Koh Samui is one of the original island destinations in Thailand. It is popular with many types of tourists, from package holidays, long-stay ex-pats and backpackers. The fact it has its own airport makes it both a convenient destination from Bangkok, but also as a stepping stone to the surrounding islands. Luckily, the island has enough space to cater for all of these tourist types and, despite being significantly developed in some areas, still has some areas of idyllic tranquil peace. This travel guide to Koh Samui should hopefully point you in the right direction and don’t forget to share your tips in the comments.
Weather Forecast
Fri
24 Apr
28 - 31°C
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25 Apr
28 - 29°C
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26 Apr
28 - 29°C
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Mon
27 Apr
28 - 30°C
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6%
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28 Apr
29 - 30°C
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12%
Wed
29 Apr
28 - 30°C
1mm
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30 Apr
28 - 30°C
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22%
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1 May
28 - 30°C
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45%
Sat
2 May
28 - 30°C
9mm
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Sun
3 May
27 - 30°C
5mm
25%
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4 May
28 - 30°C
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5 May
29 - 30°C
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6 May
29 - 30°C
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Thu
7 May
29 - 30°C
8mm
32%
Historic Weather (2022)
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Use this dropdown to filter weather data by time periodKoh Samui (2022-2024 Average)
How to Get to Koh Samui
From Bangkok, The fastest way is to fly to Samui’s own airport. Samui Airport is privately owned by Bangkok Airways. This means because of the lack of competition, prices may not be as competitive as similar trips with budget airlines. However, the airport is small and pretty cute.
Otherwise, if you have time to spare or are on a budget, you can catch a train or a bus to Surat Thani and then take another bus and then a boat to the Island. However, making things simpler and having less to think about, you can often get a complete transfer package from some tourist agencies which will involve a complete bus trip and boat ticket all in one. With this service, you just get on the first bus and follow their instructions till you get onto the ferry.
Getting around Koh Samui
Taxi
Taxis will be much more expensive in Koh Samui than in Bangkok. Don’t expect to use a meter and be prepared to negotiate. You won’t get anywhere for less than 200 Baht. There are Grab taxis but these cannot be booked from the airport so be aware of that when you arrive.
Songthaews
As elsewhere in Thailand, these shared, bench-seated vehicles are a much more economical option but are mostly limited to local beach-to-beach routes, unless you are prepared to pay the premium of going off-route,
Car Rental
Because Samui is one of the larger islands, and more developed, car rental is a possibility. Be careful to have all the necessary documentation.
Bike Rental
Renting a bike is a very popular option, but please pay attention to the usual advice for caution on this option, as outlined in our Guide to Thailand.
Where to stay in Koh Samui?
Accommodation
You will find a huge selection of accommodation in Koh Samui. Everything from high-end luxury resorts like the Four Seasons Hotel, to fan bungalows at a couple of hundred Baht a night. Much of the concentration of accommodation lies on Lamai Beach and Chaweng Beach. Take a look our interactive map to get an idea of where to look. If you are looking to escape the busy tourist areas, plenty of alternative beaches around the island can provide a more peaceful place to stay.
