10 Reasons Why Koh Samui Should Be Your Next Thailand Destination

Thailand continues to be a top choice for travellers, whether you’re planning a spontaneous weekend escape or a longer backpacking adventure. With its dynamic cities, lush highlands, and stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone. While Bangkok and Chiang Mai often steal the spotlight, and the likes of Phuket and Krabi remain popular, those in the know are now choosing to visit Koh Samui for a more well-rounded Thai experience.

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a tropical gem that blends natural beauty with cultural charm. Think palm-fringed beaches, vibrant night markets, serene temples, and some of the best food you’ll taste in Thailand. Whether you’re after relaxation or a bit of island adventure, a visit to Koh Samui promises the perfect mix of both. Still on the fence? Read on to discover why this island should be on your travel list.

1. Everyone else is all about Bangkok and Phuket

Don’t get me wrong – I think both destinations are pretty great and they deserve the flock of travellers they receive. However, I feel that more folks should simply start to consider Koh Samui as a travel destination given that, you know, Koh Samui is so awesome.

Also Read: Bangkok Bucket List: 20 Challenges For Your Next Trip

2. Pristine and downright gorgeous beaches

For one, there are some of the most stunning beaches – think soft white sand and alluring clear waters – to be discovered in Koh Samui. Even if you opt to stay in the resort town of Chaweng to be in the midst of all the action, the idyllic Chaweng Beach awaits just steps away. There’s no need to travel far and wide in search of a secluded beach spot, as this five-kilometre stretch of beach is hardly crowded on its busiest day.

If you still wish to hop on a motorbike to find your little piece of paradise, there is a plethora of untouched beaches just waiting to be discovered. Head to Ban Tai Beach, which is close to Maenam village yet largely unheard of by tourists, or make your way to the east coast to find your private cove at Coral Cove Beach.

3. Walking streets and malls that you can go crazy shopping in

There are some of us who can’t go on a vacation without a healthy dose of shopping. Here’s the good news: Koh Samui is truly a haven for shoppers. If you happen to be in Koh Samui on a Friday evening, there is no better place to be than the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street. This is where you can find market stalls that offer a huge range of products from cheap clothing to carved soaps, as well as tasty street food.

Other places to shop in Koh Samui include Chaweng Walking Street, Bophut Plaza and Lamai Night Plaza. For a shopping mall home that is home to the likes of Uniqlo and Adidas, try Central Festival Samui.

4. Access to numerous nearby islands

This is definitely one of Koh Samui’s winning points. Just a ferry ride away from Koh Samui is Koh Phangan, the island best known for its full moon parties and Koh Tao, an extraordinary dive destination. If time is not a factor, combine your stay in Koh Samui with a few nights in Koh Phangan and Koh Tao because each island has their own unique offerings.

Only a short distance from Koh Tao is quite possibly the most gorgeous island in Thailand, Koh Nang Yuan. A 20 minute hike to the island’s peak leads to a viewpoint that will give the astounding view pictured above. Hop on Ferry Samui to get to these islands or join a snorkelling tour on a catamaran if you’re up for a laid-back day trip from Koh Samui.

5. Simply amazing Thai food

I love Thai food, and just the thought of pad thai, tom yum and mango sticky rice is enough to get me hungry. Koh Samui has a huge range of restaurants and going hungry in Koh Samui should be considered a crime. I highly recommend Jun Hom, a beachside restaurant in Maenam, for authentic Thai food that is to die for. Be sure to order their prawns in tamarind sauce!

Also Read: A Taste of Thai Luxury: Indulgent Culinary Experiences in Bangkok and Beyond

6. Great nightlife

Insomniacs, rejoice! When the sun sets, Koh Samui transforms into a lively island buzzing with energy. From beachfront bars to high-energy nightclubs, the nightlife here caters to all kinds of night owls. One of the most iconic spots is The Green Mango Club, a long-standing favourite where both locals and travellers dance late into the night. Beyond the clubs, you’ll also find Muay Thai boxing matches, live music, and dazzling cabaret performances — all adding to the island’s electric after-dark atmosphere.

7. Exciting and unique attractions

Of course, Koh Samui is not just about shopping, eating and partying. The paradise of Koh Samui has plenty of natural, cultural and historical attractions to be discovered too. Some places to visit in Koh Samui include the picturesque Na Muang Waterfalls and the Big Buddha, a magnificent 12 metre golden statue. You can also find your way to the Tarnim Magic Garden tucked somewhere in the island’s lush interior or visit the Samui Snake Farm.

8. Direct flights from Singapore

Here’s the cream on the cake: a direct flight from Singapore will get you to Koh Samui in less than two hours.

Oh, and just a fun fact: Samui Airport is one like no other. It hardly looks anything like an airport and clearing the immigration formalities felt like checking in to a resort. I’ll leave it up to you to fly to Koh Samui to experience this for yourself.

9. There’s something new to discover each trip

Koh Samui is one of the largest islands in Thailand and what this means for travellers is that there is always something new to discover each trip. You could stay in a nice resort in Chaweng – such as OZO Chaweng Samui – for easy access to restaurants, bars and shops on one trip, and then stay in the fishing village of Hua Thanon on your next adventure for a more rural atmosphere. This article only skims the surface of what this island has to offer; there are countless beaches to discover, sites and attractions to explore and activities to undertake in Koh Samui.

10. Because I say so

Visit Koh Samui because I say so and my words carry a lot of weight. 🙂

But seriously, though, while Koh Samui is certainly not an off-the-beaten-track destination (you’ll find yourself amidst a fair share of blonde-haired holidaymakers), it is definitely one that deserves more attention, particularly from my fellow friends in Singapore.

I’ve had a wonderful time in Koh Samui and it is only a matter of time before I return.