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Koh Samui is one of those picture-perfect places that our minds take us to when we think of Thailand’s DAZZLING beaches. Glassy, turqiouse waters and endless stretches of sand lined with palm trees and beach bars… take me back.
Koh Samui is a gorgeous island located in the Gulf of Thailand, popular for its beautiful beaches and the 12-meter-tall gold Buddha statue at the Wat Phra Yai temple. The island is covered in lush forests and surrounded by smaller islands to hop over to.
For many years, I travelled the world as the original Broke Backpacker, journeying to far flung lands on just $10 a day.
Today, this site is the ultimate budget travel resource for aspiring adventurers looking to ditch their desks and hit the road in search of raw, real and meaningful adventures.
Check out our travel recommendations for where to stay in Koh Samui:
Koh Samui is one of the most popular beach destinations in the world and as a result, gets very very busy! Figuring out where to stay in Koh Samui is no easy mission to be tasked with.
Lucky for you (and me!), I’ve explored every since of this magical island and created this ULTIMATE guide on where to stay in Koh Samui. I’ve got all the hot takes on the best areas and places to stay, not to mention the best things to do in each neighbourhood.
Whether you want to party the nights away or unwind on the beach, pina colada in hand – I’ve got you covered.
So, let’s dive into the best places to stay in Koh Samui, Thailand.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui?
- Koh Samui Neighbourhood Guide - Best Places to Stay in Koh Samui
- Koh Samui's Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Where to Stay in Koh Samui
- What To Pack For Koh Samui
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Koh Samui
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Koh Samui
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Backpacking Thailand is a truly enriching experience, and the country has rich and varied places to stay. Whether you're after a hostel to party the nights away or private pool villas to fit the whole fam, I've got you covered. Let's look at some of the best areas to stay in Koh Samui.
Samui Zenity | Best Budget Hotel in Koh Samui
Samui Zenity Hotel is located close to Mae Nam Beach, with a free shuttle available from the hotel to the beach. The rooms are spacious and have a terrace with access to the common swimming pool. Oh and did I mention there's a slide?!
If you're after bang for your buck, look no further - this place provides some insane value for money. These words bring us budget backpackers to our knees.
Escape Beach Resort | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Koh Samui
The Escape Beach Resort is located right on the beachfront in Mae Nam, in Koh Samui. The resort has an outdoor beachfront swimming pool with a bar overlooking the sea, as well as a beachfront restaurant serving Thai and international dishes.
The rooms are located both on the main building and in private beach bungalows and have a private bathroom and air conditioning. This hotel provides the perfect... escape!
Meliá Koh Samui | Best Luxury Hotel in Koh Samui
This luxury resort is located right by Choeng Mon Beach and showcases a mix of traditional Thai and modern architecture.
This stunning luxury family hotel offers guest rooms with huge verandas and luxurious boat suites. Each comes with its own private gardens surrounded by water - yep, this place is pretty damn cool.
Enjoy the excellent on-site restaurant (Koko Kitchen), bar (Boat’s Bar) and beach restaurant (Breeza Beach Restaurant and Bar), get a massage at the renowned spa or simply float around in the 641-metre-long lagoon that runs all around the resort – the choice is yours!
Chill Inn Lamai Hostel & Beach Cafe | Best Hostel in Koh Samui
Out of Koh Samui's best hostels, this one takes the cake as my top pick. The Chill Inn Lamai Hostel & Beach Cafe is located close to the beach. It boasts a friendly atmosphere while offering single bunk beds in mixed dormitory rooms.
Each guest gets access to a private locker and a shared bathroom with hot showers. They are cosy shared spaces that are great to meet new travel buddies to explore the island with.
Private Resort Room Close to the Beach | Best Airbnb in Koh Samui
Located only 300m away from the beach and within walking distance from all the shops, restaurants and massage parlours, this highly-rated boutique resort is an excellent choice for a stay on Koh Samui island for your first time.
This full-size air-conditioned room includes a king bed, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a private balcony and fast Wi-Fi. Guests also have access to a shared swimming pool, a pool table, a restaurant, a bar and a library. Who doesn't love getting into a good book on holiday?
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Choeng Mon
Choeng Mon is a stretch of beach located on the northeastern tip of Koh Samui. It is close enough to the airport to be convenient, but far enough from it to not be disturbed by the planes coming in and out.
Lamai
Lamai is a neighbourhood of Koh Samui well-known for its nightlife and its laid back vibes. It is, however, smaller than its northernly neighbour Chaweng Beach and, as a consequence, cheaper. As such, it is the perfect place for backpackers to stay in Koh Samui!
Chaweng
Chaweng is the most lively neighbourhood in Koh Samui and could be treated as a “capital” of the island. There, expect to find plenty of beach bars and nightclubs, making it the best area to stay in Koh Samui for nightlife.
Mae Nam
Mae Nam is a place where people come to take it easy and to have a relaxing beach holiday in a paradisiac setting. Backpackers love the area as it has numerous cheap accommodation choices.
Bophut/ Fisherman’s Village
Bophut boasts a more traditional feel in Koh Samui. It used to be an old fisherman’s village, with traditional shops and houses. Today, however, the area has developed a much more touristy feel but still remains different from other beach towns in Koh Samui.
Koh Samui is an island nested in the Gulf of Thailand and is a very popular beach getaway for Thailand backpackers. Expect to find lush jungles, the famous 12-meter-tall gold Buddha around Bophut and many other things to do in Koh Samui.
The busiest area in Koh Samui is without a doubt Chaweng. Home to a long stretch of sand located on the northeast coast of the island. If you are after vibrant nightlife, Chaweng is the place to be as it is filled with beach bars and clubs.
Although the scale of things is a bit smaller, the area around Lamai is also great if you are looking for good nightlife and a nice beach to laze around during the day. Lamai also tends to be a bit cheaper than Chaweng and is, therefore, a great choice of areas in Koh Samui for travellers on a budget.
Photo: @amandadraper
Bophut/ Fishermans Village, in the northeast corner of the island, offers a more relaxed vibe and an authentic place to stay. It is my top choice for families on Koh Samui island. It is less crowded than Chaweng and Lamai and has a great night market where you can get traditional items to bring back home. Bophut is also where the famous big gold Buddha is located.
Great beaches can be found in Choeng Mon, which is also located quite close to the airport. There, expect to find pristine beaches and turquoise waters, in other words, the perfect Thai island postcard! Some of the best beaches on the island can be found here.
Mae Nam is the coolest area in Koh Samui and lures both backpackers and luxury lovers with its mix of cheap places to crash as well as the hidden lavish resorts. From zip lining to golfing, this is a pretty unique area to stay. Make sure to check this off your Koh Samui itinerary.
At this point, you may still wonder where to stay in Koh Samui. Do not panic and check out my detailed breakdown below!
Koh Samui's Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a more detailed look at the 5 best neighbourhoods to stay in Koh Samui (one of my fav islands in Thailand). There is something for every taste and budget!
1. Choeng Mon – Where to Stay in Koh Samui For Your First Time
Choeng Mon is a stretch of beach located on the northeastern tip of Koh Samui. It is close enough to the airport to be convenient, but far enough from it to not be disturbed by the planes coming in and out.
Choeng Mon is one of the more secluded beaches and quieter than other beaches in Koh Samui, and is as such perfect for couples who are looking for a relaxing time, or people who do not want music blasting around all night.
In Choeng Mon, you will enjoy spending your days lazing in the sun, with the occasional splash in the pristine water to refresh yourself. When the time comes for food, indulge in some fresh seafood directly from the fishermen around, or choose some fine Thai dining you can enjoy with your feet directly in the sand.
Choeng Mon is also a great place to catch the sun setting over the Gulf of Thailand, the perfect romantic getaway and view for couples coming around there!
Samui Makkala Resort | Best Budget Hotel in Choeng Mon
The Samui Makkala Resort is located a 5-minute walk away from the main beach in Choeng Mon. It offers nice and spacious rooms with wooden floors, air conditioning, a private bathroom with a bathtub and a flat-screen TV with international channels. The resort boasts an outdoor pool and a restaurant serving Thai and Western food.
PS Thana Resort | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Choeng Mon
The PS Thana Resort is located right on Choeng Mon Beach and is surrounded by lush tropical gardens. This beach hotel boasts an outdoor pool and a restaurant serving Thai and international dishes.
The rooms are located in individual private villas and are fitted with air conditioning, an en-suite bathroom with a bathtub and a coffee machine.
Meliá Koh Samui | Best Luxury Hotel in Choeng Mon
This luxury resort is located right by Choeng Mon Beach and showcases a mix of traditional Thai and modern architecture. Ideal for travelling couples and families.
This stunning luxury family hotel offers guest rooms with huge verandas and luxurious boat suites that come with their own private gardens surrounded by water. The hotel has three pools to choose from, including infinity pools!
Enjoy the excellent on-site restaurant (Koko Kitchen), bar (Boat’s Bar) and beach restaurant (Breeza Beach Restaurant and Bar), get a massage at the renowned spa or simply float around in the 641-metre-long lagoon that runs all around the resort – the choice is yours!
Samui Backpacker Hotel | Best Hostel in Choeng Mon
The Samui Backpacker Hotel is located very close to Choeng Mon, in Bangrak. It offers twin private rooms with an ensuite bathroom, as well as bunk beds in mixed dormitory rooms. All rooms are air-conditioned and guests have access to showers with hot water. An outdoor swimming pool is also available.
The perfect spot to mix and mingle with fellow travellers. I loved meeting travel buds to then explore the island with.
Private Resort Room Close to the Beach | Best Airbnb in Choeng Mon
Located only 300m away from the beach and walking distance from all the shops, restaurants and massage parlours, this highly-rated Thailand Airbnb is an excellent choice for a stay on Koh Samui island for your first time.
This full-size air-conditioned room includes a king bed, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a private balcony and fast Wi-Fi. Guests also have access to a shared swimming pool, a pool table, a restaurant, a bar and a library.
Things to Do in Choeng Mon
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Get some quiet time at Choeng Mon Beach - one of the best beaches on the island.
- Enjoy some fine Thai food with your feet in the sand.
- Watch a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Thailand on a red baron romantic sunset dinner cruise.
- Explore Choeng Mon Night Market every Wednesday.
- Enjoy the freshest seafood along the beach.
- Explore the nearby Fisherman’s Village.
- Visit the nearby Wat Plai Laem Buddhist Temple.
- For those who have come from Koh Tao, keep your underwater momentum and go snorkelling or scuba diving off Choeng Mon Beach.
- Rent a kayak and go explore the coast near Choeng Mon Beach.
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View on Osprey2. Lamai – Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui on a Budget
Lamai is a neighbourhood of Koh Samui well-known for its nightlife and its laid-back vibes. It is, however, smaller than its northernly neighbour Chaweng Beach and, as a consequence, cheaper. As such, it is the perfect place for backpackers to stay in Thailand and Koh Samui.
The nightlife around Lamai is lively and lovely but not too hectic. Beach bars light up at night but are not as noisy as the ones in Chaweng, making Lamai a better place for those who like a good time out without going all out.
Photo: @amandaadraper
For early risers, the morning time offers a stunning sunrise that can be watched from Lamai Beach. Trust me when I say it is worth sleeping a little bit less to see it!
At night, make sure not to miss the walking street market, where you will find all sorts of delicious local food for a bargain.
Weekender Bungalow | Best Budget Hotel in Lamai
Weekender Bungalow offers simple rooms in the main building as well as private bungalows in the garden. Each room features air conditioning, a garden view and a private bathroom.
A free Wi-Fi connection is provided for free all around the property (rejoice, all you digital nomads in Thailand!) and the Lamai night market is located within walking distance from the hotel.
Am Samui Palace | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Lamai
Am Samui Palace is a resort located a mere 2-minute walk away from Lamai Beach. It boasts a large outdoor swimming pool with a centre island, hot tubs and a children’s pool. The rooms are furnished in a modern Thai style and fitted with air conditioning, a patio, an ensuite bathroom and a flat-screen TV with international channels.
Chill Inn Lamai Hostel & Beach Cafe | Best Hostel in Lamai
The Chill Inn Lamai Hostel & Beach Cafe is a hostel in Thailand that is located close to Lamai Beach in Koh Samui. It boasts a friendly atmosphere while offering single bunk beds in mixed dormitory rooms. Each guest gets access to a private locker and a shared bathroom with hot showers. A free Wi-Fi connection is also available in the hostel.
This hostel is my fav on the island. Chill vibes and comfy beds - that is all I ask for from the backpacker Gods.
Beach Villa with Private Pool | Best Private Pool Villa in Lamai
This is one of the best private pool villas around. It has an incredible location in a quiet neighbourhood just 250 metres from the beach as well as to the night market and other restaurants so you’ll be close to all the action!
Ideal for 6 guests, you will have access to your very own private pool, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, 2 terraces, and high-speed Wi-Fi. This is the perfect place for families or groups of friends!
Things to Do in Lamai
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Get up early in the morning to watch the sunrise.
- Relax on the beach and enjoy the pristine waters of Lamai Beach.
- Get some local Thai food in the walking street market.
- Visit Silver Beach for a tranquil beach day out.
- Check out the fascinating rock formations of Hin Ta and Hin Yai.
- Take a trip to see the Pagoda Khao Chedi and enjoy the incredible views.
- Head up to the Lamai Viewpoint for more epic views.
- Or, see it all on a half-day island highlights tour.
3. Chaweng – Best Area to Stay in Koh Samui for Nightlife
Chaweng is the most lively neighbourhood in Koh Samui and could be treated as the "capital" of the island nestled into the northeast coast.
There, expect to find plenty of beach bars and nightclubs, making it the best area to stay in Koh Samui for nightlife. Some stay open until late every day of the week, and cheap drinks can always be found. As a consequence though, the area tends to be a bit noisier than other parts of the island.
During the day, plenty of beach activities are available. Of course, you can decide to spend the day just lying in the sun and getting a decent tan before heading back home.
For those who have just arrived from Koh Tao, you'll no doubt be hooked on Thailand's underwater world! Try out some snorkelling in the clear tropical waters where lots of different fish, stingrays and even turtles can be seen.
For a bit more thrill, you can rent a jet ski or indulge in new activities such as flyboarding, which will propel you high up in the air above the water in this tropical getaway.
You could also choose to head to the ferry terminal and depart to party central to experience the nightlife at Koh Phangan Island. It's just 45 minutes north of Koh Samui and known the world over for its hardcore Full Moon parties.
V-Condominium | Best Budget Hotel in Chaweng
If you're looking for an affordable hotel in Chaweng, look no further. I've never seen a budget-friendly hotel with so many amenities - enjoy the outdoor pool, a simple gym and private studios with kitchens! You seriously cannot beat this place in terms of bang for your buck.
Samui Paradise Chaweng Beach Resort | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Chaweng
The Samui Paradise Chaweng Beach Resort is located very close to the centre of Chaweng and all the action, but on a quiet side street that will allow you to have an actual restful sleep!
The rooms are spacious and modern and fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, a patio and a flat-screen TV. This is one of the best mid-range hotels in Koh Samui.
Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach | Best Hostel in Chaweng
This amazing beachfront “social hotel” (or hotel–hostel) is located in the very heart of Chaweng Beach. It offers deluxe en-suite rooms with ocean views, family and friends rooms, as well as female-only and mixed dorms.
Make friends with your fellow backpackers and hit up the groovy beach club or laze around in the beachfront infinity pool overlooking the Gulf of Thailand (IG influencers, rejoice!). This hotel–hostel also offers you access to a swim-up pool bar, a games hub, a floating DJ booth, and a beachside restaurant. It's an epic spot for those of you solo travelling in Thailand.
Papaya Garden Villa | Best Airbnb in Chaweng
This modern and extremely central Airbnb in Thailand is conveniently located on a quiet lane just 5 minutes from Chaweng, the beach, Fisherman’s Village, a shopping mall, a supermarket, and a huge night market.
You will have access to air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen. The helpful host will gladly give you tips on local attractions, rent bikes, arrange airport transfers, and even organize small day trips to nearby places.
Things to Do in Chaweng
Photo: @maxpankow
- Go on a full-day kayaking & snorkelling tour in the clear blue waters of Ang Thong Marine Park.
- Rent a jet ski and go on a thrilling ride.
- Relax on the powdery white sand of Chaweng Beach.
- Visit Wat Khao Hua Jook, a century-old Buddhist temple set on a hilltop north of Chaweng.
- Party the night away in one of the numerous beach clubs.
- Enjoy happy hour at one of the beach bars that line the sand.
- Visit Central Festival Samui for shopping, food and even a cinema!
- Jump on the ferry to Koh Phangan for some EPIC nightlife.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Mae Nam – Coolest Place to Stay in Koh Samui
Mae Nam is a place where people come to take it easy and have a relaxing beach holiday in a paradisiac setting. Backpackers love the area as it has numerous cheap accommodation choices. At the same time, wealthier beachgoers also flock to Mae Nam and its resorts tucked away from sight like nowhere else on the island.
Apart from the beach, plenty of activities are available in Mae Nam. Nature lovers can head to to lush forests where you will find adventure courses on top of the trees and plenty of zip-lining fun to get back down to the ground.
Golfing courses are also located in the Mae Nam area. You can indulge in some regular golfing with awesome views over the jungle and the sea at the Santiburi Samui Country Club – which has been recognised as one of the best in Thailand – but also try out disc golfing. The rules are similar to golf, except for the fact that you have to throw a frisbee at a target!
Samui Zenity | Best Budget Hotel in Mae Nam
Samui Zenity Hotel is located close to Mae Nam Beach, with a free shuttle available from the hotel to the beach. The hotel also offers scooter rentals for those who wish to be more independent.
The rooms are spacious and have a terrace with access to the common swimming pool. This is one of the best Koh Samui hotels for travellers on a budget.
Escape Beach Resort | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Mae Nam
The Escape Beach Resort is located right on Mae Nam Beach, in Koh Samui. The resort has an outdoor swimming pool with a bar overlooking the sea, as well as a beachfront restaurant serving Thai and international dishes.
The rooms are located both on the main building and in private beach bungalows and have a private bathroom and air conditioning.
The Mud | Best Hostel in Mae Nam
The Mud is a recent hostel where rooms are located in several round-shaped villas. It boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace and a bar. The hostel offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom, as well as single beds in mixed dormitory rooms. Each dorm has its own bathroom and air conditioning.
Beachfront Bungalow on Mae Nam Beach | Best Airbnb in Mae Nam
This beautiful Thai-style bungalow is set hardly 10 meters from the waves on Mae Nam Beach, so you can be sure to fall asleep and wake up to the sound of the ocean during your stay!
Part of a family-run resort, this highly-rated bungalow comes with a king-sized bed, smart TV, AC, a mini fridge, and free Wi-Fi. There are plenty of excellent restaurants and bars nearby including the famous Angela's.
Things to Do in Mae Nam
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Try your hand at disc golf at the Samui Frisbee Golf.
- Zipline in the canopy of the lush rainforest at Tree Bridge Zipline and Café Experience.
- Take a kitesurfing lesson.
- Visit the Mae Nam Viewpoint for epic views.
- Visit Maenam walking street for street food and shopping every Thursday.
- Relax on Maenam Beach for the ideal beach day out.
- Head to the Tan Rua Waterfall just past the Mae Nam lookout point.
- Visit the Santiburi Samui Country Club for a hit of golf.
5. Bophut/ Fisherman's Village – Best Neighborhood in Koh Samui for Families to Stay In
Bophut boasts a more traditional feel in Koh Samui. It used to be an old Fisherman’s Village, with traditional shops and houses. Today, however, the area has developed a much more touristy feel but still remains different from other beach towns on Koh Samui island.
Fisherman Village is now a bustling night market, where you will love trying out some local street food, buying cheap clothing, and getting souvenirs for the whole family.
The Big Buddha is also located in the Bophut area. It is a 12-meter tall statue of Buddha made of gold, surrounded by a traditional temple built in the 1970s. The temple itself is actually located on a tiny island off the coast of the main Samui island.
In Bophut, take the kids for a fun day out at Samui Go-Kart, where the whole family can enjoy driving and speeding up along the track. For those who are a bit scared to go alone, double-karts are also available. This is one of the best places to visit in Koh Samui. Or, just spend your days relaxing on Bophut Beach.
Hotel Ibis Samui Bophut | Best Budget Hotel in Bophut
This modern budget hotel is conveniently located right by Bophut Beach (with a private beach area) and is an excellent option for those who want to save some pennies in Thailand. Book early to get a room with a water-facing balcony and enjoy the soothing sea breeze all day!
You will also have access to a pool, free Wi-Fi, and bike- and car-rental services to easily get you to another beach or the quaint Fisherman’s Village. End the evening with dinner and drinks at It's All About Taste, the on-site resto-bar. What’s not to love?
Smile House | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Bophut
Smile House Bophut is a nice beachfront resort in Fisherman’s Village in Bophut and one of the best hotels in the area. The hotel offers rooms in the main building as well as individual private villas nestled in the lush garden. Each room is fitted with air conditioning and a private bathroom, and some rooms also have a balcony or a patio.
Samui Backpacker Hotel | Best Hostel in Bophut
The Samui Backpacker Hotel is located very close to Bophut, in Bangrak. It offers twin private rooms with an ensuite bathroom, as well as bunk beds in mixed dormitory rooms. All rooms are air-conditioned and guests have access to showers with hot water. An outdoor swimming pool is also available.
Dreamcatcher/ Queen Deluxe Garden View | Best Boutique Hotel in Bophut
The boho style of this room had me hooked from the second I saw it. Right in the heart of Koh Samui's famous Fisherman's Village, this uniquely designed room is part of the Dreamcatcher Boutique Hotel.
The location of this beauty will have you seconds from Bophut Beach and within walking distance of everything you could need. Not to mention the hosts have thought about every detail - the rooms have Smart TVs, fast Wi-Fi, fridges and even beach bags!
Things to Do in Bophut
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Explore the night market in the Fisherman's Village.
- Visit the Samui Big Buddha, a 12-meter-tall gold statue of Buddha.
- Join a Thai Cooking Class and learn to whip up delicious Thai food at home.
- Get inked up at one of the Tattoo Studios in Bophut.
- Visit Visit Wat Plai Laem Buddhist Temple.
- Take the kids go-karting at Samui Go-Kart.
- Enjoy sunbathing at Bophut Beach.
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Hide Yo' Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Koh Samui
Here’s what people usually ask me about Koh Samui and the best areas and places to stay on the island.
What To Pack For Koh Samui
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
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What is the best area for families staying in Koh Samui?
Bophut is the best area for families looking to spend time in Koh Samui. There is a fun night market, must-see attractions, and beautiful beaches. There are plenty of activities for kids and adults in Bophut/ the Fisherman's Village.
What is the best area for backpackers to stay in Koh Samui?
For backpackers on a budget, Lamai is the best area in Koh Samui. It is affordable, with a thriving nightlife and chilled laid-back vibe. Chill Inn Lamai Hostel & Beach Cafe is the best budget hostel in the area.
What are the best hotels on or close to the beach in Koh Samui?
My favourite hotels and resorts that are on the beach in Koh Samui are the Escape Beach Resort, Meliá Koh Samui, and Samui Paradise Chaweng Beach Resort. All three offer insane views across to the sea and 10/10 service.
Where is the best place to stay for couples in Koh Samui?
Choeng Mon is perfect for those long romantic walks along the beach, without being interrupted by wild nightlife. This area is a bit more chilled out and is the perfect area to relax by the sea and eat your weight in delicious seafood.
Which part of Koh Samui has the best beaches?
Chaweng Beach is the most famous beach on the island and it's for good reason too. White powdery sand, the bluest waters, swaying palm trees and beach bars... it's got the whole shebang.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Koh Samui
Koh Samui truly is the perfect beach getaway in Thailand and caters to all sorts of crowds, from backpackers to families to those looking for luxurious resorts. Whether you are heading in with a pounding headache after a trip to Koh Phangan or from the diving hub of Koh Tao, a stop into Koh Samui doesn't disappoint.
I hope this article has helped you to figure out where is best for you to stay in Koh Samui. However, if you're still unsure I'd recommend locking in my top hotel pick: Escape Beach Resort. Located in Mae Nam, it offers comfy rooms right on the beach, with great amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool.
However, if you're on a tighter budget (I feel ya), I can recommend the Chill Inn Lamai Hostel & Beach Cafe in Lamai. It offers clean and comfortable beds and rooms for a dirt cheap price!
Wherever you end up staying, I hope you enjoy your time in Koh Samui as much as I did. It's a pretty magical island. So, start packing your bags for Thailand and I'll hopefully see you there.
If you think I've missed anything or even if you just want to say hi, drop me a comment below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Thailand.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Koh Samui.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Thailand instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Koh Samui to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Koh Samui is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Thailand.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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