{"id":3584,"date":"2025-02-07T18:47:43","date_gmt":"2025-02-07T17:47:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/2troubletravelers.com\/koh-samui-complete-guide-where-to-stay-what-to-see-tips-on-restaurants-and-hidden-spots\/"},"modified":"2026-02-09T19:20:23","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T18:20:23","slug":"koh-samui-complete-guide-where-to-stay-what-to-see-tips-on-restaurants-and-hidden-spots","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/2troubletravelers.com\/en\/koh-samui-complete-guide-where-to-stay-what-to-see-tips-on-restaurants-and-hidden-spots\/","title":{"rendered":"Koh Samui – Complete guide: where to stay, what to see, tips on restaurants and hidden gems!"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The island of Koh Samui<\/strong> is located in the Gulf of Thailand<\/strong> off the east coast of Thailand. It is the second largest island of Thailand, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations and we know why. You will find here everything you can expect from a holiday in Thailand. Beautiful beaches<\/strong> with clear water<\/strong>, great views<\/strong>, temples<\/strong> that will introduce you to Thai culture, but also plenty of opportunities for excursions and activities in the area. Among other things, here you will find all price categories of accommodation and food. It’s up to you whether you choose to visit the night street food markets<\/strong> every night or prefer the classy restaurants. So let’s talk a little more about this island.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

How to get there?<\/h2>\n

The advantage of Koh Samui is that there is an international airport (USM)<\/strong> on the island, which serves domestic flights from Bangkok, Phuket, or Chiang Mai, but also international flights e.g. from Singapore. The other option is to take a ferry from Donsak Pier in Surat Thani, which will take you about 1.5 hours. Ferry tickets can be booked through the 12goasia platform.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

When is the best season on Koh Samui?<\/h2>\n

Koh Samui and its surroundings are a bit different than other parts of Thailand. Even though the high season (dry season) starts in well-known parts like Phuket, Krabi or Phi Phi Islands in early November, it’s a bit different on Koh Samui.<\/p>\n

The island experiences a monsoon season<\/strong> from mid-November to mid-December, which is accompanied by heavy rains. Of course, this is not a rule, but if you want to avoid disappointment and enjoy the sunny days, we recommend arriving after December 15th. During the monsoon season, some activities may also be restricted, such as. trips to Ang Thong National Park. The best time to visit Koh Samui is mid-December to the end of April.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Where to stay<\/h2>\n

As we have already mentioned, the island of Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand. The choice of accommodation can therefore be crucial. There are areas of the island that are great for nightlife, but also areas where you can enjoy undisturbed peace on the beach at sunset. As a rule, however, the following areas can be considered the best parts:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Fisherman’s Village<\/h3>\n

A great location for lovers of Thailand’s bustling atmosphere and for those who want to have everything close at hand. There is the most famous night street food market, many restaurants, cafes and beautiful beaches nearby. If you are looking for luxury accommodation, we definitely recommend Karma Resort<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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Karma Resort was among the top 100 luxury hotels in the world in 2024!<\/div><\/div><\/div>

Chaweng Beach<\/h3>\n

For those looking for nightlife and active holidays, we recommend living in the Chaweng Beach area. Accommodation offers can be found here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

West Coast (Noi Beach\/Taling Ngam)<\/h3>\n

If you come to Koh Samui for relaxation and want to stay away from the crowds, the west coast may be the place for you. However, you should be prepared for the fact that you will not find well-known night markets in the area, nor as good amenities as in the other mentioned areas. However, the beautiful sunsets on the beach will be a bonus for you. An affordable hotel is the TUI Passage<\/a>, located right on the beach.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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TUI Passage Resort.<\/div><\/div><\/div>

What to see on Koh Samui?<\/h2>\n

Koh Samui has something for everyone. We would divide the main tourist places and attractions into the following four groups:<\/p>\n

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  1. Beaches on Koh Samui<\/li>\n
  2. Temples on Koh Samui<\/li>\n
  3. Viewpoints in Koh Samui<\/li>\n
  4. Excursions around Koh Samui<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div>

    Beaches on Koh Samui<\/h3>\n

    One of the main reasons why people travel to Thailand is its beautiful coastline. The beaches on Koh Samui are a testament to this, and you’re sure to love them. You will find ones that have a great atmosphere and you can do various water and other activities there. Another group of beaches are those located on the west coast of the island, offering views of beautiful sunsets on the sea. The third and our favourite group of beaches are the ones that are a bit less developed, but they will make you feel like you’re in paradise! Here you will enjoy undisturbed relaxation and calm waters that are suitable for swimming or snorkeling.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

    Chaweng Beach<\/h4>\n

    If you’re looking for water and beach sports and a lively atmosphere, we recommend visiting Chaweng Beach. There are many restaurants and bars, massage salons and even beach clubs nearby.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

    Lamai Beach<\/h4>\n

    A similar beach popular among young people is Lamai Beach, which is surrounded by many shops, markets and restaurants.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

    Crystal Bay<\/h4>\n

    Crystal Bay, also known as Silver Beach<\/strong>, is also a popular beach. This is a slightly quieter beach than the previous two, but you’ll still find there great amenities and atmosphere.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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    Crystal Bay.<\/div><\/div><\/div>

    Coral Bay<\/h4>\n

    Right next to Crystal Bay is the smaller and less crowded Coral Bay beach. It is a smaller beach where you can enjoy more privacy. It has a slightly steeper entrance to the sea and does not have as soft sand as Crystal Bay. There is also a beach restaurant, so you can spend the whole day here relaxing.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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    Coral Bay Beach.<\/div><\/div><\/div>

    Ban Tai Beach<\/h4>\n

    If you are a lover of less developed beaches, we have a solution for you. We found the most beautiful ones on the northern part of Koh Samui. Our favourite was Ban Tai Beach, which is not so well known among tourists and can be considered a hidden paradise! Beautiful white sand, clear water with ideal conditions for swimming or paddleboarding and a beach lined with dozens of palm trees. There are also a few restaurants and hotels on the beach, but not as many as the aforementioned beaches.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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    Ban Tai Beach.<\/div><\/div><\/div>

    Maenam Beach and Bang Po Beach<\/h4>\n

    Maenam Beach and Bang Po Beach are also nearby – both very nice and quiet beaches suitable for relaxing and escaping the crowds, especially during the peak season.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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    Bang Po Beach.<\/div><\/div><\/div>
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    Maenam Beach.<\/div><\/div><\/div>

    Lipa Noi Beach and Nathon Beach<\/h4>\n

    The third group are the aforementioned beaches on the west coast of the island. They are a bit more out of the way, so unless you live in this area, be prepared for a longer journey by car or scooter. The most famous beaches are Lipa Noi Beach and Nathon Beach. We recommend visiting these beaches at sunset to enjoy the most beautiful atmosphere.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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    Temples on Koh Samui<\/h3>\n

    During your holiday in Thailand, you will definitely want to enjoy something other than beach days. Koh Samui is a great place to explore Thai culture. There are many beautiful temples and complexes that will literally take your breath away. However, care must be taken when visiting their culture, especially by dressing appropriately. You should keep your shoulders and knees covered, and it is forbidden to fly a drone around the temples unless you have the correct permit. Admission to temples is usually free or in the form of a voluntary contribution. Our favourite temples are:<\/p>\n