Ko Samui is the kind of island you could easily dream up on a bored day in the office — about 15km wide and long with a road round its perimeter, a mountainous interior and beautiful beaches backed by swaying coconut palms. Add some spectacular resorts, beach bars and restaurants, and you have the perfect holiday isle.

Best beaches

The east coast has the most popular beaches in Chaweng and Lamai, while Choeng Mon in the northeast corner is a bit more secluded. On the north coast, Mae Nam, Bophut and Bangrak all boast long stretches of sand, and a few luxury resorts occupy remote corners of the south and west coasts.

What to do

Along with Phuket, Ko Samui is Thailand’s most popular beach destination, which means there’s plenty to keep visitors occupied. Diving and snorkelling trips feature high on most travellers’ itineraries, though cooking schools, spas, yoga classes and safari tours to explore the island’s interior are also very popular.

For a day trip, it’s difficult to beat a visit to the Ang Thong Marine National Park, which usually includes kayaking round the bays and a climb to the peak of Ko Wua Talab to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view that must be one of Thailand’s most iconic sights.

Practical Info

There are regular flights from Bangkok and ferries from the mainland.