Just hearing the words “Koh Samui” is enough to fill your mind with snapshots of perfect beaches, chilled cocktails and palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. But there’s more to Koh Samui than this cookie cutter imagery. If you know where to look, there are many different sides to the island.
Here are five types of travellers that Koh Samui is perfect for.
1. Families
Koh Samui offers lots of fun activities for kids and plenty of family-friendly accommodation to boot. Beaches like Choeng Mon and Bophut offer calm waters and great sand that’s ideal for fun and play. You can join a cooking class, visit the fun and fabulous Central Festival mall and the whole family is bound to have a blast exploring Samui’s vibrant night markets.
When it comes to accommodation, staying in a private villa is a great option for families. This gives you all the space and privacy you need – plus access to a full kitchen whenever you or the kids feel like it! Some of our favourite family-friendly villas in Koh Samui include Villa Malouna in Bang Por and Baan Kilee in Lipa Noi.
For more family-friendly Samui inspiration, check out our guide for visiting Koh Samui with kids.
2. Spa Buffs
If you’re looking for some serious pampering, Koh Samui is a fabulous destination. The island is home to some of the most luxurious spas on the planet and of course, you can’t visit the island without getting at least one authentic Thai massage.
When looking for a spa to visit in Koh Samui, you’ll really be spoiled for choice. One of the most beautiful spas on the island is the highly-acclaimed Tamarind Springs Forest Spa, which is tucked into lush forests just beyond Lamai Beach. If you’re looking for an experience that’s guranteed to wow, the Conrad Spa Koh Samui has repeatedly won accolades at the World Luxury Spa Awards.
If you’re staying in a villa, you can also book a massage and other spa treatments at the villa. If you ask us, this is the ultimate luxury: absolute privacy and divine pampering in your very own luxury villa.
3. Yogis
Visiting a spa is a great way to get your mind and body aligned. You can take these healing frequencies a step further by joining a yoga class or even committing yourself to a full-blown retreat. In recent years, Koh Samui has emerged as one of the best destinations for practicing yoga in Southeast Asia.
From holistic retreats to casual drop-in classes, finding a yoga class to suit your schedule and experience level in Koh Samui won’t be a problem. One of the most popular venues is The Yogarden, which is centrally located on sought-after Bobphut Beach. The highly acclaimed Vikasa yoga studio offers daily drop-in classes as well as hosting immersive yoga retreats. They also offer free meditation classes daily!
4. Honeymooners
It’s hard to imagine a more romantic location than Koh Samui. With its paradise beaches and perfect sunsets, the island offers picture-perfect scenery. Since Koh Samui doesn’t have the same hard partying reputation as, say, Phuket or Bangkok, you and your significant other get to enjoy the surrounding beauty in peace.
What’s even better, Koh Samui is filled with romantic dining experiences ranging from treetop restaurants to private star light dinners on the beach. These culinary marvels are ideal for marking a special anniversary – or maybe even popping the big question. For more romantic inspiration, check our guide to the most romantic dining experiences in Koh Samui.
5. Beach Bums
If you’re longing for a paradise beach, Koh Samui does not disappoint. The island’s stunning beachside views are not a mere accident, either.
Unlike the neighbouring island of Phuket, Koh Samui imposes strict construction laws: Within 50 metres of the beach, no building can be higher than six metres and buildings should have peaked roofs – no flat concrete complexes allowed. This means Koh Samui’s beaches maintain a more natural look with no Miami style high-rise in sight.
Though Koh Samui’s beaches are stunning as a rule, one size does not fit all and it’s important to choose the right beach to suit your taste. The main beach in Chaweng offers plenty of dining options and easy access to popular activities – but it does get crowded. If you’re after more of a desert island experiences, you should venture further out and try beaches like Choeng Mon and Lipa Noi. For more Robinson Crusoe vibes, check out our guide to the quiet beaches in Koh Samui.
Ministry of Villas offers hand-selected villas in Koh Samui and beyond.
Let us do the ground work for you and help you plan the perfect holiday. Contact our team – tell us exactly what you want, including preferred dates, location, number of guests and budget and we’ll make it happen.
