Your All-In-One Guide for a Koh Samui Vacation - Everything You Need to Know about Holidaying in Koh Samui

Although Koh Samui is the second-biggest island in Thailand, it is Number 1 in all other respects, especially when it comes to beach holidays. Blessed with white, sandy beaches and full moon parties, the natural beauty of the island is just one of the many things that make Koh Samui the seaside resort hub to beat. From deciding when to go and where to stay to making the most of one's time in the beach capital, here's a comprehensive guide to vacationing in this little piece of paradise.

^{Thailand | Image by Jakob Owens on Unsplash}

1. When to Go

It is a misconception that Koh Samui is a viable holiday hotspot all year round as the wet season is decidedly unsuitable for a great many outdoor activities and excursions. Those who wish to experience sunny skies and clear conditions during their holiday should time their trip between the months of December and February which is also the dry period of the year. This is also the peak tourist season in Koh Samui so you will have to contend with large crowds. The months of October and November are the wettest and rainiest months in Koh Samui so it is best to avoid this time of year although those on a budget can visit during June when hotel prices and crowds are both lower than in the high season.

2. Where to Stay

Sandy Beach Trips and similar other blogs list beach activities for kids and adults available at specific beaches making it possible to determine what beach town is best for you based on the information provided. Some of the most luxurious resorts and villas are found in the high-end northeastern tip of the island where Bangrak, Choeng Mon and Plai Laem are found while families will probably prefer Bophut. Maenam, on the other hand, is more pastoral as it boasts a village setting whereas Bang Por is a new area that's developing to become a private hideaway with its own five-star resorts. Lamai is perhaps the most laid-back and relaxed area while Chaweng is so full of activities that there's never a dull moment.

3. Best Beaches

Regardless of which area of the island one chooses as the base location, no trip to Koh Samui would be complete without spending time on its best beaches. Starting with the east coast's Chaweng Beach, travelers can make their way to Lamai Beach which is lined with bars and restaurants. In addition to its proximity to the waterfalls, Lamai beach is also located near Silver Beach or Thongtakian Beach. Bophut Beach is one of the more crowded beaches in Koh Samui although it is also near Fisherman's Village. Bang Po Beach and Choeng Mon Beach are equally impressive with their calm waters and excellent sunset views.

4. What to Do

Ranked among Thailand's top destinations for water sports lovers, the water-based activities accessible to tourists are not limited to snorkelling and scuba diving. Offering unparalleled access to the Angthong Marine National Park, tourists can go sailing, cruising, water skiing, kayaking and engage in a plethora of fun activities during their time on the island. Those who would rather sign up for inland adventures will find that there are four-wheel drives in the jungle and ATV tours.

5. What to See

Although Koh Samui is primarily a beach paradise, the island's cultural heritage is just as impressive as its top beaches. The Big Buddha temple, the Secret Buddha Garden, The Hin Ya and Hin Tai rock formations, Wat Plai Laem and the Laem Sor Pagoda are just some of the engaging points of interest that one can visit during a holiday in Koh Samui.

6. Where to Shop

Whether travellers are in search of the most affordable souvenirs or the finest street food in Koh Samui, they can do no better than the wares and delicious treats on offer at local markets including the Maenam Market, Laem Din Market and the Lamai Market.