Exploring Koh Samui in 2024 – An ultimate travel guide
Dreaming of a tropical paradise that’s got it all? Look no further than Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island. With its palm-fringed beaches, lively nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s a destination you won’t want to miss.
Visiting Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Thailand’s third-largest island, serves as a serene oasis for explorers. It’s enveloped by the crystalline waters of the Gulf of Thailand and provides an idyllic vacation destination.
Getting around Koh Samui
Navigating Koh Samui, 25 km long and 21 km wide, is quite straightforward due to an array of suitable transport options.
By air travel
Airlines: The primary airlines operating direct flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui are Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways. These airlines offer multiple flights daily from both Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok to Samui International Airport (USM) in Koh Samui.
Flight Duration: The average flight time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Cost: Airfare can vary significantly, with prices ranging from around 5,290 THB to 33,373 THB depending on the time of booking and the season. Booking in advance, typically around 40 days ahead, can help secure lower fares.
Bangkok Airports:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Located about 30 km east of Bangkok city centre.
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Approximately 28 km north of the city.
Transportation options to these airports include taxis, buses, and the airport city line from Suvarnabhumi
Koh Samui Airport (USM): Situated about 5 km from the main areas of Koh Samui, the airport offers various transport options, including taxis, shared minivans, and car rentals to reach your accommodation.
By sea
You’ll find various ferry and speedboat services at your disposal, offering direct connections between Koh Samui and neighbouring islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, as well as the mainland location of Surat Thani. The voyage time, depending on prevailing weather conditions falls between 1.5 and 2 hours in most instances.
Motorbike
Motorbike rentals present the best economical option to get across Koh Samui in style. This approach awards you the latitude to unearth the island’s treasures at a pace you’re comfortable with, given the good condition of most roads. For the freedom and efficiency it provides, it’s no surprise that this method ranks as most popular among tourists.
By Bus / Ferry / Taxi
- Take a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani. Buses depart from Sai Tai Mai Bus Station and the journey takes 12-14 hours Fares range from 30-40 USD.
- Transfer to the ferry terminal in Surat Thani, which takes about 90 minutes
- Board a ferry from Donsak Pier or Surat Thani to Koh Samui. The ferry ride is 1.5-2 hours and costs 4-30 USD depending on the service.
- Once on Koh Samui, you can use taxis (songtaews) to get around the island. Taxis are convenient but the most expensive option at 50-100 THB per person.
- Renting a motorcycle is a popular and affordable way to explore Koh Samui. Rentals are less than 200 THB per day
Popular areas in Koh Samui
| Area | Highlights | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Lamai | Laid-back, rocky formations, long sandy beaches, lively entertainment | Relaxed and rejuvenating |
| Fisherman’s Village (Bophut) | Historical charm, quaint shophouses, modern restaurants, vibrant night market | Authentic and culturally rich |
| Ang Thong Marine Park | 42 islands, caves, lagoons, beaches, snorkelling, kayaking | Adventurous and scenic |
| Cultural and Religious Sites | Wat Plai Laem, Fisherman’s Village night market | Immersive and spiritual |
| Natural Attractions | Waterfalls, Magic Garden | Refreshing and picturesque |
| Beaches | Chaweng, Sand Sea, Silver Beach | Relaxing, active, or secluded |
Continuing your adventure here, let’s look into some of Koh Samui’s popular areas. Now, on to specific regions that’ll make your stay unforgettable.
The Charms of Lamai
Lamai displays its unique charm wonderfully. As a tourist hot spot, it’s renowned for promoting a laid-back aura that seeps into every corner of this beachfront locale. Here, your senses are met with a unique mix of raw relaxation and lively entertainment. The coastline combines rocky formations and extensive sandy patches, which cater to families and those craving a tranquil getaway alike. Lamai Beach, with its balmy breeze and calming waves, stands as proof of Thailand’s inherent beauty.
Where to eat in Lamai?
Lamai Viewpoint Cafe: Offers a great view of Lamai beach, and serves smoothies, fresh coconut juice, beer, snacks, and lunch items. Prices are reasonable.
The Secret Brunch: Offers sugar-free juices, organic coffee, vegan sweet treats, and a healthy breakfast and lunch menu. Located on the main road south of Lamai.
Pure Vegan Heaven: A vegan cafe at the end of Lamai’s main street. Serves coffees, smoothies, juices, acai bowls, poke bowls, wraps, and Thai food. Prices are slightly higher but portions are good.
Harrys: Offers tasty, budget-friendly Thai food. The decor is basic but the food is good and portions are large.
El Dorado: Offers a Western and Thai menu and a good selection of cocktails. Good service and a more formal yet affordable dining option.
What to do near Lamai?
- Visit the Na Mueang waterfall, ideal for hikers and waterfall enthusiasts
- Stop by the Lamai Viewpoint Cafe for a refreshing drink and a panoramic view
- Check out the Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks lookout
- Explore the popular viewpoints of Koh Samui, including the Overlap Stone
- Enjoy free places to visit, perfect for budget travellers.
Wanderlust in Fisherman’s Village and Bophut
Inject a sense of historic charm into your trip with a visit to Fisherman’s Village, nestled within Bophut. This beautifully preserved community strikes a harmonious balance between traditional and contemporary attractions. Adorned with quaint shophouses, this area with a rich historical background also accommodates a wide range of modern restaurants and craft boutiques. Traversing through Fisherman’s Village, you’ll find yourself steeped in an authenticity that perfectly completes your trip through the captivating expanses of Koh Samui.
Where to eat in Fisherman’s Village?
Bar Baguette: Best for breakfast, serves good coffee, smoothies and casual dinner.
Coco Tams: Famous beach bar, good for watching the sunset, offers entertainment like fire dancers and fireworks, good food and service but slightly expensive.
Frog and Gecko: Casual pub with live music and quizzes, serves great food with generous portions, perfect for fish and chips or a burger.
Beach Coconuts Bowls: Known for photogenic smoothie and acai bowls, offers delicious, fresh and healthy food in a relaxed atmosphere.
What to do near Fisherman’s Village and Bophut?
- Bophut has some of the best beaches on Koh Samui with great beach bars like Coco Tams, Tembo Beach Club, and Chi Samui.
- The area also has 284 hotels with good availability and great rates.
- Koh Samui Big Buddha, a popular tourist spot, is located in Bophut.
- The small market near the Big Buddha is a great place to grab a smoothie or ice cream.
- Wat Plai Laem, also known as the ‘Temple on the Lake’, is a must-visit location on Koh Samui. It’s built on a lake filled with Coy Carp and turtles.
Visiting Ang Thong Marine Park
For an enchanting voyage, consider a trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park. The trip spans 42 islands, caves, lagoons, and beaches, and is most renowned for snorkelling and kayaking, given its pristine waters. You have the option of travelling by speedboat or a leisurely paced boat, with tour operators bundling within their packages hotel pick-up and drop-off, refreshments, a buffet lunch, snorkelling gear, and insurance. Make sure you spend time on Ko Wua Ta Lap, the park’s main island – it’s home to the park headquarters.
Unfolding Koh Samui’s Cultural and Religious Places
Accept the island’s rich religious heritage by visiting remarkable places of worship like the iconic Wat Plai Laem. Marvel at the 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue. Soak in the lively energy of the colourful artwork and statues that add mystique to the temple’s surroundings. Don’t miss the Fisherman’s Village. It’s here that you get a taste of local life in the evening markets. Be it the handicrafts, the mouth-watering street food or the timeless charm of historic surroundings, you are in for an undisputed cultural indulgence.
Waterfalls and Natural Attractions in Koh Samui
When in Koh Samui, take a turn off the beaten path to savour its strikingly picturesque waterfalls and natural attractions. Here, the island’s untouched beauty quietly unfolds. Crystal-clear waters swirling in cascades, hidden amidst lush greenery, beckon you for an invigorating swim. It also serves as a perfect setting for memorable pictures.
Appreciating Koh Samui’s Vegetation at Magic Garden
Magic Garden, as enchanting as it sounds, spells a magic tale of Koh Samui’s sprawling vegetation. It’s a matchless opportunity to appreciate the island’s plant bounty close-up. A walk amidst these nature’s wonders presents a panorama of tropical plants and trees, interspersed with imaginative sculptures. A visit to the Magic Garden promises to add a refreshing perspective to your travel story.
The Appeal of Koh Samui Beaches
Witness the heart of Koh Samui’s appeal – its fluidic bounty, the beaches. Whether it’s the busy Chaweng Beach, the pristine Sand Sea, or the serene Silver Beach, you’ll find an experience that aligns with your beach preferences. For activities, relaxation or simple beach gazing, there’s a beach in Koh Samui that assures a fulfilling experience. From soaking in the sun, and enjoying water sports, to immersing yourself in a beach book, it’s in its coastal charisma where Koh Samui strikes the chord perfectly. Be sure to take this experience and let Koh Samui become an unforgettable chapter in your travel tales.
What Not to Do in Koh Samui
Having explored a tropical paradise like Koh Samui, you’d be familiar with its allure and charm. Yet, understanding the etiquette of this Thai island is equally significant. So, as part of your travel Thailand itinerary, it’s crucial to know certain actions best avoided in Koh Samui.
Avoid Unlicensed Driving
In Koh Samui, scooters and car rentals are common. However, don’t jump into driving just yet. Authorities take these regulations seriously and unlicensed driving might cause unnecessary trouble. It’s vital that before you rent any vehicle, you secure the right documentation.
Respect the Environment
The natural beauty of Koh Samui is an outstanding part of its appeal. This, however, doesn’t make it a dumping ground. Littering isn’t just harmful to the environment, but disrespecting it in such a manner can mar the island’s charm. So, bury the thought of improper disposal of trash. Love the environment like the locals, leaving the scenery just as you found it.
Best Seasons to Visit Koh Samui
In deciding your travel itinerary for Koh Samui, considering the island’s seasonal shifts is crucial. Thailand’s second-largest island delivers tropical weather with three primary seasons; each bestowing unique experiences and activities.
Dry Season (December to February)
Imagine basking under the sun with scant rain to interrupt your beach activities during the dry season. Average temperatures oscillate between a soothing 25°C and a warm 30°C. During this period, communal events like the Christmas and New Year celebrations, Chinese New Year, and numerous lively festivals embellish ‘Travel Thailand.’ You can engross yourself in activities like snorkelling, diving, and boat trips during the day, and indulge yourself with calming spa treatments post-sunset.
Hot Season (March to May)
Hot season, predictably, swelters with occasional late-afternoon thunderstorms breaking the monotony. Heat-loving beach bums find their paradise here, with water sports flourishing in high temperatures as well. Cultural performances and unique festivals bolster the island’s lively environment during this period. Indoor activities such as yoga classes, cooking workshops, and indulgent spa treatments offer soothing respites from the heat.
Rainy Season
Stay tuned for detailed insights on the rainy season, reminding you that even the rain-drenched island offers a unique charm and opportunities for discovery in Koh Samui, so each trip leaves you with unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to navigate around Koh Samui?
Koh Samui is relatively easy to navigate, especially if you are near areas with paved roads like Hansar Samui and Holiday Inn Resort. Depending on your accommodation, many appealing sites and attractions may be within a short walking distance.
Is tipping customary in Koh Samui?
While a service charge is usually included in your bill at most restaurants and bars, it’s customary to leave small changes or round up your bill. Extra tips, around 5-10%, are always appreciated for exceptional service.
What makes Koh Samui famous?
Koh Samui is known for its spectacular beaches, waterfalls, viewpoints, and temples. Add to these a bustling Fisherman’s Village and top-class wellness spas, and it becomes a must-visit destination in Thailand.
Is cash necessary in Koh Samui?
Although most shops and restaurants in Koh Samui accept card payments, these often come with surcharges. Therefore, it is recommended to use cash for payments to prevent unnecessary additional costs.
Is tap water safe for drinking or tooth brushing in Koh Samui?
The tap water in Koh Samui does not have an appealing taste, hence it is not recommended for drinking or brushing teeth.
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