Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a must visit place in Thailand, which offers perfect blend of natural beauty, colorful nightlife, and tranquil retreats. Despite being the most beautiful island of Thailand (as in my opinion), it remains less crowded than its more famous counterparts like Krabi and Phuket. So, whether you are a adventure seeker, a honeymooner or someone looking for a relaxing gateway like me, Koh Samui has something for everyone. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this beautiful island.
How to Reach Koh Samui
Reaching Koh Samui is an adventure itself, with several options which suit every budget and need.
By Bus or Train to Surat Thani and boat to Koh Samui:
For those who are on a budget, taking a bus or train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and from there by boat to Koh Samui is a popular option. Trains from Bangkok to Surat Thani are frequent and offer day and night services. And then, from Surat Thani, one can catch a boat to Koh Samui, where several companies offer regular services.
By Air:
The most convenient and quickest way to reach Koh Samui is by air, Koh Samui airport is something to watch, which provides a unique and charming experience. The airport is itself an attraction designed with an open-air concept which blends perfectly with island’s surroundings, so as soon as you land at the airport, the adventure starts. From Bangkok and some other cities, there are several flights daily which land in Koh Samui. I personally prefer to reach Koh Samui by air.
From the airport to your hotel:
Arriving at Koh Samui Airport, there are several options to reach to your accommodation. Taxis are easily and every time available. On the other hand, many hotels offer private hotel transfer, which can be pre booked for convenience. But for a more budget friendly option, there are shared minivans that drop you off at your hotel in all major parts of the island. As you come out of the immigration portion of the airport, you will find these minivan counters there, from where you can book your ticket. My hotel was in the Chaweng area, and it cost me 140 Baht to reach to the hotel.
Where to stay in Koh Samui
Koh Samui offers plenty of different options, from budget friendly to luxurious beachfront resorts. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Koh Samui:
Lamai:
Lamai area and Lamai beach are famous for its beautiful coastline. This place is less crowded then Chaweng but still offers plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment options. The beach here is stunning due to its clear waters and soft sand. This area is perfect for those who want a mix of serenity and adventure without the hustle and bustle of more crowded and touristic areas.
Chaweng:
Chaweng Beach is the most popular and bustling area of Koh Samui, it is the hub of nightlife, shopping, and dining with a wide variety of clubs, bars, and restaurants. The beach itself is lively, offering a lot of water and other activities, as well as a range of dining options along the beach.
Lipa Noi:
For those who are looking for more serenity and a bit more luxury, Lipa Noi is an excellent choice. This area on the island is famous for its serene beaches and luxury resorts. It’s perfect for honeymooners or for those who are looking for a more serene environment.
The cost of living in Koh Samui:
Koh Samui offers something to all types of budgets, you will find accommodation and food options that fit every budget.
Accommodation:
In Koh Samui, you will find everything from budget hostels to luxury resorts. During my stay, I found a good 3 star hotel which cost me in 18 USD per night. On average, you can expect to pay:
Budget Hotel/hostels: 200-500 Baht per night
Mid-Range Hotels: 500–1500 Baht per night
Luxury resorts: 2000+ Baht per night
Food:
Eating in Koh Samui has so much variety, you can eat expensive and cheap as well. Local eateries and street food offers delicious meals for as little as 30 to 60 Baht. If you are preferring dining in restaurants, you will expect to pay:
Local Restaurants: 60-200 Baht
Mid-Range Restaurants: 200-500 Baht per meal
High-End Restaurants: 500+ Baht per meal
Activities and Day Trips in Koh Samui:
Koh Samui is a paradise for those who are seeking adventure or outdoor activities and want to explore new places. Following are some must do activities and day trips in Koh Samui:
On the Island:
- Beach Hopping: Exlore the island’s stunning beaches like Lamai, Chaweng and Lipa Noi and many more
- Wat Phra Yai( Big Buddha Temple). Visit iconic 12 meter tall golden Buddha Statue.
- Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks: These unusual rock formation is a must visit place in Koh Samui, also known as Grandfather and Grandmother rocks.
- Rent a motorbike: One of the best thing to do on the island is to rent a motorbike and cruise around the island.
Day Trips:
- Ang Thong National Park: A popular and most-doable day trip in Koh Samui, this national park consists of 42 islands, that offer snorkeling, kayaking, and breathtaking views.
- Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan: These islands are famous for their crystal clear waters and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Koh Phangan: This island is mainly famous for its full moon parties, and also has beautiful beaches and hiking trails.
So, Koh Samui is the place that has everything, whether you’re an adventure seeker, looking for relaxation or a bit of both, this place will not disappoint you. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and serene retreats, Koh Samui offers a unique experience that caters to every kind of travelers. So, pack your bags, buy your ticket and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful island of Thailand.