Koh Samui

How many days: 5

Five days gives you time to enjoy the beaches without rushing between attractions. Spend your first day settling in, then explore the north coast, visit temples and markets, and make time for a boat trip or a day exploring the island's interior.

If you have a week, add slower beach days and consider a visit to Ang Thong Marine National Park. Three days works for a short stop, but you will need to choose between sightseeing and simply relaxing.

What to do in Koh Samui

Relax on Chaweng Beach

Spend time on one of Samui's longest and most developed beaches, with soft sand and plenty of places to eat nearby. The central sections are lively, while the northern end can feel quieter.

Explore Fisherman's Village

Walk through Bophut's old village streets, where traditional buildings sit alongside shops and restaurants. Stay into the evening when the waterfront becomes particularly pleasant.

Visit the Big Buddha

See the large golden Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai on the island's northeastern coast. Dress respectfully and take time to look around the temple grounds.

See Wat Plai Laem

Visit this colourful temple complex with its striking statues and ornamental lake. It is close enough to the Big Buddha to combine both in one outing.

Take a boat to Ang Thong Marine National Park

Explore an archipelago of limestone islands, sheltered beaches and viewpoints. Trips depend on sea conditions, so leave some flexibility in your plans.

Swim at Silver Beach

Find this small bay between Chaweng and Lamai, surrounded by granite rocks and clear water. It is particularly appealing when the sea is calm.

Explore Lamai Beach

Spend an afternoon on a broad stretch of sand with a more laid-back atmosphere than central Chaweng. There are plenty of casual places to eat nearby.

Visit Na Muang Waterfalls

Head inland to see waterfalls surrounded by tropical vegetation. Paths can be slippery, and the amount of water varies with recent rainfall.

Watch the sunset on the west coast

Find a quiet stretch around Lipa Noi or Taling Ngam for views across the Gulf of Thailand. The atmosphere is noticeably calmer than the main eastern resorts.

Explore the island's southern coast

Travel through quieter villages, coconut groves and less-developed coastal areas. It is a good way to see Samui beyond its main holiday centres.

What to eat and drink

Try southern Thai curry

Look for rich coconut curries or sharper, spicier southern preparations. Ask about the heat level if you are not used to strong chilli.

Eat freshly grilled seafood

Choose fish, prawns or squid cooked simply with lime, garlic and chilli. Coastal restaurants are an obvious place to try them.

Have a Thai street-food dinner

Browse a local night market for grilled skewers, noodles, salads and small snacks. It is an easy way to sample several dishes.

Try pad kra pao

Order stir-fried meat or tofu with holy basil, chilli and rice, often topped with a fried egg. It makes a satisfying everyday lunch.

Eat mango sticky rice

Try ripe mango with sweet coconut sticky rice when mangoes are in season. It is a simple dessert that suits the tropical weather.

Drink fresh coconut water

Have a chilled young coconut after the beach, or try a fresh fruit shake. Both are widely available around the island.

Getting around

Samui is too large to explore comfortably on foot. You can walk within areas such as Fisherman's Village or central Chaweng, but travelling between beaches usually requires transport. Shared songthaew pickup trucks operate on common routes, although routes and fares are not always obvious. Agree on the fare before boarding.

Taxis, private drivers and locally available ride-hailing services are useful for longer journeys. Confirm the price or metered arrangement before leaving. Scooters are common but roads can be steep, busy and slippery after rain; only ride if you are experienced, licensed and properly insured. Boat trips generally leave from designated piers.

Good to know

• Samui's rainfall pattern differs from much of Thailand's Andaman coast, with particularly wet conditions often occurring later in the year.
• The sea can become rough during monsoon periods. Follow beach warnings and do not assume every bay is safe for swimming.
• Cover shoulders and knees at temples, remove shoes where requested and behave respectfully around religious images.
• Beachfront locations are not necessarily close together. Check the exact area of your accommodation before booking.
• Carry some cash for markets, small shops and local transport, even if larger establishments accept cards.
• Use insect repellent, especially around dusk, and protect yourself from strong tropical sun even on cloudy days.