02.03.2026.
Whenever I think of paradise in Thailand, Koh Samui instantly coomes to mind. This island isn’t just a tropical escape, it’s a feast for the senses.
From emerald green jungles to powdery white beaches, every corner of Koh Samui feels like a postcard come to live. Nestled around the beautiful small islands of Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, you can have a paradise vacation here.
Koh Samui quickly became my favourite Thai island, calling to discover more its beaches. With every kind of viewpoint, you’ll lack the things to do in Koh Samui. Night markets will bring you the surprising vibe of worldwide food and various items. Though one of the biggest in Thailand, it’s an island to relax, explore or just chase sunsets or waterfalls.
I’ve explored and peaceful Koh Lanta, but Koh Samui got my heart.
This island has it all
What makes Koh Samui so special is how much it offers in such a compact space. From dreamy beaches and tropical waterfalls to sacred temples- it’s impossible to get bored here. The island is also a perfect overture for exploring nearby Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.
Koh Samui feels more refined and welcoming than many other Thai islands. It has that unique balance- lively but not chaotic, peaceful but never dull. There’s something deeply grounding about the island’s energy.
Also, visiting night markets feels like more than that as you’re surrounded by worldwide food and live music.
Arriving in paradise- Koh Samui airport
Even the journey to Koh Samui feels like part of an adventure. While departing, you wouldn’t want to take your flight. Though not commonly known as the world’s most beautiful airport, it truly is. Check out my Instagram reel to get the vibe of Samui airport.
Instead of usual glass-and-concrete terminal, you’re welcomed by open-air pavilions. Surrounded by coconut trees, you can enjoy your swing or just stretch on the bean bag.
Once passing the security, there’s not many options to eat. I missed it before so I had to be satisfied with the spring rolls though you can also tke spaghetti and some burgers.
Having the free snacks and juices as an honour of taking the Scoot flight was a fantastic surprise. Feeling the island vibe with the warm air, colourful flowers and unmistakable scent of chill makes it hard to leave. The airport is small but incredibly charming, more like a luxury resort than an airport.
How to reach Koh Samui precisely
Seeing the high prices toward the Koh Samui airport, you might want to skip it. The reason is that Bangkok airways owns the airport. The best logical solution is to take a bus straight from Bangkok, which will save you the baggage stress. Alternatively, you can choose the Sarat Tuni airport as 12go.asia site suggests- specially when coming from Chiang Mai.
Safari Island tours
Safari Island Tour was a fun and adventurous way to explore the whole Koh Samui. Riding a songthaew, which takes the role of the public bus on the island, is what makes it so incredible. Exploring the island’s natural and cultural treasures with a feeling of wildness will bring lots of memories.
Starting with the stunning temples, you’ll pass Chaweng and its wild lake. Afterwards, you will continue with some pretty views, including lunch. Visiting the Magic Garden will spice up your adventure with the soulful vibes. At the end, tropical waterfalls, namely Na Muang Waterfall, will offer you a refreshing dip in the lush greenery.
To circle the island, we visited Grandmother and Grandfather rocks, welcoming a cute little beach. Enjoying the boho vibes in the nearby caffe is my recommendation for a chill day in Lamai.
On my Instagram reel, I’ll transfer you to Koh Samui tour to feel the island.
Beautiful temples of Koh Samui
Koh Samui is not just about beaches- it’s deeply spiritual too.
Wat Plai Laem is a Buddhist complex that reveals the charm of the Chinese lady with 18 hands. It’s Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion and you wouldn’t resist visiting her. On the contrast, at the other side of the lake lies the Laughing Buddha bringing his funny belly into focus. The floating floral hall is a serene balance between the two.
Wat Phra Yai or the Big Buddha is another impressive temple nearby. With the panoramic views of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, you’ll easily climb the stairs embraced by a dragon. Standing in the epic Mara posture, the Buddha touches the earth and you’ll see the wheel snake above him. You will not even notice that the Big Buddha temple lies in its own island and represents peace.
There is no entrance fee to visit either temple.
Amazing viewpoints in Koh Samui
Cha Chin Hill Samui was our next destination before lunch with the stunning view. It’s a camping and farm in one, a perfect place to recharge after continuing the journey.
Overlap stone
This viewpoint wasn’t included in my Safari tour, but I visited it on my own. Easily reachable from Lamai beach, just follow the directions to the Red Temple (20 minutes walking). After that, you’ll see the sign for the Overlap stone and its free shuttle. It will take you to the Overlap stone 2, which offers more decorations than the first one. You’ll need to pay the entrance fee for each viewpoint 200 tb and you can also rent a flying dress for 300 tb.
What I love about this place are the incredible views, as Lamai beach stretches in its beauty. The giant fantasy sculpture reminds me of the alluring Tulum. Besides a few nests, a hand sculpture might not be worth waiting, but I wouldn’t miss it already there. My Instagram reel might give you better impressions of this beautiful viewpoint.
Magic Garden
Hidden in the hills lies the Magical Garden, a mystical sculpture park surrounded by jungle. Walking among moss-covered statues, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world. It’s peaceful and utterly unique, while river adds a decent charm.
Beaches on Koh Samui
Lamai Beach
I stayed near Lamai Beach, one of island’s most beautiful and laid-back areas. Though a bit wavy, it wasn’t practical for swimming but it’s amazing to enjoy the vibe. Lamai beach is awesome for walking and observing the beautiful bungalows on the way.
Near my hostel, Chill In Hub was an amazing restaurant with a cute little pool. Lamai town has this lovely balance- plenty of restaurants, bars and shops. Still, it feels relaxed and authentic. At the night market, you can try food from almost every corner of the world and enjoy the live music. You wouldn’t resist some Thai gifts here, like the beautifully shaped flower soaps.
Chaweng town is the vibrant hub of Koh Samui, known for its night life.
Other beaches worth exploring include Silver beach, a small hidden gem with crystal-clear water. Here’s also a Bophut Beach, right next to the charming Fisherman’s village. Coral Cove Beach, close to Lamai, offers a sweet shelter and a picturesque ambiance.
Lipa Beach is a tranquil experience to enjoy Koh Samui.
Because of its beaches, I would love to come back to Koh Samui and explore more.
Fisherman village
Fisherman’s Village is one of the coziest places on the island, filled with boutique shops, beachfront restaurants and stylish bars. On Friday nights, it comes alive with a bustling night market. It’s a perfect spot for street food, live music and local souvenirs.
Ang Thong National Maritime Park
A day trip to Ang Thong National Maritime Park was hands-down one of the highlights of my Koh Samui journey. This stunning archipelago of 42 islands looks like something out of a dream with its pristine beaches. Towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, emerald waters, it’s a place not to miss.
Be ready to get transferred in Ang Thong with my Instagram reel.
By boat from Koh Samui it takes one hour to reach the archipelago, it’s time to chill and meet people on the boat. This is the way to find your tribe and hear the Samui preferences.
My favourite stop was Wua Ta Lap Island, where you can take a 30-minute hike to the mesmerising viewpoint. It’s a bit steep to climb, but the view will take your breath away. This island also holds a camping site, in case you wish to stay.
Emerald Laggon (Talay Nai) was our first viewpoint and a deserved swim in the pristine beach. In the little bar, I took an iced coffee to enjoy the view even more deeply.
Ang Thong will stay with you long after you’ve left.
Final thoughts
Koh Samui has a way of capturing your heart. It’s an island where every day feels full of life, light and beauty- from sunrise at Lamai to sunset over Bophut. Though one of the largest Thai islands, Koh Samui feels so small and easy to reach everywhere, like home.
Whether you’re chasing views, serenity or beaches, Koh Samui truly has it all.
PIN IT FOR LATER:
Koh Samui sounds like such an easy to navigate destination, perfect for a relaxed vacation.