Where to Stay in Koh Samui

My Favorite Hotels in Koh Samui

• 4-star: Zazen
• 3-star: Smile House
• Best beach: Vana Belle
•

• 5-star: Four Seasons resort
• Most suitable for evening entertainment: Library
• For couples: Hansar
• For families: Anantara Bophut

a view from a balcony overlooking a beach with palm trees

The Best Area to Stay in Koh Samui

Roughly halfway down the east coast of southern Thailand lies the country`s second biggest island, one among around eighty islands in an archipelago, of which only a handful are inhabited. This very likable and pleasingly compact island matches Phuket and Bali as the perfect tropical escape in Southeast Asia, Samui is especially good for families. While Phuket (Thailand’s largest) has seedy areas at times, is often overfilled, and difficult to navigate around, Samui keeps its charm with temples and markets among the shopping centers and resorts and some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. Adding to the attractions is an abundance of water sports, convenient public transportation along the coastal roads, and good value throughout.

Hotels in Koh Samui vary from ultra-luxurious resorts to family-run guesthouses and plenty of appealing boutique-style lodgings in between. Unlike most competing islands across Southeast Asia, many resorts face the ocean and several other hotels are within walking distance of the water – but only the north and east coasts provide beaches. Each area listed below and scattered along the 30-mile-long coastal road differs, offering unique personalities and a distinctive range of amenities.

Found at the northeastern tip are Choeng Mon, Plai Laem, and Bangrak, all home to luxurious resorts and private villas often fronting stunning yet secluded beaches. Further west along the northern coast near the airport lies Bo Phut, a favorite among families. Adjacent to Bo Phut is Maenam, with a village-like setting serving as the primary departure point for boat trips and ferries between islands. The northern coast concludes at Bang Por, where new but isolated resorts and villas have been constructed in a less accessible locale.

Down the eastern coast from the airport, the most popular area in Samui is Chaweng. Home to all sorts of activities for families and amenities for everyone, most hotels face, or are within a few minutes’ walk of, a perfect beach that also has water sports. The second-most popular beach, Lamai, is remarkably relaxed and has more of a village feel. As tourism continues to develop, more hotels and villas are being built along the southern coastline with only a few pockets of sand, in places like Hua Thanon and Bang Kao. The main ferry terminal is at the island capital, Nathon, a peaceful, friendly town with plenty of amenities for those rushing to and from the beach regions.

As alternatives to Koh Samui or potential short trips, two other beautiful islands exist, both small and easy to reach by ferry. Koh Phangan is renowned for its Full Moon Parties but is otherwise relaxed, while one of our favorite islands worldwide, Koh Tao, is quaint, quiet, and undeveloped, and features exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving.

Note: (Some key Thai words: koh/ko (`island`), haad/hat (`beach`), and moo-baan (`village`). Thai place names can be transliterated: e.g. Bophut and Bo Phut.)

The Best Places to Stay in Koh Samui

a man sitting on a bed in front of a beach

a row of beach chairs sitting on top of a beach

Best Area in Koh Samui for…

  • The best area in Koh Samui for sightseeing is Chaweng.
    Chaweng offers an ideal midway location along the busiest and most created shoreline of Samui. Various travel representatives sell tickets for organized journeys or can organize vehicles with drivers to highly suggested places that are troublesome or impossible to arrive at by public transportation. Such places include: Na Mueang Waterfalls, the most magnificent of several around the island; Fisherman`s Village, with changed old structures currently housing shops, bars, and eateries; Wat Khao Hua Jook, the island`s most accessible Buddhist sanctuary impressively established on a slope; and the Dusit Dheva social focus and workmanship gallery.
  • Preeminent Beach Region in Koh Samui: Lamai
    Some of the prettiest coastline sections in the northeastern tip around Choeng Mon are challenging to access and largely taken by resorts, while the most frequented beach at Chaweng is crowded with sunbathers and noisy with personal watercrafts. The lengthy curved stretch of sand at Lamai remains surprisingly natural in spots, allowing visitors to escape the crowds and motorized watersports with ease. Interesting rocky landforms can be explored as well. Lamai is also easy to reach via public transportation and many amenities are nearby – though beachgoers should be aware of tide and wave conditions during certain times of the year.
  • The Lamai area of Koh Samui has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts, with options for water sports and hiking trails.

    • As tourism develops even further, increasingly more activities are being offered – and not all are based on or under the water (see below). While there isn’t much on offer other than horse-riding and rock-climbing at or near Lamai, this is a terrific place to join an organized tour or arrange a car with a driver from one of the numerous agencies catering for the younger, more adventurous crowd. Activities in the mountainous interior that are easy to reach from this convenient stretch of coastline include elephant trekking, mountain-biking, zip-lining, and bungee-jumping.

a beach area with chairs and umbrellas

  • The best area in Koh Samui for water sports is Chaweng.

    • Most beaches offered some water sports, yet the options relied on demand and conditions, for example the surf and tides at specific times of year. Chaweng, the most crowded area on the island, featured the widest range of activities on and above the water. Choices incorporated loud activities (paragliding, water-skiing, banana boating, and jet-skiing) and quieter pursuits (kiteboarding, wind-surfing, and wakeboarding). Specialized activities, like sailing and fishing, could be arranged through travel agencies along the back streets of Chaweng

  • Best Area in Koh Samui for Boat Excursions: Maenam
  • Koh Samui is a section of an archipelago containing the breathtaking Ang Thong National Marine Reserve, with 42 uninhabited tropical islands of golden sandy coasts and azure lagoons plus dozens of limestone columns emerging from the turquoise waters. Numerous marine park tours by boat (like on a traditional junk) or canoe are possible including swimming, snorkeling, exploring lakes, caves and rainforests, plus sighting wildlife and rare birds. Sea trips to Ang Thong and elsewhere can be arranged in Maenam (or most anywhere) through any travel agency, most hotels, or at the dock from where many departures originate.
  • Preferred Area in Koh Samui for Spa Treatments: Lamai

    • Across the island, an increasing number of upscale and costly spas (particularly at high-end resorts) offer all kinds of traditional Thai massages and other treatments. These are regularly set in lovely surroundings that may involve tropical gardens, a dipping pool, soothing `waterfalls`, and special packages, some intended for couples and expecting ladies which can last up to 5 hours. For benefit, cost, and variety, the easygoing beach area of Lamai has numerous choices, such as Tamarind Springs, which also presents `steam caves`, villas, and an organic eatery

  • For cultural classes and workshops reflecting local traditions, Chaweng is a top choice on Koh Samui island.

    • It can fairly be said that Samui centers largely around relaxing at beaches, so few cultural activities exist. An exception lies in Thai cooking classes, just as popular among tourists as observing traditional boxing and indulging in Thai massages. Usually involving an early morning trip to a produce market as well, classes can be arranged through numerous island travel agencies in Chaweng, but booking directly with Samui`s finest option is preferable: the Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts in central Chaweng. With over two decades of experience, it provides classes spanning several hours to 2 weeks also suitable for vegetarians and families

  • Best Region in Koh Samui for Diving and Snorkeling: Koh Tao Island

    • Scuba divers from all over the world flock to this region for the clear, azure, and warm waters that are full of spectacular marine fauna. The underwater marvels are particularly impressive around Koh Tao; in fact, most dive excursions from Koh Samui invariably come to Tao anyway, as well as Koh Nangyuan, a nearby trio of islets regarded among the most beautiful on the planet. Various internationally certified scuba diving organizations on Tao offer trips, training courses, and gear rental. Those more at ease with just a snorkel and mask can often join dive trips, but it’s free and simple to merely snorkel just offshore at Sairee village and Mango Bay on Koh Tao.

  • Best Area in Koh Samui for Nightlife: Chaweng
    The most appealing things to do after dark can be found in the most developed tourist region on the island. In Chaweng, the choices range from upscale cocktail lounges set alongside the beach to sociable pubs containing snooker tables and times of great deals. For something different, see a cabaret show packed with flamboyantly dressed entertainers lip-syncing and hip-swinging to attract the attention of foreigners. It’s not unsavory or inappropriate, but be warned: spectators are often recruited to participate in a dance. Families may want to head to the cinema complex at the Tesco Lotus shopping center where English-language films are frequently shown.
  • Best Area in Koh Samui for Social Gatherings: Koh Phangan Island
    This island located 45 minutes north of Koh Samui by ferry is renowned chiefly for hosting a massive monthly celebration involving extensive dancing and alcohol consumption under the full moon. Known as the Full Moon Parties, the southern beaches on Phangan are transformed when international DJs utilize state-of-the-art audio equipment from multiple stages. These events draw such huge crowds that some accommodations and beaches also provide Half-Moon Parties every 2 weeks. In the 3 days preceding and following the full moon, lodging rates commonly double and ferries are usually booked solid or severely overcrowded; otherwise, the island is rather tranquil.

a bath tub sitting next to a pool of water

  • Most Popular Area in Koh Samui for Food & Restaurants: Choeng Mon
    Away from the jet-skis at Chaweng and loud roads along Bo Phut, this lovely area in the northeastern tip offers an assortment of stylish eateries. Many have received awards for cuisine and customer service, while the setting of some with candlelit beachside tables is uniquely romantic. Several bistros provide good-value set meal options, direct access to a powdery-white beach, and complimentary transfers from hotels in the local vicinity.
  • The area of Nathon on Koh Samui is known for its lively atmosphere and cultural attractions.
    Visitors may be surprised that just outside the main roads in popular areas like Lamai and Maenam, villages remain notably unaffected by mass tourism. Nathon, the island capital, also offers an authentic view of Thai life. While busy with tourist amenities for those traveling via the ferry terminal to the mainland, the town is compact and many old buildings highlight the island’s Chinese history. Nathon additionally has friendly residents, stalls selling authentic street food, and the sort of market rarely found elsewhere.
  • Top Area in Koh Samui for History: Bo Phut
    Before the tourist boom of the 1970s, Samui had very few residents and historical sites. Some old Chinese shops and houses still remain at the island’s capital, Nathon, but the most compact and accessible area where visitors can best appreciate the island’s limited history is Fisherman’s Village, along the beach at Bo Phut. The streets and lanes devoid of vehicles are filled with charming old wooden shops and former homes now converted to boutiques, eateries, and bars. On Friday evenings, a Walking Street is set up where additional food and souvenir stalls are available and performances of Thai dancing and boxing can be observed.
  • Best Region in Koh Samui for Walking & Cycling: Koh Tao Island

    • The steep and hilly roads surrounding Koh Samui are suitable only for chartered or rented vehicles and public transportation. In stark contrast, one of the major attractions of the delightful island of Koh Tao is the beachside footpath connecting the boat terminal at Mae Haad to the main tourist area of Sairee, where bicycles can be rented. This gently sloping path, stretching approximately one mile, is lined with quaint shops, relaxed homestays, and inviting cafés – and with no public transportation and poor roads, walking is often the sole means of getting around the island.

  • Most Useful Region in Koh Samui for Purchasing: Chaweng and Maenam
    Naturally, the most developed region provides the greatest variety of shopping selections. Within walking distance of downtown, Central Festival, the island’s largest mall, has 3 floors with over 200 dining, drinking, and shopping outlets, as well as an arcade and playground area. Tesco Lotus Samui along the bypass road has a cinema complex complex. In contrast is Maenam Walking Street, one of several around the island. This comparatively low-key beach area transforms into an extended street marketplace from 4 pm on Thursdays, and it’s an ideal place to sample authentic Thai cuisine, stock up on souvenirs, and check out live music

a beach with palm trees and palm trees

  • Most Suitable Area in Koh Samui for Families: Chaweng
    Since the island first became a destination for families in the 1970s, Samui has remained a popular location. The lengthy sandy shoreline of Chaweng Beach is lined with water based activities and diversions like the Aquapark Samui. There are additional options in the downtown core, such as the absurd Crazy Golf game, along with familiar fast-food spots and two shopping centers featuring an arcade and cinema complex. Other entertaining pursuits that can easily be arranged through travel representatives or taxi drivers in Chaweng encompass experiences like walking on water and racing small motor vehicles as well as boat trips around the gorgeous nearby islands. Chaweng Noi is another locale that necessitates transportation by taxi or songthaew to access and is rather peaceful while equally great for families.
  • Best Area in Koh Samui for Transportation: Chaweng
    Unlike Phuket, songthaews (taxi trucks) are a very affordable and dependable means of public transportation between most beautiful beach areas. They run on fixed routes for set fees between downtown Chaweng and the island capital on the opposite coast, Nathon, going via Bo Phut to the north and Bang Kao in the south. They also go less regularly to Choeng Mon village at the northeastern end. Simply stand at the edge of the road and motion with an arm or two. Around the streets of Chaweng, taxis with the incorrectly labeled word `meter` on top take visitors anywhere for a negotiable but higher cost, while motorcycle taxis (with a passenger on the back) are also useful for brief trips. The airport is only 15-20 minutes from Chaweng and also accessible through tourist shuttle buses.
  • Koh Tao Island offers the most relaxing environment for getting away from it all in Koh Samui.
    Though nowhere near as busy as Phuket or Bali, the crowds, noise, and traffic around Samui can be overwhelming for those visiting for the initial time, specifically in major areas like Chaweng and Lamai. Much calmer and more relaxed is the tiny island of Koh Tao, 1.5 hours north of Samui by ferry. The path from the boat dock to the main village of Sairee on Tao is full of facilities and perfect for walking and cycling. This convenient and compact beach region permits first-time visitors an opportunity to unwind, appreciate the beauty of the area, and enjoy an abundance of amenities without any hassles.
  • Koh Tao island regularly hosts colorful festivals, making it a lively destination for experiencing Samui region celebrations.

    • Whether in traditional villages or tourist enclaves, Thais will celebrate major festivals with immense passion and joy. These include Songkran, the Thai New Year (several days in mid-April), when water is poured, dumped, and gushed over everyone, and the major Buddhist festival ofMahga Puja (during the full moon in February/March). Generally, it would more enjoyable – and, perhaps, safer for families and first-timers – to watch and even partake in festivals and ceremonies on the quiet, compact island of Koh Tao rather than the overcrowded Koh Samui and, especially, Koh Phangan, which morphs into Party Central at full moon.

  • Best Area in Koh Samui for Romantic Holidays: Koh Tao Island
    It is difficult to exclusively determine which of the divine beaches across the three islands is most romantic. Some parts of Koh Samui can become crowded, however reaching more secluded areas is challenging, while Koh Phangan is central for loud festivities during the full moon and additional events. Significantly more serene and compressed, the sacred isle of Koh Tao offers the perfect amalgamation: morning ambles and cycles along the laid-back traveler stripe; afternoon snorkeling and bathing at underdeveloped beaches; supper at intimate tables on the sand at sundown; and nights at cozy small hotels meters from the ocean.
  • Safest Location in Koh Samui: Koh Tao Island
    Major mishaps can arise as a result of self-inflicted actions like drug and alcohol overuse as well as reckless driving, particularly on motorcycles. less frequent but still possible dangers include collisions between vehicles and pedestrians so caution is always wise when walking, physical and sexual assaults near the lively nightclub areas in Chaweng and Lamai in Koh Samui, and more likely during Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan, as well as opportunistic petty crimes that occasionally occur in major tourist zones throughout Asia. With barely any traffic and beaches mostly reachable on foot alone, Koh Tao also does not attract heavily drinking holidaymakers.
  • The least safe area in Koh Samui is Koh Phangan Island.

    • Not shockingly, safety reaches its lowest point where consumption of alcohol and narcotics are most prevalent. Koh Phangan becomes jam-packed during Full Moon Festivities and other similar events that are focused along the southern shorelines. Physical and sexual assaults are not unheard of, and some locals and foreigners also take advantage to pilfer, especially from those impacted by alcohol and drugs. Obviously, exercise tremendous care. However, at other times, Koh Phangan is remarkably relaxed and under-visited, and as safe as anywhere else in the vicinity.

The 10 Best Areas in Koh Samui for Tourists

people on a beach with umbrellas

1. Chaweng

Located along the east coast of Samui, Chaweng Beach is the most developed and populated area, especially popular among families. It offers the island`s only shopping malls as well as the best nightlife, transportation options, and arguably the beach – although it is always busy and loud with sunbathers, day-trippers, and jet-ski riders. Traffic can also be frustrating and infrastructure like roads and drainage is insufficient. Some resorts facing the sea cater well to families, while moderately priced but basic hotels packed along backstreets accommodate budget travelers. Just down the coast, quieter Chaweng Noi (`Small Chaweng`) is a charming cove separated from the main beach by a rocky headland, so taxis or public transport are needed.

2. Bo Phut

Considered one of the prettiest and most developed beaches along the north coast and easily accessible by public transportation as well as near the airport is Bo Phut. With inviting waterside eateries and a genuine village atmosphere, Bo Phut is a likable substitute to the overdeveloped beaches along the east coast. It offers several high-end resorts and many appealing boutique hotels – frequently with traditional style bungalows. More relaxed and spacious than Chaweng, the long, scenic beach is popular for walking and wind surfing (and jet skis are pleasingly absent), while families also enjoy Fisherman’s Village, where numerous tourist services are within a pleasant historic setting.

    This early 20th century Japanese home and workplace of a renowned potter from that era provides insight into his creative gifts and free-thinking philosophical approach to life. Renowned for cultivating his own natural glaze compositions and co-founding the Japanese folk art movement, he nevertheless rejected the honor of being designated a Living National Treasure and never signed his pieces. An author, architect and sculptor in addition to being a potter, he designed the home himself and handcrafted much of its furnishings, from its wooden seating to its cabinets. It`s a traditional Japanese dwelling, with an open fireplace in the main living area, tatami rooms and a garden, and it`s filled with practical yet beautiful items. His “climbing kiln” in the back remains just as he left it, built along a slope in the customary Japanese style. Though situated within walking distance of Sanjusangendo and Kiyomizu temples, this worthwhile destination is off the beaten track and is highly recommended if one hasn`t seen many Japanese homes or simply appreciates beautiful things.

  • Premier Hotel Villas: Cielo Boutique Hotel & Spa Samui • Pause on Samui Residence
  • Top-Rated Boutique Accommodations: Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa • The Waterfront Boutique Hotel
  • Top Family-Friendly Accommodations: Peace Resort – Bandara Resort and Spa, Samui – Riviera Beach Hotel

3. Choeng Mon,Plai Laem, and Bangrak

More recently, the northeastern tip of the island has been developed for tourism. Close to the airport and not too far from all the amenities at the main beach, Chaweng, the coastline switches between rocky cliffs ideal for views and sunsets and coves with beaches containing finely textured white sand and casuarina trees. These comparatively upscale and relaxed areas are also favored among expats with private transportation due to the cluster of beachfront cafés and bars. Public transportation reaches as far as Choeng Mon village, however many resorts also provide transfers to the more developed southern areas. Most accommodations are pricey and in isolated resorts and individual villas (not part of a complex), so there is very little in the moderate and budget ranges.

4. Maenam

Midway along the northern coastline, Maenam is primarily known for its terminal providing boat trips and ferries to the nearby Phangan and Tao islands. It presents fewer facilities than the town of Bo Phut situated further to the east, though most hotels and resorts are conveniently situated at a removed distance from – but still within walking distance of – the main road alongside which there exists helpful public transportation. Compared to spots along the eastern coast, the beach is less busy but not as expansive and pristine, and there’s a higher probability your hotel will directly view or be in very close proximity to the ocean. The shaded lanes dotted with homes, businesses, and travel agencies transform into a highly appealing street marketplace during certain hours. (See under Shopping mentioned earlier.)

5. Bang Por/Po

Where Highway 4 branches south is Bang Por, a lesser frequented beach region regularly ignored, making it calmer and cleaner than Bo Phut and Maenam. The secluded coves lined with angled palms are generally dotted with fashionable villas and upmarket resorts, while more affordable options are inland with restricted services along the main road. Safe swimming, decent snorkeling, fiery sunsets, and proximity to the island capital of Nathon add to the allure, but the downside is that public transit is much less frequent.

6. Lamai

Just south of Chaweng and similarly well-connected by public transport, Lamai is the second most popular area on the island, but is less developed and more relaxed than Chaweng. Many budget-priced accommodations offering 5-star views are alongside a few luxury resorts and boutique hotels, but there’s very little suitable for families. Amenities among the backstreets can be a little run-down, but it’s easy to escape the crowds along the extended beach with white sand and shady palms. However, beware of the waves and tides at certain times of the year, which is why few motorized water activities are available here. Lamai is also a terrific place to find a spa and arrange outdoor experiences across the island, and there’s also a village with a temple hidden from the main road.

7. Hua Thanon and Bang Kao/Laem Sor

Along the lower east coast from Lamai, Hua Thanon has a village containing old-fashioned wooden houses and a Muslim minority population. The patches of sand are rather gritty but the sea views remain excellent. Along the narrow southern coast, Bang Kao is about as far removed from the airport and Chaweng as possible, so it`s quiet and devoid of mass tourism. Hotels in both areas generally provide more spacious accommodations and lower prices than at Lamai and Chaweng, but public transportation is not nearly as reliable.

8. Nathon and Lipa Noi

The other side of the island from Chaweng, Nathon is the capital of Koh Samui and where ferries depart for the mainland. Old structures and prior homes, built over a century ago mainly by Chinese settlers, offer a rare glimpse of the island preceding the tourism boom. The town still provides a slice of authentic Thai life even though there are plenty of visitor conveniences – mostly for those hurrying to or from beach areas. However, lodging options are very limited, mostly catering to Thai rather than foreign travelers, unlike the resorts and boutique hotels elsewhere on the island. The primary attraction of nearby Lipa Noi beach is the lack of visitors, but facilities are restricted. Public transportation infrequently connects the coastline to Chaweng and Lamai via the north and south roads.

a number of people on surfboards in a body of water

9. Koh Phangan Island

This lesser developed island located only 45 minutes by ferry from Koh Samui and also connected to Koh Tao surprises with its more peaceful atmosphere, expanding dramatically during the monthly full moon events. Around these times as well as half-moon parties predominantly at the southern Haad Rin Nok (Sunrise Beach) and Haad Rin Nai (Sunset Beach) beaches, hotel rates across the island can double and ferries may be overbooked. However, at other periods the island remains remarkably quiet. A range of resorts and moderately priced bungalows can be found at tranquil spots like the broad northwest cove of Haad Yao, the twin eastern bays of perfect sand called Thong Nai Pan, and the capital and ferry terminal of Thongsala.

10. Koh Tao Island

About 45 minutes north by ferry from Koh Phangan (and approximately 1.5 hours from Koh Samui), `Turtle Island` is named after its physical characteristics, not the cute little sea creatures that inhabit the waters. Most tourist facilities are clustered along the western beach, where development has been hindered by inadequate roads and inferior public transportation options. Boasting one of the prettiest natural settings of any Thai island, Sairee has the most extensive range of places to eat, drink, stay, and participate in nightlife activities, as well as some nearby reef suitable for snorkeling and several dive agencies offering international-standard trips in the crystal-clear waters. Koh Tao is also a safer and more appealing choice for first-time visitors and those seeking a romantic getaway. A beautiful beachside path from Sairee leads to Mae Haad/Hat, a likable village with a few guesthouses situated near the ferry terminal. Other spots to stay along the more remote southern coast include Thian Og (also known as Shark Bay) and Chalok Baan Kao.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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