Koh Samui Local History

Koh Samui's history is that of a wonderful, secluded tropical island. The sparkling beaches and fresh water have long been inhabited by fisherman and a house on the south part of the island is believed to be over 150 years old. The "discovery" of Koh Samui's can in some ways be accredited to a group of backpackers in search of a tropical paradise in the 1960's, who told their friends and the word was spread about the island.

Koh Samui Attractions

Top Attractions

Koh Samui Shopping

The three shopping areas in Koh Samui are the Nathon, Chaweng and Lamai markets. The souvenirs to pick up at the markets nclude Mut Mee and Khit Silk, beautiful gem and jewelery made with precious stones and pearls that are farmed in the south.

If you have ever dreamed of having a tailor made suit, Chaweng and Nathon town are the best places to go to have custom made clothes made from imported linens, print cottons and Thai silk.

Koh Samui Activities

Snake Farm - shows feature snakes indigenous to koh Samui. Shows daily 11am and 2pm.

Butterfly Garden - view a wide variety of butterflies, as well as a bee house which lets visitors see the activities of the bees. The insect museum displays rare insects from Thailand and the rest of the world.

Magic Buddha Garden - an enchanting hidden garden built in the Koh Samui hills with Temples, waterfalls and statues.

Koh Samui Beaches

Big Buddha Beach - a quiet 2km long beach fringed with palm trees. The water here is calm and shallow making it a great place to swim.

Chaweng Beach - the most popular beach on Koh Samui with its 7km long sandy white beach. The warm waters make this an ideal swimming and watersport spot. The beach road also has many cafe's , restaurants and clubs.

Lamai Beach - Home to a few health spa's this 5km crescent shaped beach, lined with palm trees is a beautiful place to visit. There are also some interesting rock formations on the southern end of the beach.

Koh Samui Restaurants and Bars

Thai cuisine is a wonderful blend of flavours and dishes are usually quite spicy. Most dishes are accompanied by rice or noodles. Some specialities of Koh Samui are there succulent seafood dishes, particularly the seafood coconut curries such as prawns in red curry sauce. Another dish to try is braised fish with pepper and garlic.

Those with a sweet tooth can try sweet sticky rice with mango or a platter of mouth watering tropical fruits.

Koh Samui Restaurants

Big John Seafood - located in Nathon. Watch the setting sun while enjoying a plate of fantastic seafood.

Drop In - located in Chaweng. This is an extremly popular restaurant that offers a huge, varied menu, wine list and great seafood.

Spice Island - located in Chaweng. If wonderful traditional Thai food and a laid back atmosphere are what you are looking for, this is the place for you.

Pizza Garden - located in Lamai. The best pizza place on Koh Samui.

Koh Samui Bars & Clubs

Sweet Soul Cafe - located in Chaweng. Playing laid back, mellow R 'n B and soul tunes.

The Green Mango - located in Chaweng. A popular night club where you can dance the night away.

Y Not? Pub - located at Big Buddha Beach. Lively bar with great live music.

Full Moon Party - located in Koh Phangan. An unbelievably unique experience. Take a boat to Koh Phangan and party the night away under the full moon.

Koh Samui Tours

Looking for organised tours in Koh Samui?

• Koh Samui Heaven on Earth
• Diving and Snorkeling around Koh Samui
• Thailand in Two Weeks

More Koh Samui Tours