A traveller's guide to
Koh Samui
A Gulf-coast island that manages both: proper beach resorts on the east side, and quiet coves, waterfalls and jungle roads five minutes inland.
Getting around
- One ring road circles the island; almost everything sits on or just off it.
- Songthaews run set routes along the ring road during the day and double as private taxis after dark.
- Ferries from Donsak on the mainland, plus fast boats to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, run several times a day.
- Ride-hailing coverage is patchier than in Bangkok — your hotel can usually arrange a driver.
Connectivity tip
Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut and the airport have solid coverage. Inland jungle roads, the south-west coves and ferry crossings can lose signal, so save your accommodation pin offline before setting off.
How coverage works in ThailandFisherman's Village
Bophut's old wooden shophouses are the most pleasant evening stroll on the island, with a Friday night market.
Inland by day
Na Muang waterfalls and the Secret Buddha Garden break up beach time. Roads are steep — take a driver if unsure.
Island hop
Koh Phangan is 30 minutes by fast boat, Koh Tao about 90. Both are easy day or overnight trips.
Heading to Koh Samui?
Get online
Install a Thailand eSIM before you fly and land with maps, rides and messages already working.