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Koh Samui is rightly considered one of the most beautiful vacation destinations in Thailand. The island covers 88 square miles and is largely covered by tropical jungle. It is the largest island in the Chumphon Archipelago, which also includes the neighboring party island of Koh Pha-ngan and the Ang Thong Marine National Park.
The second-largest island in the country offers extensive tourist infrastructure and diverse attractions for unforgettable vacations in Asia! Here, you’ll find stunning beaches, breathtaking nature, and incredible food at all the best Koh Samui hotels.
There are no direct flights to Koh Samui from the USA. It’s best to fly to Bangkok, Thailand, from cities like New York or Los Angeles. After arriving in the capital, you can get from Bangkok to Koh Samui via Bangkok Airways, which offers several daily flights to Samui. If you’re taking a tour around Thailand before your Koh Samui vacation, you can also take a ferry from Donsak on the mainland to Samui instead of booking Koh Samui flights from Bangkok.
The best time for Koh Samui vacations is from January to March. If you’re okay with a little more heat, the months from April to September are also great. While there may be more rain, it’s still manageable.
In general, you can enjoy Koh Samui vacations year-round. Even in the “cooler” months, temperatures rarely dip below 73°F, even at night.
However, October, November, December and May are the rainiest months in Koh Samui. While this may present some good Koh Samui vacation packages, be prepared for occasional heavy showers.
If you want to explore the island, you can rent a car, motorbike, or scooter. Organized tours and island tours are also available at affordable prices. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss during your vacation in Koh Samui:
Wat Phra Yai: The 40-foot-high Buddha statue is the largest attraction on the island. The temple is located on a small island off the north coast, accessible by bridge.
Wat Plai Laem: Nearby, this beautiful temple features an 18-armed statue of the Chinese goddess Guan-Yin.
Wat Khunaram: Located near Lamai Beach, this temple is famous for the “Mummy Monk” – the mummified body of a monk who died meditating in 1973 and has been displayed in a glass case ever since.
Na Muang Waterfalls: Located inland, Na Muang offers two cascading waterfalls. The higher Na Muang 2 is a 30-minute hike, where you can cool off in natural pools at the base of Na Muang 1.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai: These two rock formations south of Lamai resemble male and female genitalia and are revered as fertility symbols.
Our Pirate Tip: Take the somewhat challenging hike to the 2,080-foot-high Khao Pom viewpoint and enjoy an incredible view of the entire island. On your way back, stop by the magical Tarnim Magic Garden created by local artist Nim Thongsuk.
Ang Thong National Park is located very close to Koh Samui (about 17 miles away) and consists of 42 islands. You can book day trips to explore this beautiful national park. The excursions are typically done by boat. Once there, you can explore the scenery by kayak, canoe, or even snorkeling or diving. For those who want to spend more time, camping trips are available. The park’s beauty is evident in the image above.
The paradisiacal, uninhabited islands in the Ang Thong Marine National Park can only be visited as part of organized cruises. Day trips from Koh Samui usually include a hike, a kayaking tour, and some relaxing hours on the beach.
To reach the neighboring island Koh Pha-ngan, there are daily ferries – unless they are fully booked for the Full Moon Party. In that case, consider taking the much quieter island of Koh Tao.
Koh Samui’s untouched jungle invites for exciting hikes. A popular, easy-to-reach destination is the Hin Lad Waterfall, where you can swim. For more challenging hikes, the 8-mileBest Activities for Koh Samui Vacations
Hiking
Koh Samui’s untouched jungle invites for exciting hikes. A popular, easy-to-reach destination is the Hin Lad Waterfall, where you can swim. For more challenging hikes, the 8-mile Nathon Mountain Ridge Trail is recommended. is recommended.
Koh Samui’s big beaches offer a wide range of water sports, such as windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kitesurfing, waterskiing, and parasailing. You can also rent jet skis or try flyboarding at Chaweng Beach.
The relatively untouched waters of southern Thailand are a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Numerous diving schools offer trips to well-known dive sites nearby. Many Koh Samui vacation packages may have some diving and snorkeling included with a few nights at luxury Koh Samui hotels!
No Thai evening is complete without a visit to the night markets and walking streets, and Koh Samui is no exception. For example, visit the huge Walking Street in Bophut every Friday evening, located between Fisherman’s Village and The Wharf Samui. On Sundays, the Lamai Walking Street offers great food and souvenirs.
Traveling with kids? They’re in for a treat as Koh Samui offers plenty of family-friendly attractions that everyone can enjoy:
Pink Elephant Samui Water Park in Mae Nam
Coco Splash Adventure & Water Park in Lamai
Aquapark Samui at Chaweng Beach
Samui Canopy Adventures (Ziplining) in Mae Nam
In addition, you’ll find playgrounds and facilities like mini-golf for a fun and relaxing time.
Design your Koh Samui vacation according to your preferences and be captivated by this beautiful, diverse Thai island – you’ll want to return! Book your all-inclusive or last-minute trip today.
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