Koh Samui is increasingly becoming a popular magnet for tourists in recent years, and for good reason. A previously overlooked gem, Koh Samui is home to picture-perfect beaches, must-see attractions, thrilling tours and activities, and vibrant local culture. To those unfamiliar with the place, it’s Thailand’s second-largest island, situated between Indonesia and Indochina.
If you’re planning a vacation, Koh Samui is the perfect destination as it offers you the best of both worlds. While it provides a chance to engage in exciting activities, it can also offer a reprieve from your busy everyday life and serve as an oasis for unfettered relaxation.
Whether you’re backpacking alone or going on a vacation with your family, the island can pretty much accommodate everyone. In this guide, you’ll get to deep dive into everything Koh Samui has to offer, so you can be prepared when it’s time that you embark on your much-awaited trip.
When to go to Koh Samui
Weather is always an important consideration when you’re traveling, no matter the destination. When you’re planning a trip to Koh Samui, it’s advisable to check the weather on your preferred dates. If you want to enjoy the beach and bask in the sun, the best time to visit is anywhere between late December to April. May to September is also ideal, but you can expect rain showers here and there. You may want to avoid October to November as it’s the rainiest period, as well as July to August if you want to avoid huge crowds of tourists. Plus, if you’re planning on exploring Ang Thong National Park, avoid traveling in November to early December since it’s typically closed during that time.
How to get to Koh Samui
Whether you’re a local or a foreign visitor, getting to Koh Samui is no problem as it has its very own Samui International Airport. You can easily take flights from Bangkok, Phuket, or Chiang Mai to get to the island. From the airport, getting to your hotel or resort located around the beaches will only take around 20 minutes at the maximum.
If you want to ride a ferry, you may do so by taking one from Surat Thani. Boats depart at 30 to 60-minute intervals and take about an hour and a half to arrive at the Nathon port.
Top attractions in Koh Samui
There’s no shortage of activities you can do on the island. But if you want to make the most out of your trip, here are the recommended attractions you should include in your itinerary:
- Wat Plai Laem: a Buddhist temple complex housing the 18-armed Guanyin statue
- Big Buddha Temple: Koh Samui’s most popular attraction, it’s a 12-meter high Buddha statue that serves as the island’s main landmark
- Ang Thong National Marine Park: An expansive area where you can be one with nature
- Namuang Waterfall: Beautiful waterfalls with a small pool that you can swim in
- Fisherman’s Village: Immerse yourself in the local culture by shopping and eating
- Full Moon Party: If your schedule permits, attend a Full Moon Party and groove all night with locals and other tourists
No matter what you decide to do in Koh Samui, there’s no doubt that you’ll have a blast. If you’re looking for a place to stay, La Vida Samui offers a full tropical experience. Book with La Vida Samui boutique resort today to appreciate a beautiful island vacation that both adults and kids are bound to enjoy.