Koh Samui Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, How to Get There
24 Jun 202647.2K3
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Koh Samui, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Gulf of Thailand,” is the third-largest island in Thailand and a destination that perfectly blends natural beauty with modern convenience. Located in Surat Thani, approximately 84 kilometers from the mainland, the island is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and laid-back tropical atmosphere that has captivated travelers from around the world for decades. The name “Samui” is believed to have originated from various sources, including ancient Chinese and Tamil languages, as well as local flora, reflecting the island’s rich cultural heritage and long history. Today, Koh Samui offers far more than stunning beaches, with a wide range of luxury resorts, restaurants, cafés, and modern facilities that make it one of Thailand’s most popular island destinations.
How to travel to Koh Samui
By Airplane
Direct flight from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi airport) to Samui Airport
There is only 1 airline operate direct flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui which is Bangkok Airways. The journey takes about 1.20 hour.
Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang & Suvarnabhumi) to Surat Thani Airport
There are several airlines operate route between Bangkok and Surat Thani.
- Thai AirAsia (Don Mueang)
- Thai Lion Air (Don Mueang)
- Nok Air (Don Mueang)
- Thai Vietjet Air (Suvarnabhumi)
Once arrive at Surat Thani airport, traveler can purchase the van and ferry ticket to Koh Samui depart at 11:00 hrs.
By Bus
Travel to Koh Samui by bus is a cheaper way to travel and there are many routes available from many major cities. The service is also including bus and ferry ticket.
Bangkok to Koh Samui
It's most popular route for backpacker tourists. The overnight bus is departing from Khaosan road, Bangkok at 21:00 hrs. and change to high-speed ferry in the next morning then arrive at Koh Samui at 11:30 hrs. The journey takes about 10-12 hours.
| Operator | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Bangkok (Pinklao) → Koh Samui | 09:30 p.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Bangkok (Khaosan) → Koh Samui | 06:00 a.m. | 05:30 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Bangkok (Khaosan) → Koh Samui | 10:00 p.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui → Bangkok (Pinklao) | 08:00 a.m. | 08:30 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui → Bangkok (Khaosan) | 08:00 a.m. | 08:30 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui → Bangkok (Khaosan) | 12:30 a.m. | 00:45 a.m. |
| Boonsiri | Bangkok (Khaosan Road) → Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) | 05:00 a.m. | 05:45 p.m. |
| Boonsiri | Bangkok (Khaosan Road) → Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) | 10:00 a.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Boonsiri | Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport) → Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) | 08:00 p.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Boonsiri | Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) → Bangkok (Khaosan Road) | 08:00 a.m. | 08:30 p.m. |
| Boonsiri | Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) → Bangkok (Khaosan Road) | 12:30 a.m. | 01:00 a.m. (Next day) |
| Boonsiri | Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) → Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport) | 08:00 a.m. | 09:30 p.m. |
| Boonsir | Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) → Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport) | 12:30 a.m. | 02:00 a.m. (Next day) |
Bus and Ferry Ticket Bangkok-Koh Samui by Lomprayah
Bus & Ferry from Bangkok to Koh Samui by Boonsiri
By Train
Travel by train is a cheap and unique way to Koh Samui. The journey takes about 10-13 hours depending to type of train. Most of the trains are overnight train and we recommended the special express sleeper train no 85. from Bangkok to Surat Thani. For more detail and timetable, please check at State Railway of Thailand website. Once arrive at Surat Thani, we suggest to purchase bus and ferry ticket to Koh Samui.
By Ferry
Ferry and boat are the only way to access to Koh Samui on land. There are several routes from the main land or the nearby islands to Koh Samui island.
Ferry from Chumphon to Koh Samui
From Chumphon province, there is ferry service to Koh Samui.
| Operator | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Chumphon → Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) | 07:00 a.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Chumphon → Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) | 01:30 p.m. | 05:30 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) → Chumphon | 08:00 a.m. | 11:45 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) → Chumphon | 12:30 a.m. | 04:30 p.m. |
Ferry Ticket between Chumphon and Koh Samui by Lomprayah
Ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui
The closest route to Koh Samui by boat. It's takes about 1.45 hour journey and Surat Thani is also close to other popular tourist destination such as Phuket and Krabi.
| Operator | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Surat Thani Airport → Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) | 09:30 a.m. | 11:45 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Surat Thani Airport → Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) | 12:30 a.m. | 03:45 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Surat Thani Train Station → Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) | 09:30 a.m. | 11:45 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Surat Thani Airport | 08:30 a.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Surat Thani Airport | 11:45 a.m. | 03:00 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Surat Thani Train Station | 08:30 a.m. | 11:15 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Surat Thani Train Station | 11:45 a.m. | 02:15 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Surat Thani (Donsak pier) → Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) | 11:00 a.m. | 11:45 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Surat Thani (Donsak pier) → Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) | 03:00 p.m. | 03:45 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Surat Thani (Donsak pier) | 08:30 a.m. | 09:15 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Surat Thani (Donsak pier) | 11:45 a.m. | 12:45 a.m. |
Ferry Ticket Surat Thani (Don Sak Pier) - Koh Samui by Lomprayah
Koh Pha Ngan to Koh Samui
Koh Phangan is famous for the Full Moon Party. It's close to Koh Samui, so there are several ferries operated between these 2 islands. The journey only takes about 30 minutes.
| Operator | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) → Koh Phangan | 09:30 a.m. | 10:00 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) → Koh Phangan | 11:30 a.m. | 12:00 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) → Koh Phangan | 02:30 p.m. | 03:00 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Phangan → Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) | 10:45 a.m. | 11:15 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Phangan → Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) | 12:30 a.m. | 01:00 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Phangan → Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) | 04:00 p.m. | 04:30 p.m. |
| Lomprayah (Laemsor) | Koh Samui Na Phralan (Mae Nam) pier → Koh Phangan | 11:00 a.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Lomprayah (Laemsor) | Koh Phangan → Koh Samui Na Phralan (Mae Nam) pier | 06:30 p.m. | 07:30 p.m. |
| Seatran Discovery | Koh Samui (Bangrak pier) → Koh Phangan | 9:30 a.m. | 10:15 a.m. |
| Seatran Discovery | Koh Samui (Bangrak pier) → Koh Phangan | 02:30 p.m. | 03:15 p.m. |
| Seatran Discovery | Koh Phangan → Koh Samui (Bangrak pier) | 10:30 a.m. | 11:15 a.m. |
| Seatran Discovery | Koh Phangan → Koh Samui (Bangrak pier) | 04:00 p.m. | 04:45 p.m. |
Ferry Ticket Koh Samui - Koh Phangan by Seatran Discovery
Koh Samui - Koh Phangan Ferry Ticket by Lomprayah
Koh Tao to Koh Samui
From Koh Tao to Koh Samui Mae Nam Pier, the journey takes about 1.30 hours.
| Operator | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Koh Tao | 12:15 a.m. | 02:15 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Koh Tao | 04:00 p.m. | 05:45 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Tao → Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) | 09:30 a.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) → Koh Tao | 08:00 a.m. | 10:00 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) → Koh Tao | 12:30 a.m. | 02:15 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Tao → Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) | 09:30 a.m. | 11:30 a.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Tao → Koh Samui Pralarn Pier (Mae Nam pier) | 03:30 p.m. | 05:30 p.m. |
| Lomprayah (Laemsor) | Koh Samui Na Pralarn (Mae Nam Pier) → Koh Tao | 11:00 a.m. | 01:30 p.m. |
| Lomprayah (Laemsor) | Koh Tao → Koh Samui Na Pralarn (Mae Nam Pier) | 04:30 p.m. | 07:30 p.m. |
Ferry Ticket Koh Samui (Pralarn Pier) - Koh Tao by Lomprayah
Koh Phi Phi to Koh Samui
| Operator | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) → Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) | 10:00 a.m. | 03:45 p.m. |
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui (Nathon Pier) → Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) | 08:30 a.m. | 03:30 p.m. |
High Speed Catamaran Ticket between Koh Phi Phi and Koh Samui by Lomprayah
Travel Inside Koh Samui
The best method to travel around Koh Samui is by renting a car or motorcycle. There is also public transportation such as local red pick-up truck and taxi. The red pick-up truck (Song Taew) is service around the island from 6:00-21:00 hrs. and it cost around 30-80 THB per way. During night time the travel fare will be double. Taxi service in Koh Samui is expensive as the price is depending on negotiation rather than using the meter.
Top 5 Attractions in Koh Samui
1. Chaweng Beach
Coming to the popular beach of Koh Samui that is crowded with tourists like 'Chaweng Beach'. Chaweng Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Samui, known for its soft white sand stretching over 6 kilometers along the island’s east coast. With clear blue water and a lively beach atmosphere, it is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, taking stunning photos, and enjoying popular activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, or strolling along the beachfront to explore seaside restaurants, cafés, and the evening vibes.
Location : Chaweng Beach
2. Na Muang Waterfall 1
Na Muang Waterfall 1 is one of the most popular waterfalls on Koh Samui, known for its stream cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush natural scenery. At the bottom, there is a natural pool where you can swim, relax, and take photos. There are two Na Muang waterfalls, Na Muang Waterfall 1 and Na Muang Waterfall 2, but for those looking for an easy and convenient visit that does not take too much time, Na Muang Waterfall 1 is the more accessible option. you can drive close to the waterfall, and the walking path is short and not very steep, so it does not require much effort or time. It is ideal for tourists, families, and anyone who wants to enjoy nature without having to walk too far.
Location : Na Muang Waterfall 1
3. Madsum Island (Pig Island)
Don't miss the opportunity to visit Koh Madsum. Koh Madsum, also known as Koh Moo or Pig Island, is a small island near Koh Samui that has become a popular stop for travelers. It is called “Pig Island” because friendly pigs live on the island and can often be seen walking along the beach, creating a unique and adorable experience for visitors. The island features soft white sand, clear blue water, and a peaceful tropical atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxing, taking photos with the pigs, feeding them, kayaking, swimming, or strolling along the beach. Although there is an island entrance fee of around 50 THB, it is well worth it for the beautiful scenery, fun activities, and one-of-a-kind island experience.
Location : Pig Island
4. Wat Laem Suwannaram
Wat Laem Suwannaram, also known as Wat Plai Laem, is one of the most beautiful and important temples on Koh Samui. Established in 1880, the temple is known for its stunning architecture that beautifully blends Thai and Chinese influences. One of its most iconic highlights is the large white thousand-armed Guanyin statue, standing about 20 meters tall in the middle of the water, creating an impressive and graceful sight. Each arm of Guanyin represents Buddhist teachings and the compassion to help people in all aspects of life. Many travelers visit the temple to pay respect and pray for good fortune, health, family blessings, kindness and mercy, safe travels, children, and a smooth life. This makes Wat Plai Laem not only a beautiful sightseeing and photo spot, but also a meaningful place to make merit and seek blessings when visiting Koh Samui.
Location : Wat Laem Suwannaram
5. Mu Ko Ang Thong National park
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park is one of the most beautiful island destinations near Koh Samui, known for its emerald sea, limestone mountains, white sandy beaches, clear water, and peaceful natural scenery. One of the main highlights is “Pha Chan Charat Viewpoint” on Koh Wua Ta Lap, a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the scattered islands of Ang Thong Marine Park. From the top, you can see examples of nearby islands such as Koh Mae Ko, Koh Sam Sao, Koh Hin Dap, Koh Nai Phut, and Koh Phai Luak. The view of lush green islands rising from the blue sea creates a breathtaking postcard like scene, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants to capture the beauty of Ang Thong from above.
Location : Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
5 Stylish Photo Spots You Can’t Miss
1. Hin Ta Hin Yai
Hin Ta and Hin Yai, also known as Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, hold a significant place as landmarks on Koh Samui. The eye stone is a result of sea water erosion, while Hin Yai is formed through the weathering of coastal rocks. Resembling male and female genitalia, these unique rock formations have become an immensely popular photo spot on the island. It's almost a rite of passage for anyone visiting Samui to capture a picture at Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks.
Location : Hin Ta Hin Yai
2. Tar Nim Waterfall
Tar Nim Waterfall, also known as Tar Nim Magic Garden, is a peaceful attraction in Koh Samui for those who want to take a break from the beach and enjoy nature in the mountains. The area features small streams, a gentle waterfall, and a hidden sculpture garden surrounded by lush greenery. With its quiet and refreshing atmosphere, it is a great place for a relaxing walk, photo taking, and a short nature escape. There are also scenic viewpoints where you can enjoy beautiful views of Koh Samui, making it a charming stop that offers a different side of the island beyond the sea.
Location : Tarnim Magic Garden
3. Lad Koh View Point
Lad Koh Viewpoint is one of the most beautiful and easy to visit sea viewpoints on Koh Samui, making it a perfect stop along the way from Chaweng Beach to Lamai Beach. The highlight of this spot is the wide panoramic view of the blue sea, beautifully contrasted with coastal rocks and coconut trees, creating a tropical postcard like scene. You can walk down closer to the rocks, enjoy the sound of the waves, and capture natural seaside photos without spending too much time. It is a simple yet memorable short stop, perfect for anyone who wants to experience a quieter, more peaceful, and naturally beautiful side of Koh Samui.
Location : Lad Koh View Point
4. Overlap Stone 2
Overlap Stone 2 is a viewpoint that feels like standing on a hidden balcony of Koh Samui, offering sweeping views of the sea, mountains, and coastline as far as the eye can see. The highlight of this spot is the large natural rock formation that stands out on the hillside, creating a unique and eye catching photo spot. It takes about 20 minutes to walk up, but once you reach the top, the view makes the journey feel truly worthwhile. It is perfect for anyone looking for a one of a kind photo spot on Koh Samui.
Location : Overlap Stone 2
5. The Roof Samui
The Roof Samui is a hilltop photo spot that gives you a full panoramic view of Koh Samui from above, featuring the sea, Chaweng Beach, and a wide open sky that changes its mood throughout the day. For content creators and photography lovers, this place offers everything you need, including outfit rentals, a professional photographer, and free shuttle service. With an entrance fee of only 200 THB, you can enjoy a full photo experience and capture plenty of beautiful shots.
Location : The Roof Samui
One Day Trip from Koh Samui
1. Ang Thong National Marine Park Snorkeling & Kayaking day tour
Enjoy a full-day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park from Koh Samui, traveling conveniently by speedboat. Take in the breathtaking views of the islands from a viewpoint over 500 meters high, and visit the beautiful Emerald Lagoon hidden in the heart of the island. Have fun snorkeling and kayaking surrounded by crystal-clear water and stunning natural scenery.
Samui: Angthong National Marine Park Snorkeling & Kayaking day tour
2. Snorkeling & Canoeing at Angthong National Marine Park tour by big boat
Experience snorkeling, canoeing, and exploring the beautiful nature around the islands up close. Stop by the Emerald Lagoon for photos, then hike up to the Pha Chan Charat viewpoint to admire panoramic views of more than 42 islands. Perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing sea trip from Koh Samui, complete with breakfast and a buffet lunch in one day.
Samui: Snorkeling & Canoeing at Angthong National Marine Park tour by big boat
3. Koh Tao & Koh Nangyuan Snorkeling Day Trip by Speedboat
full-day trip to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Samui, traveling conveniently by speedboat. Discover the stunning sandbar of Koh Nang Yuan, where three small islands are connected by a beautiful stretch of white sand, perfect for memorable photos. Have fun snorkeling at Koh Tao, a famous snorkeling spot filled with colorful fish and beautiful underwater scenery. Perfect for anyone looking for a complete sea trip from Koh Samui, with sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation all in one day.
From Koh Samui: Koh Tao & Koh Nangyuan Snorkeling Day Trip by Speedboat
As Koh Samui is a large island, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. You can go snorkeling around Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, a stunning marine destination known as one of the most beautiful spots in ASEAN. Beyond beach and sea activities, Koh Samui also offers exciting land adventures, such as riding an ATV through forest trails and streams on the island. Koh Samui is a popular destination among both international and Thai travelers, making it a favorite place for holidays and relaxing getaways. Ready to go? Get your tickets with Ticket2Attraction and start your journey!
