About Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui is an oasis of natural beauty with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water.

Roughly circular in shape, the island is the third largest island in Thailand after Phuket and Koh Chang and one of the most popular destinations for international travellers. The central part of the island is an almost uninhabitable jungle where Samui’s highest mountain, Khao Pom, peaks at 635 metres. The various lowland areas are connected together by a single 51-kilometre road that meanders mostly along the coast to encircle the bulk of the island.

The old capital Nathon is located on the southwest coast of the island and remains the major port for fishing and inter-island transportation. Nathon is the seat of the regional government and for Samui locals is the recognised commercial hub. It has a charming pace, and is almost small enough to walk everywhere. The old Chinese shophouses along the middle street whisper of an exotic history.

Although Koh Samui is in southern Thailand where Islam has a strong inf luence, the original inhabitants of the island, known as Chao Samui, are predominantly Buddhist.

In the past, most of the locals made their living in the coconut farming business. Today, however, most islanders work in jobs related to tourism because in recent years Koh Samui has developed into a popular, tropical beach resort destination. While still maintaining its unique charm, from coconut tree fringed beaches to tropical jungles and a vibrant nightlife, it has something for everyone.

Accommodations range from bungalows and villas to five-star boutique resorts and are suitable for all budgets. There are fine dining restaurants that offer a wide range of international and exotic local Thai dishes. If pampering is high on your list, there are many day spas available.

Koh Samui offers an abundance of activities including elephant trekking, canoeing, sailing, diving, golfing, fishing, cycling and almost anything else you can think of! Nature lovers will find it a paradise of waterfalls, temples and jungles. There is a butterf ly garden, aquarium, tiger zoo, monkey theatre, snake and crocodile farm to visit. Day tours to the neighbouring islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and the Angthong Marine National Park are also highly recommended.

With direct f lights to Samui Airport from Bangkok, Singapore and Hong Kong as well as ferry services from Suratthani, Koh Samui is conveniently accessible.

Koh Samui boasts many popular beaches including Chaweng and with its white sandy beaches, coral reefs and coconut trees it is easy to see why travellers from all over the world make it their preferred holiday destination.

Where to Stay

InterContinental Koh Samui Resort
Beachfront bliss, a dramatic cliffside setting and awe inspiring views await at InterContinental Koh Samui Resort, a 22-acre haven of luxurious seclusion. Located on the unspoiled west coast of Koh Samui, the re... View More »
Bandara Resort
On the peaceful north coast of Koh Samui, amid charming fishing villages and uncrowded beaches, discover an idyllic seaside setting. Escape into a world of pure bliss at Bandara Resort & Spa for an unforgetta... View More »
W Koh Samui
W Koh Samui, an all-pool villa beachfront resort, is located at the peak of the north shore of Thailand’s famed Samui Island amidst a modern paradise of vibrant foliage and pristine beaches. A modern playground... View More »
Kanda Pool Villas
A stay at one of Kanda’s 36 elegantly contemporary, very private pool villas, encourages deep immersion into calm, tranquil relaxation. The villas are nestled above a serene cove, in a quiet oasis with unfetter... View More »
Banyan Tree Samui
A tropical sanctuary awaits, where nature and culture combine to create lasting memories from your tropical getaway in the Land of Smiles. Overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Banyan Tree Samui i... View More »
The Library
The Library is a stunning conceptual hotel created under a semi-minimalist architectural style and shaped by the hands of an island local who was inspired by books. Winner of the 2018 BCI Asia Interior Design Awa... View More »

Sponsors