Koh Samui, Thailand’s third-largest island, is a beautiful mix of natural scenery, rich culture, and modern comforts. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, the island is famous for its white sand beaches lined with palm trees, clear blue waters, and green jungles. You will find everything from luxury resorts and lively nightlife to peaceful wellness retreats. The busy beaches of Chaweng and Lamai offer fun and excitement, while quieter places like Taling Ngam provide calm and relaxation. With interesting temples and a range of activities, Koh Samui has something for every type of traveler, whether you want adventure, rest, or a taste of local culture.

Beyond its stunning views, Koh Samui is full of things to do. You can visit the beautiful Ang Thong Marine Park, enjoy fresh seafood in Fisherman’s Village, or relax at a spa by the beach. The island blends old and new—ancient temples sit next to stylish cafes, and fancy villas share space with traditional fishing villages. Because of its warm, tropical weather, Koh Samui is great to visit all year (though July and August are the driest). More than just a holiday spot, it’s a wonderful way to experience the charm and flavors of Thai island life.

Koh Samui’s history is as layered as its landscapes. While documented records are sparse, the island’s story is woven from oral traditions and archaeological traces. It was part of the Srivijaya Kingdom (7th–14th century), a Mahayana Buddhist empire stretching from Sumatra to southern Thailand. Surat Thani, Samui’s provincial capital, served as a northern outpost for trade, attracting Chinese, Arab, and later European merchants. Despite regional power shifts—including Khmer and Sukhothai influences—Samui remained isolated, known chiefly to fishermen and pirates seeking refuge in its hidden bays.

The mid-19th century marked a turning point with the arrival of Hainan Chinese traders fleeing turmoil during the Opium Wars. They settled in Nathon, Samui’s now-capital, building shophouses and erecting shrines like the Hainan Temple (1862). These pioneers recognized the island’s potential, leveraging its red soil and coconut palms to build an agricultural economy. For over a century, coconuts dominated Samui’s identity, harvested using trained monkeys and transported via military trucks post-WWII. The industry fostered a unique culture of resilience, with communities thriving in the highlands to avoid pirate raids and coastal hazards.

Samui’s modern era began with Darrell Berrigan, an American journalist who visited in 1952 and immortalized the island in media. His writings sparked curiosity among backpackers, who arrived via arduous boat journeys to sleep on beaches for 5 baht. The 1972 completion of Route 4169—a ring road dynamited through mountains—connected the island’s villages and catalyzed development. Resorts like Palm Bungalow (1975) catered to the growing Goa-Bali hippie trail, while the 1989 opening of Samui Airport unlocked luxury tourism. Today, Samui balances its coconut-farming heritage with a thriving tourism economy, yet retains the charm that enchanted its first visitors.

Tree Tops Signature Dining offers a unique culinary experience set high in a 120-year-old tree canopy at Anantara Resort, where guests dine in private Sala pavilions overlooking the ocean. The menu blends innovative European-Asian dishes like Tom Yum with watermelon, paired with an extensive selection of over 100 international wines. Recognized with a MICHELIN One Key award, it is celebrated as Koh Samui’s most romantic dining destination for its ambiance, creativity, and impeccable service.

📍92 / 1 Moo 2, Bo Put, Bophut 84320 Thailand

Perched high in the hills above Chaweng, The Jungle Club offers breathtaking panoramic views of Koh Samui’s east coast and the sparkling ocean below. This open-air restaurant and lounge serves a diverse menu of Thai and Western dishes from breakfast through dinner, perfect for a leisurely meal any time of day. Guests can unwind on comfortable beanbags, sipping fresh coconuts or cocktails while soaking in the serene, tropical atmosphere.

📍44, 11 Village No. 3, Chaweng, Bophut 84320 Thailand

Nestled in Koh Samui’s Fisherman’s Village, Chez François offers an elegant yet cozy French dining experience crafted by acclaimed Chef François Porte. The menu showcases classic dishes like rich foie gras and tender duck confit, prepared with premium ingredients and artistic precision. Impeccable service and a warm, community-focused atmosphere make it a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike.

📍33/2, Moo 1 Fisherman's Village, Bophut 84320 Thailand

Cafe 69 in Koh Samui is a vibrant, visually striking restaurant known for its modern decor and bold use of color. The menu creatively reimagines traditional Thai dishes with exceptional flavor and artistic presentation, making each meal both a visual and culinary delight. Paired with an inventive cocktail bar and attentive service, it offers a lively atmosphere perfect for gatherings with friends or family.

📍157/52 Bophut Avenue Apartment, Bophut 84320 Thailand

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.