Thailand is easily one of my top 3 favorite countries I have ever visited. From the picturesque blue waters and delicious food to the limestone rock structures and joyful people, the beaches there are unparalleled. Thailand is a top destination for a reason. It is absolutely dreamy and it MUST be on your bucket list. There are so many cities in Thailand worth visiting, but I will always have a soft spot for Koh Samui. We spent our 2nd wedding anniversary there and were instantly captivated. We loved it so much we kept going back. Now, after many trips I’ve finally compiled a full list of what to do in Koh Samui!
Itinerary
- You don’t need an itinerary in Koh Samui. Simply soak up the sun and enjoy exploring this beautiful island!
Airport/Train Stations
- Samui International Airport USM (airport)
- Ferry
Hotel
- Airbnb
- HomeAway
- Booking.com
Restaurants
- In my opinion, the best Thai food is actually straight from the small street vendors/carts or beach carts. If it looks a bit sketchy, it’s probably good. My favorite little street “restaurants” were located right by the local street markets just a few blocks inland from the beach. Ask locals where they eat or where they recommend eating. Their suggestions are always the best. I also love the grilled corn on the cob.
- Chez François {French}
- Dining on the Rocks {Fushion}
- Kob Thai {Thai}
- Phensiri Thai Restaurant {Thai} :: family run
- Saffron {Thai}
- Tree Tops Sky Dining {French & Mediterranean}
Transportation
- Motorbike {terrifying, but definitely the best way to explore!}
- Songthaew {pickup truck taxi- they have specific routes & you hop on and off}
Recommendations
- Simply rent a motorbike and ride all around the island. You will find beautiful beaches, waterfalls, views and so, so much more!
- Get a massage on the beach
- Try durain. It’s the stinkiest fruit you will ever smell and it’s actually illegal to bring in some airports and ferry stations due to the smell. But it’s hard to find this fruit in most other countries, so it’s worth trying!
- Favorite beaches
- Bophut Beach
- Chaweng Beach {crowded, but beautiful}
- Choeng Mon Beach
- Lamai Beach {crowded, but beautiful}
- Mae Nam Beach
- What to see:
- Big Buddha
- Namuang Waterfall
- Wat Plai Laem
- Areas to explore:
- Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village
- Chaweng Beach {touristy shopping & restaurants}
- Lamai Beach {touristy shopping & restaurants}
- Other things to do:
- Shop the night markets
- Take a cooking class
- Take a boat and explore other islands
- Take a boat and explore the nearby caves
- Take a boat to Ang Thong Marine Park
Other
- Be sure to “wai” when you meet someone to show respect {hands together and slightly bow}
- Be sure to bring or buy a shawl of some kind to cover your shoulders and knees if you want to go into a temple
I’ll be sharing suggestions for all of my other favorite Thai cities soon! In the meantime, you can see what cities I recommend visiting here.
Did I miss anything?
What would you add to the list or what would you like to know more about?
It looks so pretty there! I love the photos you got.
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It’s been a while since I’ve been to the beach and your photos just make the longing more fierce. I can see why you love Koh Samui so much. The color of that water is just amazing. And to relax on such beautiful beaches, which enjoying a coconut ice cream – YUM!
I ddn’t go to Koh Samui when I was in Thailand, mainly because it was too overrun with tourists. Still, it’s a beautiful island in the south, and clearly worth seeing. I’ll be honest, I never did the ‘wai’ greeting; and now feel bad that I always forgot! Those beaches are a dream!
Thailand is definitely among the best beach destinations in the world and it is not surprising at all. Those turquoise waters are beautiful; they seem to be beckoning me. I would love to rent a motorbike and ride all around Koh Samui. And in the evening relax on the beach, savouring some local food from the beach carts you mention!
Koh Samui is on my bucket list for a long time. Looking at your pictures makes me want to visit it soon. Loved the pristine blue water, clean beaches, and coconut ice cream. Seems like a perfect beach vacation and all I want to do right now is soak in the sand and relax. Thanks for sharing such lovely pictures,
This was very informative. I definitely want to visit Thailand soon and also Koh Samui among so many other places there. Looks very beautiful there and I love that turquoise water. This is a very good list of places and businesses for those who plan a trip to Koh Samui. Love your photos also!
Thailand has a great variety when it comes to attractions. I love their islands and the lifestyle there. You have covered pretty much everything. I haven’t been to KOH SAMUI, THAILAND, but i have been to other places in Thailand. I am planning soon my their trip.
Koh Samui is a beautiful and tranquil island for that dream holiday we all wish for. I visited Thailand last year but haven’t got the chance to visit Koh Samui yet. Your photographs are absolutely stunning. You’ve motivated me to visit Thailand again and this time just to soak in sun and sea at Koh Samui. Thanks for sharing t his lovely post. :)
Thailand is on my bucket list and your list has made me even more inspired to go. I love the detail that you have gone into and you have covered everything. Great post and tips.