Koh Samui island, a tropical heaven in the Gulf of Thailand, is on many people’s bucket list. With its beautiful beaches, lively Koh Samui nightlife and luxury resorts, it’s no wonder this island gets visitors from all over the world. But where to stay in Koh Samui can be overwhelming with so many options. This guide will help you make that decision by breaking down the best areas to stay, types of accommodation, key amenities and more. One resort that stands out for its luxury villas is Paradise Island Estate, with Thai style and modern style villas.
Best Areas to Stay in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has many areas, each with its own character and attractions. Here are some of the best:
Where to Stay in Choeng Mon Beach
Description and Vibe: Choeng Mon Beach is a family friendly area with a quiet and peaceful environment and beautiful beaches. Also home to the luxurious Paradise Island Estate, perfect for a relaxing and upscale stay.
Types of Accommodation: Luxury resorts and mid-range hotels including Paradise Island Estate.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Quiet and family friendly, beautiful beach, close to Koh Samui airport.
- Cons: Limited nightlife and dining options.
Best Hotels and Resorts:
- Luxury: Paradise Island Estate
- Mid-Range: The Tongsai Bay
- Budget: Choeng Mon Beach Hotel
Where to Stay in Chaweng Beach
Description and Vibe: Chaweng Beach is the most popular and busiest area on the island. Many attractions and amenities are within walking distance. Nightlife, shopping and dining options galore, Chaweng is for those who want to be in the midst of it all.
Types of Accommodation: Luxury hotels to budget hostels.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Nightlife, many dining options, beach.
- Cons: Can be busy and noisy, more expensive.
Best Hotels and Resorts:
- Luxury: Centara Grand Beach Resort Koh Samui
- Mid-Range: OZO Chaweng Samui
- Budget: Chaweng Budget Hotel
Where to Stay in Lamai Beach
Description and Vibe: Lamai Beach is the second most popular area after Chaweng. More relaxed than Chaweng but still has many dining and entertainment options.
Types of Accommodation: Luxury resorts, mid-range hotels, budget.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Quieter than Chaweng, beautiful beach, good dining options.
- Cons: Limited nightlife compared to Chaweng.
Best Hotels and Resorts:
- Luxury: Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa
- Mid-Range: Lamai Coconut Beach Resort
- Budget: Rich Resort Beachside Hotel
Where to Stay in Bophut Beach
Description and Vibe: Bophut Beach has the charming Fisherman’s Village with boutique shopping, dining and a more relaxed vibe.
Types of Accommodation: Luxury resorts and mid-range hotels.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Charming area, good dining options, family friendly.
- Cons: Beach not as nice as Chaweng or Lamai.
Best Hotels and Resorts:
- Luxury: Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort
- Mid-Range: Smile House Resort
- Budget: Eden Bungalows
Where to Stay in Maenam Beach
Description and Vibe: Maenam Beach is quieter and more relaxed, perfect for families and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Types of Accommodation: Mostly mid-range and budget with a few luxury options.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Quiet and peaceful, family friendly, good value.
- Cons: Limited nightlife and dining options.
Best Hotels and Resorts:
- Luxury: Santiburi Koh Samui
- Mid-Range: The Hammock Samui Beach Resort
- Budget: Maenam Bay Resort
Where to Stay in Fisherman’s Village
Description and Vibe: In Bophut, Fisherman’s Village is a charming area with boutique shops, restaurants and more relaxed vibe.
Types of Accommodation: Mostly mid-range and luxury.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Charming atmosphere, good dining and shopping options.
- Cons: Beach not as good as others.
Best Hotels and Resorts:
- Luxury: Hansar Samui Resort
- Mid-Range: The Waterfront Boutique Hotel
- Budget: Smile House Resort
Types of Accommodation in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has something for everyone.
Luxury Resorts and Hotels
Overview: Koh Samui has some of the best resorts and hotels in Thailand, with world class facilities and services. One of the top option is Paradise Island Estate with its luxurious Thai-style and modern-style villas.
Best Luxury Hotels:
- Paradise Island Estate: Various luxurious villas with Thai-style and modern-style.
- Conrad Koh Samui: Stunning views and private pool villas.
- Melia Koh Samui: Luxurious rooms and great service.
- Kimpton Kitalay Samui: New luxury hotel with modern amenities.
Private Pool Villas
Overview: For privacy and luxury, private pool villas are the way to go. Paradise Island Estate has private pool villas that combines luxury with traditional Thai.
Best Private Pool Villas:
- Banyan Tree Samui: Private pool villas with ocean views.
- Samujana Villas: Spacious rooms and private infinity pool.
- Paradise Island Estate: Luxurious private pool villas with Thai and modern style.
Budget Hotels and Budget Stay
Overview: Koh Samui also has many budget hotels and budget accommodation for budget travelers.
Best Budget Hotels:
- Ibis Samui Bophut: Great value for money with comfortable rooms.
- Chaweng Budget Hotel: In the heart of Chaweng.
Family Accommodation
Overview: Many hotels and resorts in Koh Samui are family friendly with kid-friendly facilities and big rooms. Paradise Island Estate is a great option for families with big villas and family friendly facilities.
Best Family Hotels:
- Santiburi Koh Samui: Activities for kids and family rooms.
- Centara Grand Beach Resort: Family friendly services and facilities.
- Paradise Island Estate: Big villas for families with Thai-style and modern-style.
Romantic Getaway and Honeymoon
Overview: Koh Samui is a top destination for couples and honeymooners with romantic settings and luxury accommodation. The villas at Paradise Island Estate is an intimate and luxurious space for a romantic escape.
Best Romantic Hotels:
- The Library: Unique design and romantic ambiance.
- Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui: Private beach and luxurious villas.
- Paradise Island Estate: Romantic honeymoon cottage with private pool and jacuzi.
What to look for
When choosing where to stay in Koh Samui, some amenities makes your stay better. Paradise Island Estate has many of them.
- Private Pool: Many luxury resorts and villas including Paradise Island Estate has private pool.
- Beachfront: Direct access to the beach is a big plus.
- Infinity Pool: Some hotels has infinity pool with ocean view.
- Spacious Room: Look for accommodation with big and comfortable rooms. Paradise Island Estate has the biggest villas in the island.
- Breakfast Buffet: A good breakfast sets the day.
- Outdoor Pool: Many hotels has outdoor pool for relaxation.
Nearby Activities and Attractions
Chaweng Beach
- Beach Bars: Grab a drink at one of the beach bars.
- Nightlife: Chaweng has nightlife.
- Water Sports: Jet ski and parasailing.
Lamai Beach
- Street Food: Try the Thai street food.
- Local Markets: Shop for souvenirs.
- Water Sports: Lamai has water sports activities.
Bophut Beach
- Fisherman’s Village: Boutique shops and restaurants.
- Boutique Shopping: Unique items in local shops.
- Beach Bars: Relax at the beach bars.
Maenam Beach
- Chill Out: Relax and unwind.
- Local Food: Try the local Thai food.
- Water Sports: Water sports activities.
Choeng Mon Beach
- Quiet Beach: Serene and quiet beach.
- Family Friendly: Activities for families.
- Water Sports: Try water sports.
Where to Eat in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has many dining options to suit every taste. Guests of Paradise Island Estate can dine in-house chef or nearby.
- Thai Food: Eat at local restaurants.
- Western Food: Many restaurants has Western dishes.
- Food Experiences: From street food to fine dining, Koh Samui has it all.
- Beach Bars and Restaurants: Eat or drink at one of the beach bars and restaurants.
Best Restaurants in Koh Samui
- Jungle Club: View and Thai food.
- The Dining Room at Rocky’s Boutique Resort: Romantic and fine dining.
- Zazen Restaurant: Fine dining with Thai and international cuisine.
Transport and Access
Getting to Koh Samui
- Samui Airport: The main airport in the island with domestic and international flights.
- Ferry: Various ferry to mainland and nearby islands.
- Koh Phangan: Easily accessible via ferry from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is renowned for its vibrant Full Moon parties, making it a popular addition to any holiday itinerary.
Getting Around Koh Samui
- Car Rental: Rent a car to explore the island.
- Motorbike Rental: Popular and affordable way to get around.
- Taxis and Local Transport: Taxis and local transport available.
Transport Tips
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, book your transport in advance.
- Negotiate: Always negotiate taxi fare before you start your journey.
- Safety First: If rent a motorbike, wear a helmet and have a valid license.
FAQs
- When is the best time to visit Koh Samui? December to April is the best time to visit when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Are there luxury collection resorts in Koh Samui? Yes, Koh Samui has several luxury collection resorts like Conrad Koh Samui and Melia Koh Samui.
- How far is Samui airport from the main beaches? Samui Airport is 15-30 minutes away from the main beaches like Chaweng and Bophut.
- What are the best hotels for relaxation? Banyan Tree Samui and Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui are the best hotels for relaxation.
- Can I find affordable hotels in Koh Samui? Yes, there are many affordable hotels and budget accommodations in Koh Samui.
- What are the best areas to stay for nightlife? Chaweng Beach is the best area for nightlife with the clubs and bars.
- Are there family friendly resorts in Koh Samui? Yes, resorts like Centara Grand Beach Resort and Santiburi Koh Samui are family friendly.
- Is Paradise Island Estate a luxury accommodation? Absolutely, Paradise Island Estate has luxurious villas in Thai and modern style, perfect for luxury stay.
Where to Stay in Koh Samui End
Koh Samui’s diverse areas and accommodations make a big difference in your overall experience on this island. Whether you want the nightlife of Chaweng Beach, the chill out of Lamai Beach, or the charm of Fisherman’s Village, there’s an area and accommodation for every taste and budget. Paradise Island Estate is one of the top choices for luxury accommodation, with Thai and modern style villas. Hope this helps you to make a good decision and enjoy your stay in Koh Samui.