QUINTESSENTIALLY | Insider | City Guides

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In the past ten years, Koh Samui has transformed from a sleepy backpacker town into a buzzing, vibrant and hip destination to rival Ibiza and Mykonos. The W Hotel, which is due to open at the end of 2010, marks a new stage of development for the island and while there are still budget beach and backpacker options available, Koh Samui is definitely moving up in the world. Go soon if you want to experience it relatively unscathed by big tourism – though there are still pockets of barefoot bliss if you know where to look – and if the long, powder soft beaches, friendly locals and raucous full moon parties aren’t your kind of thing, then go for the excellent spas, fresh seafood and unpretentious vibe.

GO THERE FOR

The Beach - Chaweng Beach, located on the east coast, attracts many young travellers and families alike, and remains good value for money. The beach is approximately 7km long with powdery white sand and a plenty of beachside bars and restaurants to keep you entertained. It is bordered by dreamy, emerald-blue waters and a coral reef where waves break, leaving the bay quite peaceful. Lamai Beach, located on a cosy corner in the south part of the island, is small enough to comfortably walk around in the evening, leaving you free to explore a variety of eateries and entertainment venues.

The Cuisine - One of the joys of the island is the abundant food all at unbelievably low prices. The traditional way to eat is to order a number of smaller dishes to share so that you can experience as many of the wild and varied flavours as possible. Be careful – southern Thai food is notoriously spicy!

The Weather – The island is famed for its good weather all year round, excluding the rainy season which runs from September to November. Go during April or May if you want a more low-key experience, and try to avoid the island in the summer if you hate crowds.

DON'T MISS

Full-moon party at Koh Phangan - The most talked and raved about beach party takes place every full moon right on the beach of the (normally) serene island of Koh Phangan. Anything and everything goes here and it’s something hardcore party animals should aim to experience at least once in their lives. The (somewhat treacherous) and very speedy boats leave from beaches all around Koh Samui to the island through to the early morning. Has to be seen to be believed.

Muay Thai – The national sport of Thailand, you can see it live at one of Koh Samui’s stadiums. Not for the faint of heart, but for a genuine Thai experience there is nothing that comes close. Namtok Hin Lat – One of the island’s many beautiful waterfalls, this one is easily accessible by car and offers spots to take a quick dip in.

Scuba Dive – While the waters of Koh Samui are a little too cloudy for perfect scuba diving, the nearby island of Koh Tao is a diver's paradise - imagine crystal clear seas and colourful coral. Wall dive off the coast of Koh Phagnan with one of the many dive schools on the island.

BASICS

Quintessentially Thailand
Siripinyo Building, 11/F, 475 Sri Ayutthaya Rd., Phayathai, Rajthevi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
Telephone: +66 2 201 3434 
Email: qthailand@quintessentially.com

Country Code: +66
City Code: +77
Emergency Services: 191
Bandon International Hospital: +(66)77 245 840, +(66)77 245 748
Tourist Police Hotline: 1155
Tourism Authority of Thailand: 1672
Koh Samui Tourism Coordination Center: +(66)77 420 504, +(66)77 420 720-2
Koh Samui Airport: +(66)77 425 011
Koh Samui Immigration Office: +(66)77 421 069
Electricity: 220V/50Hz; 2-blade plug
Language: Thai 
Currency: Baht (THB)
Exchange Rates: 1 GBP is approximately equal to 50 THB
Time: ICT (UTC +7)

Tipping
Tipping is recommended although not mandatory – just like anywhere else, reward good service if you think it’s appropriate.

Getting Around
By Air...
Samui International Airport - Located at the northern part of the island near Bo Phut Beach. There are several flights daily from Bangkok operated by Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways. It takes approximately 80 minutes from Bangkok. 

By Ferry...
It takes approximately 90 minutes from Surat Thani to Koh Samui by ferry.

On the island...
Group taxis, known as songthaews, are a popular way to see the island but bargain hard before you get on board. The price can range from about THB 20 per person for a short trip up to THB 100 for a longer one. 

WHEN TO GO

Like other islands, the weather is unpredictable; generally, there are three seasons: winter lasts from November to February (average high 29˚C/85˚F); summer lasts from March to May (average high 31.8˚C/89˚F). The rainy season is largely confined to November when Koh Samui receives an average of 489.6mm/19.276 inches of rainfall and so best avoided! January through May is peak season for island hoppers.

Public Holidays and Dates of Interest:
1st January – New Year’s Day
Variable (February) – Magha Puja
6th April – Chakri Memorial Day
13 – 15th April – Songkran Festival
1st May – National Labour Day
5th May – Coronation Day
Variable (May) – Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day
Variable (May) – Vesak
Variable (July) – Asalha Puja
Variable (July) – Beginning of Vassa
12th August – HM the Queen’s Birthday
23rd October – Chulalongkom Day
5th December – HM the King’s Birthday
10th December – Constitution Day
31st December - New Year’s Eve

WHERE TO STAY

Anantara Resort & Spa
99/9 Bophut Bay, Samui Island, Surat Thani 84320
The airy rooms at Anantara reflect the vivid colours of the tropical gardens and have deep terrazzo baths big enough for two. Each has either a terrace or a balcony to take in the view. The 3,000 sq. metre spa is a focal point: six bamboo and glass-walled rooms allow you to enjoy the pleasures of Anantara’s signature treatments. Italian cuisine is served on the elevated terrace above the infinity-edge pool. For enthusiasts, a cookery school shares its secrets of Thai cuisine.

InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort
295 Moo3, Taling Ngam Beach, Samui, Suratthani 84140, Thailand
The InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam, whose name translates as “home on a beautiful cliff”, is ensconced amid meticulously landscaped grounds, with the resort featuring a striking blend of contemporary Thai architectural styles and interior design motifs. Panoramic view villas offer stunning Gulf of Thailand vistas, whilst beachfront pool villa accommodation allows for direct access to the beach.

Located in the southwest part of the island, the resort boasts stunning views of the National Marine Park and the neighboring ‘Five Islands' as well as beautiful sunsets to remember, as described by Patricia Schultz in her New York Times bestseller, “1000 Places to See Before You Die”. Quintessentially Member Benefits are available.

Four Seasons
219 Moo 5, Angthong, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140
A new establishment on the Koh Samui scene, the Four Seasons’ unique architecture has the private villas cascading down the side of a lush hill. Exquisite design, open structures and lush landscaping have made this a favourite amongst jetsetters looking for an unusual getaway. You’ll be driven around the resort in your own private golf cart.

Karma Samui
80/32 Moo 5, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320
Karma Samui is nestled in a serene cove and rises gracefully from the blue seas and golden sands of a stunning tropical beach, while the bustle and excitement of the island’s major shopping and entertainment centre, Chaweng Beach, is just a four-minute drive to the south.

SALA Samui Resort and Spa
10/9 Moo 5, Baan Plai Lam Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Comprising Thai architecture and modern facilities, SALA consists primarily of villa accommodations with their own private pools. Located on Choeng Mon Beach, Sala offers all the relaxation and feeling of escape of a private resort, but just a few minutes drive from the Chaweng hub.

Six Senses Hideaway Samui
9/10 Moo 5, Baan Plai Laem, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Of the 66 villas that make up the Six Senses Hideaway Samui, 52 have private infinity-edged pools. They are all split-level, soaked with light and the resort is set in 20 acres of headland, with views out to the Gulf of Siam and outlying islands (if you’ve seen the film, The Beach, imagine that kind of vista). Dining is easy-come, easy-go, with different bars and restaurants. 

YL Residence No.17
117 Moo 2 Tambon Market 84310 Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Escape to paradise in extravagant style at one of the most luxurious and unique private residences in Thailand, YL Residence No.17. The complete privacy, Hollywood-esque setting and five star service makes YL Residence the perfect location for a romantic getaway, family holidays, private parties, weddings, or corporate outings.

Hip and Boutique

Nikki Beach
96/3 Moo 2 Lipa Noi, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84140
Over a decade ago, Nikki Beach introduced the ultimate beach club and lounge concept, which eventually lead to it earning the infamous tagline of “The Sexiest Place on Earth”. Nikki Beach has become a brand associated with luxurious travel, leisure and entertainment influenced by art, music, fashion and film.

The Library
14/1 Moo2 Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
A boutique resort on buzzy Chaweng Beach. Minimalist and modern with just 26-rooms and boasting an unusually smoking red-tiled pool. There is also of course the light, airy library that gives the hotel its name. Hip, quirky and smart.

Sareeraya
100/1 Moo 2 Chaweng Beach Road, Tambol Bophut, Amphur Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
For a welcome tropical escape on Samui Island, stay at the Sareeraya, a conveniently-located resort situated on the northern and quieter end of Chaweng Beach. With only 49 exquisitely decorated suites and villas, there is an ambience of blissful comfort rarely found in such a sought-after location. Only five minutes from Chaweng’s nightlife entertainment and shopping area. 

Shasa Hotel
16/1 Moo 2, Tambon Mared, Laem Set, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84310
Located on a scenic hillside creation sloping down to the unspoiled Laem Sett Beach of Koh Samui Island, the five-star hotel features a charming private beachfront villa and modern suites with panoramic sea view balconies. The Shasa Hotel offers an escape for all: a romantic getaway, relaxation in the hydro therapy pools and spa treatments, Kids Club and adventurous water sports.

WHERE TO EAT

The Five Islands
Cuisine: Thai
West Coast, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Situated on a secluded, tranquil beach at the west coast of Koh Samui this delightful restaurant serves fresh seafood and Thai international fusion dishes. This restaurant is clearly one of the best places on the island for an enchanting sunset dinner. It is completely open-sided for excellent scenic views from wherever you choose to sit. The Five Islands Restaurant is located close to Samui's five-star Le Royal Meridien Resort.

Dr Frogs
103, Moo 3 Bo Phut
Dr Frogs has an amazing cliffside location and a strange-sounding fusion of Thai and Italian food that somehow works. The fresh seafood is a must-try, though you’ll have a hard time tearing your eyes away from the breathtaking view.

Dining On The Rock
Cuisine: Regional and International
Sila Evason Hideaway Resort, 9/10 Moo 5, Baan Plai Laem, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Built on a cliff, this patio-style restaurant offers fantastic views of Koh Samui's shoreline, neighboring islands and the sea. New Asian cuisine takes advantage of different aromas, textures and temperature combinations for an inspiring culinary experience. 

Sabeinglae
Cuisine: Regional and International
438/82 Moo 1, Tambon Maret, Koh Samui
A restaurant which serves varied cuisine: seafood, local food, Thai and European. The authentic Thai food is recommended for travellers, but the seafood is also a must. Dining at Sabeinglae is a very relaxing experience and boasts a beautiful beach front, able to serve over 200 guests.

Prego
Cuisine: Italian
Amari Palm Reef Resort, Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Stylish setting, Italian chef, homemade pasta – need we say more?

Ocean Eleven Beachfront
Restaurant Cuisine: Mediterranean
23 Moo 4, Bangrak, Bo phut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Located at a quiet, unspoiled position at Bang Rak Beach, Ocean Eleven is open for lunches, sunset cocktails and gourmet dinners. The terrace and balcony lounge offer fantastic views over the beach with tall, swaying coconut palm-trees and the famous Big Buddha statue in the background. Neighboring islands Koh Som and Koh Phangan define the horizon across the sea.

The Cliff
Cuisine: International
124/2 Tambon Maret, Lamai Beach, Koh Samui 84330 Surat Thani
Serving tasty Thai and international dishes on a vista patio among a scenery of lush green foliage, silver granite rocks, golden sand beaches and an azure sea.

Lan Tania
Cuisine: Thai and Italian
Four Seasons Hotel 219 Moo 5, Angthong, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84140
Featuring traditional Thai dishes and Italian favourites, most courses are served family style. Guests can choose to dine indoors in air-conditioned comfort or outdoors in the Lounge or terrace where large overhead fans provide a comfortable breeze. Cocktails are served in the Lounge every evening. The breakfast buffet offers continental, Thai and Asian dishes, while a full American breakfast is available à la carte. A separate dessert menu features simple yet creative Italian and local delicacies.

Eat Sense
Cuisine: Healthy Thai
Chaweng Beach Road Koh Samui, Suratthani 84140
A magnificent, spacious beachside restaurant and very popular among those in the know.

Vecchia Napoli
Cuisine: Italian
Soi Starbucks, Central Chaweng
Vecchia Napoli takes pride in serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1994. The secret of the Chef and owner, Alessandro and Attilio, is to combine the best pizzas this side of Napoli, with fine kitchen from Florence and Toscana. The wines are all Italian but offer a good balance of young and old vintage.

Starfish and Coffee
Cuisine: Thai
51/7 M. 1 Bophut Village, Ko Samui, Suratthani 84320
Starfish and Coffee is one of the most famous restaurants in Thailand. Enjoy your favorite Thai dishes while marvelling at the sight of the Andaman Sea. You will especially appreciate the warm, cozy and romantic ambience. Both local people and foreigners crowd in this restaurant to taste exotic Thai food such as Tom Yum Goong. You can also try some of their deserts, which have an impressive reputation among guests. 

Olivio
Cuisine: Italian
154 Moo 2 Chaweng Beach, Baan Haad Ngam Resort & Spa, Koh Samui, Suratthani 8432
Luigi Fadda, Olivio's chef, who has been in Asia for more than 20 years, knows perfectly how to source the freshest local ingredients. You will also be able to choose among a handsome selection of wines from Chile, California, France, Australia, South Africa and of course La Bella Italia! 

BARS, PUBS & NIGHTLIFE

Q Bar Samui
147/57 Moo 2 Bophut sub – District Koh Samui, Suratthani  84320
Sophisticated bar overlooking the ocean with a lounge slash chill-out area along the balcony and the club floor for disco babes.

The Sweet Soul
Soi Green Mango, Tambon Bo Phut, Koh Samui
On Chaweng Beach Rd., The Sweet Soul is Samui’s hottest venue for soulful dance, with an energetic crowd. Enjoy your favorite drinks at the central bar or watch the night scene from the side bar before hitting the dance floor. Mingle at Samui’s most happening bar.

The Green Mango Club
Soi Green Mango, Tambon Bo Phut, Koh Samui
Opposite the Sweet Soul, the legendary Green Mango Nightclub is the heart of the all-night party scene on this dazzling island. Big screen TVs, pool tables, giveaways, live shows, pumping tunes and games keep party-goers entertained between sessions on the dance floor.

Sound Club
Chaweng Lake View, Koh Samui, Surratthani 84320
Sound Club is one of the premier clubs on Koh Samui. There are two separate zones offering different kinds of music - expect nothing but the best house music from local and international DJs who spin hip hop and R&B.

SPAS & BEAUTY

Tamarind Retreat
205/3 Thong Takian, Lamai
Enjoy their relaxing treatments in open-air pavilions and check out the herbal steam cave built into the rock face. We love the three plunge pools and back-to-nature vibe of this unique spa and, if you can’t bring yourself to leave, check in to one of their wonderful residential villas.

Six Senses Spa
9/10 Moo 5, Baan Plai Laem, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
A stunning retreat with private outdoor treatment salas and indoor treatment rooms for couples and individuals, plus dry saunas, steam rooms and a beauty salon. Spa activities include sunrise Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Tibetan Yoga, Aqua-aerobics and more.

Zazen
177, Moo 1, Tambon Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
Drawing on ancient methods from Yoga, Thai massage is the world’s favourite therapeutic technique in the art of body treatment. Stronger and more timeless than most alternative massages, traditional Thai massage focuses on the body’s chakras – key energy points – to circulate unused stores of energy, igniting a warmth of physical well being.

Absolute Sanctuary
88 Moo 5, Tambon Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
A Moroccan-inspired boutique health resort specialising in detox, spa and Yoga holiday programmes, Absolute Sanctuary caters to those seeking a journey back to balance, rejuvenation and wellness. The resort’s world-class detox centre is overseen by a qualified doctor and offers three signature detox programmes. A variety of yoga classes are conducted by professional international teachers in the fully-equipped yoga studio, which boasts a heating system for Bikram classes. 

Kamalaya
102/9 Moo 3, Laem Set Road, Na-Muang, Koh Samui 84140 Suratthani
Their menu integrates holistic medicine traditions from East and West to offer more than 70 therapies, treatments and activities. These are provided in 29 treatment rooms that range from open-air salas overlooking the Gulf of Thailand to enclosed climate controlled villas. Expect to leave Kamalaya looking and feeling better with new foundations for a longer, healthier and more vital life!

WHAT TO DO

Golf

Santiburi
2/12 Moo 1, Tambol Mae Nam, Amphur Koh Samui, Suratthani 84330
Located along the hills on the north coast of Koh Samui, its highest point is 290 metres while its lowest is 30 metres, which results in steep slope down toward the ocean and panoramic views of the island.

Diving

Sail Rock
The most famous dive location in the region, and also a PADI five-star dive site with a 40m pinnacle that rises 15m above the surface of the sea. The rock is home to literally thousands of fish as well as other vibrant marine species such a sea anemones and moray eels. During certain seasons it may also be possible to spot whale sharks. Of note is the spectacular ‘chimney’ rock formation big enough to swim through - the light entering the tunnel makes for some impressive underwater views. Sail Rock is located half way between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

Nangyuan Pinnacle and Twins
Popular sites for snorkelling trips and good diving opportunities as well, with three possible dive sites in a small area. Nangyuan pinnacle is a short swim from the main island and starts a metre below the surface, while Twins are just off the west coast of Koh Nangyuan and consist of two rock formations from six metres down to 18m. Both sites are frequented by large numbers of tropical reef fish. You can also see clown fish, pink anemone fish and black and white sergeant major fish.

Shark Island
A small outcrop named after the populations of reef and leopard sharks that frequent its deeper waters. This is another very popular site situated very close to Koh Tao with a gentle slope down to 28m, making it excellent for novice divers and divers in training. The colourful coral gardens and large numbers of reef fish such as Angel and Banner fish make this an enjoyable multi-level dive.

SITCA: Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts
46/6 Moo 3, Chaweng Beach Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
This is the best known cookery school in Samui and specialises in Thai cooking as well as fruit carving classes.