Things to Do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui strikes that sweet spot between tropical great destination and accessible comfort that keeps drawing people back. Thailand's second-largest island has managed to develop its tourism infrastructure without completely losing its soul - you'll still find coconut groves and fishing villages alongside the resorts and beach clubs. The island's ring road makes it surprisingly easy to get around, and while some beaches definitely lean touristy, others feel genuinely untouched. What's particularly nice about Koh Samui is how it caters to different travel styles without feeling fragmented - honeymooners, backpackers, and families all seem to find their groove here. The island's geography works in your favor, with each coast offering something different. The east side tends to be quieter and more local, while the north and west coasts have most of the action. Interestingly, Koh Samui has kept much of its natural character intact - those iconic coconut palms aren't just for show, they're still harvested. The combination of accessible beaches, decent infrastructure, and that laid-back Thai island vibe makes it an ideal introduction to Thailand's islands, though seasoned travelers will find plenty to appreciate too.

The food scene on Koh Samui is surprisingly diverse, ranging from excellent street food to high-end resort dining. You'll find the best local eats at the various markets - Lamai night market and Fisherman's Village are particularly good for authentic Thai dishes at reasonable prices. For something more upscale, many beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, though quality varies widely so look for places busy with locals. Interestingly, the island has developed quite a good international food scene too, with decent Italian, Japanese, and even Mexican options if you need a break from Thai food.

The sweet spot is generally December through April when you get sunny skies and lower humidity, though this is also peak season so expect crowds and higher prices. May through September brings more rain but it's usually short, heavy downpours rather than all-day drizzle, and the island stays green and lush. October and November are genuinely wet and windy - best avoided unless you're getting serious deals and don't mind spending time indoors. That said, Koh Samui's location in the Gulf of Thailand means it has better weather than the west coast during European summer months.