The island of Koh Samui is the second largest in Thailand after Phuket and lies off the eastern coast of the mainland. Once considered a part of the popular Thailand backpacking route during the 1970s, today, the idyllic destination has everything one would hope to find in a tropical paradise vacation. The stunning landscape encompasses everything from white sandy beaches to lush tropical jungles and the Khao Pom Mountain. Whether looking for relaxation or adventure, you will find it on Koh Samui.
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Island Weather
The weather in Koh Samui is that of a tropical savanna climate. Although rain occurs year round, the majority of storms last one hour or less. Compared to Phuket, the climate is much drier. The rainy season here spans October to November. Daily temperatures average between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (29 to 32 degrees Celsius). On rare occasions, the temperature may rise into the upper 90s or drop into the 70s. Virtually any time of year is the best time to visit Koh Samui.
Local Accommodations
When deciding where to stay in Koh Samui, guests have a large selection of choices. Some of the most highly recommended hotels and resorts include the Paradise Beach Resort, the Samui Jasmine, the Saree Samui Resort and the Zazen Boutique Resort. The Paradise Beach Resort offers five different types of accommodations ranging from deluxe rooms to villas. The property features two outdoor swimming pools, a spa, an oceanfront restaurant, watersports equipment, motorbike rentals and shuttle services. The Saree Samui Resort is favored by couples for their exclusive villas. The Zazen Boutique Resort exudes tropical Thailand in style and design and also features various sized villas.
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Koh Samui Attractions
There are numerous sights to see and things to do in Koh Samui. Journey to the northern coast to Big Buddha Beach and see the 12-meter tall golden Buddha. When venturing inside the temple, guests encounter a number of unique shrines and smaller but no less exquisite Buddhas. The site also features a market selling souvenirs and food stalls. Wat Plai Laem temple is another interesting destination. The colorful Buddhist Temple stands near the Big Buddha and features a large Chinese Buddha on a lake teeming with fish. Fisherman’s Village represents the historic district of Bohut and boasts rustic buildings, boutique stores and trendy restaurants. The location is ideal for having a romantic beach dinner Koh Samui while watching the sunset.
Additional Activities
The white sand beaches in Thailand are one of the major attractions and Koh Samui choices do not disappoint. Chaweng Beach remains one of the busiest and spans three kilometers in length. The destination features a number of resorts, restaurants and bars offering exciting nightlife. Although the second largest, Lamai Beach is much quieter and laid back. The site does have accommodation, shopping and dining options. The tranquil scenic destination is ideal for brunch by the beach. Guests might also visit Sunday Session by Beach Republic for the best dining experience. Lipa Noi Beach is considered one of the best locations to watch the sunset. The family-friendly location features shallow water up to 300 feet into the sea. A series of charming bungalows lines the beach along with the Big John Seafood restaurant.
Outdoor recreation enthusiasts enjoy hiking to the Na Muang waterfalls. The Na Muang was named for the massive, purple rock formations. Rocks and tree roots create a staircase to the base of the first waterfall, which also features a natural pool. Hiking 10 more minutes along the trail brings guests to Na Muang 2, which is considered the most beautiful on the island.
Additional activities include zipline adventures, SUV offroading tours, a variety of water parks and miniature golf. Football golf is a popular sport on the island. The game requires players to use their feet to sink soccer balls into the 18 holes along the course. Guests have the chance to challenge their problem-solving skills at the Escapology in Lamai or the Escape Hunt Experience in Chaweng. Each destination features a series of room boasting different themes. Guests aged nine and up must determine an escape route after getting locked in their room of choice.
In addition, you can take breathing snorkeling tours to the neighboring Koh Tao and Koh Nangyua here. Renowned for their cerulean waters, coral reefs and vibrant fish, you will feel like you’re in your own magical fairytale.
And of course no trip to Thailand is complete without an uplifting spa package to help you relax and rejuvenate your mind, spirit and body.
Related: Is Touring Koh Phi Phi Worth It?
What To Eat on Koh Samui
Thailand has a rich plethora of exotic and delicious dishes to try and savor. It is one of my favorite culinary destinations in Asia and while on Koh Samui I recommend you try some of these exquisite eats and activities.
- Drink Tasting Tour – Here you can taste the local alcohol made on the island. Instead of filling your glass with generic name brand brews, you’ll get an opportunity to taste Koh Samui’s very own rum and the secrets behind Thai fruit alcohol making.
- Koh Samui Street Food Tour – If you’re one of those more adventurous types, then you’re definitely in for a treat. This is a great way to experience the local cuisine and fill yourself up with delectable Thai sweets.
- Koh Samui Thai Cooking Class – One of my favorite ways to get involved in the countries I visit is to cook. You’ll learn how to make curry and stir fried noodles with prawn.
Getting to Koh Samui
Many guests arrive via flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui. Samui Airport also receives flights from Phuket and other Thailand destinations. The Raja, Seatran and other ferries regularly transport passengers and vehicles to the island from the mainland. While on the island, guests might navigate around Koh Samui via the NaviGo Samui taxi service which is available using a mobile app. Visitors also have the option of renting cars, motorbikes or bikes.
This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!
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Delan Cooper works as a creative writer for businesses. He loves getting to know local cultures, their stories and ways. He is passionate about providing good content to an online community. You can reach him at his Facebook or Twitter.
2 Comments on What to do on Koh Samui Thailand
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Koh Samui seems breathtaking, Gina! Your post was very motivational!
I never really thought of visiting Thailand until I travelled to the most norther island in Malaysia, Langkawi, earlier this year. It was possible to ‘see’ Thailand and with the beautiful scenery, I imagine it only gets better in destinations like Koh Samui! A great comprehensive guide! Will remember this one – thanks!