Map of Koh Samui Thailand: Your Complete Travel Guide!
If you’re looking for ideas for a vacation in a beautiful tropical paradise, look no further than Koh Samui in Thailand! This gorgeous South-East Asian island has a little piece of heaven for everyone, no matter your interests or your budget. Sun-worshippers can relax and enjoy some of the best white sand beaches in the world, whilst adventurers might prefer to hike into the tropical jungle interior of the island to see the Nam Tok Na waterfall. Koh Samui offers you everything from trendy cocktail bars, luxury hotels, classy restaurants, and spa experiences, to beach bungalows, ocean sports, fantastic street food, and a taste of Thai island culture.
Koh Samui hosted 29 million tourists last year, so it is safe to say that it is an incredibly popular tourist destination for people from all around the world!
Beach Bliss in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has some truly exquisite white sandy beaches that are perfect for rest and relaxation. Most of the beaches in Koh Samui are fully equipped with amenities such as loungers and beach umbrellas for hire, as well as beach bars and seaside cafés that provide refreshments. Arrive early to get the best spots, and spend your days baking in the sun and taking leisurely dips in the warm, clear blue ocean.
The biggest and most popular beach on the island of Koh Samui is Chaweng Noi. A long, white ribbon of sand lapped by the turquoise ocean, Chaweng Noi is a swimming hotspot, and the place to mingle with other beach revellers in the sun. It’s also home to the famed Green Mango Strip, a stretch of bars and restaurants frequented by party-goers and fellow tourists. Lamai Beach is also worth visiting, as it’s slightly more relaxed that Chaweng Noi, and the amenities are cheaper. If you have time, be sure to take a day-trip to the nearby Angthong National Marine Park for coral reef snorkelling, kayaking, cave exploration, and nature walks.
tropical Jungle adventures
Trek through the tropical jungles of Koh Samui and visit the Na Muang and Nam Tak Na waterfalls situated towards the interior of the island. Wear good shoes and come prepared for a tough hike if you want to reach the tallest waterfall – the view is well worth the effort! Na Muang is the lower waterfall, which is frequented by tourists, and the uppermost waterfall (Nam Tak Na) is less popular with visitors, yet it offers a breathtaking scenic route with less foot traffic.
Nature lovers will enjoy the local wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, and all kinds of insects and reptiles. If you want a more comprehensive wildlife tour, visit one of the wildlife parks and see what conservation work is being done with elephants and tigers. Take care to keep your visits informed and ethical, so as to preserve the natural wildlife and benefit the livelihoods of the locals working in the tourist industry. The result is a beneficial and fulfilling experience for all involved.
Buddhist Temples and Thai Island Culture
Change pace by exploring some of Koh Samui’s cultural hotspots, such as the Buddhist temples and the bustling fishing village of Bophut. Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) is a popular tourist destination, and it gives visitors a great introduction to one of the main religions of Thailand. The 15 metre tall Buddha statue is quite spectacular, and the architecture of the temple is fascinating. When visiting religious sites in Thailand (including those in Koh Samui), remember to take along a sarong or beach cover-up to cover your shoulders and legs when entering sacred sites. You will be refused entry if you are not dressed appropriately, and it is considered respectful to comply with the dress code and to come prepared.
Bophut fishing village is another place to visit if you’re looking to experience some Thai culture. The island was originally settled as a fishing colony, and although the tourist industry has taken off exponentially, Koh Samui has kept some of its humble roots in Bophut. Check out the bustling streets and local food stalls, and take a break from the cosmopolitan vibes of the beach resorts as you step into a different side of the island.
Nightlife and delicious street food
Thailand is famous for its cheap and delicious street food, as well as luxurious culinary delights at top restaurants. Indulge in some fantastic and fragrant Thai dishes such as Phat Thai (rice noodles, egg, tofu, and shrimp), spicy Tom yum soup, Phat kaphrao (meat flash-fried with holy basil), Green curry, yam, and many fresh seafood dishes, as well as unique fruit desserts and breakfast spreads.
If you like a good night out, then Koh Samui has got you covered. There are countless cocktail bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and beach bars to suit any scene. Enjoy a cocktail with the Thai sunset as a stunning backdrop, and dance the night away in the warm, humid air near the beach.
Koh Samui has all of these things to offer, and more – and all on one island! Look forward to meeting these beautiful shores and relaxing in paradise as you plan your next holiday in Thailand!
Related blogs about Koh Samui:
-
THINGS TO DO IN KOH SAMUI: 10 BEST TOURIST ATTRACTIONS!
-
6 BEST BEACHES IN KOH SAMUI
-
BEST BEACH RESORTS IN KOH SAMUI
-
MOST EXCLUSIVE AND LUXURY HOTELS IN KOH SAMUI
-
BEST CHEAP AND BUDGET HOTELS IN KOH SAMUI
- 25 Best Places to visit in Thailand
Photo by loicparent
