Introduction
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island and its most developed resort destination. White sand beaches, luxury resorts, full moon parties on nearby Koh Phangan, and some of the Gulf of Thailand’s most beautiful scenery.
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Best Beaches on Koh Samui
Chaweng Beach: The main beach. Long, beautiful, busy. Good swimming, lots of restaurants and nightlife.
Lamai Beach: Second-largest beach. Slightly less crowded than Chaweng, good value accommodation.
Bophut (Fisherman’s Village): Northern coast. Charming wooden fisherman’s houses converted into boutique hotels and restaurants. More relaxed atmosphere.
Maenam Beach: Long, quiet, local. Best budget option. Less white sand but very peaceful.
Bang Por Beach: Northern coast. Quieter, local feel, excellent seafood restaurants.
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Top Things to Do
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
12-meter golden Buddha on a small island connected by causeway. Free. Best at sunrise or sunset.
Ang Thong Marine National Park
Spectacular 42-island archipelago 30km northwest. Crystal water, hidden lagoons, limestone caves. Full-day boat tour ฿1,500–2,000.
Na Muang Waterfalls
Two waterfalls inland from the south coast. Scenic, accessible, free. Na Muang 1 is easier, Na Muang 2 (reached by ATV or hike) is more dramatic.
Koh Phangan Day Trip
30-minute ferry. If your timing misses the Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan has beautiful beaches (Haad Rin, Bottle Beach) and excellent diving at Sail Rock.
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Getting to Koh Samui
By air: Samui Airport (USM) — expensive but fastest. Bangkok Airways monopoly keeps prices high (฿3,000–8,000).
By ferry + bus: Cheaper option from Bangkok — overnight bus to Surat Thani + ferry (฿600–900 total, 10–12 hours).
From Koh Tao or Koh Phangan: Regular ferry connections (฿350–600).
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Ang Thong Marine Park day trips are the highlight of Koh Samui — book in advance during peak season.
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