Whether for a romantic holiday as a couple or for holidays with family or friends, KohSamuiis definitely one of Thailand's more popular destinations. It's been one of the first beach destinations I've gone to each time I've visited Thailand.
Because it's a large island, it's perfectly possible to avoid the crowds you can find on some of the beaches along its east coast.I prefer the more peaceful atmosphere of BoPhutin the north for example.I go to visit the point where the Big Buddha Temple is located; I venture deep into the coconut palm forests in the center of the island. I don't find myself getting bored.
The island has some nice surprises to offer, such as the HinYaiHinTa rock formations and HuaThanon Beach,with the latter almost feeling like a beach in the Seychelles.However, I am critical of the over-development seen in some parts of Samui, with increasing numbers of hotels leading to some areas becoming unsightly and spoiled. Sections of the beaches have been made private in these areas, making access difficult.