Thailand's second-largest island in the Gulf · powder-white Chaweng & Lamai beaches · the golden Big Buddha · Fisherman's Village in Bophut · jungle waterfalls · and the turquoise lagoons of the Ang Thong Marine Park
Koh Samui is Thailand's second-largest island, set in the Gulf of Thailand off Surat Thani province. A ring road loops past coconut plantations and more than 20 beaches — from buzzing Chaweng and mellow Lamai to the boutique calm of Bophut. Add the golden Big Buddha, jungle waterfalls, the turquoise lagoons of the Ang Thong Marine Park, and an easy airport just minutes from the sand, and you have one of Asia's most loved island escapes.
On Samui your choice of beach shapes your whole trip. Most visitors base themselves in one of four areas — lively Chaweng, relaxed Lamai, boutique Bophut, or the quieter southern and western coves. Pick the one that matches what you came for.
Samui's longest and liveliest beach — a wide white-sand strip backed by hotels, malls, restaurants and the island's main nightlife. The easiest base for first-timers who want everything on the doorstep.
Chaweng's mellower neighbour to the south — a lovely curve of sand with a more laid-back village, good-value stays and the famous Hin Ta & Hin Yai rocks nearby.
A charming old teak-shop-house village turned boutique-chic — Friday Walking Street, stylish small hotels, beach-front dining and calm sunset views toward Koh Phangan.
The island's tranquil side — long quiet beaches, coconut groves, hideaway resorts and the calmest water. Where Samui slows right down, away from the crowds.
Selected for their prime beach locations across Chaweng, Lamai and Bophut — from clifftop villas to great-value beach hostels. Compare prices across 3 booking platforms in one click.
A hillside hideaway of private pool villas tumbling down to a secluded bay, with an infinity pool, world-class spa and sweeping sunset views toward the Five Islands.
A big, family-friendly beachfront resort in a tropical garden right on Chaweng — a lagoon pool, spa and direct beach access, steps from the shops and nightlife.
A bright, social poolside flashpacker spot right on Chaweng Beach — dorms and private rooms, a buzzing bar and a great-value base for younger travellers.
An all-villa sanctuary set on a private bay above Lamai, with infinity pools, a signature spa and dramatic sunrise views over the Gulf — pure romantic seclusion.
A chic white-and-teak design resort on quieter North Chaweng, where many suites and villas have their own private pool — stylish, calm and right on the sand.
A lush tropical resort at the quieter north end of Chaweng, with lagoon-style pools, treehouse-inspired suites and direct beach access — relaxed luxury near the action.
Found your ideal beach? Compare prices from three leading booking platforms — Samui has great-value stays on every coast, from Chaweng beach hostels to clifftop pool villas.
Island cooking on Samui leans on the sea and the coconut — grilled Gulf seafood, fiery southern curries and the sweet flesh of the island's famous coconuts. From beach barbecues to the Fisherman's Village, here is what you absolutely cannot miss.
Beachfront grills at Bophut, Chaweng and Fisherman's Village — eating fresh by weight.
SeafoodThe Friday Walking Street at Bophut, plus Chaweng, Lamai and Maenam markets.
MarketsSea-view and jungle-view coffee in the hills above Chaweng and Lamai.
CoffeeSamui pairs its famous beaches with a golden Buddha, jungle waterfalls and boat trips to some of Thailand's most beautiful islands. Here are the sights you shouldn't miss.
Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, Maenam and Choengmon compared — which beach suits your trip.
BeachesThe main beach and tourist strip — the long sand, the nightlife and who it suits.
Main BeachThe relaxed second beach, plus the famous Hin Ta & Hin Yai rocks.
QuieterThe 12m Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) and Wat Plai Laem on the north coast.
TemplesBophut's restored old town — dining, boutiques and the Friday Walking Street.
Old TownThe 42-island marine park — the Emerald Lake, the viewpoint and kayaking.
Day TripKoh Tao for diving, Koh Phangan for the Full Moon — the best escapes.
BeyondTwo days is a great first taste of Samui — day one for the island's beaches, Big Buddha and Fisherman's Village, day two on a boat trip out to the Ang Thong Marine Park. Easy to tweak to your own pace.
Chaweng and the temples, Ang Thong by boat, then Lamai and the south.
Most PopularThe relaxed island week — add a Koh Tao or Koh Phangan day and more beach time.
Slow TripGulf-coast weather — why Samui's rainy season is the opposite of Phuket's.
When to GoWhat a day on Samui really costs, from backpacker to comfort.
CostsEssential info and getting-around tips to help your Koh Samui trip run smoothly from the very first step.
The quickest way is a direct flight to Samui Airport (USM), about 1 hr 5 min from Bangkok. Cheaper option: fly or bus to Surat Thani, then a ferry from Donsak pier (about 1.5 hr) to the island.
Carry cash for markets, beach vendors and street food. Cards and PromptPay QR are accepted in resorts, malls and most restaurants, and ATMs are everywhere (expect a per-withdrawal fee).
Shared songthaew trucks loop the ring road by day, or use the Grab app and metered-ish taxis. Many visitors rent a scooter or car — but ride carefully, as Samui's roads can be hilly and busy.
Pick up a tourist SIM (AIS, TrueMove or dtac) at the airport, or activate an eSIM before you board. 4G/5G coverage is strong across the island.
From Samui International into Chaweng, Lamai and Bophut — taxi, transfer or minibus.
ArrivalThe budget way in — ferries from Surat Thani and Donsak, and the bus+ferry combo.
By FerrySongthaews, the pricey taxis, scooters and the ring road. No train here.
TransportChaweng, Lamai, Bophut, Maenam or Choengmon — the right area for you.
AreasClick any pin for details — plan your route with ease
Samui has great-value stays on every coast — from Chaweng beach hostels to clifftop pool villas. Pick your ideal beach and start comparing right now.
A good trip doesn't end at one island — 3 more southern Thailand destinations easily reached from Koh Samui.