Theres a whole airport here thats dedicated to receiving domestic links from Bangkok and other Thai destinations throughout the day, meaning you can connect through the capital and be stepping out on the beaches just a matter of hours after coming off your long-haul link from Europe or the US. It sits out in the sparkling Thai Gulf some 11 miles from the coast of Nakhon Si Thammarat. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. The dry season is the best time to visit Koh Samui, between December and February. This means there are plenty of different areas to stay in, all with their own unique features. And yes, tourists are still at risk of being scammed. Well not as easy as Id have thought. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. Went to some Muay Thai training this time around. Plus, it ain't cheap to get to: a round-trip flight from Hong Kong to Koh Samui is anywhere between HK$5,000 - $7,000 thanks to Bangkok Airway's monopoly on the airport. Thailand is (finally) welcoming tourists again. If its sounding like a vacation spot youd enjoy then make sure to check it out for yourself! Accommodation:Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such asBooking.comandAgoda! While Phuket and other Thai islands have turned into backpacker base camps and tourist zoos, Koh Samui has managed to retain its charm. Its especially famous for its large 12-metre-tall (39-foot-tall) Buddha image. Outdoor Activities: As youll see in our things to do in Koh Samui section, this island has an abundance of great outdoor activities! Koh Samui is the biggest islands of the Gulf of Thailand, and the second largest of the country. Negative bias much. The best time to visit this iconic collection of islands is between February and April. Regular flights go from Bangkok and Phuket and are usually pretty inexpensive. The modern shopping centre has an array of stores and restaurants spread over three levels. You can come here in the remaining months. We kick off this Koh Samui 5 days itinerary with a bout of hard-earned R&R. It comes courtesy of probably the second best-known resort on the isle: Lamai. Why it is awesome: Koh Samui isnt known for being cheap, which is why budget travelers will love this attraction (pair it with a stay in some of Koh Samuis best hostels and youre all set). In this guide, well take a look at nine things that help Koh Samui stand out from the crowd. Required fields are marked *. While some islands are set so far off the beaten path they don't have any properties where you can use your points, Koh Samui isn't one of them. Tap here to plan your post-Covid Thailand trip. This is a good place to stay if you want to be near the action but still be able to escape for a good sleep at the end of the day. You may also choose to visit waterfalls within the islands underrated interior. The aromatic flavors and combination of spices create incredible food that tantalizes tastebuds. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking. To the south of Koh Samui are two fancy rocks Hin Ta Hin Yai. This place is simply breathtaking. Plus, our list of the best places to visit in Koh Samui also includes a variety of attractions, suitable for all weather conditions. Its no wonder why it sparked inspiration for Garlands exotic novel. You can also participate in scuba diving to discover the mysterious and colorful world beneath the clear blue water of Angthong. The views are incredible and visitors can feel as though theyve discovered their own personal little slice of tropical beach paradise. However, since you will need to stop in several places around the island, you should plan on needing a minimum of two full days to see everywhere, and longer if you plan to explore the interior of Koh Samui. Blah, Im so confused on this subject. Koh Samui | terrys Kyle Hulme 29 March 2018 View With its own airport and shopping centre, it's easy to forget that Koh Samui is an island after all but don't for a second think it has lost any of its island charm. It is close enough to the airport to be convenient, but far enough from it to not be disturbed by the planes coming in and out. The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. Both are world-renowned as beautiful destinations, offering all of the sun, sea and sand you could possibly want during your vacation. The Big Buddha temple is located on a small rocky island called Koh Faan, north of Bophut. Their names translate as grandma and grandpa rocks. Phuket or Samui - Which Island is Better? - 10 Answers to Make the There is also an international airport in Koh Samui Thailand! The Best Ferry From Surat Thani To Koh Samui. 1. Instead, I might recommend somewhere like Koh Lanta or even Phi Phi if youre wanting something a bit more lively. Koh Samui is famous for its palm-fringed beaches and crystal clear waters. Is Koh Samui worth visiting? Chilled water cascades into clear rock pools that feed directly into the Gulf of Thailand. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! Visit The Koh Samui Beaches 4. Details of the time and cost of moving you can check again at this website: https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Phuket/Ko-Samui. Taxis are also quite expensive compared to other parts of Thailand - a 15 minute drive from the airport to Chaweng will cost you 300 THB and 900 THB to the south of the island. This lively district has plenty of bars and restaurants to explore, as well as a nice sandy beach to take on the role of dancefloor when the sun goes down. Weve tested countless day packs over the years, and now weve found our absolute favourite: the traveller-approved Osprey Daylite Plus. Stopping at the beach on the way I found myself all alone! Chaweng The main party beach but still downright lovely, with slanting palms and plenty of beach bars to get through. Its a fine place to go looking for souvenirs and Thai-themed trinkets to take home with you, not to mention all manner of authentic local foods, from spicy masaman curries to peanut-topped pad Thais. Hostel Stay Samui Backpacker Hotel This fun hostel has both private rooms and dorms. Plan Your Trip to Koh Samui Today - Thailand Starts Here This is also the peak season and is popular with other tourists and backpackers. Koh Tao is famous for its diving the island is home to more than 50 dive schools and is the perfect place to get your PADI certification. Ah the classic too touristy comment. Heres a look at just a few of the finest beaches Koh Samui can offer: Just because Koh Samui is best known for its R&R, its beaches, and its buzzy nightlife, that doesnt mean its a cultural void. Id managed to avoid visiting the Thai Island for years. Its harder to access, so elderly or young children may struggle. Hotel wise, check out the Karma Resort set right on the beach in the best area of Bo Phut for an ultimate luxurious stay. Hire me to plan your tripand let me sweat the details. Here's why you should be planning your own trip here right now. We did a lottttt: Plus, it aint cheap to get to: a round-trip flight from Hong Kong to Koh Samui is anywhere between HK$5,000 $7,000 thanks to Bangkok Airways monopoly on the airport. The best month to visit Koh Samui is from December to February, known as the dry/high season. Is Koh Samui worth visiting? Enjoy the spa and pool area while also having a scenic view from your balcony. Not only is the beach peaceful, but its stunning too! Why its awesome: Thong Takhian Beach, also known as Silver Beach, is a gorgeous hidden gem to add to your Koh Samui itinerary. Is Rotorua Worth Visiting? Climb the steps up to this sacred monument at the Phra Yai Temple Complex. Day Trip to Ang Thong Marine Park: One of the best things to do in Koh Samui actually lies right off the coast! Koh Samui is Thailands second-largest island. My Reality: Expensive is relative of course. Is Koh Samui worth visiting? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I hope Tiki Touring Kiwi isn't making your day too miserable. Receive the latest tips and guides via email. Curious Goose | A guide to visiting Koh Samui, Thailand So, is Koh Samui worth visiting? The enchanting gardens were the work of a local farmer, Nim Thongsuk. However, as a Thai island, Koh Samui also offers some of the best selections of seafood going. Heres the best neighbourhood in Koh Samui: These are the BEST Places to Visit in Koh Samui! And thats precisely what you get, plus loads, loads more. Boutique Hotel Rockys Boutique Resort If youre looking for something truly unique, check out this beautiful boutique resort! Koh Samet was brought to me as a solution to beat the insane crowds in Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Phi Phi. Somewhat off the beaten track, its in a fairly remote jungle setting. Take The Ferry To Koh Tao 2. We managed to find some affordable food this time around. Yes, Koh Samui is definitely worth visiting but you should make sure to have the money to spend. No matter how many days in Koh Samui you plan to spend, a good base is essential. You get to see two different islands in one day. I think Koh Samui is the perfect introduction to the Thai Island experiences. Stay in a nearby authentic Thai eco-resort. 2023, The Broke Backpacker. The west coast has some options but they dont tend to have as good beaches out front. On the other hand, I do much prefer it over Phuket; its the hub of the Chumphon archipelago which, for my money, is the most pleasant mainstream chain of islands in Thailands. Take a trip to the nearby small island of Koh Taen. Koh Phangan is known for its beaches and Full Moon Party which draws in travelers from around the world. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Why its awesome: The spectacular Ang Thong National Park boasts some of Thailands most striking and dramatic scenery. With famous local and international cuisines, excellent diving spots, and several peaceful religious and cultural sites for you to explore, Koh Samui welcomes everyone to visit. Pros: it is close to the airport, close to one of the most important attractions of Koh Samui - Big Buddha (definitely worth a visit! Thats understandable I guess as schedules always change and companies come and go. I spent a week there right before Christmas and had a love/hate relationship with the island. Well, that all depends on what kind of vacation youre looking for! For example, a stay at the Renaissance Koh Samui starts at 40,000 Marriott Rewards points per night, while award nights at the Conrad Koh Samui start at 85,000 Hilton Honors points. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. When it comes to how many days in Koh Samui you should spend, most travelers dont devote an entire week. My Reality: My hostel at Fishermans Village seemed to be in reasonable condition until I went to have a shower. Final Verdict: Nope. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. My reality: I was on a mission from Ipoh to Koh Samui. With glorious temples, seductive beaches, amazing waterfalls, quaint fishing villages, and buzzing resorts with an active nightlife among Koh Samuis diverse offerings, there really will never be a dull moment on the stunning Thai island. Spoiler: Some of these best places to visit in Koh Samui really are quite astonishing! The average cost of a holiday to Koh Samui Photo by Envato Elements. Filed Under: Thailand Destinations Tagged With: Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Surat Thani. is a writer for TPG and TPG UK covering travel, news, points and miles and more. Thailands incredible beaches were brought to everyones attention thanks to Alex Garlands cult classic novel,The Beach headlined by Leonardo Di Caprio in the movie adaptation. Pros, Cons, & Things to do Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering if you should go to Koh Samui? Thats a huge difference in expectation! You can walk across the rocky ground for a close-up view of the stone formations. If you plan to dive, I'd recommend checking out Ocean Sound Dive + Yoga. An ideal place to escape the blazing hot sun and also to get away from any sudden downpours, the all-weather mall offers terrific retail, dining, leisure, and entertainment in air-conditioned comfort. Koh Samui Thailand: Is It Worth Visiting In 2022? 10 Helpful Things to Know Before Visiting Koh Phangan Thailand, Koh Tao Thailand Guide: 12 Important Things to Know Before You Go. You can spend all your time in Koh Samui if you'd like, but if you're hoping to explore more of the Thai Islands, Koh Samui makes it easy. Day trips to nearby Ang Thong National Park, an archipelago of 42 islands full of pristine beaches, limestone cliffs and palm trees, are easy to arrange. As a former Bangkok resident, I cant really imagine living in Koh Samui, where virtually all the conveniences of the big city are gone, even if the air is clearer. Also known as Wat Phra Yai, the golden, 12-metre-tall, seated Buddha statue was built in 1972 and remains one of Koh Samui's most popular attractions. Again, thank you! Soak up the views before descending the steps to explore the rest of the temple. Let us know in the comments below! The bulk of them are in and around the popular beach towns of the east coast. How Many Days Should You Spend in Koh Samui? - Thailand Starts Here Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering if you should go to Koh Samui? ). All the information online was confusing and nothing seemed concrete. 11 Wonderful Reasons to Visit Koh Samui, Thailand - Culture Trip The supply keeps up with demand but theres so many different factors at play. You can check cheap tickets from BKK or DMK to URT (Surat Thani Airport) on skyscanner.com. 4. Photo by Envato Elements. Just a mention of its name is usually enough to conjure images of palm-threaded beach. Oh thats surprising you thought it was overdeveloped then when you got there, there was no running water. The surrounding waters are teeming with schools of colourful fish, and diving and snorkelling are popular activities. They always say Thailand isnt what it was like 20 years ago. This temple is much less prominent when compared to its brother Wat Phra Yai. I was getting confused at this point, having expected all of the Koh Samui beaches to be packed. The last morning I went on a classic tiki tour, following a random road up and up the middle of the island. #1 Visting beautiful beaches in Koh Samui 2022 #2 Visiting Koh Tao Island #3 Visiting Big Buddha (Big Buddha statue) #4 Visiting Wat Khunaram #5 Visiting Angthong National Marine Park Need a place quick? 2. To reach this waterfall, you will go through a not too long but very interesting trekking trip with friends. The good things about staying in Chaweng is that everything is basically at your finger tips the beach is big and quite nice, theres a Family Mart or 7-11 at every turn (perfect for those Chang beer runs), plenty of beachfront hotels, and a plethora of restaurants and cheap massage shops. Required fields are marked *. For more than nine years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. FAQ on the Best Places to Visit in Koh Samui, Enjoy some fine Thai food with your feet in the sand, Watch a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Thailand. Whether you come for the beaches, scenic viewpoints, Thai food, or cultural marvels, you won't regret coming here. Koh Samui vs Krabi: Which Is Better to Go (An Honest Comparison) This is one of the most popular and upscale areas with luxury hotels, nice restaurants, and happening beach bars. Here are the specific ways to move to Koh Samui island you can refer to: To move to Koh Samui island from Bangkok you need to do the following 2 steps: Step 1: Move from Bangkok to Surat Thani airport. Want to make sure your Thai island hopping adventure is one for the record books, no matter which islands you visit? It doesnt have Thailands best beaches, is relatively difficult to get around and has some of the Kingdoms most overpriced hotels. Koh Samui Guan Yu Shrine: The Worth Visiting Historical Place Im not the greatest athlete in the water. There are plenty of hotels here, from the boutique Casa de Mar in central Chaweng, to the upmarket Centara Reserve, which is more of a villa-style resort than what you might think of as a hotel.. I have no idea. You can find everything fromisland hopping speed boatsto the night train fromBangkok to Chiang Mai. Koh Samui what to do FAQ 1. Best & Worst Times to Visit Koh Samui: Weather By Month - ThaiGuider And there are oodles, oodles more to get through besides: Keen to chase some waterfalls? We saw so many families enjoying their time on Koh Samui. 3 Best beaches on Koh Samui for kids 3.1 Bophut Beach 3.2 Lipa Noi 3.3 Taling Ngam 3.4 Crystal Bay or Silver Beach 3.5 Lamai Beach 3.6 Ta Yai beach 3.7 Chaweng Beach 3.8 Maenam 4 Best day trips on Koh Samui with kids I refrained from answering last time, but am going to lean towards no. Visit The Butterfly Garden 7. Its easy to stay close to all the conveniences and jump on tours organised right there where other tourists go. In the Chaweng area there was people everywhere but also shops everywhere to keep people busy. Koh Samui Pig Island Tour: Ultimate Guide | Travel Hiatus Below are some of the most popular towns to check out around the island. Both the Paris Follies Cabaret or Starz Cabaret are highly rated and loved in Chaweng. Koh Samui is an island paradise in the south of Thailand, known for its nightlife, scenic viewpoints and long stretches of sandy beach. There is a high chance of monsoons and flooding around June to August. What to do there: Escape the crowds and make your way to Thong Takhian Beach to spend a few hours basking in the sunshine in relative peace and quiet. Is Koh Samui worth visiting? Go To Aquapark 5. These are the best months for the weather and you wont see any rain. We're Brigitte and Jake. Shopping Value for money If you're looking for an island paradise in Thailand, choosing between Phuket and Koh Samui can be a challenge. Most people who travel to Thailand for the first time often choose Phuket or Koh Phi Phi as a destination because it is really a popular place to escape to the tropical country in Asia. The largest and most popular waterfall on Koh Samui is 18 meters high. Asia Wander aims at providing readers with a free and credible source of up-to-date informationanduseful tips for whoever with an intention of exploring the amazing Asia. This is a noodle stir fry traditionally served with sweet-savory-sour sauce and crushed peanuts. How about a ride on a banana boat?! Enjoy the spa and pool area while also having a scenic view from your balcony. Yes, party animals will be thrilled to know they can rage all night long on Chaweng Beach, but families can enjoy kid-friendly attractions on and around Bo Phut Beach, while solo travelers, couples or groups of friends wanting to relax can find many low-key areas to chill, like Mae Nam and Bang Po beaches, or pretty much anywhere along the western and southern edges of the island. Take a boat tour of the 42 islands that make up Ang Thong Marine Park. Explore on your own and find everything from long sandy beaches to secluded coves. (2023) Koh Samui is a popular tourist destination in the Gulf of Thailand, off the east coast of the Republic of Thailand! Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting: My personal experience - thisgirlabroad Not up for a boat ride? Appreciate the red and gold details of the main temple building and see a variety of Buddha statues throughout the small complex. Thailand has one of the most diverse cuisines in the world. How long does it take to go around Koh Samui. In my opinion, Ang Thong National Park is the most beautiful area in Koh Samui with pristine beaches and lush blue water. The statues Mara pose reflects enlightenment and purity. What to do there: Stroll hand in hand with your love along the beach, swim in the sea, and lap up some sun from the sands. You bet your bowl of spicy tom yum soup it is! In Chiang Mai I rarely pay more than 100 baht for an awesome meal. Four days is the perfect amount of days you need to spend in Koh Samui. Another reason people go to Koh Samui Thailand is its close proximity to 2 other incredible islands. There are plenty of yoga retreats, detox centers, party hostels and Airbnb villa rentals to choose from. Dont miss out on the stunning Na Mueang Waterfall. Koh Samui is Thailand's second-largest island. Why is it awesome: The striking Wat Plai Laem is colourful and quirky and is one of the most interesting religious hotspots in Koh Samui. Make sure you also check out the Na Thon Night Food Market on the west coast for another incredible Koh Samui experience. Alternatively, hit the reggae bars and pumping dance venues that string up an alley coming off the main Chaweng Beach Road they are the closest thing Thailand has to a strip a la Kavos or Ibiza! Local lore says that to prevent any doubt as to their intentions, their bodies turned to stone, prominently displaying the male and female bodily parts! Feeling more active? His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. The next morning, I went for a stroll to the Big Buddha. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. Perfect! Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? Had booked Thai pass flight to KS, but am not sure if it is really worth the trip. So make sure you choose your dates well to make your trip to Koh Samui worth it. Want to take your dream trip to Thailand, but having a nightmare as you try to plan it? Have any questions on the Koh Samui ferry or want to share your own favorite things to do in Koh Samui Thailand? For me, the ideal trip is as follows: Take an afternoon flight from Bangkok to Samui and spend a night there; ride a morning ferry to Koh Tao and stay there two nights; continue to Koh Pha Ngan and sleep two nights there; and end with another night and full day in Koh Samui. No matter how many days in Koh Samui you plan to spend, a good base is essential. The more expensive the ticket is, the faster you will get to the island. Located to the south, the highest point of the island has several waterfalls all easily reached and close to each other. Join us as we cover the best things to do in Koh Samui, how to get there on the ferry, and the pros and cons of visiting. Book a meditation session at the onsite dharma centre, visit the fortune tellers if you want to see into the future, peruse a large collection of Buddhist amulets, and take a stroll along the sandy beach. Just a gut feeling. It turns out theres a severe water shortage on Koh Samui. Many travelers, not surprisingly, stay near popular beaches like Chaweng and Lamai. Its not all party, party, party. If you enjoy larger islands with lots of activities and nightlife then it might be for you. What to do there: Learn more about the stories that surround the rude rocksIt is said that an elderly couple from the Thai province of Nakhon Si Thammarat set out to search for a suitable wife for their son. To enjoy Koh Samui weather, you should avoid the rainy season months from October to December every year. Koh Samui weather 4. Your email address will not be published. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. There are still usually plenty of dry spells to enjoy the beaches. Whether you're seeking information or inspiration, all your trips to Thailand start here. You also have the opportunity to go trekking and climb up to the observatory to glimpse the beautiful scenery of the park from above. Ko Samui travel - Lonely Planet | Thailand, Asia . Family Friendly: Koh Samui is known as one of the best islands for families in Thailand.
Top 10 Things To Do In Swakopmund,
Palatine Rookies Baseball,
South Fork Hoh Campground,
How Long Ago Is 1989 In Years,
Articles I