Koh Samui – A Brief Introduction

I have spent to little time on Koh Samui to give you a deeper presentation – but enough time to see some of the most famous and popular attractions, which I will list in this post. Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket. Samui has its own airport which handles international as well as national flights. But if you’re already in southern Thailand you should take the ferry from Surat Thani (Donsak Pier), which takes about 1 hour and a half.

Koh Samui as viewed from the ferry, giving you a taste of what you can expect; beautiful white sandy beaches with palm trees. Koh Samui is called “Coconut Island” by the locals since coconut trees grow just about everywhere on the island.

Chaweng Beach has the whitest sand, clearest water, the wildest nightlife and the biggest crowds on Koh Samui.

Thong Takian Beach, also known as “Silver Beach,” is an excellent small secluded beach with very calm water and fine sand.

Coco Tam’s is an awesome beach bar located in Fisherman’s Village at Bophut Beach. This village on the northern coast of Koh Samui is hugely popular – especially the Friday night markets.

Dinner at Krua Bophut in Fisherman’s Village. Nice atmosphere, just by the beach.

Coconut trees is a common sight on the island.

Koh Samui’s most impressive landmark is the Big Buddha that was built in 1972. This golden colored Buddha statue sits at 12 meters high at the top of a staircase. The Buddha statue is located inside the Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple). Read more.

The Guanyin statue with 18 arms at Wat Plai Laem, a temple located close the Big Buddha. Guanyin is the “goddess” of compassion and mercy.

Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks (Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks) at Lamai Beach. Here I’m sitting with Grandfather Rock in the background; the rock that is shaped like a penis.