A Guide to Island Samui
Island Samui Island is the third largest island of Thailand
after Phuket and Koh Chang and one of the most popular destinations
for travelers. In recent years it developed to a tropical
beach resort but still maintained its charm and has everything
to offer - from coconut tree fringed beaches to tropical
jungles to a vibrant nightlife. Popular beaches are Chaweng,
Lamai, Bophut & Maenam.
Accommodations on Island Samui range from bungalows and
villas to 5 star boutique resorts and are suitable for all
budgets. Restaurants of all flavors invite for delicious
wining and dining and spas and massage facilities for rejuvenation.
Activities include elephant trekking, canoeing, sailing,
diving, golfing, fishing, biking and all you can think of.
There is also a lot to see, like waterfalls, temples and
jungles as well as a butterfly garden, an aquarium and tiger
zoo, monkey theatre, snake and crocodile farm and a tropical
zoo to name some. Day tours to the neighbor islands of Koh
Phangan, Koh Tao and the Angthong Marine National Park are
well worth to attend.
Chaweng Beach of Island Samui : is the
most popular area on Island Samui with 6km of a white sandy
beach and clear waters. With plenty of hotels and resorts,
restaurants, spas, discotheques, bars and shopping facilities
it is the main tourist center and nightlife area. As the
sea is partly shallow most of the year it is the perfect
place for families with small kids and all kind of water
sports can be enjoyed. After a relaxing day on the beach
you can have a dinner in one of the seafood restaurants,
sip a drink at a bar or just stroll along the beach road
to fulfill your shopping desires.
Coral Cove Beach of Island Samui: Located
between Chaweng and Lamai has some small secluded beaches
like Thongtakian and is a good for snorkeling on Island
Samui. Some resorts are nestled at the hillside with magnificent
views over Chaweng Beach. It is only a 10 minutes drive
to either Lamai or Chaweng to do some shopping or to enjoy
the nightlife. It is a perfect place for travelers preferring
a more tranquil and quiet holiday.
Lamai Beach of Island Samui: is the second
popular beach on Island Samui after Chaweng and stretches
over 4km along the East coast. The beach is not as wide
as Chaweng and the sea gets quickly deeper making it perfect
for swimming and water sports. At the southern end of the
beach the famous Grandfather & Grandmother rock formations
called Hin Ta - Hin Yai, stretch their bizarre shapes in
the sky. Restaurants, spas, bars and shopping opportunities
are plentiful and the nightlife is just second to Chaweng.
Hua Thanon Beach of Island Samui: A 10
minute drive south of Lamai is the home of the Muslim fishing
community with a daily fresh seafood market and dozens of
colorful longtail-boats. The Island Samui Aquarium and the
Butterfly Garden are located there. Luxurious boutique resorts
on Island Samui on the tranquil beaches of Laem Set, Bang
Kao and the hillsides offer scenic views to the nearby islands
of Koh Tan and Koh Matsum and the mainland at the horizon.
There is no nightlife but all for a relaxing and quiet holiday.
Bang Kao Beach of Island Samui: Locatd
at the south coast of on Island Samui consists of some smaller
beaches with breathtaking views to the islands dotted at
the horizon. A famous landmark is the Laem Sor Chedi sitting
at the rocky water’s edge. There are lots of luxurious
boutique resorts and private villas offering a tranquil
atmosphere with beachside restaurants and spas to lift your
spirit and body. The Island Samui Butterfly Garden and Island
Samui Aquarium are just a stones throw away while the nightlife
and shopping area of Lamai can be reached within 15 minutes.
Taling Ngam Beach of Island Samui: This
pristine bay stretching along the south-west coast of Island
Samui is still unspoiled and has spectacular views to nearby
islands and the mainland. Coral reefs just a stones throw
from the beach makes it a paradise for snorkelers. Luxurious
resorts on Island Samui along the beach offer all the facilities
you might need and the restaurants make for some fine wining
and dining experience. It is about a 20 minute drive to
Nathon if you need to do some shopping and 30 minutes to
the bustling nightlife of Lamai or Chaweng.
Lipa Noi Beach of Island Samui: or Sunset
Beach, is the most serene and untouched beach at the west
coast of Island Samui just 5 minutes from the ferry pier.
It is the place for peaceful and quiet beach holidays away
from the crowds with beautiful sunsets and scenic views
of the Angthong National Marine Park and the mainland. As
there are only a view resorts along the beach you will have
plenty of space on the crystal clear sea. There is not much
around but Nathons shopping area is only 4 km away.
Nathon Beach of Island Samui: The capital
of Island Samui has still preserved its charm as a harbor
town and is scattered with all kind of shops, markets, banks
and restaurants. Nathon is the major harbor for the ferries
from the mainland, the boats to Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and
the Angthong National Marine Park and is the main hub for
goods from the mainland. There are only a few hotels mostly
used as a stopover for early transfers to other destinations.
Coral Cove Beach of Island Samui: Located
between Chaweng and Lamai has some small secluded beaches
like Thongtakian and is a good for snorkeling. Some resorts
on Island Samui are nestled at the hillside with magnificent
views over Chaweng Beach. It is only a 10 minutes drive
to either Lamai or Chaweng to do some shopping or to enjoy
the nightlife. It is a perfect place for travelers preferring
a more tranquil and quiet holiday.
Maenam Beach of Island Samui: is located
in the North of on Island Samui with smooth sand and good
swimming preferences. Maenam beach is perfect for families
with small children as the water is shallow and there is
no noise from nightlife or traffic. At Maenam pier speedboats
leave daily to Koh Tao and shopping opportunities as well
as restaurants are located in the area. It is just a 20
minute drive to the action in Chaweng and 10 minutes to
Bophut’s Fisherman Village for some fine wining and
dining.
Bophut Beach of Island Samui: Located
in the North of on Island Samui. Between Maenam and Chaweng,
Bophut consists of the Fisherman's Village and the beaches
West of it. The beach at the village is small and not to
suitable for swimming as there are many tour and diving
boats going from here to other islands. It still conveys
the atmosphere of a small fisher village but there are plenty
of restaurants and shops as well as cafes and bars to enjoy
a beautiful sunset with Koh Phangan at the horizon.
Big Buddha Beach of Island Samui: Is located
in the Northeast of on Island Samui has smooth sand, good
swimming preferences and safe for children. From here you
have fantastic views over the 12 meter high golden Big Buddha
and Koh Phangan. Big Buddha Beach has everything to offer
like restaurants, bars and shopping opportunities and all
kind of accommodations on Island Samui from simple beach
huts to tropical resorts catering to all budgets. The nightlife
of Chaweng is just a 15min drive away and daily boats to
Koh Phangan and the monthly Full Moon Party are leaving
from here.
Choengmon Beach of Island Samui: The secluded
beach on Island Samui, 4 km north of Chaweng Beach and 5
minutes from Bophuts Fisherman’s Village, is the perfect
beach for families and couples who want to enjoy peaceful
and quiet beach holidays. The water is comparative shallow
and makes it safe for children to play and snorkelers can
explore the colorful underwater world right from the beach.
Accommodations dotted along the coastline catering for all
budgets. Water sports, like wind surfing and canoeing, and
other activities are readily available as well as some shopping
opportunities and restaurants.
GETTING TO ISLAND SAMUI
Direct Flights to/from Island Samui
• Domestic Air-travel directly Bangkok - Island
Samui
• Domestic Air-travel to Surat Thani followed
by bus/ferry transfer to Koh Island Samui.
Suvarnabhumi Airport:
Suvarnabhumi Airport Meaning a " Golden Land ".
Covers an area of some 20,000 rais (8,000 acres). The new
international airport is located about 15 km of on the east-bound
Bangna-Trat Highway in Bang Phli District, Samut Prakarn
Province and is about 25 km. from downtown Bangkok. It is
accessible via five routes.
Direct flight to Island Samui:
Fare is the most expensive but obviously the fastest, ideal
for the persons who have only a little time. The direct
flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport) to Island Samui
are by Bangkok Airways and 2 flights daily by Thai Airways.
Flight to Surat Thani - transfer to Island Samui:
Or you can fly to Suratthani (Thai Airways or One To Go).
From the airport there are minibuses which shuttle up to
Donsak's port, the ferry boats place of departure
** Make Sure not go by evening flights because you won't
be able to catch a ferry boat to Island Samui and you have
to spend a night in Suratthani. **
Regulations for carry-on baggage
AdviceAll travellers arriving at Island Samui Airport should
use the pick-up service of their hotel (which is the most
convenient way) or the transfer service provided through
sawadee.com
Important note:
Take care of your baggage in Bangkok or you will arrive
at Island Samui without any!
Your baggage will not be redirected automatically at Bangkok
Airport, so you have to pick it up, move to domestic terminal
and check-in your baggage again.
To avoid any confusion when arriving at Bangkok Int.
Airport, read our details. After arriving at Surat Thani
Airport (about 1 hour), you can take an air-conditioned
bus to Island Samui. Tickets are also available at Bangkok
Airport.
Surat Thani - Island Samui By Ferry
The ferry transfer is included in the bus fare because
the bus uses the ferry (it cannot swim... :-)
On the island the bus first stops at the ferry pier and
then at Nathon Pier. Remember to tell the resort where
and when you want to be picked up. (Surat Thani - Holiday
Koh Samui app. 3 hours, ferry included).
The Express Boat
Long rather narrow boat, lots of backpackers but which
has its charm and all the transfers are easy.
Seatran Express
The connection from Suratthani city. Not more
than 2 hours, you will arrive directly at Nathon's port.
A little more expensive than the other boats, but air-conditioning
and practical.
The Ferry
About 1 hour and a half to Island Samui, can contain vehicles,
small snack bar inside, full of seats and an "air-conditioning"
cabin.
There are two companies which provide sea transfer from
Suratthani (Donsak Pier):
- Seatran Ferry departure from Donsak Pier arrival at
Nathon pier.
- Raja Ferry departure from Donsak Pier arrival at Lipanoi
pier
The Speed Boat
Expensive but very fast (Koh Tao-Koh Phan-Ngan = 45 minutes,
normal boat = 2 hours). Used a lot from Koh Tao or by
various daytrips tours and some diving schools.
Island Samui Tourist Attractions
The Big Buddha
Island Samui's most popular attraction, The Big Buddha
sitting 15 meters tall was built in 1972 by the local
society to give visitors a place to pay respect to The
Lord Buddha. This monumental landmark is placed on the
island's Northern shore.
Island Samui Hin Ta - Hin Yai
Strangely shaped rocks at south Lamai. A local story tells
of an old couple whose ship was wrecked in the bay. Their
body's were washed ashore to create the rocks
Hin Lad Waterfall
Hin Lad Waterfall is located 2 km south of Nathon Town.He
can be reached by a 3-4 kilometer walk down a country
foot walk. In evergreen, rain forest setting with palms
and creepers, the waterfall have several levels with a
cool pool for a fresh water swim.
Ancient House
A house made of teakwood without any nails at Ban Thale
is the oldest house on the Island Samui. It was built
approximately 150 years ago, is constructed of teak planks
and shows off many beautiful woodcarvings.
Snake Farm
A definite must see for all those visiting the Island
Samui. Shows featuring snakes indigenous to Island Samui
as well as Centipede, Scorpion and Cock Fighting shows.
Informative and entertaining. Great for the entire family
and worth looking for. Follow the signs seen throughout
the island. Show times are 11.00 and 14.00 everyday.
Paradise Park Farm
Island Samui's lates and biggest attraction! Set on 20
acres of land, Paradise Park Farm is a spectacle. Spend
a day, or two, in the cool air of Island Samui's highest
mountain covered by tropical rainforest. Surround yourself
by water falls, small rivers, canyons and exotic birds
and wildlife.
Island Samui nightlife
Bars, cabarets shows and discos are mainly in Chaweng
and Lamai located. Green Mango, Raggae Pub and Full Circle
are the main discotheques.
Thai Boxing
The undisputed national sport of Thailand, a Muay Thai
professional bout can be seen at the Chaweng Stadium of
Island Samui Island every Monday and Friday, while the
Lamai stadium stages fights every Saturday.
Canopy Adventures - Secret Falls Island Samui
Cable Rides Rainforest Tour;
An adventure you'll never forget.
Flora, Fauna, waterfalls and an adventure
you'll never forget!
- 6 Different treehouses
- 6 Separate cable ride for over
500 meters of excitement
- Waterfalls & fantastic views
- Jungle "Hammock" Bar
- No experience necessary
- Free shuttle every hour
Namuang Waterfall
Namuang Waterfall is located 10 km south from Nathon at
Ban Thurian. There are 2 waterfalls in Island Samui. Na
Muang one is 18 meter high and can be reached by vehicle.
Na Muang two is about 80 meters high and can only be reached
by a 30 minute walk. The waterfalls are the most scenic
on the Island Samui
Island Samui Sawadee Shrine
The Brahma of Sawadee is an important being..a central
image for reverence and faith.
The number of visitors is rising every day because people
have faith in His greatness extending out kindness and
mercifulness and thus creating happiness and peacefulness
to to those coming to pay Him respect.
Magic Buddha Garden
The magic Buddha garden is hidden in the hills of Island
Samui. You can see several statues, temples and waterfalls
which are build by one man in the last 20 years.
Butterfly Garden
Na Tian Butterfly Garden is situated at the bottom of
the hill south of the island. Apart from the numerous
species of butterflies on display, there are also other
interesting features in the garden: The bee house, a Thai
style house which allows the visitor to observe the activities
of bees. The insect museum, rare insects from Thailand
and other countries are displayed here.
Scuba Diving
Diving, snorkeling, fishing. There are many scuba diving
schools located around Island Samui, offering a wide range
of dive facilities. There are also tours available for
snorkeling, fishing and excursions. The area of Island
Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Angthong Marine National
Park are very famous dive places.
Dining and restaurants.
The Seafood is well known in Island Samui. Restaurant
around the island offer Thai-, European-food and other
specialties. You should also try the large range of tropical
fruits and a fresh coconut.
Island Samui Go Kart
Located close to Chaweng this simple Go Kart track has
two types of karts available, a slow kart and a fast kart.
The slow kart will cost you a staggering 300 Baht for
10 minutes and the fast kart 400 Baht for 10 Minutes.
If you want additional time then discounts are not given
but extra time is offered as an incentive. For example
pay for 20 minutes at full rate and get 24 minutes in
return.
RB Island Samui
The "Coolest and Newest" adventure on Island
Samui. Completely safe and fun for all ages. As seen on
TV. No experience necessary. Enjoy the Ride.
