Hotels in Koh Samui

Koh Samui: A Tropical Paradise Where Serenity Meets Adventure

Discover Thailand's tropical paradise on Koh Samui, a stunning island in Surat Thani Province. Renowned for its palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters, Bophut Beach offers a serene escape infused with Thai architecture and vibrant local markets. Explore lush landscapes, indulge in luxury resorts, and soak in breathtaking sea views. Venture to nearby Koh Phangan for an unforgettable beach party or unwind with a rejuvenating spa experience. Koh Samui is a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an idyllic destination for couples, nature lovers, and those seeking a slice of island paradise. For the best hotel rates in Koh Samui and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Koh Samui

Some of the best places to stay in Koh Samui are Ko Pha-ngan, Bophut and Lamai. Koh Samui offers diverse experiences for travelers. Ko Pha-ngan is famous for its vibrant full moon parties and beautiful beaches, making it ideal for those seeking nightlife. Bophut, with its charming Fisherman’s Village, offers a blend of culture and relaxation, perfect for families. Lamai is known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. For accommodations, you'll find everything from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses. For first-time visitors, Bophut is the best choice for its welcoming atmosphere and attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Koh Samui:

1. Ko Pha-nganOpens in a new window: Ko Pha-ngan is renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers. With attractions like Chaweng Beach and Fisherman's Village Plaza, visitors can enjoy both relaxation and shopping. The area features several luxurious hotels. For instance, Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & SpaOpens in a new window offers a blend of beach, adventure, and business amenities, including direct beach access and opportunities for snorkeling and kayaking. Panviman Resort, Koh PhanganOpens in a new window is family-friendly, providing multiple meeting rooms and child-friendly amenities. Another great option is Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan VillasOpens in a new window, which caters to adventure enthusiasts with activities like windsurfing and sailing available nearby.
2. BophutOpens in a new window: Bophut is a charming area famous for its picturesque beaches and the lively Fisherman's Village Plaza. This location is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of relaxation and local culture. Top hotels include SAii Koh Samui Villas - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window, which offers adventure activities like sailing and snorkeling, and Hyatt Regency Koh SamuiOpens in a new window, ideal for families with its children’s amenities and direct beach access. Muang Samui Spa ResortOpens in a new window stands out with its boutique charm and unique decor, ensuring a memorable stay.
3. LamaiOpens in a new window: Lamai is celebrated for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe, attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. The area boasts attractions like Silver Beach and Chaweng Beach. Notable hotels include Silavadee Pool Spa ResortOpens in a new window, which is family-oriented and offers childcare services, and Banyan Tree SamuiOpens in a new window, which features adventure sports like parasailing and windsurfing. The Spa Resorts - Lamai BeachOpens in a new window provides a luxurious experience with direct beach access and business amenities, catering to travelers seeking both comfort and convenience.

Things to do in Koh Samui for first time

Koh Samui offers a stunning mix of pristine beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant parks, making it a paradise for travelers. In just three days, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments, and exploring local markets, all while soaking in the island's breathtaking natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Koh Samui:

• Day 1: Start your Koh Samui adventure at Haad Rin Nok Beach, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunrise views. Spend your morning soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Afterward, take a short trip to Ban Thai Beach, where you can relax on the quieter sands and indulge in some beachside dining. As the day winds down, head to Hard Road, a lively area filled with bars and restaurants—perfect for enjoying a delicious dinner and experiencing the nightlife Koh Samui has to offer.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Haad Rin Nai Beach, an ideal spot for a tranquil morning swim. From there, make your way to Tharn Sadet Waterfall, where you can hike through lush tropical surroundings and cool off in natural pools. In the afternoon, visit Haad Yuan Beach, a hidden gem offering a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding and taking in the breathtaking scenery. Don’t forget to capture some stunning photos of this picturesque location!
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Haad Leela Beach, known for its soft sand and calm waters—great for a morning dip or a leisurely walk. Next, visit Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach, where you can relax, sunbathe, or enjoy various water sports. Conclude your itinerary at Phaeng Waterfall, a beautiful spot ideal for a refreshing swim, surrounded by nature’s tranquility. This day is perfect for immersing yourself in the natural beauty and serenity that Koh Samui has to offer.

5 tips to find a great Koh Samui hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable months to visit Koh Samui are February, March, and November, as hotel prices tend to be lower during this time. Domestic travelers should aim to book their flights at least 8 months in advance for the best deals, while international travelers can secure cheaper fares by booking at least 1 month ahead. For a great value experience, plan to stay for at least 5-6 days to fully explore the stunning beaches and picturesque islands that Koh Samui has to offer. This budget-friendly approach ensures you make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Koh Samui is a stunning destination, and last-minute deals can make your trip even more affordable. To uncover these bargains on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find enticing discounts on accommodations as your travel date approaches. It's also a good idea to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you're more likely to catch flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you to secure the best possible rates for your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and season. Therefore, by being flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Koh Samui.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in Koh Samui is usually more expensive. However, if you opt to stay further away from the city center, you can utilize transportation options like songthaews (red trucks), taxis, motorbikes, and scooters to explore the area and potentially save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Koh Samui. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Koh Samui

Here are a few popular dishes in Koh Samui, Surat Thani Province, Thailand:

• Pad Thai: This iconic stir-fried noodle dish combines rice noodles with shrimp or chicken, tofu, peanuts, bean sprouts, and a flavorful tamarind sauce. Often garnished with lime and fresh herbs, it's a street food staple that reflects Thai culinary creativity and is best enjoyed at local markets.
• Tom Yum Goong: A fragrant and spicy shrimp soup, Tom Yum Goong features fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, creating a bold flavor profile. This dish is a must-try for its invigorating heat and aromatic qualities, symbolizing the essence of Thai flavors.
• Green Curry: Known as Gaeng Keow Wan, this creamy curry is made from green chili paste, coconut milk, and a variety of vegetables and meats. Its vibrant color and rich taste make it a beloved dish, often enjoyed with steamed jasmine rice, showcasing the balance of sweet, spicy, and savory in Thai cuisine.

Best time to go to Koh Samui

Koh Samui experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 80.6°F (27.0°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 84.7°F (29.3°C). November is usually the wettest month. January, March, and July are the peak travel months in Koh Samui, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.