Koh Samui is the second biggest island in Thailand and it’s known for palm-studded beaches, coconut groves, luxurious spas and mountainous rain-forests. As course, with rain-forests comes some rain! We unfortunately didn’t experience a clear day while we were here, so make sure you always have a backup plan indoors! We were scheduled to boat two days and both were canceled due to storms. We took over some spas instead and still had a great time catching a few rays between the storms.
When you arrive to the island you immediately feel like you’re in the tropics because of their outdoor airport. The people are very welcoming. Middle school girls were performing dances in costumes at the baggage claim. We were very excited to be there and arriving was a breathe of fresh-air.
Must-Do
Nikki Beach: We consider this the best part of Koh Samui. It’s about 30-40 minutes away from Chaweng Beach and it’s well-worth the drive. It’s pretty scheduled, however they have some really entertaining parties during the day/night with live DJ’s. Get those dancing shoes on!
Quick story:There was a wedding on Nikki Beach Resort and we ended up crashing the reception! The groom was British and the groom was Thai. It didn’t take long to realize British people know how to party! Dancing in their boxers, skinny dipping in the pool, etc. It was definitely a memory we’ll never forget!
Boat Rentals: We were really bummed we couldn’t adventure out on the water because of the brewing storms. We definitely suggest looking into speed boat rentals – We hear they’re a blast!
Lodging
Our airBnB : We stayed here for three nights. We loved the views, the infinity pool and the rooms. Due to the steep incline and distance, we were unable to walk to the town yet it was not hard to get a ride. If you would like to be away from the main drag but still on the Chaweng Beach side of the island then this could be perfect for you!
Four Seasons: The villas overlook the Gulf of Thailand – We consider them to be secluded getaways. They’ve got plenty of activities available right on the beach – Water Boarding, Table Tennis, Kayaking, Morning Yoga, etc. The sign-ups are easy and you don’t even have to leave your accommodations!
The Library: This luxury boutique hotel is known for its’ red pool and great dining experiences. If you don’t stay here, we suggest paying it a visit! It also has an incredible mod-looking library inside.
Nikki Beach Resort – If you end up headed to the other side of the island, which we highly recommend as mentioned above, then definitely stay at Nikki Beach Resort! Our experience was first class and we were thrilled to make the last minute decision to head this way for the night. We were upgraded three different times at this hotel, thanks to an incredible connection, and ended up with the best spot in the resort! Our own villa – a private beach, pool and three different houses. They even had a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Brut waiting for us. We were in awe.
Lunch
The Page: This is The Library’s iconic restaraunt with a beachfront view. Thier menu offers Thai and international experiences they consider to be found nowhere elses. It’s very tasty and the atmosphere is lively and fun!
Spas
We didn’t go to either of these, though we wish we did! They’re rated as the top two spas in Koh Samui on TripAdvisor.
#1 Tamarind Springs Forest Spa
#2 Luxsa Spa
Thanks for adventuring Koh Samui!
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