Visiting Koh Samui

Visiting Koh Samui is on many travellers’ bucket lists. The tropical and exotic island is known as the gem of the Gulf of Thailand. Situated about 35 km northeast of the mainland’s provincial city of Surat Thani, it is the most significant island in the Chumphon Archipelago.

Measuring 25 km (16 miles) at its widest point, the island features some of the most iconic beaches in the world.

Here, we have a list of the best beaches on Koh Samui and many more suggestions for your holidays!

Chaweng Beach
This expansive beach is teeming with white, powdery sands and is known as the most touristy beach on the island. However, despite the high-season crowds, the beach is known for its compatibility with all kinds of water sports.

Moreover, if you enjoy partying or socialising, Chaweng Beach is the place to be.

Lamai Beach
The island’s second most popular beach is that of Lamai. Although it is not as busy as Chaweng Beach, the area of Lamai caters to tourists and offers excellent beachside restaurants, clubs, and water sports.

Crystal Beach
Known as Crystal Beach or Crystal Bay, this beach is known as the most beautiful as its large boulders encircle the white-sanded beach. Located between Chaweng and Lamai, the beach is a favourite place to go for many tourists and expats alike.

The beach’s shallow waters offer tropical fish and other sea life that can be found by snorkelling around.

Bophut Beach
This strip of sand is located near the famous Fisherman’s Village, hence, there are many beachside accommodations and activities at Bophut Beach.

Although the beach isn’t white-sanded, its prime location offers many activities and fun for all.

Lipa Noi
This quiet beach is located at the southwestern end of the island. And, if you are looking for the best sunset on the island, you have found the right place.

The stunning sunsets on Lipa Noi are unparalleled with views touted as the best on Koh Samui.

What are the main islands to visit around Koh Samui?

Koh Phangan
A short speed boat ride from Koh Samui will have you landing on the Bohemian paradise of Koh Phangan (Thailand’s Bali) with many eco-friendly resorts and healing sanctuaries to boot.

If you are looking for an epic party, look no further than Koh Phangan’s world-famous Full Moon Party. Here, you can dance the night away with travellers from all over the world.

Koh Tao
Known as the scuba diving paradise, travellers flock to this island to see whale sharks, coral reefs, and other stunning marine life. The island is small but you can find excellent accommodations and delicious seafood at great prices.

Ang Thong National Marine Park
This protected area features 42 islands that tourists can access by signing up for an Ang Thong tour.
Limestone mountains, tropical jungles, waterfalls, hidden coves and surreal beaches will surely make your marine park tour memorable.

Popular Activities
Touring the temples on Koh Samui offers a taste of the local culture as well as some stunning sights. From Wat Khunaram’s mummified monk to Plai Laem’s Big Buddha, many of the temples around the island offer excellent views and cultural education.

Koh Samui also has several waterfalls, with Na Mueang 1 and 2 waterfalls being the most famous. The cooling pools are also swimmable and offer a majestic afternoon of fun in the sun.

Hiring a tour company to take you around the island is also a popular choice as the research and transportation will be included in the price. From visiting viewpoints that offer panoramic scenery to hiring an ATV or going on a zipline adventure, almost any activity is available on the island.

Celebrated Holidays

Songkran
The Thai New Year of Songkran is held throughout Thailand in April. You definitely cannot miss the festivities as entire streets will be full of people splashing water on cars and each other with buckets and water guns. The fun celebration of the Thai New Year is the largest in the country.

Chinese New Year
Join in the celebrations of the Chinese New Year by wearing a red shirt and visiting the district of Maenam. Here, you can experience a bit of Chinese culture by visiting the island’s main Chinatown. A beautiful Chinese temple offers a glimpse of Koh Samui’s early life as Chinese fishermen discovered the island and used it as a haven from pirates.

Loy Krathong
This is the floating lantern festival that is celebrated every year in Thailand. Known as the festival that cleanses one of their sins, flower lanterns are set off in the waters to appease the gods.

New Year
The Western New Year is always celebrated throughout Thailand and offers plenty of fireworks, parties and fun for all. It is no feat to find at least one place wherever you are residing that will offer an extravagant event for the New Year.

Although this list is not inclusive, the above activities, holidays and sights are known as being the best that Koh Samui has to offer. Our team is ready to help you with organizing tours, outings, and concierge services at your convenience. If you have more questions or need expert recommendations, please feel free to contact us at Siam Propz!!! We hope you enjoy your stay in Koh Samui!!!