Ko Samui, Tropical island in Gulf of Thailand
Description
Ko Samui is an island in the Gulf of Thailand within Surat Thani Province, spanning over 200 square kilometers with sandy coastlines and forested hills at the center. The shoreline alternates between rocky sections in the north and gentle bays along the eastern and western coasts, while the interior remains densely covered with greenery.
History
Seafarers from the region settled here roughly fifteen centuries ago and lived from fishing. During the 20th century, coconut cultivation expanded before the first guesthouses opened in the 1970s.
Culture
The island's central ring road connects coastal fishing villages where early-morning boats return with the daily catch. Along many bays, longtail boats rest on shallow sand while vendors sell fresh fish and coconuts harvested from the surrounding palm groves.
Practical
An airport in the northeastern part of the island offers connections to Bangkok and other cities, while ferries from the southern mainland arrive several times daily. The beaches in the north attract fewer visitors than the busier coastal sections in the east.
Did you know?
In the mountainous center, rainwater gathers in natural depressions and feeds the water supply without reliance on the mainland. Some villages still draw from these sources that have sustained islanders for centuries.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Ko Samui).
Hin Ta Hin Yai
6.9 km
Wat Phra Yai
10.3 km
Wat Plai Laem
10.8 km
Wat Khunaram
5.6 kmSecret Buddha Garden
2 km
Lamai Beach
7.1 km
Ascension Church, Ko Samui
6.4 kmWat Lamai
5.5 km
Silver Beach -Thongtakian Beach
7.8 km
Wat Phra Chedi Laem So
10.4 kmWat Samret
6.9 km
Chaweng
7.1 kmWat Phu Khao Thong
7.3 kmWat Chaeng
7.7 km
Mae Nam
7.8 km
Big Buddha of Koh Samui
10.3 km
Wat Ratchathammaram
6.4 km
Pink Elephant Water Park
6.1 km
Choeng Mon
12.1 kmWang Sao Thong Waterfall
4.3 kmKhao Yai Waterfall
3.6 kmNam Tok Na Mueang
4.1 kmNatien Beach
8.7 kmLaem Yai
12.2 kmHat Bang Po
9.9 kmLat Wanon Waterfall
4.4 kmTa Nim Waterfall
1.9 kmChaweng Noi Beach
6.3 kmReal people, real opinions — but not verified.
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
The Paradise!
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes