The enchanting Thai island of Koh Samui has much to offer for more than just a two-day trip, but if you only have a couple of days to spend here, this guide will come in handy.
Choose Ideal Accommodation
For such a relatively short trip, finding centrally located accommodation is key and Chaweng Beach is an ideal destination to be based at the likes of Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort. Such properties offer all the beachside bliss you want and feature dining venues, a kids’ club, spa, water sports and local experiences such as cooking classes and Thai boxing; they will also organise excursions which adds to the convenience.
Explore the Island
Apart from giving you the chance to have fun in the sand and surf of Chaweng Beach, resorts here will also offer various tours which provide a great way to explore the island. Time permitting, you could visit various sacred sites like the Big Buddha Temple and Wat Plai Laem or go on a guided handicraft tour which includes visits to local markets. You can also opt to head off inland in a 4×4 vehicle to discover virgin rainforests, encounter elephants at the Na Muang Safari Park or head to the Na Muang Waterfalls.
Enjoy Dining & Nightlife
When the sun sets, Koh Samui turns into a night-time playground where you can enjoy dining and dancing the night away! Stay at a resort that apart from onsite restaurants also offers private beach dinners and treetop dining venues. Those based at Chaweng Beach can easily access the island’s premier nightlife hotspots like Soi Green Mango home to plenty of bars, pubs and clubs. You can also take in ladyboy cabaret shows or Muay Thai boxing or if you prefer, just chill out at a beach club.
Island Hopping
You can look to sleep in after a late night of partying, but if you have the energy (and a good cup of coffee!) plan to enjoy some island hopping on day two. Amongst the best things to do in Koh Samui is to head off to explore the Ang Thong National Marine Park with its 42 islands; swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, hiking and more await. You can also take a half-day tour to another island, Koh Phangan and go snorkelling at the Koh Mae coral reef. Once back in Koh Samui, if you have time, visit some of its other beaches like Lamai and Bophut and combine the outing with a street food tour too.
