Koh Samui
Luxury meets island life in the Gulf of Thailand
About Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand's most developed island paradise. Five-star resorts to backpacker bungalows, world-class spas to night markets. Famous as the White Lotus Season 3 filming location, balancing luxury tourism with authentic Thai island culture.
Watch Before You Go
Koh Samui Guide (Paddy Doyle)
10 Incredible Things To Do In Koh Samui
The 7 BEST Things to Do in Koh Samui
Price Breakdown
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ฿600 | ฿1,500 | ฿6,000 |
| Food & Drink | ฿400 | ฿700 | ฿1,500 |
| Transport | ฿300 | ฿500 | ฿1,000 |
| Activities | ฿300 | ฿800 | ฿1,500 |
| Total / day | ฿1,600 | ฿3,500 | ฿10,000 |
Where to Stay
3 areas in Koh Samui — each with a different vibe and price range
Chaweng Beach
The main strip. Longest beach, most bars, all the action. Can feel like Phuket-lite. Stay at the quieter north end of Chaweng for the best of both worlds.
฿800–5,000/night
Lamai Beach
Chaweng's calmer cousin. Better value hotels, good restaurants, chill beach bars. Close enough to Chaweng for a night out but peaceful enough to actually relax.
฿600–3,000/night
Bophut / Fisherman's Village
Charming converted fishing village. Friday walking street is the best night out on the island. Boutique hotels, wine bars, French bakeries. The grown-up choice.
฿1,000–6,000/night
Things to Do
via GetYourGuideMore Activities & Prices
Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)
Free. 12m golden Buddha.
Na Muang Waterfalls
Free. Swim in natural jungle pools.
Fisherman's Village Friday market
Free. Great food, Bophut.
Tourist Traps to Skip
- ×Chaweng late-night clubs (unless you want the scene) — overpriced and loud.
- ×Jet ski rental — same scam issues as everywhere in Thailand.
- ×Airport taxi desk — use Grab for half the price.
How to Get There
Bangkok →
1h 10m
฿2,130 – ฿4,500
Local Tips
Flights are expensive (Bangkok Airways monopoly) — consider ferry from Surat Thani.
Rent a scooter (฿200-300/day) — the island is 25km across.
Skip Chaweng if you want peace — try Maenam or Bophut.
Never leave your passport for jet ski rental.
Lamai Beach is a good balance of action and relaxation.
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