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An update from Evaneos
Koh Samui

Koh Samui (Thailand)

Practical information about Koh Samui

  • Family
  • Relaxation
  • Romantic
  • Beach / Seaside Resort
  • Island
  • Waterfall
4 / 5 - 2 reviews
How to get there
Two and a half hours by bus and boat from Surat Thani
When to go
From January to September
Minimum stay
3 to 5 days

Reviews of Koh Samui

Romain Beuvart Travel writer
89 travel articles

Koh Samui is the main island on the Gulf of Thailand side of the country and is very popular with tourists as a beach destination. 

My suggestion:
Avoid Chaweng Beach as it's noisier and busier than others. If you rent a vehicle, watch out for the Thai traffic, which is sometimes dangerous, and for other tourists not taking enough care. 
Summary:

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.

Beach at Koh Samui
Marine Faure Travel writer
47 travel articles

Koh Samui is the second biggest island in Thailand.

My suggestion:
Get out of the city by hiring a scooter to explore the island independently!
Summary:
I arrived in Koh Samui after an exhausting trip and many long hours by bus. I was so pleased to be able to stay on this island, which is suitable for backpackers and families and also for romantic breaks
I spent three days on Koh Samui and was able to relax on the long beaches of white sand, swim in the turquoise ocean, and sip cocktails on a lounger with my feet in the water…total chill-out mode!
I hired a scooter to explore the island and ventured into the jungle where I found some waterfalls and even came across some elephants! I also watched a Thai boxing match in the city.
Pontoon on Koh Samui