Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture. Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui blends natural beauty with modern conveniences, offering everything from serene temples to lively markets. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Koh Samui has something for everyone.
Note: We spent a total of three weeks island hopping across Southern Thailand, prioritizing relaxation and free beach activities over adventurous excursions and partying. However, there’s still some of that (we were in Koh Phangan for Songkran/New Year’s after all), but if you’re more into the landscapes and the food, this is the right blog for you.
Are you island hopping too? Check out our blog, How to Spend 3 Weeks in Southern Thailand (coming soon!).
Curious about other destinations on our journey? Check out our blogs on Japan, Indonesia, or the Philippines!
Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no additional cost to you.
TLDR 🫣
Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture. From relaxing massages to lively night markets, this island offers the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility for every traveler.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Visit Big Buddha Temple and Wat Plai Laem. End the day with dinner at the Fisherman’s Village Night Market (pricey but fun!).
Day 2: Grab to Chaweng Beach for some sun, followed by shopping at Central Samui Mall. Cap the day with a heavenly massage at Baan Thai Massages.
Day 3: Relax at Maenam Beach and finish with a local dinner at Ma Yom’s.
Pro Tips:
- Use Grab for easy and reliable transportation if you don’t scooter.
- Stay near the city core if you want a more walkable experience.
- Time to do laundry if it's been a while.
Top Awards:
- Best Experience: The unforgettable massage at Baan Thai Massages.
- Best Eats: Dinner at Ma Yom’s for authentic, homestyle Thai cuisine.
- Best e-SIM: Airalo (You can use our referral code “CELINA4205” to save $4.50 CAD OFF your first purchase).
HOW TO GET AROUND KOH SAMUI
Navigating Koh Samui is relatively easy, with multiple options to suit various preferences. Scooters are the most popular mode of transport among tourists due to their affordability and convenience, but they’re not for everyone. If you’re not comfortable riding one, as we were, Grab (the local ride-hailing app) is a great alternative. Bicycles can also be a fun way to explore the island, especially for shorter distances.
WHERE TO STAY IN KOH SAMUI
We opted for an Airbnb in the Maenam area, which provided excellent facilities like a kitchen, laundry services, and free bicycles. Not sponsored! Maenam is peaceful and quiet, ideal for those looking to unwind. However, it’s worth noting that this area is farther from the city core and less walkable to popular attractions. Since we don’t ride scooters, we ordered a Grab one day to explore the busier parts of the island. If proximity to bustling spots is important, consider staying closer to Chaweng or Bophut.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Temples and Night Market
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Koh Samui and settle into your accommodations. Start your trip by doing a load of laundry at your Airbnb to stay on top of your travel chores.
Afternoon: Hop on a bicycle (or a scooter if you’re brave) and ride to two of Koh Samui’s most iconic temples (free!):
– Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai): A stunning 12-meter golden Buddha statue with panoramic views of the island.
– Wat Plai Laem: A beautiful and tranquil temple featuring colorful statues and an impressive 18-arm statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Evening: Head to Fisherman’s Village Night Market for dinner. While it’s a great place for food and souvenirs, be prepared for higher prices compared to other markets in Thailand.
Day 2: Beach Day and Shopping
Morning: Grab a ride to Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui’s most famous beach, known for its white sand and clear waters. Relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
Afternoon: Take a break from the beach and visit Central Samui Mall, a modern shopping destination where you can find souvenirs, local snacks, and more.
Evening: Treat yourself to the best massage in Thailand at Baan Thai Massages. The experience here is unforgettable and will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Two massages (1 hour) with tips cost us just $31 CAD!
Day 3: Relax and Unwind in Maenam
Morning: Spend your morning at Maenam Beach, a serene spot perfect for a quiet walk or simply lounging by the water.
Afternoon: Do another load of laundry and make use of your Airbnb’s kitchen facilities to cook a comforting lunch of noodles. Afterward, enjoy the beach and soak in the peaceful vibes of Maenam.
Evening: For your final dinner in Koh Samui, head to Ma Yom’s, a local gem serving authentic Thai dishes with a homely feel. It was honestly so good – we wish we took photos, but instead, we just inhaled our meal!
TOTAL COST for 3 Days in Koh Samui (Approximate CAD for 2 people):
Accommodations for 3 nights: $237
Activities: $0
Food: $83
Transportation: $38
Massages (and tip): $31
TOTAL: $389 (Roughly $48 per person, per day)
FINAL THOUGHTS
Koh Samui is a beautiful destination that caters to all kinds of travelers. From its stunning temples to its picturesque beaches and relaxing massages, the island offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and modern amenities. While Maenam provided us with a peaceful retreat, we found ourselves drawn to the bustling energy of Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village. Koh Samui’s charm lies in its ability to offer both serenity and excitement, making it an ideal spot for a short and memorable getaway.
Feel free to ask us questions in the comments! Curious about other destinations on our journey? Check out our blogs on Japan, Indonesia, or the Philippines!
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