures 25 kilometres at the widest point. The main road runs along the beautiful coastline and is approximately 51 kilometres long. In contrast to the stunning beaches, the central part of the island consists of a tropical, jungle mountain. Centuries ago, the island was inhabited by Chinese fishermen. Nowadays, it is a melting pot of people coming here from all four corners of the world. The island appeals just as much to billionaires as it does to backpackers travelling on a budget. The largest and most popular area is on the east side of the island and is called Chaweng. Chaweng is located near the airport and offers beautiful golden sand stretches, bars, restaurants and shops. Nathon is located on the west side of the island and is the old capital of Koh Samui. This is still the main port, business district, and centre of the fishing industry. Two of the other major tourist resorts are Lamai Beach and Bophut Beach.

Beach Life

The beaches on Koh Samui seem to have been taken right out of a travel ad. With their white sand and peacefully swaying palm trees, they'll make your beach experience dreamlike. All around the island, you can enjoy water sports, drinks, food, massages and manicures: everything you need to pamper yourself.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

On Koh Samui you can choose to do nothing, or to do everything. The island is perfect for a relaxing holiday on the beach, with colorful drinks in your hand and sun on your skin. For the more adventurous ones there is plenty to explore, from nature to shopping and food.

Wat Plai Laem

Wat Plai Laem is one of Koh Samui's most attractive temples. This fairly new sight was completed in 2004 and is a colourful complex with a traditional Thai-Chinese style. The temple holds two giant, colourful statues of Happy Buddha and Guanyin that will amaze you. Do not miss the large Golden Buddha inside Wat …

Koh Tao

Koh Tao means 'Turtle Island' in Thai, as this was once an important breeding ground for sea turtles, which have been reintroduced to the island's ecosystem in 2004. Koh Tao is worldwide famous for its beautiful coral reef and marine life, which make it a popular place for snorkelling and scuba diving. Hikers might …

Koh Nang Yuan

If you would like to see what paradise is like, you should take a day trip to Koh Nang Yuan, which is an island located only a few hundred meters from Ko Tao and linked to two other islands by a limb of white sand. Here you can unwind free from all cars and …

Secret Buddha Garden

The Secret Buddha Garden was built in 1976 by a fruit farmer called Nim Thongsuk and took around fifteen years to finish. This peaceful place can be found in the hills of Samui Island inside the verdant jungle. The garden is decorated with sculptures portraying both humans and deities in various poses. Getting there …

Wat Khunaram (Mummified Monk)

Koh Samui’s mummified monk at Wat Khunaram is an unusual sight but still offers a unique insight into Buddhist and Thai culture. The mummified monk Luong Pordaeng died in 1973 and his body has been on display in a glass case at the temple ever since. Remarkably, the monk’s body shows little sign of …

Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

Big Buddha Temple, locally known as Wat Phra Yai, is majestically located on a small rocky island off Koh Samui’s north-eastern corner (Koh Faan). The golden, twelve-meter seated Buddha statue was built in 1972 and is one of the island's most popular …

Tamarind Springs Forest Spa

If you would like to pamper yourself with a spa treatment there are many resorts to choose from. One of them is Tamarind Springs Forest Spa, which offers you a unique experience with its location in an amazing natural setting. Here you can have a peaceful time among waterfalls and rock pools, as well …

Thai Cooking Classes

If you would like to learn how to make Thai food, why not do it in Thailand? There are many cooking classes you can take in Koh Samui, like Pai Cookery Class. You'll have the chance to learn the traditional methods of preparation of Thai food and impress all your friends and family once …

Paradise Park Farm

At Paradise Park Farm you can watch a small collection of native and non-native creatures that live up in the beautiful mountains. There are various types of birds, miniature rabbits, guinea pigs and a little hedgehog. As the name suggests, this is a farm and not a zoo, and the animals seem to be …

Scuba Diving And Snorkeling Tour

When travelling to Koh Samui there are many beautiful places where you can scuba dive and snorkel. There are also many tour operators to choose from, one of which is 100 Degrees East, offering boat excursions with snorkelling and diving activities among colorful fishes and coral …

Na Muang Waterfalls

Na Muang Waterfalls, also called "Purple Waterfalls", are located in a lush jungle environment. They can easily be reached going off the main Ring Road Route 4169 about halfway between Nathon and Lamai Beach. These waterfalls are considered to be among the most scenic ones, hence popular places for families to relax and …

Bophut's Fisherman's Village

Fisherman's Village is located near the beach, on the northern coast of Koh Samui. The pier is actually in decay, but the village still retains its charm. The area comes alive every Friday night when the main street is blocked off to vehicles to make space for stalls that sell everything from coconut carved …

Dining

Koh Samui is a culinary paradise, offering a delightful blend of Thai and international cuisine. From tantalising street food stalls to elegant dining establishments, the island caters to all tastes. Be sure to sample local specialities such as salted eggs and the delicious rambutan fruit for an authentic taste of Koh Samui's diverse food scene.

La Lanterna

If you are craving Italian food, La Lanterna might just be the place for you. This restaurant serves generous portions of pasta and many toppings on the pizza, so make sure you come here on an empty …

The Boudoir

At The Boudoir you can relish French food in an unusual ambiance with low lights and a colorful decor that will remind you of the Middle East. The owners of this restaurant are a couple from Montpellier, so here you'll find real French specialties like foie gras and …

Tree Tops Signature Dining

As the name suggests, Tree Tops Signature Dining has an exclusive and luxurious setting among the tree tops. The chefs carefully select high-quality fresh products to create dishes inspired by European cuisine. Dining here is not a cheap experience, but it's bound to be …

Emerald Irish Bar & Restaurant

Occasional live music, sports on tv, ice-cold draught beer, and wooden decor: The Emerald Bar & Restaurant can't get more Irish than this. If you are in the neighbourhood of Fisherman's Village and you want to pretend like you're in Europe, you can stop by for lunch or …

Kob Thai Restaurant

Kob Thai Restaurant is situated in the centre of Lamai, 600 meters from the beach road. At this restaurant you can enjoy traditional Thai food at affordable prices in a charming garden. The restaurant even has a large swimming pool, ideal for …

Zazen Restaurant

Zazen Restaurant is renowned for its beachfront location and fine dining. At night, this trendy restaurant glows due to the over one hundred candles present, creating a very romantic setting. Every Thursday and Sunday a Thai dance show livens up the evening. The menu offers both European and typical Thai …

The Shack

The Shack is a steakhouse that opened its doors in 2003 and has been serving mouth-watering grilled food in Koh Samui ever since. The menu includes barbecue steaks, burgers, and seafood. In the evening, they often play jazz and blues …

Dining On The Rocks

Dining On The Rocks is an award-winning restaurant overlooking the sea. When dining at this restaurant you will be served innovative recipes created with top quality ingredients, sourced locally and abroad. The presentation of the dishes is artistic, in attempt to shift focus from the stunning …

Gringo's Cantina

For a taste of mouth-watering Tex-Mex cuisine, head over to Gringo's, Koh Samui's first Mexican restaurant. With a range of vegetarian options and a few Italian dishes like pizza and pasta, there's something to satisfy everyone's palate. Don't forget to try the highly recommended margaritas for a perfect finishing touch to your meal. Convincing …

Jungle Club

Jungle Club is not only a beach resort, but also a bar and a restaurant with a stunning view over the Gulf of Siam. They offer Thai and Western fusion cuisine, along with a selection of drinks. You can choose to sit in the elegant indoor hall, or on a cozy bean bag on …

Cafés

Koh Samui is slowly catching up with the Western coffee trend, so finding a decent cup of coffee here should not be too hard. If you are craving a snack, choices will be abundant. You can easily grab a bite to eat or drink at the beach or from one of the many food stalls.

Boy's Organic Coffee

When visiting Boy's Organic Coffee you will be served only the finest Organic Thai Coffee, which the owner Boy takes great pride in. This charming and quiet spot is great for just relaxing and enjoying Arabica coffee, grown and roasted on the hills of Chiang …

Big Buddha Coffee

If you're on your way to the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), you might consider stopping by this cosy café for a dose of caffeine or to try one of their specialities: fruit shakes and banana bread. As a bonus, the Big Buddha Coffee also offers amazing sea …

Lolamui Cafe

This small quaint cafe in Lamai serves huge pieces of cake, being creative in both the presentation and the ingredients. Some of the flavors you might find are black beer, young coconut and strawberry earl grey. There is a balcony overlooking the garden if you prefer to sit …

Sweet Sisters Cafe

At Sweet Sisters Cafe they use only fresh, organic products sourced locally. You'll find plenty of healthy options, from meat and seafood dishes to main courses, salads, smoothies and homemade cakes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. The cafe also has a little shop where you can buy organic food and body care …

About Cafe

About Cafe has an original decor: here you'll see pictures and trinkets on every wall that are not for sale, but you'll also find many books, postcards and souvenirs that you can purchase. If you're not in the mood for shopping, you can of course enjoy a cup of coffee, selecting from one of …

Greenlight Cafe

At Greenlight Cafe, they focus on healthy cuisine with natural ingredients. Their regular menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free recipes, along with fresh seafood and chicken dishes. From 8am to 11am they host a breakfast buffet, free for their hotel guests, but affordable for anyone. You might want to accompany your food with one of …

Bars & Nightlife

On Koh Samui, you can find some of the best parties in Thailand, with Chaweng being the centre of it all. Along the beach road area, there are many different spots catering to all different tastes. Lamai is a smaller version of Chaweng, also offering numerous bars and nightclubs. You will be spoiled for choice along the main streets wherever you go—from sophisticated restaurants, bars, and clubs to the famous Full Moon Party at Kho Phangan.

Emerald Irish Bar & Restaurant

Rock Bar

Rock Bar is situated near the Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, south of Lamai Beach. Its reggae music playlist, tree-house ambience, and proximity to the sea make it a nice place to relax while sipping a classic cocktail. If you want to stay for dinner, they serve Thai food, salads, and …

The Green Mango Club

The Green Mango Club is is ideally located in the centre of Chaweng. This all-night entertainment complex is so popular that Soi Green Mango street was named after it. Expect to find loud contemporary music, several bars, an open air space and crowds on all dance …

On Street Bar

At On Street Bar, they appreciate art and one can tell by the ever-changing original decoration. But don't think it's a snobbish place: they have everything you need to kick start your evening: cheap cocktails and great music. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, they host live musicians from …

Bar Cocktail King

As the name suggests, Bar Cocktail King aims to serve the best cocktails in Koh Samui. They know how to make your favourite classics like Mojito Pina Colada and Bloody Mary, but you might want to try something different like their Cocktail King with Malibu, melon, pineapple and lime. If you prefer something lighter, …

Jungle Club

The Lava Lounge

The Lava Lounge is a quiet bar near Lamai Beach, perfect for a chat and some drinks among friends, as the music is not as loud as it is in nightclubs. Their lava lamps and bamboo sofas create a relaxed atmosphere. Happy hour here lasts until 9pm and guarantees you discounts on over 40 …

Shopping

Chaweng is the island's main shopping hub, renowned for its lively markets and a wide variety of shops. Lamai also offers a great shopping experience, especially at its night market where you can find local crafts and delicious street food. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit Fisherman's Village in Bophut, where the weekly night market transforms the area into a shopper's paradise with its charming mix of artisanal goods and stylish accessories.