Quick tips on where to stay in Koh Samui

What you need to know about Samui.

If you don't like sitting on the beach, back out now. That's the main reason to visit.

Most people who travel to Thailand envision at least a handful of days on the beach. If you're in the planning stage, you're probably looking at Pattaya or Phuket. If you have not, I would encourage you to add Koh Samui to that list instead.

Samui has the best "Thai Island Experience." It is not the cheapest. Nor is it the easiest to get to. It is however the one place I'd visit if I only had a single day to return to Thailand and wanted to do nothing. 

Here is some info that will make planning your trip easier.  

1. The journey will take awhile. Be prepared, it will be worth it. 

The airport in Koh Samui is a small regional airport. There are no jet-bridges. There are definitely no international flights that will take you here in a single hop. The terminal looks like the image below (yes, that's really it, the runway is to the right).

It is possible to book a codeshare flight from the US or Europe. But you won't find many routing options. I'd suggest you book a flight in/out of Bangkok (stay a few days in Bangkok, it's a place worth checking out), then take a regional flight to Samui. Bangkok Airways has the most flights, is reasonably priced, and in my experience: punctual!

Pro-tip: While you're in Bangkok, purchase anything you didn't bring that you'll want for your island vacation. Things are more expensive in Samui, and some brands are hard to find. You won't find Monster, much craft beer selection, or specialty hair products.    

2. Transportation will cost more than other parts of Thailand

There is not a stark difference in price between the local taxis and rideshare apps. However, rideshare apps* do take credit cards.
*Use Grab for rideshares. This is a referral link, we both get some credit. Tbh, I don't know how much.

It is however best to be prepared upon landing. Chances are your hotel will offer a transfer service for free or at reduced cost. This is usually your best option to haul all of your stuff to your pad. Otherwise, just follow the signs towards the taxis, prices will be stiff, but pre-set and transparent. 

Once you're settled in, expect to spend approximately 300THB moving between adjacent cities. This means going to the beach in another adjacent town will set you back $20 roundtrip. That's coincidentally about the same price most motorbike rental places charge for a day.

Many people will take this route. You do legally need a motorcycle license to drive the bikes here. It's up to you to ensure you comply with all regulations to drive. Be aware, most bike rental places will ask for your passport or a large deposit to ensure the safe return of their property. 

4. Where should I stay in Koh Samui? 

Koh Samui is roughly round, with a single ring road that runs the entire island. You'll most likely stay somewhere on that ring, on one of the beaches. Roughly speaking, the northeast portion of the island is much more populated. It's also closer to the airport. This means that if a hotel with amazing sunsets is on your "must-haves" list, you may end up driving a bit.

Chaweng Beach: Chaweng is the largest and most frequented beach on Koh Samui. It's located on the east side of the island, so it's a prime spot for sunrises. However, for that perfect sunset, you'll need to venture elsewhere.

Top resorts like Centara Grand Beach Resort and Ark Bar Beach Resort dominate its shoreline. The demographic here is a mix of backpackers, family vacationers, and honeymooning couples. You also have quick access to Central Samui which is the best place on the island to shop.

✅ Pros: Close proximity to the airport means a shorter commute. Enjoy watching airplanes while lounging on the beach ✈️. You'll have a wide variety of choices in hotels, restaurants, shopping, jet ski rentals, and more.

❌ Cons: Highly crowded. Sunsets are elusive here because it faces east.

Lamai Beach: A close second in size, Lamai Beach offers a more relaxed ambiance than Chaweng. The white sand beach is home to notable hotels like the Lamai Wanta Beach Resort and Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa. Typically, you'll find a slightly older crowd here, from couples to families.

✅ Pros: A bit further from the airport from Chaweng. Plenty of options in terms of accommodations, dining, shopping, and water activities.

❌ Cons: Still among the busier areas. Great sunrises but no sunset due to it's eastern location. 

Bophut Beach: Known for the iconic Fisherman's Village, Bophut Beach is smaller than both Chaweng and Lamai and located towards the northwest of the island. The Holiday Inn Resort is an amazing place to stay, although it tends to attract more family-oriented guests. The area's demographic is more inclined towards mature travelers and family groups.

✅ Pros: Less crowded compared to Chaweng and Lamai, great food scene.

❌ Cons: Neither sunrise nor sunset views are optimal here.

Choeng Mon Beach: Nestled in the northeast, Choeng Mon comprises a series of smaller bays. This tranquil area attracts a more upscale audience ranging from affluent families to honeymooners. Its "sleepy" demeanor is perfect for remote work. Both IHG & Hyatt have splendid properties here, notably The Kimpton (pool pic below) & The Park Hyatt if you don't mind splurging at $200+/ night.

✅ Pros: Serenity at its best, ideal for those looking to work remotely or relax undisturbed.

❌ Cons: Limited nightlife and might be too quiet for some.

What to do in Samui? 

My notes actually end here. Just go to a beach club, or sit on the beach.

To be honest, I spent over a month in Samui, and the most I did was explore the other towns above, eat places (you have my pins already) and take it easy. Below you'll find what my travel GPT told me to do as a starting point for my research:

Here's how my trained travel GPT responded to "what to do in Koh Samui"

If you want to move around beyond that you may want to check out the following: 

Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple): Located on the northeastern corner of Koh Samui, Wat Phra Yai is prominently known as the Big Buddha Temple due to its large, golden statue of Buddha. This temple attracts both worshippers and tourists, providing them with panoramic views of the surrounding area. The statue itself, depicting Buddha in a state of calm and meditation, has become an iconic symbol of Koh Samui.

Wat Plai Laem: Situated near the Big Buddha temple, Wat Plai Laem is a Buddhist temple complex that stands out for its unique architecture and art. It boasts a massive, colorful statue of the 18-armed Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion, alongside a laughing Buddha statue. The temple complex beautifully merges Thai and Chinese beliefs, and its serene lake setting offers a tranquil space for reflection.

Natural Attractions

Angthong Marine National Park: Comprising 42 islands, the Angthong Marine National Park is a pristine archipelago located to the west of Koh Samui. Famous for its limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, white-sand beaches, and rich biodiversity, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether one is looking to snorkel, hike, or simply relax on a secluded beach, Angthong promises a rejuvenating experience.

Secret Buddha Garden: Nestled high in the hills of Koh Samui, the Secret Buddha Garden, also known as Magic Garden, is an enchanting space filled with statues depicting various deities and mythical creatures. Created by a local fruit farmer in the latter half of the 20th century, the garden provides insights into Thai folklore and offers visitors a quiet place to explore and contemplate.

Namuang Waterfall: Located in the central part of the island, Namuang Waterfall is a set of two cascades, with the first being easily accessible and the second requiring a slightly more challenging trek. The falls are surrounded by lush jungle and provide a refreshing spot for visitors to cool off. The natural beauty of the area and the tranquility of the water make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.