Ko Samui
Country: Thailand · Region: Southeast Asia · Arrival: tender · Currency: Thai Baht
Ko Samui is Thailand's second-largest island offering diverse beaches from busy, developed Chaweng and Lamai to quieter northern beaches like Mae Nam and Bophut. The island features white sandy beaches, coral reefs, rainforest interior, and granite mountains accessible by plane or ferry.
Top sights
Big Buddha (Bang Rak), Ang Thong National Marine Park, Chaweng Beach, Bophut Fisherman's Village, Grandfather and Grandmother Stones, Lamai Beach
Things to do
- Big Buddha
- Located at Bang Rak on the northeastern tip of the island.
- Ang Thong National Marine Park
- An archipelago of over 80 mostly uninhabited islands offering kayaking and snorkelling paradise.
- Bophut Fisherman's Village
- A laid-back village known for its charm and character on the northern coast.
Beaches
- Chaweng Beach
- The largest and most-developed beach with luxury hotels, backpacker guesthouses, and hopping nightlife.
- Lamai Beach
- Samui's second major beach south of Chaweng, shifting to a biker and beach lounge environment.
Where to eat
- Nathon
- Samui's port and administrative centre with dining options available.
Forecast for Ko Samui
Loading the live forecast.
Weather in Ko Samui by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 83°F | 76°F | 4.6 in | 15 |
| February | 84°F | 77°F | 1.4 in | 10 |
| March | 87°F | 79°F | 1.2 in | 9 |
| April | 88°F | 80°F | 4.1 in | 14 |
| May | 88°F | 80°F | 5.1 in | 21 |
| June | 87°F | 80°F | 4.1 in | 18 |
| July | 86°F | 79°F | 5.0 in | 20 |
| August | 86°F | 79°F | 4.4 in | 21 |
| September | 85°F | 78°F | 7.1 in | 22 |
| October | 83°F | 77°F | 9.3 in | 27 |
| November | 83°F | 77°F | 10.7 in | 25 |
| December | 82°F | 76°F | 8.0 in | 19 |
Getting around
Songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) operate fixed routes until 18:00 for 20-80 baht, taxis are available but drivers rarely use meters, and motorbikes can be rented for 120-700 baht per day.
What to eat
Local dining options are available throughout the island, with restaurants at all major beaches and development areas.
Tips
Negotiate taxi fares before getting in, avoid leaving your passport as collateral for motorbike rentals, and document any existing bike damage before renting.
Best for
Beaches, snorkeling, kayaking, island hopping
More ports in Southeast Asia
Bali (Benoa) · Bangkok (Laem Chabang) · Da Nang · Ha Long Bay · Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) · Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) · Langkawi · Manila · Penang · Phuket · Singapore