The island guide: beaches, attractions, restaurants, shopping and nightlife
Koh Samui is one of the most varied islands in Thailand. Tropical beaches lined with coconut palms, colourful temples, waterfalls deep in the jungle, viewpoints, beachfront restaurants, markets, nightclubs and shopping centres - all on the same island.
Full guideKoh Samui is one of the most varied islands in Thailand. Tropical beaches lined with coconut palms, colourful temples, waterfalls deep in the jungle, viewpoints, beachfront restaurants, markets, nightclubs and shopping centres - all on the same island.
You can come to Koh Samui for a lazy beach holiday, but if you leave the hotel you will find there are plenty of things to do in Koh Samui. In the morning you can swim in the sea, in the afternoon visit a temple or go shopping, and in the evening choose between a restaurant facing the sunset, a night market or a party on the beach.
We visited Koh Samui in March 2025, and in this guide we have combined our own experiences from the trip with practical information about the beaches, attractions and nights out worth knowing about.
Each area has a different character. The full comparison and the hotels are in our where-to-stay guide.
Chaweng
The centre of it all: restaurants, shopping and nightlife Details
Chaweng Noi
A beautiful, quiet beach and romantic hotels. We stayed here Guide 
Bophut
Fisherman's Village, restaurants and evening atmosphere Details 
Lamai
A long beach, restaurants and nights out at a gentler pace Details 
Maenam
A quieter holiday Details 
Choeng Mon
A calm bay in the north-east Details 
Koh Samui lies in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Surat Thani province. It is one of the largest islands in the country, with its own airport, a ring road that links many of its areas and a wide range of services for visitors - which is also why the list of things to do in Koh Samui is so long.
What makes Koh Samui interesting is the mix of tropical scenery and well-developed infrastructure. Alongside the beaches and resorts you will find modern shopping centres, international restaurants and cafes, and only a short drive away there are forested hills, waterfalls and coconut plantations.
It is a destination that suits different kinds of holiday. Couples can enjoy quiet bays and romantic dinners by the sea; families will find beaches, pools and activities; and anyone who loves music and nightlife will find busy clubs and beach clubs in Chaweng.
The big advantage is that you do not have to choose just one style of holiday. You can combine beaches, day trips, shopping and evenings out on the same visit.
Koh Samui's beaches are very different in character. Some are long and lively, others are calmer, and several of the island's prettiest bays have large granite boulders and clear water.
Chaweng Beach: one of the island's main and busiest beaches. A long stretch of sand with restaurants, bars and beach clubs. Swimming conditions vary along the beach, and in North Chaweng the water can be very shallow at low tide.
Chaweng Noi: a beautiful, quieter beach just south of Chaweng. We stayed in the area in March 2025 and loved the views and the relatively peaceful atmosphere.
Silver Beach: a small bay between Chaweng and Lamai, with pale sand, granite boulders and water that can be very clear in the right conditions.
Lamai Beach: a long beach in the south-east of the island, with restaurants and bars and a slightly less intense atmosphere than central Chaweng.
Bophut Beach: a beach in the north of the island, next to Fisherman's Village, where you can combine time by the sea with restaurants and shops.
Maenam Beach: a long strip of beach lined with palm trees and a fairly relaxed atmosphere.
Choeng Mon Beach: a sandy bay in north-east Koh Samui, suited to anyone looking for an easy-going beach holiday.
Lipa Noi and Taling Ngam: beaches on the west side of the island, known for their quiet atmosphere and sunset views.
The differences are not only about how pretty a beach is. Water depth, the tides, the restaurants nearby and how busy the area is all have a big effect on the experience.
Full guide: the beaches of Koh Samui - how they differ and which one to choose →
Koh Samui is not just a destination for beaches and pools. Around the island there are temples, viewpoints, waterfalls and natural sites that you can combine into a day out.
One of Koh Samui's best-known symbols is the large golden Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai, in the north-east of the island.
The statue stands on a raised platform, and visitors can climb the steps to get close to it. The complex also has views over the surrounding area.
This is a working temple, so dress respectfully and follow the rules of conduct on site.
Not far from the Big Buddha is Wat Plai Laem, a colourful temple complex with large statues, ornate buildings and a lake.
One of the best-known sights here is the many-armed statue of Guanyin.
You can combine both temples in one outing and get to know a cultural side of Koh Samui beyond the beaches and resorts.
In the interior of Koh Samui are the Na Muang Waterfalls, surrounded by tropical vegetation.
The trails here let you step away from the coast and see the hilly, green heart of the island.
The amount of water depends on the season, and some of the paths have wet rocks and climbs. Wear suitable shoes and check access conditions before you go.
The Secret Buddha Garden, also known as Tarnim Magic Garden, is a small statue garden in the hills of Koh Samui.
Among the plants and trees there are stone statues, small structures and a stream.
The atmosphere is very different from the tourist sites on the coast, and the garden may particularly appeal to anyone who likes slightly unusual places.
The road up to it crosses hilly terrain, so it is important to choose suitable transport.
In the Lamai area there are two natural rock formations that have become one of the island's best-known attractions.
The rocks' unusual shapes are the source of their names and of the local stories attached to them.
It is a short stop that you can combine with a trip around Lamai, together with a beach or a restaurant nearby.
Wat Khunaram is a temple known for the mummified body of a Buddhist monk, which is displayed there.
The site offers a glimpse into local religious traditions and suits anyone interested in Thai history and culture.
This is a place of religious significance, so it is important to visit respectfully.
One of the loveliest ways to get to know Koh Samui is to head up into the hills and look down over the beaches, bays and forests.
The Jungle Club is one of Koh Samui's best-known places for a view and an afternoon or evening out in front of it.
It sits on a hill above Chaweng, with a restaurant and seating areas facing the sea.
The experience here is not only about the meal, but about sitting in front of a wide view across the island.
The road up is steep, so plan how you will get there in advance.
In the hills above Lamai is one of the island's more intriguing viewpoints: a huge boulder that looks as if it is balanced on top of another rock.
The site also has open views over the area.
There are several viewpoints with similar names nearby, so make sure you pick the exact place you want to reach.
One of the advantages of Koh Samui is the chance to take boat trips around the Gulf of Thailand and see scenery quite different from the island itself.
Ang Thong is one of the most impressive day trips in the area.
The park is made up of dozens of islands, with limestone cliffs, bays, beaches, lagoons and viewpoints.
Organised trips may combine cruising between the islands, kayaking, swimming stops and visits to viewpoints.
One of the best-known sites is the inland lake on Ko Mae Ko, surrounded by cliffs.
Bear in mind that some of the viewpoints involve climbing stairs or a steep path. Check the difficulty level in advance, how much time is allowed at each stop and what is included in the price of the trip.
Full guide to Ang Thong Marine Park →
Day trips to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan often combine snorkelling stops, time on the beaches and the climb to the famous Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint.
We visited Koh Nang Yuan and climbed up to the viewpoint.
The view from the top was spectacular, but the climb was long and very tiring. There are a lot of steps on the way, and towards the end the path becomes particularly steep and crowded.
One thing that affected the experience was the limited time we had at the viewpoint. After a strenuous climb, there is not always enough time left to sit and enjoy the view at leisure.
So when you choose an organised trip to Koh Nang Yuan, check how much time is set aside for the island itself and for the climb to the viewpoint, not just whether it appears on the list of stops.
Guide to Koh Nang Yuan and its famous viewpoint →
Koh Madsum, also known as Pig Island, is a small island south of Koh Samui that became famous for the pigs wandering along its beach.
Trips there often include a visit to nearby Koh Tan, where you can snorkel when sea conditions allow.
This is a lighter trip, focused on beaches and time on the boat.
During the visit it is important to respect the animals and not feed them food that is unsuitable for them.
Koh Samui has a wide range of restaurants: from Thai street food to international restaurants, fish and seafood places and bars serving food on the beach.
Chaweng has a large concentration of restaurants, cafes and food stalls. In Bophut, eating out goes hand in hand with the atmosphere of Fisherman's Village, while at places like The Jungle Club the view is a central part of the experience.
The fishing village in Bophut is one of the most pleasant places in Koh Samui for dinner.
You can sit at a restaurant facing the sea, wander among the shops and finish the evening at one of the bars.
Among the well-known restaurants in the area are Krua Bophut, which focuses on Thai food and seafood, and The Shack, which serves grills and steaks.
Coco Tam's is one of the best-known places to go out in Bophut.
It combines a beach restaurant, seating areas facing the sea, cocktails and a lively evening atmosphere. One of the things it is known for is its fire shows on the beach.
It is worth knowing about if you are looking for a full night out rather than just a meal in a restaurant.
Alongside the restaurants, it is worth tasting the food in Koh Samui's markets too.
You will find noodle dishes, fried rice, skewers, tropical fruit, Thai pancakes and shakes.
Markets are a good chance to try several different dishes in one evening without committing to a full restaurant meal.
Nightlife is a big part of the Koh Samui experience, especially in Chaweng.
You will find clubs, bars, beach parties and places where you can combine dinner with music and fire shows.
ARKbar is one of the places most closely associated with Chaweng's nightlife.
The complex combines pools, seating areas, a restaurant, bars and music, and draws travellers looking for a lively atmosphere.
It mainly suits people who love parties and a social scene, not those after a quiet holiday.
Full review of ARKbar Beach Club & Resort →
Elephant Beach Club combines a seafront pool, sunloungers, a beach restaurant and music.
The design is built around natural tones, rattan, straw and wood, with a tropical boho feel.
You can come during the day to enjoy the pool and the beach, and stay on into the evening for fire shows and music.
Guide to Elephant Beach Club - pool, restaurant and nights out →
Love Beach Club stands out for its pink-and-white design, with striped umbrellas, two swimming pools and a swim-up bar.
It combines a beach day with cocktails, house music, DJs and fire shows.
It is an interesting option if you are looking for a colourful, sociable time by the sea.
Guide to Love Beach Club - the pools, the atmosphere and the prices →
The Green Mango area in Chaweng is one of the hubs of Koh Samui's nightlife.
It is close to busy clubs and bars, and particularly suits anyone looking for parties and music until late.
If you prefer an evening of dinner, a cocktail by the sea and a stroll around the shops, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Fisherman's Village.
It is a different kind of night out from the parties in Chaweng, and also suits those who are less keen on clubs.
Koh Samui's markets are a pleasant way to combine food, shopping and an evening out.
This is one of the best-known market areas on the island, especially on Friday evenings.
You will find food stalls, clothes, souvenirs and accessories, alongside the area's permanent restaurants and shops.
Even outside market nights, Fisherman's Village is a pleasant place for a wander.
The Lamai area has markets and food courts that open in the evening.
You will find street food, clothes and all sorts of goods, and can combine a visit with the area's restaurants and bars.
In Maenam there is usually a walking street market on Thursdays.
It has a calmer atmosphere than Chaweng's big, busy markets.
Market days can change, so check them close to your visit.
One of the things we particularly enjoyed in Koh Samui was being able to combine a beach holiday with shopping.
Koh Samui has a modern shopping centre, brand stores, department stores and local boutiques with pieces you will not necessarily find back home.
Central Samui is one of the largest and best-known shopping centres on the island.
Inside you will find international and local fashion brands, cosmetics shops, cafes, restaurants and a department store.
During our visit to Koh Samui we discovered some particularly interesting Thai brands.
One of our discoveries was LOLITA, a brand with feminine, flattering cuts, unusual colours and designs unlike what you usually see in the shops at home.
We found dresses and jumpsuits at sale prices of about 1,100 THB (about $33 / €29) per piece.
One of our favourite buys was a denim dress that still gets compliments back home.
What made the shopping so successful was not only the price, but the chance to find unique pieces.
Guide to Central Samui and the LOLITA brand - what to buy →
At Boutique Asia, on the second floor of Central Samui, we found colourful scarves with special embroidery and patterns.
They were soft and pleasant to wear, with a rich, romantic look, at prices of about 1,100 THB (about $33 / €29) per piece.
We bought several different scarves, and they were among the most special things we found shopping in Thailand.
Our article on Boutique Asia and its special scarves in Koh Samui →
Not necessarily.
In department stores and local brand shops you can find good deals, and the prices are sometimes better value than in the tourist shops.
It is worth comparing prices rather than assuming that everything sold at a market is cheaper.
You can reach Koh Samui by plane, or by a combination of an overland journey and a ferry.
Koh Samui has its own airport, so you can fly in from various destinations in Thailand and the region.
This is a particularly convenient option if you want to save the time of the overland journey and the ferry.
Koh Samui is connected to the mainland and to other islands in the Gulf of Thailand by ferries and passenger boats.
You can combine a visit to the island with Koh Phangan and Koh Tao as part of a route around the Gulf.
The crossing time depends on the pier, the boat company and the type of boat.
On Koh Samui you can use taxis, transfers, a hire car and local transport.
In some of the tourist areas you can walk between restaurants and shops, but getting between beaches, temples and waterfalls usually requires a drive.
Hiring a car can give you flexibility, but make sure you have the right licence and valid insurance. Riding a scooter also requires experience and care, especially on wet roads and steep hills.
Koh Samui is in the Gulf of Thailand, so its weather differs somewhat from Phuket and Krabi, which are on the Andaman coast.
This is generally a fairly comfortable time for a beach holiday.
We visited Koh Samui in March 2025.
You can also enjoy Koh Samui in some of the summer months, although there may be rain and periods of rough sea.
This is usually the wetter season on the island, with a higher chance of heavy rain and disruption to boat trips and water activities.
If you are planning boat trips, take the sea conditions close to the date into account.
Three days can work for a short visit that combines a beach, a few attractions and an evening in Chaweng or Bophut.
Four to five days let you combine beaches, temples, viewpoints, shopping, restaurants and perhaps a day trip to the nearby islands.
A week or more suits anyone who wants to enjoy Koh Samui at a relaxed pace, discover several beaches and still leave enough time to rest.
Koh Samui offers a wide choice of areas to stay, from lively Chaweng with its restaurants, shops and nightlife to calmer beaches such as Chaweng Noi, Maenam and Choeng Mon. Where your hotel is located affects how convenient your stay is and how easy it is to go out in the evening, so we have put together a separate guide with a map of the island, a comparison of the areas, distances and the hotels in each area.
The best-known places include Chaweng Beach, Fisherman's Village, the Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem temples, the Na Muang Waterfalls and the viewpoints in the island's hills.
Yes. Chaweng is the main nightlife hub, with clubs, bars and beach clubs. In Bophut and Lamai you can find places to go out with a different atmosphere.
Ang Thong Marine Park is one of the most impressive trips for anyone who loves islands, cliffs and kayaking. Trips to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are also popular with snorkellers and lovers of sea views.
Central Samui in Chaweng is the main shopping centre. You can find more shops and markets around Bophut, Lamai and Maenam.
Yes. The island has beaches, hotels with pools, restaurants and a range of activities for different ages.
Not necessarily, but to reach attractions and beaches in different parts of the island you will usually need some form of transport.
January to April is generally considered a fairly comfortable time, but you can also enjoy the island in some of the summer months.
Four to five days let you combine beaches, attractions, food and shopping. For a more relaxed stay, allow a week.
Koh Samui is much more than a destination of hotels and pools.
You can spend your time among temples, waterfalls and viewpoints, take a boat trip between islands, discover special restaurants, browse the markets and enjoy a lively nightlife.
One of the things we loved most about Koh Samui was precisely the combination of a tropical holiday with everything on offer away from the beach: shopping at Central Samui, the local brands we discovered and the chance to mix quiet days with nights out.
You do not have to do everything to enjoy the island. Choose the experiences that interest you and leave some time for the places you will discover along the way.
That is the magic of Koh Samui: every visit can be a little different.
The hotel is temporarily closed for renovation. This review describes our own stay in March 2025, before the works began. Reopening is expected in the second half of 2027, but this has not yet been finally confirmed.
✓ We stayed here 
