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| Samui is the largest island in the archipelago, the third largest in Thailand and one of the country’s most important tourist destinations with 800,000 visitors a year and rising. Its primary attractions are its beaches, which are among the best in Thailand, however as it matures as a destination other attractions are being facilitated, discovered or created. There is a massive range of accommodation available on the island from beach huts to super five star hotels, how ever the lion’s share of the development in terms of new hotels, resorts and other facilities is now on Chaweng Beach. The east coast is the most beautiful with long white sand beaches and dramatic coastal mountains. The sea is farther from coastal Thailand and therefore cleaner, deeper and better for swimming. There are many coral reefs close to the east and south coasts and although much of the coral is now dead there is still some good snorkeling to be found. The second most popular beach is Lamai, which is also on the east coast. Both these resort beaches are lively affairs with many bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Chaweng especially has taken a similar path to Phuket and has comparable amenities to South Mediterranean and Caribbean beach destinations. Fortunately a height restriction was enforced keeping buildings below the level of the surrounding coconut palms, which means that even Chaweng is not overly obtrusive. The north coast The north coast is also home to a string of beach resorts, but they are much more low key and more family oriented, with the same quality of accommodation but less noise and traffic (people as well as cars). There are some pretty fishing villages (notably Bophut and Maenam) where Samui life as it used to be can still be found. The west coast is less scenic with rocky beaches and far less development. The main port of Nathon is on this side facing the mainland and is home to the majority of Samui’s indigenous population. It is a busy port and market town but hardly the place to spend you vacation. The South coast The South coast, on the other hand, is secret Samui-having hardly been affected by the rush towards development. Where scenic coves with friendly resorts exist far from the madding crowds. Completing the circle of options for tourists and travelers, young and old, single or married. Diving Diving is one of the most popular activities on Samui and the surrounding islands. Beneath the waves you will find a whole new world. Whether you are experienced or not, have your own equipment or not, you can find a dive school and tour to suit your tastes. See the Diving section for more information. Island Information Koh Samui is one of the most popular islands in Thailand, it possesses the characteristic beauty and offers a wide variety of activities. Originally, Koh Samui was used to be the area of coconut plantations, but after being discovered by backpacked travelers, it is noted by them as a peaceful and magnificent paradise some time 20 years ago. Since then, Samui Island began to be a relaxation heaven for the travelers who are looking for spending their valuable holidays in this paradise island. Accommodation The Samudra RetreatAll types of accommodation can be found in Koh Samui from fan bungalows to Air conditioned hotel rooms and bungalows and even luxurious well-designed five star resorts with the rates ranging from less than 1,000 Thai Baht to more than 20,000 Thai Baht. List of hotels in Koh Samui Thailand with efficient online booking system. Available to browse By price, Hotel name or Location. * Feature Accommodation * Hotels by Name * Hotels by Location * Hotels by Rate Start * Luxury villas All Beaches * Chaweng beach * Lamai beach * Maenam beach * Bophut beach * Chaweng Noi beach * Choengmon beach * Other Beaches How to get There There is the direct flight or bus or train from Bangkok to Koh Samui. By bus to Koh Samui or by train to Surat Thani Province and from Surat Thani Province, there is the ferry transfer to cross over to Koh Samui. Attractions Enjoying the sun and beach atmosphere lull you into the feeling that you never want to budge from the beach. But Kho Samui is an island of great natural beauty and has lots of things to be see. Even those who don't get excited about sightseeing will find that the journeys to these popular attractions will provide their own delights. Shopping Guide With the influx of visitors to the island from time to time, there are increasing number of shops selling varieties of items on the Island. Vast array of souvenirs, clothes, jewellery produced in other parts of Thailand are brought to Ko Samui to cater the shoppers from all over the world. Try to make the best purchase possible by getting a fair price. Many labor-intensive items are available locally, such as custom-made tailors, handcrafts, souvenir items made of coconut raw materials, wood sculptures. Moreover, there are many jewellery shops available on the island. Many of these items can be bought at very reasonable prices. Dining & Restaurant Koh Samui is known to be a paradise not only for its world famous tropical beaches but also for its friendly people and delicious food. Koh Samui has recently been lucky in having many experienced and proficient chefs move in Koh Samui sharing their extraordinary cooking skills to the tourists from all over the world. Nightlife & Entertainments The ambience of nightlife is as relaxed and freewheeling as you will experience anywhere. The convenience, the excitement, and secure surrounding are mainly making this island being an exceptionally safe place to let loose and have fun. Weather & Climate Unfortunately, visitors are sometimes incorrectly informed about the seasons of Koh Samui prior to their departure from their home. It is unaware by most of the visitors. For instance, we do not have the same rainy season as it does in Bangkok and other parts of Thailand. During the high season, from December to February, temperatures on Koh Samui can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Some tropical rain showers occur sometimes in November and a little bit in December. This is the best season for European people as the weather is comparatively cooler than the rest of the year. |