Life of Travel
Koh Samui
Destination Guide
Thailand's coconut island paradise with luxury resorts and laid back vibes
Welcome to Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand's second largest island, a tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand covered in coconut palms that once earned it the nickname "Coconut Island." With its relaxed atmosphere, world class spas, luxury family resorts, pristine beaches, and charming interior of jungle waterfalls and Buddhist temples, Samui is ideal for families seeking quality time together in paradise.
Koh Samui In Photos
Big Buddha
Chaweng Beach
Luxury Resorts
Ang Thong
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season
December to April
Best weather with calm seas and sunny skies. Peak season from December to February. Book resorts well in advance.
Monsoon Season
October to November
Wettest months with occasional storms. Lower prices and fewer crowds. Rain usually comes in short bursts.
Best Beaches
Chaweng Beach
The main beach with great shopping and family dining
Best for: Family Dining • Shopping • Water Sports • Restaurants
Lamai Beach
More relaxed alternative to Chaweng with character
Best for: Relaxation • Local Vibes • Snorkeling • Family Resorts
Bophut Beach
Charming fisherman's village with boutique hotels
Best for: Romance • Boutiques • Dining • Friday Market
Top Things to Do
- 🗿Visit the Big Buddha temple on its own island at sunrise or sunset
- 🏝️Day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park for kayaking and stunning views
- 💆Indulge in a world class spa treatment at a luxury resort
- 🌴Explore the Secret Buddha Garden hidden in the jungle hills
- 🐠Snorkel or dive at Koh Tao, just 2 hours away by speedboat
- 🛒Shop at Fisherman's Village Friday Walking Street market
Waterfalls
Cooking Class
Sunset Cruise
Koh Samui Tips
Use Grab or hire a private driver for the day to explore the island safely with children
Bangkok Airways has a monopoly on flights so they're pricey. Consider ferry from Surat Thani
Stay in Chaweng for action, Bophut for charm, Lamai for value, north coast for seclusion
The west coast has the best sunsets. Head to Bang Po or Lipa Noi beaches
Eat at local Thai restaurants away from the beach for authentic food at local prices
Perfect 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive & Beach
Arrive and settle in. Afternoon at your resort beach. Sunset drinks. Dinner at Fisherman's Village
Day 2: Island Exploration
Morning at Big Buddha temple. Private driver island tour. Waterfall swim. Sunset at west coast
Day 3: Ang Thong
Full day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park. Kayaking, snorkeling, viewpoint hike. Stunning scenery
Day 4: Spa & Relax
Morning Thai cooking class (kids welcome). Afternoon spa treatment or pool time. Evening at Bophut for family dinner
Day 5: Beach Day & Depart
Final beach morning. Lunch overlooking the sea. Transfer to airport or ferry
Frequently Asked Questions
Fly direct to Samui Airport (USM) from Bangkok, Singapore, or Hong Kong. Alternatively, fly to Surat Thani and take a ferry (cheaper but longer). Ferries also run from Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
Excellent for families. Samui has a calm, upscale atmosphere perfect for children. Many resorts offer kids' clubs, family suites, and interconnecting rooms. The island is compact and easy to navigate, with plenty of activities from elephant sanctuaries to water parks to keep children entertained.
Minimum 3 to 4 days to relax and see highlights. 5 to 7 days is ideal for day trips to nearby islands. Many people combine with Koh Phangan or Koh Tao.
Bophut and Lamai are ideal for families, offering quality resorts with more space and a relaxed atmosphere. Chaweng works well for families who enjoy being close to shops and restaurants. The north coast suits those seeking seclusion and premium resorts with excellent kids' facilities.
Ready for Your Koh Samui Escape?
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