Koh Samui is a stunning island located in the Gulf of Thailand, renowned for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore picturesque waterfalls, indulge in Thai cuisine at local markets, and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and yoga retreats. Let’s discover best places to stay on Koh Samui!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Koh Samui
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Banyan Tree Samui - SHA Extra Plus
- 🏨 4-Star: Samui Resotel Beach Resort
- 💸 Cheap: Shangrilah Bungalow
- 🏡 Villa: Villa Ayundra
Quick Guide to The Best Places to Stay in Koh Samui
- 🦞 Experience of local food: Lamai
- 💃🏻 For nightlife: Chaweng
- 👨👩👧 For families: Bophut and Fisherman’s Village
- 💰 For budget travelers: Maenam
- 🧘♀️For lovers of tranquility: Choeng Mon
- 😍 For the adventurous: Lipa Noi
- 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 For couples: Taling Ngam
1. Lamai: A Vibrant Coastal Beach and Neighborhood
🌴 Must-visit: Lamai Beach is a must-see attraction in Lamai, Thailand, known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like snorkeling and kayaking.
🌅 Memorable views: For breathtaking panoramic views of Lamai and its surroundings, head to the viewpoint atop Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, also known as Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks. These natural rock formations offer stunning vistas of the coastline and make for excellent photo opportunities.
🏖️ Beachside relaxation: Lamai’s beachfront area is lined with an array of restaurants, bars, and shops, offering visitors a vibrant atmosphere to relax and unwind. Whether you’re sipping on cocktails while watching the sunset or indulging in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, Lamai Beach offers a memorable beach experience.
🕌 Cultural Sights: Visit Wat Lamai, a colorful Buddhist temple complex with ornate Thai architecture, serene gardens with fish ponds, and a towering 18-arm image of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
🛍️ Shopping spree: Explore Lamai’s bustling Walking Street Night Market, where you can browse stalls selling a variety of souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and local handicrafts. The market is also a great place to sample delicious street food and experience the lively atmosphere of Lamai’s nightlife.
🚶♂️ Easy exploration: Getting around Lamai is convenient, with various transportation options available, including motorbike rentals and songthaews (shared taxis). Visitors can easily explore nearby attractions such as Wat Lamai Temple, Lamai Viewpoint, and the cultural village of Hua Thanon.
🏞️ Natural Wonders: Take a side trip to the picturesque Na Muang Waterfalls, considered among the most beautiful cascades on Koh Samui. The two-tiered falls tumble through lush jungle scenery.
With its idyllic beach, unique attractions, cultural sites and natural beauty, Lamai offers a well-rounded taste of Koh Samui’s charms away from the bigger crowds.
Recommended hotels:
💎 Luxury hotels:
- The Lamai Samui – luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views, featuring spacious rooms and suites, a serene spa.
- Banyan Tree Samui - SHA Extra Plus – a 5-star all pool villa resort set on a private bay along Lamai Beach. It boasts a world-class spa, 5 dining options, private pools for each villa, and activities like diving and cycling.
- Pavilion Pool Residence Samui - SHA Extra Plus – elegant residences with private pools, water sports facilities, and a beachside restaurant on Lamai Beach.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort – an elegant colonial-style resort featuring 146 spacious rooms and suites with private balconies or terraces.
- Villa Nalinnadda Petite Hotel & Spa, Adults Only – a 4-star hotel on Maret Beach, catering exclusively to adults. It provides direct beach access, an outdoor pool, spa services, and dining options focused on Thai cuisine.
- Royal Beach Boutique Resort & Spa Koh Samui – a trendy romantic boutique resort offering suites and bungalows for couples and families.
💰 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- The Hive Hotel – a 3-star property offering an infinity pool, private balconies with sea views, and easy access to nearby shops and restaurants serving Thai and Western cuisine.
- Palm Coco Mantra – a hillside resort with an outdoor pool, offering stylish Thai-inspired rooms with balconies overlooking the beach.
- Crystal Bay Beach Resort – a budget amazing hotel set on the picturesque Crystal Bay Beach, good value for money.
2. Chaweng: The Best Area to Stay for Party People
🛍️ Vibrant Nightlife: Chaweng is the pulsating heart of Koh Samui’s famous nightlife scene. Soi Green Mango and Soi Reggae are packed with neon-lit bars, pumping clubs like Ark Bar and live music venues.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: Chaweng offers a diverse culinary landscape, with an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls serving up tantalizing Thai flavors and international fare. From authentic pad Thai and fragrant green curry to fresh seafood BBQ and wood-fired pizzas, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Don’t miss the popular Chaweng Lake night food market.
Must-Visit Attractions:
- Chaweng Beach: Stretching for over seven kilometers, Chaweng Beach is a tropical paradise renowned for its soft, powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. Spend your days basking in the sun, swimming in the gentle waves, or partaking in water sports like snorkeling, jet-skiing, and parasailing.
- Central Festival Samui: Indulge in a shopping spree at Central Festival Samui, the island’s largest shopping complex located in the heart of Chaweng. Here, you’ll find a wide array of retail outlets, boutique stores, and international brands, perfect for picking up souvenirs, clothing, and electronics.
- Ark Bar Beach Club: Experience Chaweng’s legendary nightlife scene at Ark Bar Beach Club, where the party never stops! Dance the night away to live DJs spinning tropical beats, sip on refreshing cocktails, and mingle with fellow revelers under the stars.
🏖️ Beachside relaxation: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chaweng’s beachfront, lined with an array of restaurants, bars, and shops. Whether you’re enjoying cocktails by the shore or indulging in fresh seafood at a beachside eatery, Chaweng Beach offers a memorable beach experience.
Chaweng is the perfect destination for travelers seeking sun, sea, and endless adventure. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring cultural landmarks, or dancing the night away, Chaweng promises an unforgettable island experience. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and get ready for the ultimate island escape in Chaweng, Thailand!
Recommended Hotels and Resorts:
💎 Luxury hotels:
- Amari Koh Samui – a 5-star resort features 3 wings (Thai Village, Garden, and Beach), 2 pools, a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options including Italian and Thai cuisine.
- Centara Reserve Samui - SHA Plus – a new 5-star luxury resort offers elegant villas and suites, multiple pools, a spa, fitness facilities, and several restaurants serving international cuisines.
- SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort – a 5-star luxury resort featuring luxurious private pool villas, suites, and a signature “moon pool” overlooking the sea.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Sheraton Samui Resort – The resort provides easy access to nearby shops and multiple dining options.
- Hyatt Regency Koh Samui- SHA Extra Plus – The resort features a unique “Regency Club” lounge for exclusive services and amenities.
- Samui Resotel Beach Resort – a 4-star resort located on Chaweng Beach and known for its lush tropical gardens and direct beach access.
💰 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- J4 Samui Hotel - SHA Plus – a modern budget hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, and free private parking.
- Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach – a lovely hostel with a lively atmosphere, featuring two outdoor pools, a beach club, shared lounges, and a bar.
- Samui Paradise Chaweng Beach Resort – The resort is just over a quarter mile from central Chaweng.
3. Bophut and Fisherman’s Village: Perfect Destination for Families
🎣 Charming Village: Step back in time as you stroll through the narrow streets lined with old wooden shophouses in this historic fishing village. Many buildings have been converted into trendy boutiques, art galleries, bars and restaurants, creating a unique blend of traditional Thai-Chinese atmosphere and modern tourist amenities.
🌅 Tranquil Bophut Beach: Unwind on the peaceful stretch of golden sand lined with swaying palm trees. While not the longest beach on Samui, Bophut offers a relaxed vibe away from the crowds and one of the best beaches on the island. Take a dip in the calm turquoise waters, catch a stunning sunset, or enjoy water sports like snorkeling and kayaking.
🏫 Historic center: Wander through the narrow lanes and alleys of Fisherman’s Village to discover its rich cultural heritage. Admire the well-preserved architecture of old teakwood houses and visit the local temple, Wat Bo Phut, known for its intricate design and serene atmosphere. Don’t miss the Friday Night Walking Street Market, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and sample delicious street food.
🍴 Diverse Dining Scene: Indulge in a wide array of culinary delights, from fresh local seafood to international flavors. Dine with your toes in the sand at beachfront restaurants, grab a cocktail at chic bars, or sample authentic Thai dishes at casual eateries. Some top picks include 2 Fishes for Italian seafood, Happy Elephant for Thai cuisine and live jazz, and Coco Tam’s for tropical drinks right on the beach.
🛍️ Unique Shopping: Browse the eclectic mix of shops in Fisherman’s Village, from upscale clothing boutiques to local handicraft stalls. Check out The Wharf Samui, a massive open-air shopping complex spanning over 5,000 square meters. You’ll find everything from jewelry and artwork to spa products and home decor.
🎭 Cultural hub: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Bophut and Fisherman’s Village by attending traditional Thai performances or participating in local festivals and events. Visit the Fisherman’s Village Plaza for live music and entertainment, or explore nearby cultural attractions such as the Samui Cultural Center and Fine Arts Hall.
🚍 Well-connected: Bophut and Fisherman’s Village are well-connected to other area of Koh Samui, with taxis and songthaews readily available for transportation. Additionally, the neighborhood is conveniently located near the island’s main attractions, including Big Buddha Temple and Chaweng Beach, making it easy to explore the island’s highlights.
Recommended Hotels and resorts:
💎 Luxury hotels:
- Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort – a 5-star luxury resort located directly on Bophut Beach and provides easy access to nearby attractions like Fisherman’s Village.
- Ampersand Resort – The resort has a garden, lounge, and terrace, along with dining options serving Mediterranean, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Hansar Samui Resort & Spa - SHA Extra Plus – a luxury resort features an award-winning spa, and accommodation with private balconies or terraces.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Holiday Inn Resort Samui Bophut Beach – a 4-star resort located directly on Bophut Beach.
- Peace Resort Samui – a 4-star great resort set on Bophut Beach, just a short walk from Fisherman’s Village and one of the best choices for families.
- Cielo Boutique Hotel & Spa Samui – a 4-star boutique hotel features an outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and accommodation with private balconies or terraces.
💰 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Riviera Beach Hotel – a hotel has 30 rooms, some with balconies directly facing the beach.
- Smile House - Fisherman Village – a 3-star resort offers 56 bungalows and rooms spread across lush tropical gardens, a free breakfast and has a night market nearby several days a week.
- Baan Yaimai Boutique Samui – a boutique hotel provides free WiFi and is praised for its proximity to the beach and Fisherman’s Village area.
4. Maenam: Your Gateway to Serenity in Koh Samui
🏖️ Must-Visit: Maenam is a tranquil coastal village nestled on the northern shores of Koh Samui. It boasts a stunning 7-kilometer stretch of beach, soft golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it one of the island’s most picturesque beaches.
🏡 Local Village Charm: Wander through the quaint streets of Maenam village, where you’ll find a mix of small resorts, local eateries, and shops. The area retains an authentic Thai-Chinese atmosphere, providing a glimpse into the island’s traditional way of life.
🏊♀️ Water Activities: With its calm waters and shallow areas, Maenam Beach is a perfect beach for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Rent equipment from local vendors or join guided tours for a more immersive experience.
🐘 Nearby Attractions: Maenam serves as a convenient base for exploring other parts of Koh Samui. The iconic Big Buddha Temple and the picturesque Namuang Waterfalls are just a short drive away, offering opportunities for cultural immersion and natural adventures.
🍴 Diverse Dining: While Maenam may be quieter than other areas, it still offers a variety of dining options. Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood and international cuisines, while casual eateries and street food stalls cater to local flavors.
🚍 Easy transportation: Getting around Maenam is convenient, with taxis, songthaews (shared taxis), and motorbike rentals readily available. Explore the neighborhood and nearby attractions with ease, whether you’re heading to Fisherman’s Village for shopping and dining or embarking on an island of Koh Samui hopping adventure.
Best Hotels:
💎 Luxury hotels:
- Santiburi Koh Samui – a 5-star luxury resort set on 23 acres of tropical gardens in Maenam. It features suites, villas, and private residences.
- W Koh Samui – a 5-star luxury resort located on a private beach in Maenam. The resort offers 74 villas with private pools, 3 restaurants including Japanese cuisine, a spa and the iconic WOOBAR overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.
- Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui – a 5-star luxury resort is known for its lush tropical setting and panoramic ocean views.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Explorar Koh Samui - Adults Only Resort and Spa – The resort provides 10% discounts on spa services and food/beverages for direct bookings, as well as support for tree conservation initiatives.
- Tropical Season Villa Resort – a 4-star resort has villas ranging from 1-4 bedrooms, some with private pools, and is set in a lush garden environment.
- Khwan Beach Resort - Luxury Glamping and Pool Villas Samui - Adults Only - SHA Extra Plus – an adults-only glamping and pool villa resort located just 164 feet from Maenam Beach.
💰 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Saree Samui – a boutique resort is passionate about sustainability and provides a serene, nature-focused atmosphere and features an eco-friendly design.
- Coco Palm Beach Resort – a 3-star resort situated just 20 minutes from Samui Airport and offers 70 bungalows and villas spread across tropical gardens.
- Shangrilah Bungalow – a budget-friendly property provides modern, air-conditioned bungalows with garden views.
5. Choeng Mon: A Tranquil Gem on Koh Samui’s Northern Coast
🏖️ Must Have: Choeng Mon is a tranquil coastal village nestled on the northeastern shores of Koh Samui. It boasts a stunning 4-kilometer stretch of soft golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it one of the island’s most picturesque beaches.
🐘 Samui Elephant Sanctuary: Embark on a memorable adventure at the Samui Elephant Sanctuary, located near Choeng Mon. Get up close and personal with rescued elephants, learn about their rehabilitation journey, and participate in ethical elephant interactions, such as feeding and bathing.
🏝️ Island hopping: Embark on an island-hopping adventure from Choeng Mon and explore nearby attractions such as Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. Discover pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life as you snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of these picturesque islands. With boat tours and charters readily available, you can easily customize your island-hopping experience to suit your preferences.
🍽️ Local food: Indulge in a culinary journey at Choeng Mon’s diverse array of restaurants and eateries, offering a fusion of Thai flavors and international cuisine. Seafood restaurants serving freshly caught delicacies to cozy cafes and street food stalls, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud. Savor authentic Thai dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and tom yum soup, or treat yourself to global gastronomic delights for a memorable dining experience.
Choeng Mon captivates visitors with its pristine beach area, stunning views, and vibrant culinary scene, making it a must-visit destination in Koh Samui. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or gastronomic delights, Choeng Mon offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.
Where to Stay in Choeng Mon?
💎 Luxury hotels:
- Six Senses Samui – a 5-star luxury resort has an organic farm, mushroom hut, and offers experiences like cooking classes and night safari tours.
- Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui – a luxury resort set on 25 acres of lush tropical gardens in Choeng Mon. It offers private pool villas, an award-winning spa and activities like snorkeling and kayaking in the private bay.
- Kimpton Kitalay Samui, an IHG Hotel – a new 5-star luxury resort located on Choeng Mon Beach features family-friendly amenities like a kids’ club and water sports facilities.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Melati Beach Resort & Spa – The resort has a dedicated kids’ club, babysitting services, and offers activities like cooking classes and yoga.
- Melia Koh Samui – a glamour hotel provides a free shuttle service to Chaweng Beach and Fisherman’s Village, as well as water sports facilities.
- SAii Koh Samui Choengmon – The resort is part of the SAii Resorts brand and offers family-friendly amenities like a kids’ club and playground.
💰 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Deva Beach Resort Samui – a 4-star resort has a seafront area but swimming in the sea is not possible. It is within walking distance to the pier for Koh Phangan Full Moon Party.
- Samui Honey Cottages Beach Resort - SHA Extra Plus – The resort features modern garden and cottages with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Chor Chang Villa Resort – a stylish resort with free on-site parking and is a 10-minute drive from both Big Buddha Temple and Fisherman’s Village.
6. Lipa Noi: A Sunset Paradise and Serene Coastal Gem
🌅 Spectacular Sunsets: One of the most enchanting experiences in Lipa Noi is witnessing the breathtaking sunsets over the Andaman Sea. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, casting a magical glow over the tranquil waters and creating unforgettable moments.
🏖️ Beach Bliss: Lipa Noi Beach is a picture-perfect stretch of powdery white sand and turquoise waters, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Fringed by swaying palm trees and bordered by lush vegetation, the beach provides a serene setting for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Koh Samui. Whether you’re seeking a romantic stroll at sunset or a family-friendly beach day, Lipa Noi Beach delivers a quintessential tropical experience.
🙏 Cultural Attractions: While primarily a residential area, Lipa Noi is home to cultural attractions such as the famous Wat Kiri Wongkaram temple. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire its intricate architecture, and experience moments of tranquility amidst lush surroundings.
🌴 Island Adventures: While Lipa Noi exudes tranquility, it also serves as a convenient base for exploring Koh’s attractions and activities. Embark on island-hopping tours, visit nearby temples and waterfalls, or engage in thrilling water sports and outdoor adventures, all easily accessible from this coastal haven.
🛍️ Local Markets: Explore the nearby markets and shops to discover unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. From bustling night markets to quaint seaside stalls, Lipa Noi offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and experiencing the vibrant local culture.
🚗 Convenient Access: With well-connected roads and transportation options such as taxis and motorbike rentals, getting around Lipa Noi and exploring the island is convenient and hassle-free for tourists. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach or adventure in the hinterlands, Lipa Noi provides a perfect starting point for your Koh Samui adventures.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury hotels:
- Villa Ayundra – a luxurious 5-bedroom villa located directly on Lipa Noi Beach. It features a contemporary Asian design and and a total living area of 1,000 sq.m.
- Villa U - Beachfront Haven – a beautifully designed 3-bedroom villa offering a private 20-meter infinity pool and full-time staff service.
- Akuvara – a magnificent villa features modern glass architecture, a 13×5 meter pool, multiple lounge areas, and a private chef service.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Sea Valley Resort – The resort has villas ranging from 45-90 sq.m. in size, some with private pools. It is located 9 km from Nathon Pier.
- Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui – The hotel provides private beach access, water sports facilities, and evening entertainment like fire shows and DJs.
- Lipa Lodge Beach Resort – a boutique resort is one of the oldest resorts on Koh Samui, established in 1982. It offers a secluded, natural environment away from crowds.
💰 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Anahata Resort – a good resort located directly on Lipa Noi Beach on the western coast of Koh Samui. It offers an outdoor pool, spa services, and accommodation with sea views.
- Viva Vacation Resort – a family-owned resort situated on Lipa Noi Beach, offering spacious Thai-style villas surrounded by tropical grounds.
- At Samui Haus – The hotel provides easy access to Lipa Noi Beach and is situated near the popular Nikki Beach Club. 7. Taling Ngam: The Perfect Place to Stay for Couples
7. Taling Ngam
📍 Location: Taling Ngam, nestled on the southwestern coast of Koh Samui, is a serene and picturesque village renowned for its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and stunning sunsets. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
🐘 Iconic Elephant Gate: Marvel at the iconic Elephant Gate, a unique landmark constructed in 1979 by the local temple’s head monk. This symbolic structure welcomes visitors to the village and represents the warm hospitality of the locals.
🐬 Water Activities: With its calm waters and shallow areas, Taling Ngam Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Rent equipment from local vendors or join guided tours for a more immersive experience.
🍴 Diverse Dining: While Taling Ngam may be quieter than other areas, it still offers a variety of dining options. Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood and international cuisines, while casual eateries and street food stalls cater to local flavors.
🚕 Accessibility: Despite its secluded location, Taling Ngam is easily accessible by road, making it convenient for travelers to explore the area and nearby attractions. Whether you’re renting a car, hiring a taxi, or taking a guided tour, getting around Taling Ngam is hassle-free, allowing you to make the most of your time in this tranquil paradise.
Best Hotels:
💎 Luxury hotels:
- Conrad Koh Samui – The lovely hotel has an on-site 2-acre organic farm producing vegetables and fruits for the resort’s restaurants.
- Conrad Koh Samui Residences – a 5-star luxury villa resort situated on the hillside in Taling Ngam.
- InterContinental Koh Samui Resort, an IHG Hotel – The resort has a 150-yard private pier, offers free water sports equipment, and provides speedboat transfers to nearby islands.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- The Beach Samui – a luxury boutique hotel located in the traditional fishing village of Thong Krut.
- Avani Plus Samui Resort – The resort provides free kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for guests to enjoy the calm waters of the private bay.
- Sibaja Palms Sunset Beach Luxury Apartments – a small, intimate resort ideal for couples or families seeking a relaxing getaway.
💰 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Am Samui Resort Taling Ngam – The resort has 60 rooms and is located just a short walk from the beach. It is a popular choice for budget travelers.
- Samui Hills – a budget resort is situated on a hillside, providing guests with panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding area.
- Silent Palm Samui – a relatively new resort that opened in 2020. It offers modern amenities and a prime location on Taling Ngam Beach.
FAQs about Koh Samui
Which part of Koh Samui is the best to stay?
Chaweng Beach is considered the best area to stay in Koh Samui due to its vibrant nightlife, extensive dining options, and beautiful sandy beach, while Lamai Beach is a great alternative for those seeking a slightly quieter but still lively atmosphere.
Is it better to go to Koh Samui or Phuket?
Choosing between Koh Samui and Phuket depends on your preferences: Koh Samui offers a more relaxed, boutique experience with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, while Phuket is larger and more developed, with a wider range of activities and tourist attractions.
How many days do you need in Koh Samui?
A stay of 3 to 5 days in Koh Samui is ideal to enjoy its beaches, explore the island, and experience local attractions.
What is the main area of Koh Samui?
The main area of Koh Samui is Chaweng, known for its bustling beach, extensive shopping, dining.
