Koh Samui is also famous for its outlying islands. The diving resorts Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan, and Koh Phangan, which hosts one of the world’s top 10 parties, are some of the highlights of this destination. There are not many attractions on the island of Koh Samui itself, though the most well-known are the two beaches of Chaweng and Lamai. There are also many high-end hotels for tourists looking for a more luxurious experience.
There are four major outlying islands in Koh Samui; Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan which are also diving spots and the best places to get a diving certificate. Koh Phangan is known for its wild parties every full moon, and Angthong is a place where you can both dive and see the lagoon.
Chaweng Beach is the most developed beach in Koh Samui where many dining and entertainment facilities can be found. Visitors can rent motor boats as well as go sailing and diving during the day. In the evening, there are parties and vibrant nightlife. Koh Tao is located in the northern part of Koh Samui, where there are rich coral reefs and marine life. The dive sites near Koh Tao are generally only 12 meters deep, and there are generally no strong currents. It’s a great place to learn how to dive and it’s said to be the cheapest place to get a recreational diving license in the world.
Koh Nang Yuan is the beautiful island in the northwest of Koh Tao and a good snorkeling destination. It is best known for its white sand beach that only appears when the tide is low.
Koh Phangan is famous for its full moon party. On the 15th night of each lunar month, Haad Rin is filled with backpackers from all over the world who are drinking beer and listening to music. During the party, there are fireworks, band performances, and so on.
Antong Islands National Marine Park is the second largest national park in Thailand made up of more than 40 small islands. You can dive, climb the mountains, kayak, and see the lagoon surrounded by mountains.
Transportation to Koh Samui is rather inconvenient. Although there are direct flights to Koh Samui, traveling from other Thai cities to Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan requires one to transfer at the two main ports of Suratthani and Chumphon.
Surat Thani is the most important overland city connecting Koh Samui. Every day, many fast boats, slow boats, and overnight ferries travel between Koh Samui and several piers in Surat Thani.
Chumporn is relatively close to Koh Tao. Visitors heading directly to Koh Tao for diving can choose to transfer to Koh Tao after arriving in Chumphon. There are many trips to Koh Tao in Chumphon, and these boats will continue sailing to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui after they stop at Koh Tao.
Koh Samui has a tropical monsoon climate. Summer is considered to be the period from September to February. At this time, the sunshine is bright and many tourists visit. Monsoon season is from March to August, and it often rains. Hotels in Koh Samui may be a bit cheaper than usual during this period.
Koh Samui is dotted with a variety of upscale hotels and resorts. Chaweng Beach has many facilities while Lamai Beach is known for its beautiful white sand beaches. Cost-conscious tourists can find affordable and attractive boutique hotels in Koh Samui on the northern coast. Other inexpensive hotels in Koh Samui can be found along the coast as well.