Ko Samui is third largest island in Thailand (only Phuket and Ko Chang are bigger), and its second biggest beach destination after Phuket. Also written as Ko Samui or simply Samui, it lies on the Gulf of Thailand, in Surat Thani Province. Ko Samui is about an hour by ferry from Donsak Pier in Surat Thani Province.
Ko Samui is 247 km sq and about 700 km south of Bangkok. The ideal time to experience tropical island weather is to around late December to the end of March. The hottest months are from April to June, while the wettest season is from mid-October to early December.
The name Ko Samui has been known among ancient boatmen for a long time. Pretty much a coconut grove until the early 70's, when it was discovered by backpackers, Ko Samui has today developed into a major tourist destination. They are drawn to the snow-white sands of its beaches, especially those along Chaweng Beach, on the northeast coast. Chaweng also has one of the largest concentration of health spas and tailors in Thailand.
Getting Around Ko Samui
Look out for the red pick-up trucks called Songtao. They are the main mode of transportation around Ko Samui. The accompanying map and thumbnail gallery provides a quick link to various sights of interest around the island.
Beach on Ko Samui north coast.
Attractions on Ko Samui
Let's explore Ko Samui from the comfort of your desk. Click on the thumbnails below to start your journey through Ko Samui!.
Angthong National Park
A cluster of over forty islands west of Ko Samui
Chaweng Beach
The main tourist belt at Ko Samui
Hin Ta Hin YaIRock formation on the coast of Ko Samui
Ko Nangyuan
Pristine island northwest of Ko Samui perfect for snorkelling
Ko Phangan
Island north of Ko Samui, famous for its Full Moon Party
Ko Tao
Island northwest of Ko Samui
Ko Wua Talap
Main island in the Angthong archipelago
Namuang Waterfall
Main waterfall on Ko Samui
Wat Khun Aram
Temple of the Mummified Monk
Wat Phra YaITemple of the Big Buddha
Ko Samui Photo Gallery
Evening on the north coast of Ko Samui, with Angthong Marine National Park in the horizon.
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