Koh Samui
Vacation in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is the third largest island in Thailand. Don’t worry, it’s not really big and can be circled in only about an hour’s drive. Koh Samui is also the most popular among travelers in Thailand, exotic beaches, white sand, clear water and hotels on the beach strip make it a magical place in the eyes of many.
The island of Koh Samui lies in the group of islands in the southeast of Thailand in the Gulf of Thailand, neighboring with Koh Phangan Koh Tao, and a number of other small islands in the area. The Nang Yuan Nature Reserve is also located in this area
A vacation on the island of Koh Samui is a combination of lying on the beach, sea and land attractions, nightlife, bars in magical spots and tropical natural areas to isolate yourself. The island of Koh Samui has become a favorite destination among families who visit the island during the summer vacation of July and August.
Flights to Koh Samui
It is possible and even recommended to reach Koh Samui by direct flight with the company “Bangkok Airways” from destinations such as: Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai and Pattaya. Bangkok Airways” is the only airline allowed to land at Koh Samui USM airport.
Flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui depart every hour and the flight duration is about 55 minutes.
Another way to get to Koh Samui in Thailand is by flight + ferry through Surat Thani or Nakhon Si Thammarat airports. Although the duration of such a transfer to Koh Samui is about 5 hours, it can save a lot of money for large groups.
Weather in Koh Samui
The weather in Koh Samui is tropical like all over Thailand and not predictable, the question always arises: when is it recommended to travel to Koh Samui? There is no unequivocal answer, we always rely on past predictions even though we cannot know for sure what will happen in the future, and yet:
January-April
They are the classics for a vacation on the island of Koh Samui, only a few days of rain and a warm temperature, the peak of heat comes in April when the temperatures reach 40 degrees.
May-October
During this period the weather changes, along with sunny days, we will also have rainy days. In general, the weather should be comfortable for a two-three week vacation in Thailand and should not affect the trip too much.
November-December
Considered very rainy in Koh Samui, lots of rainy days combined with storms, during this period it is recommended to visit the western region of Thailand.
When is the Best Time to Visit Koh Samui?
The island of Koh Samui is a destination that can be visited throughout the year. The ideal period for a vacation on the island is between January and May, but of course also in the months of July and August the island is visited by many families. The months of November-December are the rainiest in Koh Samui where there will be many rainy days.
Car rental in Koh Samui
The island of Koh Samui is quite small, it will take you about an hour to circle it. Renting a car for several days on the island can certainly upgrade the experience on the island, but it is not mandatory. If you choose a hotel located in tourist areas such as the fishing village for example, then you won’t have to use the car too much. Hiring a taxi driver for a day trip is definitely enough.
Recommended beaches in Koh Samui
The island of Koh Samui is blessed with amazing tropical beaches. Koh Samui beaches are the number one attraction for tourists to Koh Samui. In addition, the geographical area next to the beaches is flat, so most of the hotels were built right on the seashore, which improves the stay in Koh Samui, and you can enjoy a resort right on the beach!
On the island of Koh Samui you will find several main beaches and we will detail them soon. It is important to note that each beach has its own “center” and each beach has convenience stores, massage parlors, restaurants, local travel agencies, water sports and more, some have more and some less, what is certain is that you will find something to do on every beach in Koh Samui.
Chaweng Beach
The main beach on the island of Koh Samui, about 15 minutes drive from the field. The center of the island’s nightlife and offers many entertainment venues, pubs, gogo clubs and the famous “Green Mango” club. In addition, Central Festival Mall, many restaurants, and hotels scattered along the beach. Suitable mainly for young people, as well as families and couples who want to be in the center of things
Advantages-The bustling center of the island, close to the main attractions and lots of things to see and to experience, never boring..
Disadvantages– The feeling of busyness somewhat diminished its exotic and tropical ambiance.
Lamai Beach
Reminiscent of Chaweng Beach, but much calmer. About 20 minutes drive from the airport. On the beach you will find markets, restaurants and bars in a relaxed atmosphere, and many hotels scattered along the beach. More suitable for families and couples.
Bophut Beach
Located in the north of the island, about 15 minutes drive from the airport. The family beach of Koh Samui with many resorts adapted to families. At Bophut Beach you will find the “Fishermen’s Village” – Koh Samui famous evening promenade with many restaurants, shops and bars on the beach.
Maenam Beach
A quiet stretch of coast in northern Koh Samui, secluded beaches and shallow waters with several luxury hotels. The beach is mainly suitable for couples and families.
Choengmon Beach
Located north of Chaweng, and considered the tropical coast of the island with luxury hotels and green views, it is suitable for those looking for a quiet and luxurious corner on the island of Koh Samui but a short drive from Chaweng. Suitable for families and couples.
The island of Koh Samui attracts many international families for the summer holidays. One of the most popular destinations in Thailand, Koh Samui with a selection of beachfront hotels offers a perfect family vacation. Hotels with kids club and family rooms like Holiday Inn Bophut or more luxurious hotels like Kimpton Koh Samui will make sure to keep the kids busy during the vacation. Combining many attractions, wide beaches with employment and friendly locals are a leading formula for a holiday in Koh Samui. You can find the best family hotels on the beaches of Bophut, Choengmon and Chaweng. Although you won’t find large resorts like in Phuket, the exoticism combined with the right coordination of expectations and you are on your way to a family vacation in Koh Samui.
What to do in Koh Samui
Koh Samui Island offers a plethora of attractions for those seeking to explore beyond their hotel’s poolside relaxation. If you’ve indulged a bit too much and are looking for some engaging activities, Koh Samui has something for everyone.
Two-day sailing trips
Koh Samui Island is located near the Ang Thong National Park, an amazing nature reserve. The trip is known among tourists as “the 42 islands” and is a must for those staying in Koh Samui. Another sea trip takes us to the adjacent islands of Koh Tao and Nang Yuan, 2 islands that are amazing in their beauty. Of course you can go on many other snorkeling trips around the island of Koh Samui.
Jeep safari tours
If you prefer exploring the land attractions, we recommend embarking on a guided jeep tour around Koh Samui. This excursion allows you to visit numerous scenic viewpoints and enchanting waterfalls that Koh Samui Island boasts. One of the highly recommended options is ‘Olesia’s Jeep Excursion,’ which can be easily found on Facebook.
Pool party at ArkBar Koh Samui
The island’s famous pool party that has been held for years, drop by the ArkBar Hotel located in the heart of Chaweng during the day and enjoy a pool party in a young atmosphere.
Fisherman Village Koh Samui
A lively and modern night market located on Bophut Koh Samui beach is definitely a must visit for the whole family, lots of cool and recommended restaurants and bars.
Jungle club
A restaurant bar located high in the jungles with a stunning view of the Koh Samui beach, it is definitely recommended to enjoy a good smoothie at sunset.
Big buddha Koh Samui
The Great Buddha of Koh Samui, an iconic golden Buddha statue with a view of the whole area, is located in the Bophut area.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg, in Koh Samui you can always find something to do, whether it’s partying until dawn in the Chaweng recreation area at the Green Mango Club, or enjoying the many water sports that the island offers along all its beaches, riding horses on the beach or going on an ATV trip that the island offers, By the way, if you are tired you can always go back to the hotel and spend some time relaxing on the pool.
Nightlife in Koh Samui
Nightlife in Koh Samui, most of them are concentrated in the central Chaweng area and are active from the evening hours until 3 am.
Beach party at "Ark Bar" hotel
An excellent beach party with a DJ and fire shows, it is recommended to come in the evening until midnight, after which everyone continues to the Green Mango Club.
The Green Mango Club
The centrally located, historic club in Koh Samui comes alive after midnight. If you’re in the mood for dancing, this is the spot for you.
Soi Green Mango
Discover a charming pedestrian street featuring bars, strip clubs, and the renowned Green Mango club.
Black Nightclub
Discover a charming pedestrian street featuring bars, strip clubs, and the renowned Green Mango club.
Shopping in Koh Samui
Although Koh Samui is not the shopping capital of Thailand like Bangkok, you will also find some recommended places for shopping.
Koh Samui central festival
A shopping center from the “Central” chain, located in the center of the Chaweng area. There you will find shops from various chains and a small complex of recommended restaurants. Every week in the central plaza, stalls are set up for shopping lovers.
Fisherman village Bophut
A modern promenade in the heart of Bophut beach that we mentioned earlier, where you will find a lot of interesting goods.
Lamai Night market
One of the lively markets of Koh Samui, a classic Thai night market reminiscent of the night market of Chiang Mai and the markets of Bangkok.
FAQ- Koh Samui
There is no water park on Koh Samui Island, you can find water parks in Phuket, Hua Hin and Pattaya.
The airport is located right in the center of the island and is about a 10-minute drive from the tourist beaches of Chaweng, Bophut and Choengmon.
It is recommended to get to Koh Samui by direct flight with Bangkok Airways from almost any destination in Thailand.
The fisherman village at Bophut Koh Samui beach today is considered the central and attractive area in Koh Samui, an amazing promenade with dozens of restaurants, bars, and street stalls make the area the liveliest in Koh Samui.
The jellyfish season in Koh Samui is between June and October, it is less recommended to enter the sea during this period, and if you enter only in a netted area.
The island of Koh Samui has recovered by about 70%, it is definitely enough to spend a week in Koh Samui, you can enjoy the island without excessive tourism.
Depending on the budget and the nature of the vacation, in Koh Samui you can find several recommended hotels for families such as: Holiday Inn Bophut, Kimpton Koh Samui and Sheraton Koh Samui.
The island can be combined with any destination in Thailand, since domestic flights reach the island from almost any destination in Thailand. The neighboring island of Koh Phangan is a desirable combination especially during the Full moon party time.
Koh Samui's Map
Koh samui - In conclusion
Whether you’re a young adventurer seeking nightlife, a couple in search of a romantic getaway, or a family with children, Koh Samui Island has something for everyone. Its white sandy beaches, coastal resorts, and numerous attractions have made Koh Samui the top destination for tourists in Thailand.