Koh Samui FAQ: Planning

How many days do I need in Koh Samui?

Three days covers the highlights: one northeast temple day (Big Buddha, Wat Plai Laem), one south-coast loop (waterfall, Hin Ta Hin Yai rocks, sunset) and one boat day to Ang Thong Marine Park or a beach day. Five to seven days lets you add the southern islands (Koh Tan, Pig Island), more beach time and a second boat trip without rushing. A single day is possible but tight - follow a one-day highlights loop with your own transport.

When is the best time to visit Koh Samui?

February and March are usually the best all-round months: dry, sunny, calm sea. January and April are close behind (April is the hottest month, with the Songkran water festival in mid-April). May to September is a good-value shoulder period with short showers. October to December is the wettest period - November is normally the wettest month, seas can be rough, and Ang Thong Marine Park usually closes from 1 November (2026 reopening date not yet confirmed)^[1].

Is Koh Samui worth visiting?

Koh Samui suits travellers who want a developed, easy island: about 35 public beaches, free temples, waterfalls, night markets and day trips to Ang Thong Marine Park, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. It is more built-up than Koh Phangan and has no scuba-dive scene of its own like Koh Tao. Its seasons differ from Phuket: Samui is often drier in July-August but wetter in November. First-time visitors usually enjoy it most in the dry months, roughly February to April.

Which area of Koh Samui should I stay in?

Choose by character, not by hotel. Chaweng: busiest, best swimming, nightlife. Lamai: second biggest, cheaper, relaxed. Bophut (Fisherman's Village): charming, food-led, Friday market. Maenam: quiet, low prices, calm shallow water, popular with families and long-stayers. Choeng Mon: small sheltered bay near the airport, calm water, quiet. Bang Rak: practical, near piers and airport. West coast (Lipa Noi, Taling Ngam): sunsets and total quiet, but a vehicle is essential. Nathon: working town, not a resort.

How much money do I need per day in Koh Samui?

One 2026 budget guide estimates a backpacker-style trip at roughly 1,200-2,100 THB per day (about 35-60 USD), staying in simple bungalows, eating at markets and using a scooter. Mid-range travel costs clearly more. Orientation prices: street-food meal 60-150 THB, local restaurant 120-300 THB per person, local beer 60-180 THB, scooter rental 140-350 THB per day. Peak season (December-February) can raise room rates 40-80%. Treat all figures as rough guides.

Do I need a visa to visit Koh Samui?

Koh Samui follows Thailand's national entry rules. From 15 September 2026, passport holders of around 60 countries (including the US, UK, EU and Australia) receive a 30-day visa exemption for tourism on arrival; the earlier 60-day scheme ended on 14 September 2026. The exemption can be extended once by 30 days for 1,900 THB at the immigration office in the Nathon area. All foreign arrivals must also complete the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours before arrival. Some nationalities have different durations under bilateral agreements, so check the rules for your passport with an official Thai source before travel.

1. [1] Tourism Authority of Thailand — national park seasonal closures · checked 2026-11-10