How to Spend a Week in Koh Samui

A tropical slice of paradise in the South China Sea, Koh Samui is the largest island in an archipelago with over 80 islands in Thailand surrounded by clear waters. The spectacular palm-lined beaches, ornate temples, national parks, scenic viewpoints, and vibrant nightlife along with its exotic cuisine promise a delightful holiday to discerning visitors. Find below some useful tips on how to spend a memorable week on this beautiful island.

Getting to and around Koh Samui

For visitors who are already in Thailand air travel is the fastest and most convenient as Koh Samui has an International Airport and regular flights operate in and out of this airport.

Another less expensive option is to travel from the Thai city by ferry to Koh Samui and use a taxi from the ferry port to the hotel as done by many visitors booked at Koh Samui Island resorts.

Once you are in Koh Samui, using a hired scooter or motorbike is fast and convenient, however for those not willing to ride scooters the songthaews (like a minibus) ply on the main roads which can be used at standard times. Taxis are available around the city area however, they are costly.

Things to do in Koh Samui – Day 1 to Day 4

There are many things to do and see in Koh Samui during the stay of one week, based on your likes and expectations. Some of the special things to experience in your order of preference during the first part of the week will be as follows.

Enjoy the beaches – Lamai Beach, Bophut Beach, Maenam Beach and Chaweng Beach are picturesque beaches attracting scores of visitors, while Chaweng Beach is more popular, the other three beaches offer more privacy and space to enjoy time at the beach.

Fisherman’s Village – Situated in Bophut this quaint village is a fine place to witness the unspoilt beauty of Koh Samui before it became a tourist hot spot. The old wooden Chinese shophouses and boutique shops provide locally made clothes and handicraft items. The bars and restaurants offer a fine diversion to hungry visitors with many visitors lingering to watch the sunset and enjoy a good dinner here.

Ang Thong Marine Park – This marine park is best experienced by doing a kayak ride to view the lovely beaches, natural caves, and enchanting limestone cliffs. You will not feel the day go by at this spectacular park.

Spa Experience – Koh Samui is famed for excellent spa facilities with many such establishments dotted around the island. They come at different prices with more pricey ones offering a niche experience for the customer. Spas at properties like Avani Samui Resort are a good example. Don’t miss a good traditional massage, an invigorating body scrub or any other treatment during your stay.

Per Meistrup, Maenam Beach, CC BY-SA 3.0 

Things to do in Koh Samui – Day 5 to Day 7

These experiences can be experienced in any order based on your expectations.

Be awed by the temples – Visiting temples is a great way to understand Thai culture and have a glimpse into Thai heritage. The most notable temples in Koh Samui are the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) and the temple of the Mummified Monk, Wat Khunaram.

Join the Full Moon Party – If you happen to be in Samui during a full moon day, join the revellers at Koh Phangan Beach if you love music and letting your hair down. 

Admire Waterfalls – Koh Samui has a few beautiful waterfalls worth seeing such as Na Muang 1 and Na Muang 2 waterfalls close to Nathon Bay and Khun Si waterfall in Bophut among many others.

Explore Night Markets – These are a great way to shop and enjoy traditional Thai food.

Other Useful Tips

• Use a helmet whenever you ride a scooter.
• Dine on the streets as the food is fresh and cheap.
• The Convenience Stores around Koh Samui are excellent for getting your daily essentials and are open 24x7.
• If you are travelling by yourself, take normal safety steps of not being out alone in the dark and avoiding deserted places at night.