When it comes to paradise beach getaways with pristine stretches of sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and postcard perfect sunsets, you’re spoilt for choice in Thailand. There’s big hitters Phuket and Krabi, island getaways on Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, or even the legendary full moon parties on Koh Phangan if you're so inclined. My favourite of the bunch, though, is Koh Samui.
Located off the East coast, Koh Samui is Thailand's largest Island. It offers the perfect reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the cities. There's idyllic beaches, but, if you can pry yourself away from the lure of sand and sea, plenty more to offer in the form of fascinating temples, great dining, and excursions for the adventurous. I've put together a mini Koh Samui travel guide featuring some of my favourite things to do, restaurants, and more. I hope it will provide a little glimpse of what this magical Island has to offer.
Things To Know
Getting There: To my knowledge you can't fly direct from London, however I would recommend including Koh Samui as part of a larger Thailand trip, and flying into Bangkok. Direct flights are available from most major Thai hubs including Phuket and Bangkok. You can also get coach and ferry packages between Koh Samui and other parts of the country, which are longer but far cheaper.
Getting Around: Cabs are the easiest way to get around the Island. Red open back trucks serve as taxis, which can be hailed from the road.
What to Pack: Expect high temperatures year round, and rain between October-December, so pack accordingly. Don't forget your mosquito repellant!
Where to Stay in Koh Samui
The Tongsai Bay
Luxury doesn't always have to be loud and extravagant, as intimate eco resort The Tongsai Bay demonstrates. And staying here is undoubtedly a luxurious experience, particularly in one of the hotel's sleek pool villas or cottage suites. There is an understated elegance that defines the space, from the dark wood interiors to the adults only half moon infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Built into the natural landscape in such a way that the hotel almost feels at one with it's surroundings, there is a distinct sense of seclusion and privacy. The hotel has it's own stretch of sand, overlooked by the main pool (yes, there are two).
I'll be honest though, in my three nights at The Tongsai Bay, I never actually made it into the two hotel pools. Why, you ask? Well, I had my hands full with the two private infinity pools attached to my sprawling pool suite. Between the pools, outside tub, and vast cocoon of the most comfortable bed, I barely left the villa.
Should you wish to stray further afield, the beachside restaurant serves up all day dining including both Thai and Western specialities. There's also free activities at the beach - I spent an afternoon "kayaking" (enjoying the views while Adam did all the work). The hotel also boasts a spa, gym, and tennis court if you're feeling so inclined, although in the simmering Thai heat I'm not sure I can imagine anything worse!
The Koh Samui Travel Guide: Things To Do
Wat Plai Laem
Koh Samui isn’t exactly an obvious cultural destination. You’re more likely there for the purpose of plonking yourself down on a beach and getting through a few bonk busters whilst working on that tan. But when that gets boring (or the tan turns to burn!), there’s a fair few temples worthy of a visit. I settled upon Wat Plai Lam, a temple complex within walking distance of Tongsai Bay.
Within the complex there are two main statues, one of a laughing Buddha and the other of Guanyin, the Chinese Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. There are also multiple ornate temples to explore. Keep in mind this is a place of worship so respectful dress is recommended. If you haven't gotten your temple fix from Wat Plai Laem, the famous Big Buddha of Koh Samui is within walking distance. Go at golden hour then head to the nearby beach bars to watch the sun set.
Fisherman's Village
Fisherman's Village is a picturesque neighbourhood in Bophut, comprising of a narrow beachside street lined with restaurants, hotels and boutiques. The fishermen are long gone, but what remains is a buzzing thoroughfare that's a major tourist hub.
Head here on Mondays and Fridays for the market (sadly this wasn't on when we were there due to covid, so check before visiting). Many of the restaurants offer beachfront views, and serve up a mix of seafood, traditional Thai cuisine, and Western staples.
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
As tempting as it is to stay plonked on the beach for a week straight, we decided to get out and see a bit more of the Island with a day trip to the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park. For the uninitiated, group boat day trips are a very popular way to get around and see the sights of Islands in Thailand. They're convenient in that they take little planning, and are far cheaper than private options. However the routes can be very busy, and if you don't like people spending a day with a bunch of strangers might not be your thing.
We decided on the national park after a recommendation from our hotel. Most hotels will be able to book you directly on to trips, or companies are easily found via a quick google search. Our tour took us round (some of!) the 40 islands that make up the marine park, including snorkeling, kayaking, and a buffet lunch. The trip ended with an intense hike up to the viewpoint on one of the islands. It was brutal work in the heat, but worth it for the view (or so I keep telling myself)!
Read More: Island Paradise in Koh Samui
The Koh Samui Travel Guide: Restaurants and Dining
Happy Elephant
For our first dinner in Koh Samui we headed to the aforementioned Fisherman's Village to explore our options. There are so many restaurants available from traditional Thai to Western fare, that honestly it was a little overwhelming! After looking at so many different menus they all started to meld into one, we settled on the Happy Elephant. The restaurant won largely because we happened to be near it when we admitted defeat, but also due to it's beach adjacent outdoor deck, and extensive menu of Thai cuisine.
Luckily, it ended up being exactly what we were looking for, with hearty seafood and spicy local dishes. I'll be honest, I'm writing this quite some months later so can't remember exactly what we ate, but I do remember being very happy with it!
Cafe Talay
One of our nicest evenings on Koh Samui was spent grabbing a "quick drink" during Happy Hour at Cafe Talay, which turned into a few more drinks, which turned into dinner and yes, a few more drinks, and us basically just never leaving as we watched the sun set over Mae Nam beach. It's a great stretch of beach on the North of the Island that was essentially empty when we visited. I don't know if this was covid related or if it's always fairly quiet, but it was quite nice to have it to ourselves!
Cafe Talay does a lovely selection of bites including some rather delicious tempura prawns and chicken lemongrass skewers (anything on a skewer is a win in my eyes), plus the staff are very friendly. Head here for happy hour for two for one drinks, but fair warning, you might not leave!
Read More: The Chiang Mai Guide
I hope this mini Koh Samui travel guide was helpful - if so please consider giving it a share! Also let me know your Koh Samui recommendations for things to do, restaurants, hotels and anything else in the comments!
