Glistening like a jewel in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is famed for its pure turquoise seas, soft white sands and lush green jungles. These tropical treasures have long attracted the world's travelers, who can immerse themselves in the island's natural wonders, uncover its rich cultural heritage, savor fresh local cuisine, and experience world-class hospitality.
Chaweng Beach: The Vibrant Heart of Samui
At the heart of Samui's tourism industry lies Chaweng, a haven of relaxation and entertainment on the island’s pristine east coast. The 7km-long beach is the perfect spot for a sunrise stroll, daytime recreation and exhilarating water sports. After dark, Chaweng transforms into a vibrant hive of activity, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and nightspots that let revelers feel the friendly, upbeat spirit of Samui.
Chaweng Beach: The Vibrant Heart of Samui
At the heart of Samui's tourism industry lies Chaweng, a haven of relaxation and entertainment on the island’s pristine east coast. The 7km-long beach is the perfect spot for a sunrise stroll, daytime recreation and exhilarating water sports. After dark, Chaweng transforms into a vibrant hive of activity, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and nightspots that let revelers feel the friendly, upbeat spirit of Samui.
Explore Iconic Attractions and Hidden Gems
Guests who want to uncover the soul of Samui can head out and explore the island's many iconic attractions and hidden gems. Get your camera ready to capture spectacular ocean vistas at Lad Koh View Point, feel the loving spirit of Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks), the unique natural formation that symbolizes family bonds, and discover the beauty of Overlap Stone, a seemingly miraculous geological marvel overlooking the ocean.
Culture seekers can discover Samui's rich Buddhist heritage at Wat Phra That Sila Ngoo, or Wat Samret (the “Temple of Success”) which is over 220 years old, with its collection of more than 50 Buddha statues. Guan Yu Shrine is a soaring 16-meter-high pilgrimage site adorned with intricate Chinese art, and visitors can blend spirituality with stunning views at Big Buddha Temple, the hilltop landmark that is visible from across the island.
For a deep dive into Samui's history, Baan Boran is an excellent local museum and antique wooden house that offers an insight into the lives of the island’s people, descended from the Hanjaroen family who migrated from China and settled here in the 19th Century.
Guests who want to uncover the soul of Samui can head out and explore the island's many iconic attractions and hidden gems. Get your camera ready to capture spectacular ocean vistas at Lad Koh View Point, feel the loving spirit of Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks), the unique natural formation that symbolizes family bonds, and discover the beauty of Overlap Stone, a seemingly miraculous geological marvel overlooking the ocean.
Culture seekers can discover Samui's rich Buddhist heritage at Wat Phra That Sila Ngoo, or Wat Samret (the “Temple of Success”) which is over 220 years old, with its collection of more than 50 Buddha statues. Guan Yu Shrine is a soaring 16-meter-high pilgrimage site adorned with intricate Chinese art, and visitors can blend spirituality with stunning views at Big Buddha Temple, the hilltop landmark that is visible from across the island.
For a deep dive into Samui's history, Baan Boran is an excellent local museum and antique wooden house that offers an insight into the lives of the island’s people, descended from the Hanjaroen family who migrated from China and settled here in the 19th Century.
Savor the Flavors of Southern Thailand
Just 10 minutes’ drive from Chaweng, Fisherman's Village is a traditional community and night market where visitors can shop for authentic souvenirs and savor sizzling street food. For passionate foodies who want to experience Samui's finest cuisine, Krua Chao Baan is a Michelin-rated restaurant that brings Southern Thai flavors to life near Lamai Beach, while The Nature Samui is an organic kitchen garden restaurant that presents the freshest dishes in Bophut. For the ultimate sunset chill-out session, CoCo Tam’s is a laid-back beach bar where guests can sip cool cocktails as a fire show lights up the night.
Just 10 minutes’ drive from Chaweng, Fisherman's Village is a traditional community and night market where visitors can shop for authentic souvenirs and savor sizzling street food. For passionate foodies who want to experience Samui's finest cuisine, Krua Chao Baan is a Michelin-rated restaurant that brings Southern Thai flavors to life near Lamai Beach, while The Nature Samui is an organic kitchen garden restaurant that presents the freshest dishes in Bophut. For the ultimate sunset chill-out session, CoCo Tam’s is a laid-back beach bar where guests can sip cool cocktails as a fire show lights up the night.
Where to Stay: Best Western Chaweng Samui
Nestled just steps from Chaweng’s lively walking street and blissful beach, Best Western Chaweng Samui is one of the area’s newest internationally-branded boutique hotels. Couples, families and friends can stay in a choice of 67 elegantly appointed rooms, all featuring comfy beds, power showers and high-speed Wi-Fi, unwind in the indoor pool, or work out in the fitness center. The inviting onsite restaurant serves Thai and international cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
For more information, contact 077 300 621 or bwchawengsamui.com
Nestled just steps from Chaweng’s lively walking street and blissful beach, Best Western Chaweng Samui is one of the area’s newest internationally-branded boutique hotels. Couples, families and friends can stay in a choice of 67 elegantly appointed rooms, all featuring comfy beds, power showers and high-speed Wi-Fi, unwind in the indoor pool, or work out in the fitness center. The inviting onsite restaurant serves Thai and international cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
For more information, contact 077 300 621 or bwchawengsamui.com
How to Get There: Fly with Asia's Boutique Airline
With Bangkok Airways, Asia's Boutique Airline, travelers can fly direct to Koh Samui from Bangkok, Chengdu, Chiang Mai, Hong Kong, Krabi, Pattaya, Phuket, and Singapore, aboard a fleet of modern aircraft every day.
With Bangkok Airways, Asia's Boutique Airline, travelers can fly direct to Koh Samui from Bangkok, Chengdu, Chiang Mai, Hong Kong, Krabi, Pattaya, Phuket, and Singapore, aboard a fleet of modern aircraft every day.
