Thailand · Region
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand's third-largest island, ringed by palm-fringed beaches like Chaweng and Lamai and dotted with coconut plantations, hillside temples, and a laid-back mix of backpacker bars and upscale resorts. It sits in the Gulf of Thailand alongside neighboring party island Koh Phangan and diving hub Koh Tao, making it a natural base for island-hopping.
Top attractions
attraction Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park: Koh Samui Travel Guide
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park is an archipelago of 42 limestone islands off Koh Samui, reached only by organized boat tour or private charter from Bangrak or Nathon pier. 4.7★ (4,672 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
attraction Tarnim Magic Garden: Koh Samui Travel Guide
Tarnim Magic Garden (also called Tarnim Magic Garden or "Buddha Magic Garden") is a hilltop sculpture garden in Na Mueang, on the south side of Koh Samui, best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and harsh light for photos.
attraction Wat Phra Yai: Koh Samui Travel Guide (4.5★)
Wat Phra Yai (the "Big Buddha Temple") sits on its own small island connected by causeway to Bo Put in northeast Koh Samui, open daily 7:00 AM–6:30 PM with free entry. 4.5★ (11,484 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
attraction Wat Plai Laem: Koh Samui Travel Guide (4.7★)
Wat Plai Laem, on Koh Samui's northeast coast near Bophut and Big Buddha Beach, is a modern Buddhist-Chinese temple complex famous for its lake and the 18-armed Guanyin statue rising from the water. 4.7★ (8,429 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
Top-rated things to do in Koh Samui
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Where to stay in Koh Samui
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Frequently asked questions about Koh Samui
How do I get to Koh Samui?
Most travellers fly directly into Koh Samui Airport (USM), an open-air terminal on the island's northeast coast served by Bangkok Airways with routes from Bangkok (~70 minutes) and a handful of regional cities; a slower, cheaper alternative is flying or taking an overnight train to the regional hub of Surat Thani and then connecting via ferry (~1.5+ hours by sea, plus transfers) to the island's main pier at Nathon.
How many days should I spend in Koh Samui?
Plan on ~3-4 days to settle into beach life, explore a couple of viewpoints or temples, and take a day trip to nearby islands like Koh Phangan or Koh Tao.
What is Koh Samui known for?
Koh Samui is Thailand's third-largest island, ringed by palm-fringed beaches like Chaweng and Lamai and dotted with coconut plantations, hillside temples, and a laid-back mix of backpacker bars and upscale resorts. It sits in the Gulf of Thailand alongside neighboring party island Koh Phangan and diving hub Koh Tao, making it a natural base for island-hopping.