Koh Samui 

"the island of the coconut tree" is Thailand's 3rd largest. A backpacker's secret for years, this sun lover's paradise, with its coconut plantations, rolling hills, curved sandy beaches and offshore islands, has gradually developed into a holiday destination with a distinctly local island flavour.

Samui is a place to relax, meet people, sunbathe and party. Nightlife is good with open-air discos, music bars and good restaurants. The island retains its laid back feel, with friendly and welcoming locals, good food and offbeat local attractions which haven't become over commercialised.

Modest bungalows or resort, close to the action or peaceful retreat, Samui has a range of accommodation to suit everyone, with many places located near or actually on the beach. Check out our hotel listings in the middle for more information.

 What To Do

Relax and enjoy! But if you're bored with the beach, there's lots to do.

Close to the water, activities like diving. snorkelling, and kayaking are on offer.

 Like to explore? Take a tour, or hire a car. Drive around the island and see the Butterfly Farm, the adrenaline pumping Snake show, and some local colour at the Crocodile Farm.

What to See

Samui has a large number of offshore islands. The AngThongMarineNational Park contains 42 islands with wonderfully weird shapes formed from limestone and erosion. Some have caves and secluded beaches surrounded by coral reefs, while others rise hundreds of metres as sheer rockface from the sea. The strange rock formations extend below the water, allowing great diving opportunities and day trips sightseeing and snorkelling..

Recommended Hotels

Six Senses Hideaway Samui	Melati Beach Resort & Spa	Karma Samui
Kandaburi Resort & Spa	Baan Chaweng Beach Resort	Als Resort
The Island Resort & Spa	Muang Kulaypan Hotels	Samui Jasmine Resort
Pavilion Samui Boutique Resort	Silavadee Pool Spa Resort	Thongtakian Resort