Koh Samui, Thailand - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: November 4, 2025
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Island Living at its Finest
Koh Samui, Thailand is one of the three major islands in the picture-perfect Chumphon Archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand with Koh Tao and Koh Pha Ngan.
The island's prized possessions are its sun-kissed beaches, palm trees and the 'Big Buddha Temple' to the northeast.
Likewise, inland the beauty of the dense jungles and breathtaking waterfalls match that of the island's coastline. Nevertheless, it's the wildlife that takes the crown as the most striking thing on Koh Samui.
In truth, the island is a paradise for those looking to relax, take in the sun and swim in the most remarkable waters. However, Koh Samui also boasts some of the wildest nights and stunning hotels and chalets. There truly is something for everyone.
In this travel guide to Koh Samui, Thailand I will walk you through these wild nights, show you all the best things to do and give you a glimpse into what your next trip could look like.
Once you visit Koh Samui, you will never forget it, sunsets to die for, elephants, crashing falls, views and memories that last a lifetime. It's all waiting for you here.
Read on to discover this remarkable island.
What's Koh Samui, Thailand Like?
Koh Samui is a large island surrounded by beautiful clear seas teeming with wildlife that lap up against the golden yellow sands of its beaches.
The beaches roll over the horizon for miles in both directions and are shaped by that oncoming tide and the stunning green palms and trees lining the beachfront.
Inland jungles take over as trees pack densely together each glistening a shade of green in the sun and blue skies above. The sound of the gentle breeze, crashing waterfalls and happy birds blow through the canopy whilst the occasional trumpet roar from the elephants thunders across the ground.
It's paradise.
Most of the island's centre is still natural and carefree. A slow pace of life awaits.
The ring road that encompasses the island is still not what I'd describe as loud or busy. Flashes of noise greet you within the larger towns, but the roads are not only good but free-flowing and still greenery can be seen in all directions.
Life in Koh Samui is enchanting, fun and peaceful. Hence, Koh Samui, Thailand has some of the wildest parties, the most relaxing days and some of the most beautiful scenery.
Truly, I couldn't have asked for more.
How to get to Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui, Thailand is a large island to the south of the country, neighbouring Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand.
Unless your swimming is better than the Olympic standard, there are two ways of getting to Koh Samui, Thailand, and they are by boat or flying.
Koh Samui has five main ports;
- Nathon Pier - Koh Samui's busiest pier, located in the northwest of the island with links to Koh Phangan, Surat Thani and Koh Tao.
- Lipa Noi Pier - In the west of Koh Samui linking Surat Thani (mainland Thailand) to Koh Samui onboard the Raja Ferry.
- Bangrak Seatran Pier - Koh Samui's main pier to the northeast, on Bang Rak Beach, sailing to Thongsala Pier on Koh Phangan.
- Haad Rin Queen Ferry Pier - On Bang Rak Beach to the northeast and sails to the party town of Haad Rin on Koh Phangan.
- Koh Samui Airport - To the northeast of Koh Samui (almost all flights are to/from other locations in Thailand and Singapore).
If the weather decides to cause havoc, getting off the islands isn't always quick. Also, when arriving and departing the island have your paper tickets with you and arrive half an hour before your departure time (the airport, a little longer).
How to get from Bangkok to Koh Samui
Luckily as Koh Samui has a small and unique airport, you can fly directly from Bangkok to Koh Samui. Numerous flights land and depart daily. Flights on Bangkok Airways cost between 2,230เธฟ to 5,590เธฟ (ยฃ52 - ยฃ131.54) depending on the time of year and take around an hour and ten minutes.
Another option from Bangkok to Koh Samui is on the world-famous overnight train to Surat Thani Station. At the station jump aboard the bus to Don Sak Pier and get the boat to Nathon Pier on Koh Samui. The train costs differ depending on the time of year and what class you travel in but 625เธฟ (ยฃ14.71) should get you there in somewhat more comfortable surroundings than the bus.
Boats to and from Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani on the mainland cost 450เธฟ (ยฃ10.86) and will take roughly two and a half hours. Other faster options are available, but they come with increased fares.
Upon landing in Nathon Pier taxis will greet you and take you to your accommodation anywhere on the island. As always, it's best to check with your accommodation if they do transfers.
How to get from Phuket to Koh Samui
Again, you can fly direct from Phuket to Koh Samui where numerous flights land and depart daily. Flights on Bangkok Airways cost between 2,530เธฟ and 3,880เธฟ (ยฃ59 - ยฃ91.30) depending on the time of year and take around fifty-five minutes.
Otherwise, your options from Phuket to Koh Samui are to take the bus from Phuket to Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani (trust me it is not fun and it takes ages - we crashed about three times) and get the boat from there.
Alternatively, you can drive it, which will take around four and a half hours, then get the car ferry across to Koh Samui.
Boats to and from Don Sak Pier, Surat Thani on the mainland cost 450เธฟ (ยฃ10.86) and will take roughly two and a half hours. Other faster options are available, but they come with increased fares.
You will land at Nathon Pier where there are numerous taxis to whisk you to your accommodation around the island. Some accommodation places on Koh Samui will do lifts from the pier. Check with them first.
How to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui
You have three ways of getting from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui.
From the main port of Thongsala Pier to the southwest of Koh Phangan, you can get the boat to one of two locations on Koh Samui.
Firstly, Nathon Pier to the northwest, which is the busiest pier on the island. The journey costs from 300เธฟ (ยฃ7) and will take roughly fifty-five minutes.ย Again, once at Nathon Pier, numerous taxis are willing to drop you to your destination across the island. As I always say, check with your accommodation to see if they will pick you up for less.
Secondly to Bangrak Seatran Pier. This is your best option if you're flying out of Koh Samui as it's close to the airport. The boat journey takes roughly forty-five minutes and costs 350เธฟ (ยฃ8.19) for adults and 250เธฟ (ยฃ5.85) for children.
Finally, you can take the boat from the party town of Haad Rin in the southeast of Koh Phangan to the smaller Haad Rin Queen Fairy Pier on Koh Samui, also on Bang Rak Beach.
You can take the bigger slow boat for 200เธฟ (ยฃ4.68) per person or the faster speed boat for 500เธฟ (ยฃ11.71). The slow boat takes fifty minutes and leaves twice a day, whilst the speed boat leaves Koh Phangan at 12:30pm, and takes half an hour.
How to get from Thailand's mainland (Surat Thani) to Koh Samui
As per the above, with Bangkok to Koh Samui and Phuket to Koh Samui, you need to get to the small area of Donsak in Surat Thani. More specifically, the small port in the northeast of Donsak.
Once there you have two options. Firstly, the cheaper option is to take the Raja Ferry from the aptly named Raja Ferry Pier (the northern of the two). This journey will take roughly an hour and a half and costs from 260เธฟ (ยฃ6.08). You will dock at the older rickety Lipa Noi Pier on the southwest of Koh Samui.ย
It is less busy than Nathon Pier, but you should be able to find transport fairly easily. Again, check if your accommodation does transfers. They often do.
Your second option is to take the Seatran Ferry from the Seatran terminal at Don Sak Pier and this will get you to the busier Nathon Pier to the northwest of Koh Samui.
The journey will cost 450เธฟ (ยฃ10.86) and will take roughly two and a half hours. Other faster options are available, but they come with increased fares.
Again, taxis are everywhere here but check with your accommodation before jumping in a taxi. They may do transfers.
For an in-depth look into my journey around these parts, check out my Travelling through Thailand blog.
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Koh Samui, Thailand?
In truth, this entirely depends on how long you have been in Thailand and how long you've been backpacking in Asia.
I say this because if you've spent a few weeks in Asia's capital cities such as Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur, you will want more time in Koh Samui than if you've come from other idyllic islands with pristine beaches, clear seas and sounds of nothing but nature.
Either way, Koh Samui has it all, wild nights, chilled days and a few activities to keep you busy for four or five days. So that's my answer, if you're backpacking Asia and have the time, spend four or five days in Koh Samui.
The Best Time Of The Year To Travel To Koh Samui, Thailand
As with anywhere, if you can avoid the cold, high winds and rain, you're halfway there. Therefore, avoid monsoon season which is between October and late December.
The dry season runs from mid-December to June.
However, December to April brings more than sun and warmth, it brings the crowds. Therefore, if you visit between April and June, you should still find great weather and avoid the hoards of tourists.
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking Koh Samui
Accommodation in Koh Samui varies dramatically based on your budget, style and where you want to stay. As expected, more often than not, the more popular places spread themselves along the magical shoreline, namely, the tourist hotspots of Bophut and Chaweng Beaches to the north.
I'd suggest staying in the northeast, and of course, with beachfront views. If you're a backpacker in Koh Samui, you simply cannot beat the Chaweng Beach area.
Prices for accommodation in Koh Samui, Thailand range from 258เธฟ (ยฃ6) for a dorm bed in a hostel to a whopping 37,500เธฟ (ยฃ871) a night in a swanky 5-star luxury hotel or penthouse.
I wish I could bring you reviews of the 5-star accommodation, but I cannot. One day, one day!
Nevertheless, below are three types of accommodation in Koh Samui at varying prices.
Chaweng Chalet
- What: Beautiful, homely chalets with beach vibes on the beach.ย
- Where:ย On the popular Chaweng Beachfront, a few minutes beach walk from the Ark bar. (map)
- Why:ย It's well-priced, clean and at the heart of the action.
- Why Not: You want to stay in a hotel with breakfast service.
The magical Chaweng Chalet boasts Chaweng Beach as its garden, and not many rooms, hostels or hotels can say that.
This idyllic location is perfectly located for relaxing massages, miles of golden sands, the clearest waters, and wild nightlife.
The small complex has a few chalets with a private path leading to a beachfront bar/restaurant.
The rooms were large and the decor was minimalistic, clean and tidy. I like the materials, as can be seen in the picture below, they all go perfectly together. My cousin our friend and I had everything we needed.
What made the chalets even more spectacular was how peaceful they were. Despite only being 10 minutes from the Ark Bar and numerous other booming clubs, you could hear a pin drop. This is vital when you finally crawl into bed at silly o'clock in the morning.
In January 2025, three nights will cost 2,700เธฟ (ยฃ60) for two people.
ARKbar Beach Club
- What: Beach party resort
- Where: In the centre of Chaweng Beach. (map)
- Why: It's modern, clean and the perfect backpacker's scene with pool parties and wild nights.
- Why Not: You like peace and tranquillity and alone time.
The Ark Bar appeals to the younger traveller and is based on music, drinking and parties. There is again easy access to Chaweng Beach and plenty of opportunities to find a quiet spot.
The rooms were more than acceptable and again comfy. You could hear the music and parties throughout the night. Although it wasn't overly loud, and I have to give credit to the design for that.
It's fun, entertaining and somewhere I would like to stay. When it comes to costs, it's relatively good for what you get.
In April 2025, three nights will cost roughly 9,653เธฟ (ยฃ224) for two people. Prices vastly differ,ย based on the room and which month you book.
The Jungle Club
- What: Luxury retreat in a lush jungle setting
- Where: Overlooking the whole northeast of Koh Samui, Thailand. (map)
- Why: The views are to die for, the luxury and tranquillity are heavenly and the rooms are stunning.
- Why Not: You can only afford a hostel dorm.
Finally, and again, somewhere I have already mentioned, and that's the Jungle Club. This, whilst away from the beach, is slightly more upmarket, which does mean, a slight price increase too. No such thing as a free lunch eh
This resort-come-restaurant is located a few minutes inland and has some of the best views on the island. You can see for miles over the northeast, including the Big Buddha and the Gulf of Thailand to the east.
Likewise, the restaurant and pool are something special, and it will take somewhere magical, almost make-believe to beat it. Furthermore, the rooms, lodges, houses and villas look like a fairytale retreat amongst the canopy that surrounds them. Tranquillity is a way of life up here, and not just a fleeting feeling. To put it differently, if I could imagine heaven, this would be it.
This delightful retreat will set you back a little more than the rest, but it's worth it.
In April 2025, for three nights, prices start at 9,012เธฟ (ยฃ209.12) for two people. Prices rise rapidly, depending on when you book and which apartment/condo. Book early to avoid disappointment, as the Jungle Club sells out fast.
Further Accommodation
I know, those backpacking Koh Samui on a budget are looking at that and thinking, yeah, no! Fair.ย I was the same when I donned the backpack and hit Thailand for the first time.
Do not fear, there are many hostels and other wonderful types of accommodation in Koh Samui, and for a lot less money. Hence, I've added my trusty trio of accommodation sights for you to browse.
Between them, they cover the island and I'm confident you will find the perfect place that suits your budget and location. After all, there's far more to Koh Samui than the northeast.
Obviously, if you're looking to enjoy the backpacker vibe and save every penny for activities and nights out, Hostelworld is the one for you. Otherwise, it's Airbnb or Booking.com.
Also, if you know a bang-up place to stay in Koh Samui, don't forget to add it to the bottom of the guide. I'm here to provide as much useful info as possible, and I know some of you know more than I do, so let's make this Koh Samui guide the best it can be.
Best things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui, Thailand is all about chilled beach vibes, massages, relaxing during the day and partying hard through the night. Therefore, you won't be surprised to see a couple of world-class beaches on my list of best things to do in Koh Samui.
Likewise, Koh Samui is full of mesmerising nature with forests, waterfalls and underwater beauty. No travel guide to Koh Samui would be complete without looking into that too.
Consequently, if you're here for activities and thrills, I'd suggest visiting other places within Thailand.
That said, Koh Samui does have a few tricks up its sleeve and doesn't rely on its tranquillity and looks.
Since my visit, the island's popularity has grown and grown, and now, as we head into 2025, there are more and more things to do. There will be things you can do on Koh Samui that you couldn't do previously.
For example, nowadays you can visit Ko Mat Sum aka Pig Island and see the beach-dwelling pigs. You can also take boat tours and excursions, around Koh Tao or the wonderful Mu Kho Angthong National Marine Park and many more.
However, here is my list, which should get you started.
Discovering Koh Samui: The Highlights
Relax and Swim at Chaweng Beach
- Why: There are so many cool places to eat, drink, get a massage, relax or swim in paradise.
- Where: In Chaweng, in the northeast of Koh Samui, Thailand. (map)
- How long: How long do you need? Take a day or two if you like.
- How much: It's a beach, you know it's free...
Chaweng Beach is possibly my favourite beach on the island. This incredible stretch of sand seems endless, running uninterrupted for miles upon miles.
Chaweng Beach is an idyllic scene with golden shimmering sands backed by lush palm trees.
The trees almost appear to walk from the mainland looking for their spot in paradise. Accompanying the trees are the clear waves that roll lazily in from the horizon, amid amazing views in all directions. Especially to the north, overlooking the small mound of Koh Mat Lang.
Overall, the smells, sights and sounds are an oasis of perfection. However, the main reason Chaweng Beach is my favourite is normally a reason for spoiling a beach. And that is that there's so much to do. Massages, water sports, beach sports, grab a cool refreshing drink, and when darkness falls, enjoy the nightlife.
The Ark Bar and Monkey Beach Bar, amongst others, play a role in making Chaweng Beach a perfect location for a night out. As do the fire dances, parties, and stunning lighting. It's where you want to be night and day.
Rest and Recover at Bang Rak Beach
- Why: It's stunning, peaceful and soul-building.
- Where: On the beautiful northeast shores of Koh Samui, Thailand. (map)
- How long: It entirely depends on you and how long you need.
- How much: You know it's free unless you want a sun lounger.
Bang Rak Beach is a nearly two-mile (3k) stretch of paradise between the headland that splits Bang Rak and Bo Phut to the west and the Big Buddha to the east.
This beautiful northern shore is similar to Chaweng Beach but without the nightlife. The crisp lighty-golden sands are painstakingly beautiful, and the sea is a shade of blue unlike elsewhere.
Despite how perfectly the sands dance between your toes the piรจce de rรฉsistance has to be the surrounding palms and greenery. They add a thick layer of green cushioning, which makes this beach special. After all, when you draw a beach as a kid, you draw palm trees around it, don't you?
From my experiences of beaches on Koh Samui Island, this only just misses out on my top spot.
Bang Rak Beach is far more peaceful, calm and a little less busy than Chaweng Beach, but it's perfect for paddling along the shores, hand-in-hand with a loved one.
Discover Wat Phra Yai and Wat Plai Laem
- Why: The island is a bit odd, but an interesting way to spend time.
- Where: In the northeast of Koh Samui Island. (map)
- How long: Once there, no more than half an hour at each temple.
- How much: Both temples are free entry. Great for those backpacking Koh Samui on a budget.
Welcome to the Big Buddha, officially titled Wat Phra Yai.
Undeniably, the twelve-meter-high Buddha, who watches over the island is the main draw to the outcrop of land. The Buddha appears much taller due to his elevated starting position aloft the large stairway and can be seen from kilometres away. The Buddha shines in the sun, thanks to his golden outer shell, which is truly dazzling.
Nevertheless, there's far more to see at Wat Phra Yai, including strange statues of mythical creatures, gods, and sea serpents. Some rise from the shores, some from the island too. It's a weird and spooky place, but full of love and laughter.
There are also shops and cafes in the vicinity.
Just up the road is the second of the two temple complexes, Wat Plai Laem.
Wat Plai Laem is a sublime clean and tranquil temple with a fish-filled lake, a large Buddha and a vast statue of Guanyin (an enlightened being who assists you in achieving your enlightenment).
Again, there are shops and cafes serving meals, fresh fruit and drinks.
In truth, neither will be the best temple you'll ever visit, but they're absorbing and different to the usual Buddhist temples and one of the most interesting things you'll see in Koh Samui.
Splash in Na Mueang 1 and Na Mueang 2
- Why: The waterfalls and surrounding forest are Mother Nature at her best.
- Where: Near the Cobra Show Thailand, off the 4169 in the southern part of the island. (map)
- How long: Give yourself most of the day at the falls, you won't regret it.
- How much: Good news especially if you're backpacking Koh Samui on a budget. It's free.
If you only have time for a couple of Koh Samui's waterfalls then Na Muang 1 and 2 are the ones to choose.
Why? Well, as above, there are two, so it's a cheeky buy-one-get-one-free. Secondly, they're free to visit. So, I guess it's buy none, get two free.
Next, there's an elephant park at the bottom of the Na Muang 1. I do not like the idea of an animal park and wouldn't recommend one. Similarly, I don't want to watch an elephant show. I prefer being on safari and seeing wild animals in the wild.
That said, on the way down from the waterfalls, you can see them roaming the openings within the forest, which is sweet.
Then, there are numerous rockpools of all sizes to swim, splash and play in. What's better than exploring crashing waterfalls and relaxing in the pools on a hot day?
Finally, if you are feeling physically fit and up for a challenge, there's the climb to the top of Na Muang 2, which is thrilling and fun. Na Mueang 2 has a very slippery and steep clamber through the jungle to the top, which is difficult, so wear appropriate walking shoes or trainers.
Once at the top, the views are out of this world as you look over the valley. Furthermore, the pools at the top are free of people. Pure bliss.
Take in the Views from the Jungle Club
- Why: It's breathtaking, mesmerising and astonishing at the same time.
- Where: A short dash inland from the southern tip of the beautiful Chaweng Noi Beach. (map)
- How long: An hour or two should give you time to relax with a drink or two.
- How much: It depends on how many drinks you buy.
I know I've mentioned the Jungle Club as somewhere to stay in Ko Samui, but I think it deserves a mention as one of the best things to do in Koh Samui too.
Frankly, I could add it to the where to eat and where to drink section, but I'll hold off from that and just talk about it here as an overall experience.
Obviously, if you're staying here, which you should if you can afford it, you'll already know why I'm adding it here.
But, for those who aren't staying at the Jungle Club...
4X4s greet you at the bottom of the hill and race you up a short mud track, which is so much fun. But beware, hold on to your hats.
No seriously. My mate lost his and we didn't get it back.
At the top. you can sit in the canopy of the trees on large beanbags out on the decking.
From our viewpoint, we could see the whole northeast of the island and the feeling you get is one of pure pleasure. Never since has there been a moment where I have felt like I did at the Jungle Club.
The prettiest, most colourful birds joined us, sitting on our shoulders as we drank beer and watched the sunset on the horizon.
That day has stayed with me since and is one I'm yet to emulate. Now, in 2024, ten years later, I'm still craving and searching for a day like that.
Where to Eat When Backpacking Koh Samui
Koh Samui is known for its fantastic Thai food, seafood and fresh, juicy fruits. Hence, you will see large shacks or carts selling masses of gigantic fruits on the side of the road. They're dead cheap and super flavoursome.
Within the restaurants, locals love Thai seafood fusion, such as fish curry, sea urchin salad and Thai squid.
Unfortunately, I'm not a seafood lover and didnโt eat out too often in Koh Samui. Therefore, I cannot recommend one of those dishes over another, Yet, if seafood is your thing, I'm sure you'll love them all.
Normally, I ate at markets and found epic little street food vendors. I always tried to eat on the move in Thailand. That way, I had more time to explore. Likewise, I often found street food to be better, fresher and have more local influences and flavours.
Furthermore, since my last visit to Koh Samui, a couple of my favourite places have closed down. Nevertheless, there are still two I can recommend.
Again, they're both in the Chaweng area.
Galanga
- What: A Thai specialist with plenty of seafood options.
- Where: On the main road next to BlackJack BAR & Hostel. (map)
- How much: On average, a main dish at Galanga costs between 250-500เธฟ (ยฃ5.80-ยฃ11.60). (menu)
Galanga is an epic Thai restaurant which concentrates its efforts on seafood. We were lucky enough to chat with the head chef, which was interesting, and a good laugh. He explained the dish's origins, where they get their ingredients from and that the fish had been happily swimming just offshore earlier that day.
Luckily, there were other options in this magnificently smelling Thai restaurant, and I demolished a couple of the Thai classics.
The dishes had a glorious taste and the sauces were to die for. Similarly, the presentation of the food was impeccable, much better than most places we had visited in Thailand.
Additionally, the restaurant had a fantastic feel, with a relaxing Feng shui ora, which I adore.
There was a real feel of the outside in. Together with the staff, who went out of their way to be helpful, Galanga is faultless. If seafood is your thing, this is the place for you.
Bondi Aussie Bar and Grill
- What: Aussie-themed sports bar.
- Where: On the main Chaweng Beach Road near the Green Mango. (map)
- How much: On average a meal in Bondi Aussie Bar and Grill will cost between 200-500เธฟ (ยฃ4.65-ยฃ11.65). (menu)
Koh Samui's Bondi Aussie Bar and Grill is unsurprisingly an Aussie-themed sports bar. Bondi is all about live sport and banging live music, both of which are as good as the food.
Whilst I normally rave about local foods, and trying local dishes, sometimes, after a few weeks in Asia, you need a juicy burger or a big steak. Frankly, this was a great option for that.
Given that we'd been to the Bondi Aussie Bar and Grill in Phuket, we knew what we were in for. That, by the way, is a decent burger.
Once again, Bondi produced great food cooked to perfection, and whilst I wouldnโt normally suggest Western foods, we needed it.
Likewise, it's also a good place to catch up on any sport you've missed back home. They're all there, cricket, footy, Aussie rules, NFL, Rugby, you name it Bondi has you covered.
Where to Party when Backpacking Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui isnโt necessarily the first place we think of when it comes to nightlife. It may not have the Full Moon Party bragging rights thatย Koh Phanganย has. It may not even have the strip ofย Phuketย or the reputation ofย Bangkok.
But it doesn't need them. In contrast, it has a unique style and chilled vibes which, whilst different, are just as entertaining.
Pubs, clubs, beach bars and shacks dot the landscape of Koh Samui, mainly along the island's coastline.
Wherever you go the nightlife in Koh Samui is booming, and nothing will change or stop it. Sadly, I only partied in Chaweng, I didn't make it much further. Even then, I still didn't get to all of them.
In fact, there were so many I could spend hours writing about Koh Samui nightlife, and Chaweng Beach.
However, I've cut it down to my top three places to party in Chaweng, Koh Samui, including a shack, a bar and a club.
Nevertheless, it won't surprise you where I'm going to start, so without further ado, I welcome you to:
The Ark Bar
- What: A vast, mad, loud and crazy beachfront bar.
- Where: On Chaweng Beach. (map)
I can only describe The Ark Bar in one word, and that's wild. Weekdays, weekends, there is no difference, no day of the week loses out here at the Ark Bar.
In reality, every night is an event, party or performance of some kind. No matter the event, the crowds flock to this crazy beachfront bar.
The reason is because it's the best in the business.
Some of my favourite events included the pool party, fire dances, live DJs and games nights. All of which will get out of hand, but are worth the hangover.
The Ark Bar has everything you could want: great restaurants, bars, a stunning pool, a beach and cheap, yet tasty drinks. It's a winner.
Furthermore, deckchairs and beanbags line the sands which are just what you need on sunny mornings, when the word of the day is recovery. Likewise, they are epic spots for stargazing, catching your breath or resting those dancing feet.
Every night local kids do the rounds along the beachfront, looking to teach you a few card tricks. Admittedly, it will cost you a few Baht, but it's entertaining.
I love the Ark Bar. It's full-on entertainment, fun and laughter providing you with great memories.
Lipsmacker
- What:ย A small beachfront shack selling some desirable concoctions.
- Where: On Chaweng Beach, just south of the Ark Bar. (map)
Heads up, there are two Lipsmackers. One is a large bar slightly off the beach near Seen Beach Club to the south, and then this little beachfront shack. The shack is the one you want.
Lipsmackers is not only a quality name but a top-quality little beach-side shack.
It's a fun, chilled environment with epic beach vibes. In truth, it's the sort of place you want and expect to see on a paradise island beachfront.
At some point every night I ended up in Lipsmackers. With relaxing, chilled vibes, and a sense of fun it was the perfect place to start or end the night.
Memories of laying in a hammock on the beach with my mates and a cocktail in hand are something I'll never forget.
Everyone was so friendly, and the staff were super cool. Likewise, the reggae tunes that blasted from the speakers add to that ambience.
Lipsmackers is the place to be for a relaxing beer or cocktail, and there is no pressure to dance and go wild. Furthermore, it's cheap, and you'll always get great service with a smile.
The Green Mango
- What: A large, bright, airy club.
- Where: Just off the main road along Chaweng Beach, opposite Chaweng Garden Resort. (map)
Finally, I give you one of the biggest clubs in the area, The Green Mango.
Home to multiple bars, stages, dance floors and seating areas, the Green Mango quickly becomes a drunken mess. Bucket after Bucket poured down our throats as we partied as hard as we ever have (other than in Phuket).
It's vibrant, manic, loud, and like moths to a flame, everyone gets drawn in by the fluorescent lighting.
Everything about this vast outdoor club has one thing in mind. You guessed it, it's getting as much drink down you as possible.
Nights here always end with a great story and more memories than you can imagine. For now, I shall keep to myself.
Everywhere you looked, people were pissed, happy and having the time of their lives. It was a brilliant night, guaranteed.
Is Backpacking Koh Samui Safe?
Based on my experience in Koh Samui and that of others I know who have been, I can assure you that Koh Samui is safe for tourists.
Not only is it safe, but I found the locals friendly and willing to help in any way they can.
Crime rates in Koh Samui are astonishingly low and even lower for tourists. Hence, as long as you're sensible and stay away from drugs on the island, you shouldn't come across any issues.
For solo female travellers, the advice doesn't alter. Be aware of your surroundings, but both day and night are safe.
Ultimately, the locals rely on tourism, and they do whatever they can to make your stay or backpacking experience in Koh Samui as good as possible.
Due to its location, Koh Samui Island experiences very few natural disasters. Even the most deadly tsunami in 2004 didn't affect Koh Samui.
The two issues Koh Samui can and has experienced are flooding and landslides. However, typically this occurs within the mountainous villages and often not in places tourists go.
In truth, the highest risk to your safety in Koh Samui comes on the roads.
Yet, even then the roads are, for Thailand, in good condition. Driving, whilst at times, chaotic and irrational, is much safer and easier than on the mainland or other islands. Nevertheless, being on the roads isn't always an easy place to be.
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Thank you for reading my travel guide to Koh Samui, Thailand. Hopefully, now, you'll agree that Koh Samui is island living at its best.
Koh Samui's nightlife is raging, the accommodation is affordable and often luxurious for the price, and as for Koh Samui's beaches, well, they are intensely pretty. Imagine your wildest dreams, place them on a paradise island and you'll have a rough idea what to expect.
I know the island doesn't need me to advertise it, it sells itself. Nevertheless, I loved my time in Koh Samui so much, that I can't help myself.
If you've been and think I've missed something or have got something wrong, please let me know in the comments below. Similarly, I'd also love to hear your thoughts on my blog.
Finally, if you're booking a trip to Koh Samui and need more information or assistance, drop us a comment or contact us on Instagram.
I'm sure you'll love it as much as I did.
Thanks
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