ABOUT KOH SAMUI

Geography & Climate

Location & Size

Koh Samui is located off the east coast of Thailand, in the Surat Thani province. Covering an area of approximately 228 square kilometers, it is the largest island in an archipelago of over 80 smaller islands, including Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and the Ang Thong National Marine Park.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Koh Samui has a tropical monsoon climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to April), when the weather is sunny with little rain.

• Dry Season (December – April): Ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and island-hopping.
• Hot Season (May – September): Warm and humid, but still good for travel.
• Rainy Season (October – November): Short, heavy showers, but still plenty of sunshine.

Thanks to its location, Koh Samui has a more predictable weather pattern than other parts of Thailand, making it a great year-round destination.

History & Culture

Origins & Early Inhabitants

Koh Samui has a history dating back over 1,500 years, originally settled by Malay and Chinese fishermen. The island remained relatively isolated until the late 20th century, with locals relying on coconut farming and fishing as their main sources of income.

Transformation into a Tourism Hub

The 1970s saw the arrival of the first backpackers and explorers, drawn to Koh Samui’s untouched beaches and serene beauty. As tourism grew, infrastructure developed, transforming the island into one of Thailand’s top luxury travel destinations while still maintaining its natural charm.

Religion & Temples

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Koh Samui, and the island is home to many beautiful temples and sacred sites:

• Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple): Features a 12-meter-tall golden Buddha.
• Wat Plai Laem: Known for its colorful 18-armed Guanyin statue.
• Secret Buddha Garden: A hidden jungle sanctuary filled with mystical statues.

Monks play a significant role in local culture and daily life, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs when visiting temples.

Beaches & Natural Attractions

Koh Samui is famous for its pristine beaches, each offering a unique experience:

Most Popular Beaches

• Chaweng Beach: The island’s busiest and most developed beach, with nightlife, water sports, and luxury resorts.
• Lamai Beach: A quieter alternative to Chaweng, with great restaurants, bars, and scenic views.
• Maenam Beach: Ideal for relaxation, with calm waters and fewer crowds.
• Bophut Beach: Home to Fisherman’s Village, offering trendy beachfront dining and shopping.
• Silver Beach: A hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.

Waterfalls & Viewpoints

• Na Muang Waterfalls: A pair of stunning waterfalls set in the jungle, perfect for a nature escape.
• Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks: Famous rock formations resembling male and female anatomy.
• Secret Buddha Garden Viewpoint: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island.

Marine Parks & Nearby Islands

• Ang Thong National Marine Park: A stunning archipelago of 42 islands, ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking.
• Koh Phangan: Known for its Full Moon Party and serene beaches.
• Koh Tao: One of Thailand’s best diving destinations, with crystal-clear waters and rich marine life.
  
  

 Things to Do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui offers a wide range of activities, from adventurous excursions to cultural experiences:

• Island-hopping tours – Explore nearby islands on a speedboat or catamaran.
• Scuba diving & snorkeling – Discover colorful coral reefs and exotic marine life.
• ATV & jungle tours – Ride through hidden trails and lush tropical forests.
• Muay Thai boxing matches – Watch Thailand’s national sport in action.
• Thai cooking classes – Learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes.
• Yoga & wellness retreats – Join meditation and detox programs at luxury resorts.
• Night markets & street food – Enjoy local cuisine and shop for handmade souvenirs.
  
  

 Food & Dining

Koh Samui’s food scene is a blend of authentic Thai flavors, fresh seafood, and international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

• Tom Yum Goong: Spicy and sour shrimp soup.
• Pad Thai: Stir-fried noodles with shrimp or chicken.
• Massaman Curry: A flavorful coconut-based curry with meat and potatoes.
• Som Tam: Spicy papaya salad.
• Mango Sticky Rice: Sweet coconut rice with fresh mango slices.

The island offers everything from beachfront seafood restaurants to fine dining experiences and street food markets.

Getting to Koh Samui

There are multiple ways to reach Koh Samui:

• By Plane: Koh Samui International Airport (USM) offers direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.
• By Ferry: Ferries operate from Surat Thani, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
• By Train & Bus: Travelers can take a train or bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then transfer to a ferry.
  
  

Getting Around the Island

Once on the island, there are many transportation options:

• Scooter & Car Rentals – Ideal for independent travel.
• Songthaews (Shared Taxi Trucks) – Affordable public transport.
• Private Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab & Bolt) – Convenient for short trips.
• Boat Transfers – For visiting nearby islands and marine parks.
  
  

 Accommodation in Koh Samui

From luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly bungalows, Koh Samui has accommodation for all types of travelers:

• Luxury Resorts & Private Villas – Perfect for honeymooners and high-end travelers.
• Mid-Range & Boutique Hotels – Great for couples and families.
• Budget Guesthouses & Bungalows – Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.

Many accommodations offer stunning ocean views, private pools, and direct beach access.

Why Visit Koh Samui?

Koh Samui is a tropical paradise that blends natural beauty, rich culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you want to explore stunning beaches, dive into crystal-clear waters, experience Thai traditions, or indulge in world-class dining, this island has it all.

With year-round sunshine, warm hospitality, and diverse attractions, Koh Samui is a must-visit destination in Thailand.

Find everything you need to plan your trip on Samui Map Info, and get ready to experience the magic of Koh Samui!