Koh Samui
Known as one of Thailand’s most beautiful and romantic islands it is no wonder 1.5 million people holiday here every year.
Samui as it is called by the locals is Thailand’s second largest island after Phuket and lies off the east coast of Kra Isthmus in the Gulf of Thailand. Samui has a population of over 50,000 and covers an area of 228.7 square km.
The beauty of Koh Samui that attracts 1.5 million tourists each year is the white sandy beaches, coral reefs and tropical environment. Also most things are very cheap compared to western prices. Escaping to a tropical island with friendly locals and perfect weather is what many people consider the perfect holiday. Some would even say it is their Best Holiday Destination.
Samui as it is called by the locals is Thailand’s second largest island after Phuket and lies off the east coast of Kra Isthmus in the Gulf of Thailand. Samui has a population of over 50,000 and covers an area of 228.7 square km.
The beauty of Koh Samui that attracts 1.5 million tourists each year is the white sandy beaches, coral reefs and tropical environment. Also most things are very cheap compared to western prices. Escaping to a tropical island with friendly locals and perfect weather is what many people consider the perfect holiday. Some would even say it is their Best Holiday Destination.
Koh Samui caters for every type of tourist
Couples choose Koh Samui as their romantic getaway or as a honeymoon destination with perfect temperatures and beautiful beaches it is a relaxing dream holiday in the sun.
There are plenty of backpacker bungalows right on the beach where backpackers from all over the world come for one week, one month or just forget to move on. In a melting pot of cultures, the freedom and carefree atmosphere ignites great friendships.
There are also plenty of upmarket luxury resorts on Koh Samui that appeal to the rich and famous. Set in secluded locations overlooking spectacular coastline is often where high profile people choose to escape.
Probably the biggest group of people attracted to Koh Samui is your average tourists. As a family holiday destination, Koh Samui is perfect with relatively cheap accommodation and plenty of family friendly restaurants.
Koh Samui is made up of hundreds of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues mainly found along the eastern side of the island with main townships such as Lamai Beach on the southeast, Chaweng Beach which is on the central eastern side and Bophut (Fisherman’s Village) on the north east side. These three areas are the most popular with tourists with Chaweng Beach being the most densely populated (and also the noisiest at night)
Chaweng Beach attracts mainly the younger generation who want to party till late however if you want to be where the “action” is I would suggest either the northern or southern end of Chaweng so that you are still within walking distance but it is not too noisy to sleep. (our accommodation was perfect)
There are plenty of backpacker bungalows right on the beach where backpackers from all over the world come for one week, one month or just forget to move on. In a melting pot of cultures, the freedom and carefree atmosphere ignites great friendships.
There are also plenty of upmarket luxury resorts on Koh Samui that appeal to the rich and famous. Set in secluded locations overlooking spectacular coastline is often where high profile people choose to escape.
Probably the biggest group of people attracted to Koh Samui is your average tourists. As a family holiday destination, Koh Samui is perfect with relatively cheap accommodation and plenty of family friendly restaurants.
Koh Samui is made up of hundreds of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues mainly found along the eastern side of the island with main townships such as Lamai Beach on the southeast, Chaweng Beach which is on the central eastern side and Bophut (Fisherman’s Village) on the north east side. These three areas are the most popular with tourists with Chaweng Beach being the most densely populated (and also the noisiest at night)
Chaweng Beach attracts mainly the younger generation who want to party till late however if you want to be where the “action” is I would suggest either the northern or southern end of Chaweng so that you are still within walking distance but it is not too noisy to sleep. (our accommodation was perfect)
Climate
Koh Samui has a tropical monsoon climate with warm humid weather most of the year however in comparison to Phuket it is relatively dry. This adds to the holiday culture with outdoor beach restaurants and beach massages in abundance. (remember your sunscreen and your mosquito repellent which should contain DEET when you are in a tropical climate)
Transport
The first thing you will notice in Koh Samui is that there are lots of motorbikes and scooters. Although this is a great way to get around the island and have fun you must be VERY cautious as there is no speed limit and very few rules. Many tourists forget their general safety when on holidays and this can be tragic. ALWAYS wear a helmet and some clothing protection if you can.
There is one main road that runs all the way around the island and several smaller roads leading off the main road. Maps are readily available so there’s not really a problem in getting lost.
Taxis are in abundance, particularly along the eastern coastline and prices are usually set however it is a good idea to ask first and agree on a price.
We found it very cheap to get around by taxi and on one day we had an air-conditioned van from our resort with a driver for the day, which was very cheap.
Tuk-tuk style utes are another option. They are cheap for one or two passengers but if you are in a group of 4 it is cheaper to get a taxi.
There is one main road that runs all the way around the island and several smaller roads leading off the main road. Maps are readily available so there’s not really a problem in getting lost.
Taxis are in abundance, particularly along the eastern coastline and prices are usually set however it is a good idea to ask first and agree on a price.
We found it very cheap to get around by taxi and on one day we had an air-conditioned van from our resort with a driver for the day, which was very cheap.
Tuk-tuk style utes are another option. They are cheap for one or two passengers but if you are in a group of 4 it is cheaper to get a taxi.
Accommodation
There are so many types of accommodation in Koh Samui it is easy to find something to suit your style and your budget. The most important decision is WHERE you want to be.
If you want to be close and level to the beach, so that you can walk straight onto the beach from your resort you probably need to be more on the east coast. This is why Chaweng is the most popular destination and the biggest concentration of resorts are in this area.
Always check this before you book! Some resorts are set high on the hill or overlook the part of the ocean that has no beach, just rocks. This may be perfect if you want seclusion or just to relax in your resort but keep in mind to get to the beach it may be a steep climb down the rocks and back up again.
The reason we chose Samui Resotel Resort & Spa was because it was level with the ocean, close to everything and had its own private beach with chairs and umbrellas to enjoy. Read more on this resort.
Find out more information about Samui Resotel Resort & Spa - Read more
If you want to be close and level to the beach, so that you can walk straight onto the beach from your resort you probably need to be more on the east coast. This is why Chaweng is the most popular destination and the biggest concentration of resorts are in this area.
Always check this before you book! Some resorts are set high on the hill or overlook the part of the ocean that has no beach, just rocks. This may be perfect if you want seclusion or just to relax in your resort but keep in mind to get to the beach it may be a steep climb down the rocks and back up again.
The reason we chose Samui Resotel Resort & Spa was because it was level with the ocean, close to everything and had its own private beach with chairs and umbrellas to enjoy. Read more on this resort.
Find out more information about Samui Resotel Resort & Spa - Read more
Things to See in Koh Samui
It is always good to see the things you want to see at the beginning of your holiday for several reasons:
- You may need to come back to see something if you miss it the first time.
- Take advantage of the weather If it is good - it may be raining later in the week
- If you happen to pick up a tummy bug later in the week you will need to rest
- The relaxing part of your holiday is better at the end - before you go home
- You may run out of time and end up missing something you really wanted to see....
The Big Buddhas
Situated on the northern coast of Koh Samui is the famous Buddha Shrine. The shrine consists of the 12 metre high Buddha as well as other ornate Buddha images, a temple, a market selling souvenirs and lucky charms and food stalls. The Big Buddha is one of the most famous landmarks in Koh Samui and can be seen from several kilometers. A few hundred steps will take you to the top of the platform where Buddha sits. Close by is The Big Buddha Beach where boats leave to visit Koh Phangan.
Hin Ta and Hin Ya (Grandpa and Grandma Rocks - Lamai beach
Witness for yourself the formations of these rocks! Quite clearly you will see the similarity of the rock formation to the male and female genitalia. Walking up to the ocean from the car park you will pass lots of little market stalls selling coconuts and items made from coconuts as well as souvenirs.
From the rocks there is a stunning view out to the other islands and on the beach close by an original Thai village. There are plenty of great photo opportunities here and the locals will often tell you how to pose to get the best shots.
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Waterfalls
There are several waterfalls to visit in Koh Samui. My advice would be to choose the ones that best suit your mobility level. You will find some involve a rigid hike up a mountain over a lengthy time frame and there is another that is suitable for those not so energetic or not physically capable. Regardless of which waterfall you visit they are all beautiful. Dropping to a swimming hole below it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day. Be guided by your tour guide or a local.
Mummified Monk - South of Lamai
This was an amazing experience! There are several mummified monks in Thailand but the most famous is the body of Loung Por Daeng that is on display. Loung Por Daeng died over 20 years ago and he requested that his body was placed in a specially designed glass case for posterity. It has been there ever since. The amazing part is that the body has shown very little sign of decay and the hair and fingernails continue to grow. Our guide told us that they often have to open the case and cut his hair and fingernails. This remarkable preservation is said to be due to his simple diet that he followed and his marathon meditation sessions which is said to have slowed down his metabolism. I was given the opportunity to participate in a spiritual experience where you kneel in front of the monk’s glass case, shake a container with sticks until one stick falls out. This stick has a number on it that you can exchange for a piece of paper that will give you a reading. There is a monk present that will bless you with holy water and tie a piece of string around your wrist. This is very lucky and you should try to keep this on as long as possible. It was a very moving experience
Elephant Trekking - 60min or 30min
For me this was the highlight of our tour in Koh Samui as it was something that was always on my bucket list…
There are many elephant trekking places in Koh Samui as it is a big part of the tourist industry. It is fabulous to see and even better to be participating in. Usually two people sit on the seat behind the trainer. The elephants move over rugged terrain through jungle areas and across streams. About half way through our trek our trainer asked me if I’d like to sit up front, right on top of the elephant’s head (where he was sitting) I jumped at the opportunity and he got off the elephant and directed him from the ground. The trainer took photos for us while I was riding the elephant. I was able to feel the elephant’s skin and touch her, it was awesome. The funniest thing happened, my husband dropped his water bottle out of his back pack and the elephant behind picked it up with it’s trunk and gave it to his trainer. Close to the finish of the ride the trainers will ask you for a tip, 200baht, but that is optional. I was so excited about my experience I was happy to give him a tip. You can also pay a few baht to feed the elephant bananas. Apparently the elephants are like family to them. Our trainer had one elephant for 10 years and one for 8 years. What beautiful creatures they are.
There are many elephant trekking places in Koh Samui as it is a big part of the tourist industry. It is fabulous to see and even better to be participating in. Usually two people sit on the seat behind the trainer. The elephants move over rugged terrain through jungle areas and across streams. About half way through our trek our trainer asked me if I’d like to sit up front, right on top of the elephant’s head (where he was sitting) I jumped at the opportunity and he got off the elephant and directed him from the ground. The trainer took photos for us while I was riding the elephant. I was able to feel the elephant’s skin and touch her, it was awesome. The funniest thing happened, my husband dropped his water bottle out of his back pack and the elephant behind picked it up with it’s trunk and gave it to his trainer. Close to the finish of the ride the trainers will ask you for a tip, 200baht, but that is optional. I was so excited about my experience I was happy to give him a tip. You can also pay a few baht to feed the elephant bananas. Apparently the elephants are like family to them. Our trainer had one elephant for 10 years and one for 8 years. What beautiful creatures they are.
Volunteer at an Elephant Sanctuary - find out more
Visit the Elephant Nature Park for the experience of a lifetime
The Tiger Photo
Just beside the elephant trekking there is a Tiger photo opportunity. There was three tigers to choose from, a baby one, a medium one and a VERY large one. Paul had his photo taken with the LARGE one. It was lying on a platform with a chain attached. The tiger was so docile that I am very suspicious that it was drugged which is VERY disturbing. (I hope I’m wrong and it was just REALLY tame or tired) It was almost as if the guy had to wake him up for the photo and his eyes were very blurred. To be this close to such a wonderful creature was a very memorable experience.
The Lady Boy Caberet Show
If you visit Thailand you HAVE to see one Ladyboy show. Thai people call them the third sex or Katoeys because they are more feminine than masculine. There are thousands of Ladyboys throughout Thailand and many have had the full sex change. There are several shows in Chaweng if you are out at night. You wont have trouble finding them if you walk down the main street as they are usually in the street giving out flyers and attracting customers. It’s free to get in but beware you will pay about $10 for a drink. This show lasts about three quarters of an hour so you’ll probably only have one drink anyway. The set up is quite good with a proper stage and cinema style seating. Whether you go just out of curiosity, or for a bit of fun, it’s worth seeing.
The Lady Boy Caberet Show
If you visit Thailand you HAVE to see one Ladyboy show. Thai people call them the third sex or Katoeys because they are more feminine than masculine. There are thousands of Ladyboys throughout Thailand and many have had the full sex change. There are several shows in Chaweng if you are out at night. You wont have trouble finding them if you walk down the main street as they are usually in the street giving out flyers and attracting customers. It’s free to get in but beware you will pay about $10 for a drink. This show lasts about three quarters of an hour so you’ll probably only have one drink anyway. The set up is quite good with a proper stage and cinema style seating. Whether you go just out of curiosity, or for a bit of fun, it’s worth seeing.
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Nikki Beach
Situated on the west side of the island Nikki Beach is a great place for Sunday Brunch, or anytime for that matter. It is a very chic, atmosphere with big couches, lounges by the pool, and loud party music. The restaurant and food are high quality and cater for more of an upmarket crowd. Situated right on the beach it is a perfect chill out location.
Shopping
When shopping in Thailand it is important to remember one thing! BE POLITE. Smile and do not become angry, aggressive or rude. Thai people are VERY friendly, helpful and polite so enjoy your negotiating but accept that these people are trying to run a business too and they cannot give things away and make a loss. A little understanding goes a long way.
There are hundreds of street stalls throughout Koh Samui. Ranging from T shirts to handbags, shoes to souvenirs, many of them are the same sort of things over and over again. Of course nothing has a price on it so it is “bargaining time” Normally if you ask the price it will be massively inflated because Thai people expect to “negotiate” with you. My rule was offer half or just more than half of what the price was and judge the reaction. You will soon know where their cut off price is. If you are interested in buying more than one – it will be a lot cheaper.
There is a shopping center on the island that has regular shops and a department store as well as large supermarket. It was very difficult for us to find this out and it was a helpful cab driver (cab number 75, if you find him) that told us where to go. The shopping center is called Big C, inland from the coast road, but not far in a cab.
7/11 style supermarkets are everywhere and they also sell alcohol very cheap.
Check out some great books on Koh Samui
Shopping
When shopping in Thailand it is important to remember one thing! BE POLITE. Smile and do not become angry, aggressive or rude. Thai people are VERY friendly, helpful and polite so enjoy your negotiating but accept that these people are trying to run a business too and they cannot give things away and make a loss. A little understanding goes a long way.
There are hundreds of street stalls throughout Koh Samui. Ranging from T shirts to handbags, shoes to souvenirs, many of them are the same sort of things over and over again. Of course nothing has a price on it so it is “bargaining time” Normally if you ask the price it will be massively inflated because Thai people expect to “negotiate” with you. My rule was offer half or just more than half of what the price was and judge the reaction. You will soon know where their cut off price is. If you are interested in buying more than one – it will be a lot cheaper.
There is a shopping center on the island that has regular shops and a department store as well as large supermarket. It was very difficult for us to find this out and it was a helpful cab driver (cab number 75, if you find him) that told us where to go. The shopping center is called Big C, inland from the coast road, but not far in a cab.
7/11 style supermarkets are everywhere and they also sell alcohol very cheap.
Check out some great books on Koh Samui
Tailors
There are lots of tailors who will be vying for your business. Everything from business suits and shirts to wedding dresses are made here. Lots of people bring photographs of something they have seen either in a shop or a magazine and they can usually copy it pretty close to perfect. If you don’t know what you want exactly don’t worry, they have plenty of books to look through to get some ideas.
Prices range from tailor to tailor and of course the type of fabric you choose it going to make a difference too. If you are thinking about having some items made make sure you visit your tailor when you first get to Koh Samui to give them plenty of time to make your garments before you leave, especially if it is a busy time of year. You will need to be measured and go back for a fitting the following day. Usually it will take 2-5 days depending on what you are having made.
When the tailor has your measurements they will usually keep these on file for you for one or two years and you can order more garments via email in that time.
The tailor we used was excellent….. we had some business shirts made in Japanese cotton (they said they were the only shop in Koh Samui that had this fabric) it took 2 days and they were perfect.
The place was called ‘Chaweng Boutique’ you can find them on the main Street opposite Chaweng Regent Beach Resort. Phone number 0 7742 2196 or 0 854 714 445 email: chawengboutique@hotmail.com
Prices range from tailor to tailor and of course the type of fabric you choose it going to make a difference too. If you are thinking about having some items made make sure you visit your tailor when you first get to Koh Samui to give them plenty of time to make your garments before you leave, especially if it is a busy time of year. You will need to be measured and go back for a fitting the following day. Usually it will take 2-5 days depending on what you are having made.
When the tailor has your measurements they will usually keep these on file for you for one or two years and you can order more garments via email in that time.
The tailor we used was excellent….. we had some business shirts made in Japanese cotton (they said they were the only shop in Koh Samui that had this fabric) it took 2 days and they were perfect.
The place was called ‘Chaweng Boutique’ you can find them on the main Street opposite Chaweng Regent Beach Resort. Phone number 0 7742 2196 or 0 854 714 445 email: chawengboutique@hotmail.com
Fish Pedicure Anyone?
If you go to Koh Samui you must have a full body massage at one of the dozens of services on the beaches and throughout the villages. You must also enjoy the unusual experience of having your feet cleaned and pampered……by hundreds of tiny fish.
The tiny Garra Rufa fish – native to the hot springs of the Kengal Valley in Turkey - are known for their healing benefits and gently nibble the skin to stimulate, rejuvenate and improve the overall health of your skin through natural exfoliation.
The fish have no teeth and simply nibble away at dead or flaking skin. Scientists say they secrete a therapeutic enzyme called dithranol that also improves your skin.
Some of our group were a bit hesitant, and even felt the experience a bit ticklish initially, but once they relaxed they all reported a very calming and enjoyable experience.
The fish remove excess dead surface cells, bacteria and calluses while cleaning and clearing the pores of the skin. We found it worked best of you ensure you wash any suntan lotions and mozzie repellents away first and even soak your feet for a few minutes.
It is said the unique dithranol enzyme also reduces the over development of skin cells which eases and prevents the symptoms of many skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis; promotes blood circulations; stimulates acupuncture points (without needles) to relax the body and ease fatigue; and also improves the skin because of the natural exfoliation.
Our group all enjoyed the experience and were certain our feet were not as rough after the fish had done their bit. Whether or not that was true, it was great fun and a chance to relax for 30 minutes before moving on to the next adventure.
Beach Massage
The tiny Garra Rufa fish – native to the hot springs of the Kengal Valley in Turkey - are known for their healing benefits and gently nibble the skin to stimulate, rejuvenate and improve the overall health of your skin through natural exfoliation.
The fish have no teeth and simply nibble away at dead or flaking skin. Scientists say they secrete a therapeutic enzyme called dithranol that also improves your skin.
Some of our group were a bit hesitant, and even felt the experience a bit ticklish initially, but once they relaxed they all reported a very calming and enjoyable experience.
The fish remove excess dead surface cells, bacteria and calluses while cleaning and clearing the pores of the skin. We found it worked best of you ensure you wash any suntan lotions and mozzie repellents away first and even soak your feet for a few minutes.
It is said the unique dithranol enzyme also reduces the over development of skin cells which eases and prevents the symptoms of many skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis; promotes blood circulations; stimulates acupuncture points (without needles) to relax the body and ease fatigue; and also improves the skin because of the natural exfoliation.
Our group all enjoyed the experience and were certain our feet were not as rough after the fish had done their bit. Whether or not that was true, it was great fun and a chance to relax for 30 minutes before moving on to the next adventure.
Beach Massage
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Changing money
There are currency exchange places everywhere and most don’t charge a fee to exchange your money if you have another currency. The prices are displayed on the board outside and it’s very safe to change money here.
If you use a ATM machine you should take as much as you will need because each transaction will attract a currency exchange fee from YOUR bank.
If you use a ATM machine you should take as much as you will need because each transaction will attract a currency exchange fee from YOUR bank.
Where to Eat
There are plenty of great restaurants to choose from in Koh Samui and every type of food that you’d like to eat. Thai, Indian, Italian, Irish pub, Japanese, Mediterranean, Seafood etc. (I didn’t see any Aussie meat pies though)
Seafood is VERY popular and there are lots of great restaurants displaying their seafood in trays of ice for you to see. You can buy a set menu that includes just about every type of seafood you can imagine, all for about $25 AUD (it was far too much food for one average person to eat)
Beer is Very cheap, but wine is quite expensive.
I am sure you will enjoy trying lots of different restaurants – be guided by the number of people in the restaurant.
Chaweng beach is a popular eating spot with lots of restaurants set up on the sand. Often part of a resort but they are open to anyone.
Fisherman’s village is the place to be on Friday nights, Nikki Beach for Sunday lunch and if you want a romantic night out try one of the upmarket restaurants that sit on the rocks above the beach such as Six Senses Hideaway.
We often ate at our resort (Samui Resotel & Spa) because the food was so good and we were usually very tired after a long day.
Seafood is VERY popular and there are lots of great restaurants displaying their seafood in trays of ice for you to see. You can buy a set menu that includes just about every type of seafood you can imagine, all for about $25 AUD (it was far too much food for one average person to eat)
Beer is Very cheap, but wine is quite expensive.
I am sure you will enjoy trying lots of different restaurants – be guided by the number of people in the restaurant.
Chaweng beach is a popular eating spot with lots of restaurants set up on the sand. Often part of a resort but they are open to anyone.
Fisherman’s village is the place to be on Friday nights, Nikki Beach for Sunday lunch and if you want a romantic night out try one of the upmarket restaurants that sit on the rocks above the beach such as Six Senses Hideaway.
We often ate at our resort (Samui Resotel & Spa) because the food was so good and we were usually very tired after a long day.
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Tips for Koh Samui
- Carry plenty of small change – some vendors will not be able to change your big notes. Carry 100’s rather than 1000’s
- Bater, but nicely
- Beware of scammers.........If you hire a jet ski or a scooter be aware they may not be properly insured. Also check it carefully before you take it because many people have been asked to pay for a dent that was already there. This can be very expensive and could land you in trouble if you are not VERY careful
- Drink lots of water (bottled)
- Tours & Taxis.....Only book with reputable tour companies as they are properly insured......Decide on a price with your taxi driver BEFORE your journey if he doesn’t have a meter.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport..........Carrying ID is a MUST in Thailand. Always carry a photocopy of your passport and keep your original in your hotel safe. Thai police can stop you at any time for no reason to look at your ID.
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Plus Plus - Same, Same
If you spend more than a day in Koh Samui you will soon get accustomed to the expression “Same, Same”. It is the lilting way of the locals to explain that something is the same as something else (for example, at our resort it was no more expensive to have room service as it was to dine on the restaurant – same, same).
We also discovered to our surprise that some establishments, mainly restaurants and bars, also have a “plus, plus” policy – the advertised price plus 10% value added tax plus 7% service fee, which adds 17% to the total price.
So a great tip when you are looking at a menu is to read the very fine print, or ask if the prices are plus, plus!
Electricity
Voltage is 220 – plugs are two round pins
Currency
30.00THB Thai Baht = 1 USD
Where do you think the BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS are?
For great accommodation while staying in Koh Samui - Read more
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We also discovered to our surprise that some establishments, mainly restaurants and bars, also have a “plus, plus” policy – the advertised price plus 10% value added tax plus 7% service fee, which adds 17% to the total price.
So a great tip when you are looking at a menu is to read the very fine print, or ask if the prices are plus, plus!
Electricity
Voltage is 220 – plugs are two round pins
Currency
30.00THB Thai Baht = 1 USD
Where do you think the BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS are?
For great accommodation while staying in Koh Samui - Read more
Write on our BLOG
Back to Home Page
Back to South East Asia
Other South East Asian Countries - Hong Kong, Malaysia, The Philippines, Maldives, Singapore, India, Macau
Get prices on travel to your favourite Asian Destination
If you need our help for that please let me know. Looking forward for your reply.
