In this guide
In the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui and its neighbour Koh Phangan offer palm-lined beaches, coral reefs and a different weather pattern to the Andaman coast, which makes them a great choice for summer trips.
Koh Samui: comfort and choice
Samui is the most developed of the Gulf islands, with its own airport and everything from beach bungalows to luxury pool villas.
- Chaweng: the longest, busiest beach, with nightlife, shopping and restaurants.
- Lamai: a slightly calmer alternative with the Hin Ta Hin Yai rocks.
- Bophut and Fisherman's Village: charming old shophouses, a Friday walking street market and a relaxed seafront.
- Choeng Mon and the north-east: quiet bays, good for families.
- The south and west: sunsets, local life and fewer crowds.
Don't miss Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha), the Na Muang waterfalls and a day trip to Ang Thong Marine National Park, a stunning group of more than 40 limestone islands with kayaking, snorkelling and a viewpoint hike.
Koh Phangan: beaches, yoga and full moons
Phangan is wilder and greener, with jungle roads and hidden coves.
- Haad Rin hosts the famous Full Moon Party each month. Expect big crowds and noise; stay elsewhere if you want sleep.
- Thong Nai Pan in the north-east has two of the island's prettiest bays.
- Srithanu on the west coast is the hub for yoga, wellness and vegan cafés.
- Bottle Beach is only easily reached by boat and feels very remote.
Koh Tao for divers
A short boat ride further north, Koh Tao is one of the world's most popular places to get a scuba diving certification, with calm, clear water and lots of dive schools.
Getting there
- By air: Samui International Airport (USM) has flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Phuket and other cities. Fares can be high, so compare them with flights to Surat Thani (URT) plus a bus-and-ferry transfer.
- By land and sea: overnight trains or buses from Bangkok to Surat Thani or Chumphon, then a ferry. Cheaper, but a full day of travel.
When to go
The Gulf islands get most of their rain from October to December. January to August is usually the best period, which makes Samui a smart choice when the Andaman coast is in monsoon season. See the best time to visit Thailand.
Practical tips
- Rent a car or use taxis on Samui; on Phangan, roads can be steep and unpaved, so scooters are for experienced riders only.
- Take seasickness tablets for speedboat trips on windy days.
- Bring cash for smaller beaches and markets.
Compare flights to Koh Samui and flights to Bangkok to connect.
Frequently asked questions
Is Koh Samui or Koh Phangan better?
Koh Samui has more hotels, restaurants and an airport, so it's easier for families and short trips. Koh Phangan is more laid-back and bohemian, with yoga retreats, wild beaches and the Full Moon Party.
When is the best time to visit Koh Samui?
January to August is usually the driest period on Thailand's Gulf coast. October to December brings the heaviest rain on Samui and Phangan, the opposite pattern to Phuket.
How do you get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan?
Ferries and speedboats run several times a day and take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the boat and piers.
Prices are estimates and can change. Check entry rules, opening times and safety advice before you travel. Some links are partner links: if you book, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
