Hotels in Koh Samui

Koh Samui: Gulf of Thailand's Coconut Island

Koh Samui sits in the Gulf of Thailand, 80 km off the Surat Thani coast in Chumphon Archipelago, Surat Thani Province. The island covers 228 sq km, making it Thailand's second-largest island. Its ring road connects the distinct beach zones: Chaweng on the east coast draws the highest concentration of hotels and bars, while Lamai offers a quieter strip 8 km south. The interior rises to forested hills around Khao Hua Jook peak at 635 m, dotted with coconut palms that give the island its historic export identity.

Where to Stay

Most hotels anchor along the east-coast beaches. Chaweng Beach — a 7 km white-sand arc — holds the majority of the island's 30-plus hotels listed on this site, from beachfront resorts to guesthouses on the inland sois. Bophut on the north shore offers a compact Fisherman's Village with boutique properties and weekend walking-street markets. Mae Nam, further west along the north coast, attracts families seeking calmer water. The Samui Airport (USM) sits at the island's northeast tip, putting Chaweng hotels within a 10-minute drive.

Practical Tips

• Getting around: Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) circle the ring road; negotiate fares before boarding.
• Best timing: November to April brings dry weather; May–October sees heavier rain on the east coast.
• Ferry access: Raja Ferry and Seatran run multiple daily crossings from Don Sak pier (Surat Thani) — roughly 1.5 hours.