Ko Samui, Thailand
Thailand's luxury island — palm-fringed beaches, world-class resorts, the Big Buddha, and a 20-minute ferry to the Full Moon Party. Direct flights from Bangkok and Singapore into USM.
Ko Samui Highlights
Chaweng Beach
Samui's main beach — 7km of white sand, beach clubs, watersports, buzzing nightlife strip
Bophut Fisherman's Village
Charming Chinese shophouse waterfront — boutique hotels, Friday Walking Street, seafood
Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)
12m golden seated Buddha on a small island — free entry, sunset views, monks in residence
Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
20-min ferry to the world's most famous beach party — monthly on Haad Rin beach
Ang Thong Marine Park
Uninhabited islands, emerald lagoons, snorkelling — day trip by speedboat from Samui
Lamai Beach
Quieter than Chaweng — good reef snorkelling, beach bars, Grandmother Rock viewpoint
Full Moon Party 2026
The Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach (Koh Phangan) happens every month on the full moon — approximately monthly from January to December 2026. Take a 20-minute ferry from Ko Samui (Nathon or Bangrak pier). Return boats run through the night. Buy tickets (THB 200–300 entry) on the beach.
Ko Samui FAQ
Which airport serves Ko Samui?
Ko Samui Airport (USM) is a private airport on the northeast of the island, operated by Bangkok Airways. It handles direct flights from Bangkok (BKK/DMK), Singapore (SIN), Hong Kong (HKG), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), and Chiang Mai (CNX). Transfers to the main beaches take 20–45 minutes.
What is Ko Samui known for?
Ko Samui is Thailand's second-largest island, famous for palm-fringed beaches (Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut), Full Moon Party proximity (Koh Phangan is 20 min by ferry), luxury resorts, wellness retreats, and the iconic Big Buddha. It strikes a balance between party scene and luxury calm.
Which beach is best in Ko Samui?
Chaweng Beach is the longest and most vibrant — beach clubs, watersports, nightlife strip. Lamai is quieter with good restaurants. Bophut (Fisherman's Village) is the most charming — walking street on Fridays, boutique hotels, Mediterranean-style waterfront. Mae Nam is quietest, good for families.
When is the best time to visit Ko Samui?
January to August is the dry season on the west coast beaches (Chaweng, Lamai). October and November bring heavy rain from the northeast monsoon — some years see flooding. December is Christmas high season — expensive and crowded. February and March are considered the best months: dry, less crowded, reasonable prices.
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