KOH SAMUI
Koh Samui is the Gulf of Thailand’s jewel, a tropical paradise blending palm-fringed beaches with lush, mountainous interior. It offers everything from buzzing nightlife to serene, world-class resorts.
More than just a beach destination, the island is a vibrant tapestry of ancient temples, traditional fishing villages, and thrilling natural wonders. Samui is the quintessential Thai island escape.
Most Popular Attractions
Beaches & Coastal:
Chaweng Beach: The island’s longest and most famous beach, known for its soft white sand, clear water, and vibrant nightlife.
Lamai Beach: The second most popular, offering a more laid-back vibe with good swimming and a mix of restaurants and bars.
Fisherman’s Village (Bophut): A charming historic area with boutique shops, beachfront restaurants, and the famous Friday Night Market (Walking Street).
Choeng Mon Beach: A serene, family-friendly bay with a lovely, tranquil atmosphere and upscale resorts.
Silver Beach (Crystal Bay): A picturesque, small bay with great snorkeling and crystal-clear turquoise water.
Maenam Beach: Known for its quiet, peaceful setting, golden sand, and stunning views of Koh Phangan.
Lipa Noi Beach: A shallow, clear, and very calm west coast beach, often considered the most kid-friendly.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks: Iconic granite formations on the coast of Lamai, known as the “Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks,” and steeped in local folklore.
Cultural & Temples:
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai): An iconic landmark featuring a towering, 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue on its own small island (Koh Fan), connected by a causeway.
Wat Plai Laem: A vividly colorful Buddhist temple complex known for its striking 18-armed statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, set on a lake.
Wat Khunaram (Mummified Monk): A significant temple where the body of the highly respected monk Luang Pho Daeng, who died while meditating in 1973, is preserved and displayed.
Nathon Town: The island’s original commercial and government center, a hub for local life and a great place to catch a sunset or ferry.
Wat Ratchathammaram (Red Temple): A serene temple known for its unique terracotta color and intricate decorations.
Nature & Viewpoints:
Ang Thong National Marine Park: A stunning archipelago of 42 islands, popular for day trips offering snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking to incredible panoramic viewpoints.
Na Muang Waterfalls: A set of two famous waterfalls (Na Muang 1 and 2) in the jungle interior, often surrounded by a purple-tinted rock.
Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim Magic Garden): A secluded, private sculpture park tucked away on a hilltop, created by a local durian farmer.
Overlap Stone: A precarious-looking granite boulder perched on a hilltop, offering exceptional photo opportunities and island views.
Samui Elephant Sanctuary: An ethical, no-riding sanctuary providing a retirement home for rescued elephants.
Entertainment & Shopping:
Chaweng Night Market (Pattaya-style Street): A bustling area in Central Chaweng for shopping, street food, and vibrant nightlife venues.
Central Samui: A large, modern shopping mall and lifestyle center located in Chaweng.
Muay Thai Boxing: Catching a traditional Thai boxing match at one of the island’s stadiums (like Petchbuncha Stadium) for an exciting cultural experience.
Thai Cooking Class: An immersive, popular activity to learn the secrets of authentic Thai cuisine.
Activities & Experiences
Discover Ang Thong National Marine Park: Take a speedboat tour (approx. $55–$120) to this stunning archipelago of 42 islands. Highlights include snorkeling, kayaking through sea caves, and a challenging hike to the viewpoint over the famous Emerald Lake (Talay Nai).
Take a Traditional Thai Cooking Class: Join a local “farm-to-table” class (approx. $60–$85) to learn how to prepare classic dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Goong. Many classes include a local market visit.
Visit the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai): Marvel at the iconic 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue, located majestically on a small island connected to the main island by a causeway. Entry is free.
Explore the Fisherman’s Village in Bophut: Stroll through the charming, old Chinese-style shophouses, now converted into chic boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss the bustling Friday Night Market.
See the Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather & Grandmother) Rocks: Visit these unique and humorous natural rock formations on Lamai Beach, which hold a local myth about a shipwrecked couple.
Trek to Na Muang Waterfalls: Hike to the two majestic waterfalls. Na Muang 1 is easily accessible with a large swimming pool at the base, while Na Muang 2 is a higher climb for more adventurous travelers.
Volunteer at an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary: Spend time feeding, walking, and bathing rescued elephants in a natural, non-riding environment. Costs are higher (approx. $95–$120) but support conservation efforts.
Snorkel or Dive at Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan: Take a day trip by speedboat to these neighboring islands, known for having some of the best coral reefs, visibility, and marine life in the Gulf of Thailand.
Go Off-Road on a 4×4 or ATV Jungle Tour: Experience the island’s lush, mountainous interior by riding an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) or joining a thrilling 4WD safari tour (approx. $45–$70), often including a visit to the Secret Buddha Garden.
Relax with a Traditional Thai Massage: Indulge in a relaxing and therapeutic Thai massage (approx. $8–$20 per hour) at a beachside hut, spa, or parlor.
Walk Through the Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim Magic Garden): Discover this eccentric, hidden sculpture garden high in the hills, filled with statues created by a local farmer. The views from this elevated position are spectacular.
Local Tips & Transport
Songthaews (Shared Taxis/Buses): These are the most common and budget-friendly form of public transport. They are converted pickup trucks with two benches in the back. Flag one down, agree on the price (typically $1.50–$6) before you board, as they do not use a meter for tourists.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Standard metered taxis (yellow/maroon) are available but often refuse to use the meter. Always negotiate the fare beforehand. Ride-sharing apps like Grab are available and recommended for fair, fixed-price fares, though they can sometimes be more expensive than a well-negotiated street fare.
Scooter/Motorbike Rental: Renting a scooter (approx. $5–$9 per day) offers maximum freedom. Be extremely cautious: Samui’s roads are busy, and accidents are frequent. A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and helmet are legally required.
Car Rental: A rental car (approx. $25–$45 per day) is recommended for families or those planning to explore the entire island comfortably, especially the hillier interior and less-trafficked beaches. Drive on the left side of the road.
Airport Transfer: Samui International Airport (USM) is close to the main tourist areas. Pre-booking a private transfer or taking a shared minibus is a stress-free option.
Respect Temple Etiquette: When visiting any of the island’s many beautiful temples (Wats), ensure your shoulders and knees are covered (a scarf or sarong works well). Remove your shoes before entering any main temple building (Bot) or a local home.
The Head and Feet: In Thai culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, and the feet are the lowest and dirtiest. Never touch a Thai person’s head, and never point your feet at a person, a Buddha statue, or an object.
The Thai Smile and Wai: Thais are famously welcoming. The traditional greeting is the Wai (a slight bow with hands pressed together). A gentle smile (the “Thai smile”) will go a long way in all interactions, especially if you encounter a minor issue.
Haggling: Haggling is expected at markets, street stalls, and with non-metered taxis or songthaews. Always be polite and keep it lighthearted. Do not haggle in department stores or most sit-down restaurants.
Beach Choice:
- Chaweng is the largest, busiest, and offers the most nightlife.
- Lamai is a good middle ground, lively but more relaxed.
- Bophut (Fisherman’s Village) and Maenam are calmer, more family-friendly, and offer a more sophisticated atmosphere.
Water Safety: Only drink bottled water. Tap water is not safe to drink, even for brushing teeth. Ice in restaurants is usually fine as it’s typically made from purified water.
Hidden Gems:
- Wat Plai Laem: A vibrant, colorful temple complex near the Big Buddha, featuring a magnificent 18-armed statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin.
- Overlap Stone: A giant, perfectly balanced boulder high on a hill near Lamai offering incredible panoramic views. A small entrance fee (around $1.50) is usually collected by the local owners.
- Hin Lat Waterfall: A series of cascades and pools best visited during or shortly after the rainy season (September–November) when the water flow is strong.
Top Restaurants
Khaw Glong Thai Restaurant [$15-$30] – A highly-rated restaurant in Chaweng for authentic Thai cuisine, popular for its great flavors and generous portions in a simple setting.
Phensiri [$15-$30] – A well-regarded Thai restaurant in the Chaweng area, mentioned in the Michelin Guide for good quality and good value cooking (Bib Gourmand).
Kob Thai Restaurant [$10-$25] – A popular, dedicated spot near Lamai Beach where the chef focuses on traditional Thai food, often praised for its seafood and pleasant beachside setting.
Krua Bophut [$20-$35] – A home-style Thai restaurant with a unique wooden building in Bo Phut’s Fisherman Village, famous for its signature Tom Yum Goong.
The Hut Cafe [$10-$25] – A popular, often-packed spot in Bo Phut known for serving highly-rated, authentic Thai food at very local prices.
Sabienglae Lamai [$15-$30] – Enjoy pleasant views of the beach while savoring top-quality fresh seafood and authentic Thai dishes; a local classic near Lamai.
Kapi Sator [$15-$30] – A Michelin Bib Gourmand destination celebrating the bold, fierce flavors of Southern Thai cuisine, with intoxicating dishes like squid in coconut-lemongrass broth.
Krua Chao Baan [$15-$30] – Located in Hua Thanon, this spot is known for fresh seafood at local prices, right by the water, offering a true “eat like a local” experience.
Raan Kao Hom [$10-$20] – A no-frills, home-style Thai food spot in Chaweng with a reputation for fantastic, authentic flavors.
Jahn Dim Sum [$5-$15] – A highly recommended morning dim sum spot in Lamai, known for being cheap, tasty, and popular with local Thai residents.
Noi Friendly [$10-$20] – A highly-recommended local gem in Bang Rak, known for its excellent food and great value.
Khao Man Gai Ruan Mit [$5-$15] – A family-run restaurant in Bophut famous among locals for serving the best Khao Man Gai (Thai chicken rice) for over 30 years.
RHOY RHOY! [$10-$20] – Offers fresh, home-baked goods and authentic Thai comfort food, known for its friendly, local feel.
DARA Kitchen & Café [$10-$20] – A simple, clean restaurant on the Ring Road near Lamai, popular with locals and tourists for its short menu of local favorites like pineapple fried rice.
Green Bird [$10-$20] – An unpretentious, budget-friendly little restaurant in Chaweng specializing in Thai seafood and famous for its fried basil and chili with seafood.
Bang Por Seafood Takho [$20-$40] – A well-known local seafood spot on Bang Por beach, serving fresh catches at a rustic, beachfront location.
Baan Suan Lung Khai [$15-$30] – A recommended restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood, often favored for its local authenticity and simple setting.
The Height [$25-$45] – A renowned sea-view restaurant near Lamai specializing in authentic Thai cuisine with beautiful views.
Motherland Seafood [$20-$40] – A well-known restaurant on the island specializing in fresh Thai seafood cuisine, often with a casual, beachfront vibe.
Bang Por Seafood [$20-$40] – A locally owned treasure on Bang Por Beach, championing Southern Thai seafood from simple wooden beachfront tables with the sound of the waves as a backdrop.
Pla Pla [$30-$50] – A laid-back, oceanside grill at a luxury resort, perfect for savouring fresh seafood and prime cuts of meat right on the beach.
SESUN Grill & Beach Bar [$40-$70] – The signature open-air restaurant at a major resort, offering fresh seafood and prime cuts with a breathtaking beachfront backdrop.
Catch [$40-$70] – A restaurant devoted to seafood and culinary heritage, offering an unforgettable dining experience where you can dress up and enjoy the sea’s bounty.
Starry Seafood [$20-$40] – A favorite local seafood spot, often recommended by those looking for authentic, fresh catches outside the main tourist traps.
The Oyster Bar x Samui [$20-$40] – A dedicated spot for oyster lovers, featuring a weekly shuffled oyster list to savor the surprise of the sea.
Saffron [$40-$70] – An incredibly romantic, high-end Thai restaurant from a well-known hotel brand, serving exquisite, authentic Thai cuisine with spectacular views.
Koh Thai Kitchen [$30-$60] – Situated on a palm-fringed hilltop, this spot gives Southern Thai cuisine a fresh look with slow-cooked curries and superb local seafood.
Chez François [$50-$80] – A must-visit for foodies, this small, reservation-only restaurant in Fisherman’s Village offers amazing, authentic French cuisine by chef François Porté.
Dining on the Hill [$30-$50] – A main dining venue at a luxury resort offering a bountiful mix of Thai and International specialties cooked to order.
Prego Samui [$30-$50] – An Italian restaurant perfect for all occasions, offering a range of traditional and modern Italian dishes.
2 Fishes [$30-$50] – An Italian restaurant in Fisherman’s Village known for its range of traditional and modern Italian dishes, helmed by an experienced chef.
Pepenero [$30-$50] – A highly-regarded Italian restaurant in a charming garden setting, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality.
Pizzeria Da Bardo [$15-$30] – Must-visit for pizza lovers in Mae Nam, often cited as serving the island’s top pizza.
Benzo Sushi Bar & Grill [$20-$40] – A must-visit in Chaweng for Japanese cuisine lovers, offering delicious sushi, sashimi, and a vibrant atmosphere at an affordable price.
Noori India [$15-$30] – A cozy spot in Chaweng run by two passionate brothers, offering delicious Indian classics like butter chicken and samosas.
Zazen Restaurant [$50-$80] – A sophisticated spot in Fisherman’s Village offering a blend of Thai and International cuisine in a romantic beachfront setting.
Charm Samui [$30-$50] – Known for its creative Asian fusion cuisine and serene sea views, offering a modern dining experience in Bo Phut.
Salefino Koh Samui [$50-$80] – A fine dining establishment offering Italian cuisine and classic seafood dishes with a high-end wine list.
Tree Tops Signature Dining [$80-$130] – A truly unique and exclusive fine-dining experience with only eight tables, nestled high in the treetops of a 120-year-old tree, offering exquisite multi-course menus.
Dining on the Rocks [$80-$130] – Located at the Six Senses Samui, this spectacular cliffside restaurant offers panoramic ocean backdrops and exquisite world cuisine, ideal for a romantic evening.
JAHN [$100-$180] – A sophisticated and exclusive fine-dining restaurant at Conrad Koh Samui, known for blending traditional Thai culinary techniques with modern innovation and spectacular views.
NAMU [$70-$120] – A highly-rated Japanese beach restaurant at the W Retreat, offering sea views and great sushi, perfect for an upscale dining experience.
Long Dtai [$60-$100] – Located on the secluded Cape Fahn private island, this restaurant curated by a superstar chef offers sublime Southern Thai dishes with a focus on local and sustainable seafood.
Pak Tai [$40-$70] – A fine-dining experience at The Ritz-Carlton, renowned for its traditional Southern Thai cuisine with an elegant presentation.
The Jungle Club [$30-$60] – Perched high above Koh Samui, this family-run hideaway commands spectacular views and serves inspired Thai-Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
Bophut Walking Street (Fridays) [$5-$15] – Not a single restaurant, but a vibrant night market perfect for exploring an incredible array of authentic, budget-friendly Thai street food and snacks.
Noodle Soup & Food [$5-$15] – An unpretentious, very local spot in Bo Phut with trophies on display, boasting “The Best Noodle Soup in Town.”
Mit Samui [$10-$20] – A never-fail local spot in Chaweng known for its reliable, authentic Thai food.
Four Men Yellow Noodle Soup [$5-$15] – A great, cheap noodle soup spot near Mit Samui, a favorite frequented by Thai locals.
Raan Khang Non Restaurant [$10-$20] – Near Fisherman’s Village, this small, excellent spot offers Northern-style Thai dishes.
Coco Tam’s [$15-$35] – A vibrant beachfront bar/restaurant in Fisherman’s Village known for its spectacular fire shows and lively atmosphere, great for cocktails and casual dining.
Pi Samui Beach Club and Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers beachfront dining, creative cocktails, and Mediterranean-Thai cuisine on Choeng Mon Beach with fire shows.
Chi Samui [$20-$40] – A beach club that channels Ibiza’s spirit with a saltwater infinity pool and serves a menu of Thai and international favorites in a relaxed, chic setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
WOOBAR (W Koh Samui): Located on Mae Nam Beach, this iconic, stylish bar is known for its sunken seating area, futuristic design, and spectacular 270-degree panoramic sea views, making it a perfect spot for signature cocktails at sunset.
Garnish Samui: Situated in the charming Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, this cocktail bar focuses on molecular and experimental mixology, blending local Thai flavors with modern techniques for a unique drinking experience.
Blind Tiger Kitchen and Cocktails: A sophisticated, air-conditioned speakeasy-style lounge and restaurant tucked away on Bangrak Beach Road, offering expertly crafted theatrical cocktails and an upscale ambiance.
AIR BAR InterContinental: Nestled on a cliffside on the western side of the island (Taling Ngam), this luxurious bar offers breathtaking sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand and the Five Islands, accompanied by live jazz and an extensive drinks menu.
Tree Tops Sky & Dining: Part of a luxury resort (Anantara Lawana) near Chaweng, this venue offers a refined setting in individual tree-house-like platforms with incredible sea views and a world-class wine and cocktail list.
Chi Samui: A high-end luxury beach club on Bangrak Beach with a 25m saltwater infinity pool and swim-up bar. It serves inventive cocktails in a cool, laid-back setting, often featuring international DJs.
Tikibox Bar: Found near Chaweng Beach, this bar is known for embracing tropical and tiki flavors, especially its famous Piña Coladas, providing a fun and vibrant street-side atmosphere.
Coco Tam’s: A popular, open-air beach bar in Fisherman’s Village, Bophut, famous for its swing seats, beanbags on the sand, shisha, fire shows, and a wide variety of delicious tropical cocktails.
CoCoRum (Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui): Located on the northern Mae Nam coast, this elegant bar specializes in high-end rum-based cocktails, including classics like the Zombie and inventive aged rum concoctions.
The Palms Bar & Grill Samui: An open-air bar in the heart of Chaweng’s nightlife district (near Soi Green Mango), offering a cozy, street-side setting with cocktails and a lively social atmosphere.
Rasta Bar: A popular, laid-back reggae bar in the Chaweng area, known for its chilled-out atmosphere, live music (often reggae and rock), and a variety of cocktails and craft beers.
Hush Bar: Located in the bustling Green Mango area of Chaweng, this spot is popular for its energetic vibe, great cocktails, and a variety of music nights including R&B and Hip-Hop.
On Street Bar: The most original bar in Chaweng’s scene, built from reclaimed wood and corrugated iron and painted in vibrant colors, this small venue offers a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere and colorful cocktails.
The Library’s ‘The Drink Gallery’: A stylish, trendy bar located within The Library resort on Chaweng Beach, offering a sophisticated setting for unique and well-crafted cocktails.
Cabanas Beach Club: A sleek, luxury beach club on Chaweng Beach, offering handcrafted cocktails, ocean-facing pools, and a blend of relaxation with live entertainment like sunset jazz sessions.
Green Mango Club: A legendary, high-energy, open-air nightclub located on the famous Soi Green Mango in Chaweng, known for its high-energy atmosphere and playing a mix of commercial and house music until late.
ARKbar Beach Club: A massive, long-standing beachfront institution in the heart of Chaweng Beach, famous for its daily pool parties, international DJs, spectacular nightly fire shows, and dancing directly on the sand.
Sound Club Samui: Located near the Green Mango area in Chaweng, this club is a key destination for the late-night crowd, often opening after other clubs wind down and playing electronic and techno music until sunrise.
Nikki Beach Koh Samui: A luxurious and upscale beach club on Lipa Noi Beach (west coast), known for its elegance, regular themed parties, international DJs, and exclusive atmosphere with a focus on high-end cocktails and dining.
Cha Cha Moon Beach Club: Known for hosting large-scale parties, including the official Half Moon and sometimes Full Moon after-parties on Chaweng Beach. It features different music sections and a lively party crowd.
SEEN Beach Club Samui: A super lively, retro-inspired beach club on Chaweng Beach with a poolside bar and a great atmosphere for soaking in the island vibes with cocktails and international cuisine.
Solo Samui Bar: A two-story bar near the entrance of Soi Bar Solo in Chaweng, popular for pre-clubbing. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, a pool table, sports screenings, and half-price cocktails at midnight.
Elephant Beach Club: Located in Chaweng, this popular beach club offers a lively atmosphere with regular DJ sets, fire shows every night, and themed events, making it a great spot for a full day and night experience.
Fusion Club: A dark, atmospheric nightclub on Lamai Beach known for its excellent resident DJs who play a variety of electronic music from acid to funk, attracting a strong international and local crowd.
The Islander: A vibrant, street-side bar located in Chaweng Beach, which frequently hosts live events and is a great spot for an energetic night out with a friendly crowd.
Viking Bar: Situated on the busy Soi Green Mango in Chaweng, this is one of the area’s popular clubs and bars, known for its loud music and part-all-night vibe.