Thailand has countless visit-worthy destinations, but Koh Samui ended up being the island that matched my working life perfectly – a dreamy balance of tropical calm and everyday convenience. It has the relaxed, sandy-feet vibe you want from an island, but without the hassle. You don’t need a scooter to get around, there are endless cafés to work from, and the mix of nature and modern comforts makes it a great all-rounder.
From Thai boxing nights and cute capybara cafés to bamboo tattoos and island-hopping in Ang Thong Marine Park – Koh Samui has plenty to keep you busy without ever feeling overwhelmed.
My Personal Experience of Koh Samui
I spent about two weeks in Koh Samui and stayed in four different accommodations around Maret, Chaweng and Mae Nam. Being a digital nomad in Koh Samui fit surprisingly well with the island’s rhythm – slow mornings, reliable Wi-Fi, easy transport with Grab, and plenty of cafés where it was comfortable to set up for a few hours. It never felt stressful or inconvenient, and the balance between productivity and beach life came very naturally.
I arrived by boat from Koh Phangan (after spending time in Koh Tao before that), and when it was time to leave, I took the boat back to the mainland to catch a much cheaper flight from Surat Thani to Bangkok than what Koh Samui’s airport could offer.
Some of my favourite moments from the stay were visiting Capybara World, spending a full day exploring the islands of Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, and getting a bamboo tattoo – and for that, I can genuinely recommend The Bamboo Rooms.
Koh Samui Stays I Recommend
Looking for inspiration on where to stay in Koh Samui? Here are two places I stayed at and would happily return to.
Khwan Beach Resort
Khwan Beach Resort was my first ever glamping experience – and it was a good one. The resort sits just a short walk from Mae Nam Beach and has this calm, art-focused atmosphere that feels like a creative little hideaway. I stayed in one of the luxury tents, which was spacious, comfortable, and gave me the best outdoor showering experience I’ve ever had.
The area itself is very quiet, making it a great choice if you want to escape the crowds and unwind properly. With reliable Wi-Fi, beautifully kept gardens and plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby, it strikes the perfect balance between nature and convenience.
Dara Samui Beach
Dara Samui Beach Resort is a lovely beachfront stay in Chaweng, especially if you want a mix of comfort and convenience. The traditional Thai architecture gives it a warm, boutique feel, while the rooms are spacious, well-kept and come with big balconies that are perfect for slow mornings or post-beach evenings.
The pool sits right by the beach, so you can drift between the two effortlessly, and having on-site restaurants for Thai dishes, Western food and seafood makes dining simple. It’s a great choice if you want to be close to shops, cafés and nightlife, but still stay somewhere that feels relaxing rather than chaotic.
Koh Samui FAQ
Still unsure if Koh Samui is for you? Let’s go through some common questions about the island so you can decide whether it’s worth your time and money – and when it might best fit your schedule.
Is Koh Samui worth visiting?
Absolutely. Koh Samui has a great blend of beaches, nature, cafés, nightlife, and convenience. It’s cleaner and more organised than some islands, and it’s ideal for travellers who want a bit of everything – relaxation, adventure, and comfort.
Is it expensive in Koh Samui?
It’s more expensive than places like Koh Phangan or the North of Thailand, but still affordable compared to Western standards. Food, transport and activities are reasonably priced, while resorts can range from budget to ultra-luxury.
What is the best month to go to Koh Samui?
The best time to visit is January to April, when the weather is sunny and relatively dry. Unlike the rest of Thailand, Koh Samui has a different monsoon pattern and stays nice even when other regions get heavy rain.
How many days in Koh Samui is enough?
3-5 days is enough to get a good feel for the island. If you want to explore more beaches, visit Ang Thong, do a cooking class, or work remotely, staying 1-2 weeks is ideal.
Where is the nicest part of Koh Samui?
The nicest part of Koh Samui really depends on what you’re looking for.
Mae Nam is perfect if you want a quiet, relaxed atmosphere with a long stretch of beach. Chaweng is the island’s hub for nightlife and shopping, while Lamai offers a calmer, more laid-back alternative to Chaweng. Fisherman’s Village brings trendy restaurants, boutique vibes, and a more polished feel.
If you want a balance of calm and convenience, Mae Nam and Bophut are especially lovely choices.
Can you visit other islands from Koh Samui?
Yes! Koh Samui is one of the best-connected islands in Thailand, and it’s easy to hop over to Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and several smaller islands. It’s worth comparing Ko Tao, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan beforehand, unless you have the option to visit them all.