Koh Samui, the third largest island in Thailand, is fast becoming one of the world’s most sought after holiday destinations. Blessed with outstanding natural beauty, stunning beaches and a relaxed laid-back lifestyle it has everything to make your tropical escape a very special experience. Koh Samui also promises a vibrant nightlife and a superior international restaurant scene, making it ideal for a long and relaxing Thailand holiday.
A part of the Angthong archipelago, Koh Samui’s major claim to fame is the untouched Angthong National Marine Park, an area so exotically beautiful that it inspired Alex Garland to pen his famous book, “The Beach.” Explore the inner reaches of this stunning marine destination and discover why it is considered nothing less than an earthly paradise.
The many islands of the Angthong Marine Park in Koh Samui.
Koh Samui is also a haven for water sports. Scuba diving, sailing and kitesurfing are just some of the popular activities that you can indulge in the beaches fronting a spectacular coastline. Chaweng Beach is easily the most popular area on Koh Samui. This endless sandy beach promises a fun-filled day of activities and at night it transforms into a lively entertainment area with the choicest of clubs, bars, and restaurants vying for your attention.
Enjoy the palm-fringed serenity on the quieter towns of Bophut, Maenam and Lamai. Offering fantastic views, these beach areas are an idyllic escape from the stresses of everyday life.
Farther afield, is the neighboring island of Koh Phangan, renowned for its monthly full moon party on the crescent shaped Haad Rin beach. Bringing together revelers from across the globe, the event is like none other you would witness on this planet. For the rest of the month, the island is quiet, relaxed, and promises a perfect escape.
Festivals and Events
Songkran: The Thai New Year is celebrated on the full moon in mid-April. The event is marked with religious and family duties. Trucks drive around the ring road with barrels of water and passengers armed with super-soaker water pistols drench everyone. Much music and merriment results and everyone gets sopping wet and is covered in talc.
Koh Samui International Regatta: Held in the first week of June, the annual Koh Samui Regatta is an important event on the island. The clubs, restaurants and bars host regatta parties for sailors and spectators.
Loy Kratong: Loi Kratong, the beautiful ceremonial festival of lights, is held in mid-November. The scene of small floating offerings made from flowers, leaves and candles set off to float on the rivers and ocean is truly enchanting. The main venues are the beaches of Bohput, Chaweng, and Lamai. The bobbing ocean-bound candles, combined with the air-borne lanterns dotting the sky create a mesmerizing scene.
