Escape to the tropical paradise of Ko Samui with our 48-hour guide covering the island's best beaches, luxurious accommodations, and thrilling adventures.
Ko Samui, Thailand's second-largest island, beckons with its powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. Whether you're a sun-seeker, a nature enthusiast, or an adventurer at heart, this island promises an unforgettable experience. Embark on a journey through Ko Samui's enchanting beaches, cultural treasures, and indulgent hotel resorts with our two-day itinerary.
Watch the view of the Gulf of Thailand from your hotel room. (© Banyan Tree Samui)
Day 1: Southeast coast
Why not start your day on the southeast side of the island at the Banyan Tree Samui? The hotel overlooks the Gulf of Thailand for an unparalleled escape into nature and the perfect place to appreciate a Samui sunrise. The Banyan Tree's lavish villas feature a blend of traditional Thai architecture and modern amenities, allowing you to immerse yourself in luxury while surrounded by breathtaking ocean views up high.The establishment is perched on the headland between two of the most popular and lively beaches on the island – Chaweng and Lamai.
Morning
This part of the island provides easy access to the jungle and the island’s spiritual centre. We recommend visiting the Ta Nim Magic Garden, a private park filled with sculptures and statues of Buddha that sits atop Khao Pom Mountain, one of the island’s highest peaks. The park is accessed by 4x4, with Wang Sao Thong Waterfall en route.Back at sea level, Lamai Beach offers a mix of relaxation and entertainment with its beautiful coastline featuring a blend of rocky areas and sandy stretches. The laid-back ambience makes it suitable for families and travellers seeking a more peaceful atmosphere. Don't miss the Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks (Hin Ta Hin Yai) at the southern end. These unique rock formations resemble male and female genitalia – a geological wonder and quirky photo opportunity.
Lunch by the beach while soaking up the sun at Krua Chao Baan. (© Anuwat Senivansa Na Ayudhya/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)
Lunch
For lunch, head to Krua Chao Baan, a Bib Gourmand seafood restaurant. This eatery specialises in Southern Thai food. The signature omelette is simple yet delicious – crispy, not oily, with mixed seafood and well-seasoned minced pork. The stir-fried squid with pineapple, a local recipe only found on the island, is also a sweet and sour treat.Afternoon
The Chaweng Beach area has a vibrant atmosphere with numerous beachfront resorts, restaurants, bars and shops. The beach itself features powdery white sand and clear blue waters. You can try water sports galore, such as scuba diving, kite surfing or paddleboarding.As the day winds down, move away from the bustling crowds to the northeast headland and Choeng Mon Beach. The sheltered bay features clear waters, making it suitable for swimming and relaxation.
Pay a visit to the Big Buddha on Ko Samui. (© Shutterstock)
Dinner and the evening
Just across the water, Long Dtai, a MICHELIN-listed Thai restaurant, is located on a private island. From the restaurant's terrace, diners enjoy panoramic views of the bay as they sample Chef David Thompson's fabulous creations. His Southern Thai menu is deceptively simple, and his consummate culinary talent is revealed in the details.If you still have a thirst for more action, indulge in Ko Samui's nightlife and entertainment. From beach parties to cabaret shows, the nightlife between Chaweng Beach and Fisherman’s Village caters to every mood, from a cheeky drink to a lively night out.
Address book:
- Banyan Tree Samui: 99, 9, Maret, Ko Samui, Surat Thani
- Ta Nim Magic Garden: Tambon Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Khao Pom Mountain: Tambon Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Wang Sao Thong Waterfall: 37/1 Thawi Ratchapakdi Road, Na Mueang Subdistrict, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks (Hin Ta Hin Yai): 126/92 Moo 3 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Krua Chao Baan Samui: 438/18 Mu 1, Maret, Ko Samui, Surat Thani
- Long Dtai: Cape Fahn Hotel, 24/269 Mu 5, Bo Phut, Ko Samui, Surat Thani
Why not drop by Kapi Sator for a flavourful Southern Thai lunch? (© Kapi Sator)
Day 2: Northeast Coast
Morning
For the early risers, we suggest beating the crowds and the heat of the day with a visit to the temples. Marvel at the 12-metre-tall golden statue at Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) and soak in the panoramic views from the temple grounds. Nearby, Wat Plai Laem boasts intricate architecture and a striking statue of the Guanyin, the goddess of compassion.Breakfast
Fisherman's Village is a picturesque area with boutique shops and a relaxed atmosphere by Bophut Beach. There are several cafes that offer smoothie bowls, Buddha bowls and other health-conscious delights. It’s also a great place to return to in the evening for handicrafts on Walking Street, taste street food and enjoy live performances.For speed demons, it may sound counterintuitive, but head to Chaweng Lake for go-carting. Customers can choose between Kids, Regular and Fast Karts, depending on your penchant and aptitude for speed.
Enjoy an alfresco dining at Koh Thai Kitchen at the Four Seasons. (© N/A Koh Thai Kitchen)
Lunch
For lunch, visit Kapi Sator, a Bib Gourmand Southern Thai restaurant, which upholds authentic Southern flavour thanks to a culinary repertory that is hard to find elsewhere. One example is the delectable local squid in sweet coconut milk soup with a hint of lemongrass. The daily fish menu changes according to the catch of the day.In the mood for shopping after a meal? Central Shopping Mall, an open-air shopping plaza with modern architecture and aesthetic landscaping, features a diverse retail mix. It's a good place to top up your wardrobe with beachwear while ducking in and out of air-conditioning.
Dinner and the evening
A 20-minute drive from Bophut (traffic-permitting) is Koh Thai Kitchen at the Four Seasons Hotel. Located at the top of a precipitous hill, on the grounds of the hotel, the restaurant's alfresco dining area enjoys breathtaking views of sprawling jungle and blue sea dotted with nearby islands.This should leave you with enough time for the ultimate Thai cultural experience. Samui International Muay Thai Stadium hosts fights every Sunday and Thursday. Doors open at 8 pm and the fight starts at 9 pm.
After an action-packed days of falling in love with Ko Samui, in case you wish to extend your stay while treating yourself to supreme luxury. Check into Samujana Villas, a range of spacious villas, all lavishly outfitted with infinity pools, fully equipped kitchens, private cinemas and sweeping views over the water. Meanwhile, a team of chefs stands ready to prepare a sumptuous lunch or dinner in your villa's kitchen. This idyllic retreat is the perfect spot to carve out your own piece of paradise, be pampered with exceptional service and then decide that you never wish to leave.
Address book:
- Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai): Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui, Surat Thani
- Wat Plai Laem: Road 4171, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
- Fisherman's Village Night Market: Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Chaweng Lake: Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Kapi Sator: 25/236 Mu 6, Tawirat Phakdi Road, Bo Phut, Ko Samui
- Central Shopping Mall: 209 209/1-2 Moo 2, Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Koh Thai Kitchen: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, 219 Mu 5, Ang Thong, Ko Samui, Surat Thani
- Samui International Muay Thai Stadium: 3 Laem Din Road, Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
- Samujana Villas: 63/154 Moo 5, Baan Plai Laem, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
READ FURTHER: A 101 Guide to Ko Samui: A Tropical Paradise of Leisure and Culinary Delights
Illustration image: © Shutterstock
Illustration image: © Shutterstock
