If you are looking to vacation in Thailand, then it is likely that Koh Samui is one of the top Thai islands that you come across to visit.
With its beautiful beaches, coconut groves, and dense rainforests, you can feel like you have stepped into a completely different world.
Sounds amazing? But if you have never been to the island before you might be asking yourself: where to stay in Koh Samui?
There are many different cool and unique hotels with plush spas, local markets and shopping nearby that you can venture to, but each area and hotel is great for different reasons. In this article, we'll help you find the best hotels in Koh Samui or Samui Island as it's called English!
Whether you are backpacking alone, celebrating your honeymoon with your new spouse, or wanting to experience the best nightlife entertainment that Koh Samui has to offer, you can find whatever you’re looking for in this beautiful Thailand island location.
So go pack your bags, and I will show you the best places to stay when you are traveling to Koh Samui, Thailand.
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Koh Samui – Most Popular Hotels Overall
- Where To Stay In Koh Samui: Main Neighborhoods
- 1. Where To Stay In Koh Samui For Your First Time Visit: Bophut
- 2. Where To Stay In Koh Samui For Nightlife: Chaweng Beach
- 3. Where to Stay in Koh Samui for Couples and Honeymooners: Choeng Mon
- 4. Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui for Families: Lamai
- 5. Best Places to Stay Near the Big Buddha: Bangrak
- 6. Where to Stay in Koh Samui as a Backpacker: Mae Nam
- 7. Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui Away From the Crowds: Lipa Noi
Where to Stay in Koh Samui – Most Popular Hotels Overall
If you're looking for a quick answer to the best places to stay in Koh Samui, below are our recommended hotels.
- Best 5-Star Hotel in Seminyak: Melia Koh Samui
- Best Honeymoon Resort in Koh Samui: Banyan Tree Samui
- Best Hotel in Koh Samui for Nightlife: La Vida Samui
- Best Hotel in Koh Samui for Families: Lamai Coconut Beach Resort
- Best Place to Stay Away From the Hustle and Bustle in Koh Samui: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
- Best Koh Samui Beachfront Villa: Villa Nalinnadda
- Best Budget Accommodation in Koh Samui: P & T Hostel
Where To Stay In Koh Samui: Main Neighborhoods
There are two central neighborhoods called Chaweng and Bohput/Fisherman’s Village that travelers like to stay at no matter if they are going on a family vacation or their honeymoon in Koh Samui, as they offer something for almost everyone.
Each of the areas I outline below has different things to offer, some are within walking distance of the beach, nightclubs or shopping and others are closer to outdoor excursions for those who want some more adventure.
Whatever you are looking to do on your vacation, you will find the best location to stay in Koh Samui which is exactly what you are looking for!
1. Where To Stay In Koh Samui For Your First Time Visit: Bophut
Bohput is the best location to stay in Koh Samui and our favorite beach because it's a little different to other areas like Choeng Mon and the busier beaches of Chaweng. Fisherman's village with its traditional Thai-Chinese shophouses, art galleries and cafés and restaurants is absolutely charming. Be sure to visit the night market, it's the best in all of Koh Samui.
If you are a first-timer in Koh Samui then Bophut is a great option for you. This area is also known as Fisherman's Village because of the seafood that is caught fresh from the close waters.
The neighborhood has a local charm that first-time visitors can enjoy and English is widespread so that you can communicate easily.
Below, we'll list the best places to stay in Koh Samui for first-timers in Bophut.
The Best Hotels To Stay In Bophut, Koh Samui
If you want to splurge and treat yourself, there are a number of high-end, luxury hotels that you can choose to stay at in Bophut.
Two of the top choices are the Anantara Resort and W Koh Samui.
These top choices are known for their great service and for their close proximity to the beach that first-timers will love.
Our Favorite 5-Star Hotel in Koh Samui: Anantara Resort
The Anantara Resort is located in the best area to stay in Koh Samui. Guests can pamper themselves at the spa or play water sports at Bophut Bay.
As one of the finest resorts in Koh Samui, you can choose from standard rooms to suites and even beachfront pool suites.
There are many food and drink options available at this beautiful resort and you can even take cooking classes or learn Muay Thai boxing.
The Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui for Couples: W Resort
The W Resort Koh Samui is a 5-star resort with private pool villas and designer furnishings for the most comfortable experience.
Guests can enjoy extra-large beds and the beach right at the doorstep. Located on a stretch of private beach in Mae Nam, which is right next to Bohput, the W Hotel also makes the perfect honeymoon Resorts in Koh Samui.
Best Value For Money Hotel in Koh Samui: Celes Beachfront Resort
For a mid-range accommodation options in Bophut, that will still give you a ton of great features, the Celes Beachfront Resort at Bophut is a wonderful choice. This resort has tons of natural light and an outdoor pool that has a panoramic view of the ocean. This option is a great way to enjoy Koh Samui in style and see everything that Thailand’s beaches have to offer.
Best Affordable Hotel in Koh Samui: Smile House
If you need a budget-friendly option in the best area of Koh Samui, then we recommend you choose to stay at Smile House.
This affordable Koh Samui hotel is surrounded by tropical gardens and has an outdoor pool and beachfront restaurant.
The rooms are all traditional Thai-style bungalows that come with a private terrace for morning coffee outdoors or evening dinners by the beach.
Even with the affordable price, we can still rate this as one of the best hotels in Koh Samui and you will certainly feel like you are vacationing in style.
2. Where To Stay In Koh Samui For Nightlife: Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach is the liveliest and most busy area in Koh Samui. If you want to find the best place to stay in Koh Samui for nightlife, Chaweng will provide. The area is also not far from Koh Samui airport making it a very convienient area to stay. With plenty of beach bars, shopping and nightclubs, you will have an amazing holiday for sure.
If you are looking for an area in Koh Samui where there is extensive nightlife for you and your friends to explore while on vacation, then Chaweng Beach is the best area for you.
With luscious sandy beaches and clear waters, the days offer gorgeous views, water activities and a big beach to just relax and a vibrant nightlife during the evening for you and your friends to drink and dance the night away.
You can find many of the luxury resorts in Koh Samui next to the largest shopping mall on the island, Central Festival Samui. Be mindful that staying in Chaweng Beach can be noisy and it might not be the best area to stay if you're looking for peace and quiet.
Best Hotels In Chaweng Beach
Best 5-Star Hotel in Koh Samui: Vana Belle Resort
If you choose to stay in the Chaweng Beach neighborhood and want a luxury resort, then the Vana Belle Resort may be right for you.
With its luxury rooms, an outdoor pool, and spas and saunas for the most relaxing experience, you will feel like you are living in the lap of luxury.
Schedule an appointment to spend the day getting pampered at the in-house Vana Spa before heading out to the bar at night.
Best Beachfront Resort in Koh Samui: Sheraton Samui Resort
If you are looking at where to stay in Koh Samui for the best nightlife, and a mid-range resort, then the Sheraton Samui Resort may be the best option.
With oceanfront bars and restaurants and a beachfront infinity pool, this resort feels like a 5-star hotel in every way, except for the cost-effective price.
You can still have a great experience while saving some money to use for activities and going out.
Most Central Place to Stay in Koh Samui for Nightlife: Lub D Koh Samui
If you want the option of a budget-friendly resort then the Lub d Koh Samui may be a good fit for you.
This resort comes with an outdoor swimming pool, billiards, and bike hire for traveling around the area for those who want to do some exploring of the surrounding area during the day.
Lub d is a short walk to the beach where you can enjoy the blue waters and lay out in the sun all day so that you can get a nice tan.
Read Also: The 12 Best Yoga Retreats In Thailand
3. Where to Stay in Koh Samui for Couples and Honeymooners: Choeng Mon
Choeng Mon is a charming beach perfect for couples looking to get away on their honeymoon, as well as families wanting a magical beachfront holiday. Choeng Mon offers the most stunning tropical sunsets and serene offshore islands, setting the right mood for romance.
For the best place to stay in Koh Samui for honeymooners and couples, we recommend Choeng Mon.
With more secluded beaches for added privacy for a couple, this area offers some of the best places for honeymooners and couples to celebrate any special occasion while on vacation in Koh Samui, Thailand.
The calm and shallow waters of Choeng Mon are ideal for swimming and lazing in the sun without a care in the world.
With captivating views, and a great selection of eateries nearby, it’s no wonder Choeng Mon is the best area to stay in Koh Samui for couples.
Best Hotels In Choeng Mon
Best Honeymoon Resort in Koh Samui: Ritz Carlton
If you are looking for the best place to stay in Koh Samui for your honeymoon, then you have to stay at the Ritz Carlton, an exceptional property!
The Ritz Carlton is located in a private bay and offers exclusive suites with ocean views and pool villas fully equipped with everything your heart desires.
The hotel offers sightseeing arrangements at the front desk for couples who want to go on a Thailand adventure to celebrate their honeymoon with activities.
Activities at the hotel include tennis, swimming, surfing, sailing, kayaking, snorkeling and hiking. Or simply relax at the infinity pool and then head to the spa for a treatment.
Most Secluded Hotel for Couples in Koh Samui: Cape Fahn Resort
The Cape Fahn Resort offers possibly the best accommodation in Koh Samui for couples.
The resort is set on its own private island just off Choeng Mon Beach and therefore offers ultimate privacy.
Enjoy the beachfront property, ocean views and outdoor pools and bars that this exclusive hotel has to offer.
A great choice for those looking to enjoy the best that Thailand has to offer with their spouse or partner.
Best Value for Money Honeymoon Hotel in Koh Samui: Sala Samui
If you want a great hotel for you and your spouse or partner without the premium price, then the Sala Samui may just be the best place to stay in Koh Samui for couples.
The Sala Samui resort offers visitors the sight of intricate traditional Thai architecture, two beachfront pools, and some villas come with a private pool and sundeck for couples who want a little extra privacy.
Best Luxury Honeymoon Villas in Koh Samui: SAii Koh Samui Choengmon
Another good option for a Koh Samui honeymoon is SAii Koh Samui Choengmon.
It's great for couples as all villas come with an outdoor pool. Plus, there are yoga and cooking classes that you and your partner can take together.
Walk to the beach when you want to spend the day laying on the sand and soaking up the sun.
This hotel is located only a few minutes from the beach so you can enjoy the tropical getaway in minutes, without having to rent a car, which saves you money in travel costs that you can use on spa treatments and refreshing drinks or cocktails by the pool.
4. Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui for Families: Lamai
Looking to travel to Koh Samui with the whole family? Lamai is certainly the best area to stay for families as its beaches are clean and the waters are ideal for swimming. The area offers a great balance of laid back beach and things to do without the noisy nightlife of Chaweng.
For the best place to stay for families, there is the neighborhood of Lamai.
This area boasts great beaches, places to explore, and some of the best hotels in Koh Samui with lots of amenities to please both adults and kids.
This neighborhood is a great place for each family member to be able to find something they want to do so that the whole family is happy the entire stay.
Best Hotels In Lamai
Best 5-Star Family Resort in Koh Samui: The Banyan Tree Samui
If you want to stay at one of the luxury Koh Samui resorts, then The Banyan Tree Samui may be just the place you were searching for.
This great Koh Samui accommodation offers its guests a world-class spa, five different dining options, and free WiFi.
Each room comes with a large bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows and twin vanities for the grandest experience ever.
The Banyan Tree Koh Samui is located only 10 minutes from the beach so you and your family can enjoy the nice walk to the water whenever you want.
The kids can play in the water while you and your partner sip some tropical cocktails in the sand and lay out in the sun.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Koh Samui: Silavadee Pool Spa Resort
If you would like a hotel in Koh Samui that doesn’t come with a high price point, then the Silavadee Pool Spa Resort may be the best hotel option for you.
This hotel overlooks the Gulf of Siam and has a private beach area that is for hotel guests only.
The Silavadee also has a wellness spa and beauty therapies for parents who want some extra special treatment while their kids are at the pool.
The Silavadee Resort also offers laundry services upon request so that you and your family don’t have to worry about cleaning anything.
You can just focus on relaxing by the pool and having a great time with your family on your tropical vacation. Plus, with the mid-range price point, you won’t have to spend a fortune to give your family the vacation they want.
Best Ocean-View Villa in Koh Samui: Sandalwood Luxury Villa Resort
If you're in search of the best location to stay in Koh Samui with ocean views, the Sandalwood Luxury Villa Resort is another great option for travelers.
This option overlooks the Gulf of Siam and has a prime hillside location for the best views available.
There are nine private infinity pools for days when you don’t want to leave the hotel to go to the beach, and a communal pool for the family to go to when they want a view of the sea.
You and your family can eat out at night at the Blue Ginger Restaurant that serves traditional Thai dishes and has fantastic views of the Chaweng Bay.
5. Best Places to Stay Near the Big Buddha: Bangrak
The Big Buddha is an impressive 12-meter tall statue made out of gold and one of the main attractions to visit in Koh Samui. Bangrak is a more affordable area to stay in Koh Samui. It's close to the airport and also the gateway for all ferries departing to the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan.
If you are wondering where to stay in Koh Samui near the Big Buddha, there is the great option of Bangrak.
With Bangrak’s many shops, budget and 3 and 4-star hotels, and markets to go to, there is plenty to do in this area for anyone looking to stay in Thailand near the Big Buddha and experience some Thai culture.
Best Hotels In Bangrak
Best 4-Star Hotel in Koh Samui: The Scent Hotel
If you want a luxury hotel experience in Bangrak, then The Scent Hotel may be just what you were looking for.
With the hotel's blend of colonial and Asian design, you will feel immediately at home.
This hotel has elegant suites that are close to the beach, a swimming pool if you choose to skip the beach for a day, and a spa and wellness center for days full of rest, relaxation, and extra pampering.
Best 3-Star Hotel Near the Big Buddha, Koh Samui: Villa Tanamera
If you would like a more inexpensive yet stylish option that will still give you the vacation that you want, then Villa Tanamera may be perfect for your trip.
The air-conditioned villas come fully equipped and have private balconies and wonderful showers.
This mid-range hotel offers accommodations with panoramic views, a tropical retreat that features all-day dining for early mornings and late nights, and a swimming pool that looks out to the ocean.
6. Where to Stay in Koh Samui as a Backpacker: Mae Nam
Mae Nam is an ideal destination for backpackers and families, alike. Boasting a stunning long stretch of beach that is perfect for taking a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Mae Nam offers budget-friendly accommodation options that are sure to please.
If you are on traveling on a budget as a backpacker looking for a new place to explore, then the neighborhood of Maenam in Koh Samui is the the place to stay for you.
With great and inexpensive places to eat, stay, and adventure, this place is a great neighborhood in Koh Samui.
Whether you are backpacking alone, or you have a travel buddy or your partner with you, there are some great hotel options that accommodate any type of traveler.
With so much on offer, Mae Nam has a beautiful stretch of long beach and a wonderful place to make unforgettable memories with friends and family alike.
Best Hotels In Maenam
Best Beachfront Budget Accommodation in Koh Samui: Escape Beach Resort
Backpackers looking for great places to stay in Koh Samui affordably can decide between the mid-range Escape Beach Resort and the Mimosa Resort and Spa.
The Escape Beach Resort offers backpackers a choice of bungalows or guest rooms in the main building and private bathrooms with rain shower and free toiletries.
Trips for sunset tours, fishing, or biking can be arranged at the front desk for those who want to enjoy some outdoor activity.
Guests can also enjoy food from the Castaway Restaurant and Bar which offers traditional Thai and international dishes. You can relax by the pool and enjoy cold drinks and cocktails while laying in the sun and working on your tan.
Most Peaceful Retreat in Koh Samui: Mimosa Resort
The Mimosa Resort and Spa is known as one of the hotels in Koh Samui because of its location along Baan Tai Beach.
This resort offers beautiful rooms with private balconies, a lovely lush garden and a health and wellness center where guests can schedule massages and beauty treatments.
This hotel comes with a beachfront restaurant that serves Thai and international cuisine and a poolside bar where you can enjoy a nice cold drink or cocktail while dipping your feet in the water.
The infinity pool has views of the ocean so you can feel like you are swimming on your own private beach.
Best Hostel in Koh Samui: P & T Hostel & Guesthouse
If you are looking for where to stay in Koh Samui as a backpacker for a more cost-effective option, then a stay at the P & T Hostel.
It's the perfect place at the right price. This guesthouse offers a convenient, daily maid service so that those traveling alone won't need to worry about cleaning while on their vacation. It's also in one of the best locations to stay in Koh Samui because it is only a few hundred meters from the beach.
The rooms are basic but clean and come with free WiFi and air conditioning.
7. Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui Away From the Crowds: Lipa Noi
Lipa Noi on the west coast of Koh Samui offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of other parts of the island. Lipa Noi is an idyllic little beach with only a few resorts and the perfect spot to stay on Koh Samui for anyone seeking a digital detox will be enticed by Lipa Noi's remote and tranquil atmosphere.
If you are looking for where to stay on Koh Samui’s West Coast, then the area of Lipa Noi is the best option for you.
With fantastic, uncrowded beaches framed with plenty of palm trees to find shade and solitude, you can spend days and evenings out by the water.
With its near-perfect climate year-round, sunsets with nobody but yourself and the sound of waves crashing against shore, Lipa Noi is guaranteed to provide an ideal haven for anyone looking for peace of mind.
Best Hotels In Lipa Noi
Best Place to Stay Away From the Hustle and Bustle in Koh Samui: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
If you are hoping to find which beach to stay at in Koh Samui, then check Lipa Noi for the famous Nikki Beach Resort and Spa. This resort offers guests modern bungalows with oceanfront views.
Nikki Beach Resort is a short trip away from Nathon Pier and the ferry to the mainland to Surat Thani. Namuang Waterfall is also close for those looking to have an adventure while on their trip.
The bungalows open up to Thailand’s Gulf with great views of all the tropical greenery for a beautiful, immersive experience.
The hotel also has a beachfront pool, fitness facilities for those who want to burn some calories before hitting the beach, and a spa that offers massages.
The Nikki Beach Sunday Brunch has been around for a long time and is worth visiting, even if you don’t end up staying at the hotel. Nighttime entertainment can also be found at the signature bar where there is a DJ playing music while guests dance the night away.
Best Hotel on Koh Samui’s West Coast: Lipa Lodge Beach Resort
If you would like to stay at a luxury hotel in Koh Samui, but do not have to pay the high price for a 5-star suite, then the Lipa Lodge Beach Resort may be the place for you.
This resort has beachfront accommodations with an outdoor pool, available spa treatments in the wellness center, and free WiFi.
Each air-conditioned room comes with a private balcony that looks out over the ocean.
The Lipa Lodge is a short drive to the Raja Pier where you can look out at the boats going by, or get a ticket for a day ride for yourself.
This location also has many great on-site restaurants where you can enjoy Thai dishes or international food with nicely lit, romantic lighting in the evening.
Final Words on Where to Stay in Koh Samui
The island of Koh Samui in southern Thailand is a beautiful place to visit for your next vacation, and with all the lovely Koh Samui hotels and 5-star honeymoon resorts to check out, you can visit many times and only see a portion of what this place has on offer.
Indulge in a range of activities, from sunbathing on the pristine beaches of Samui to exploring the island's lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls.
And for those seeking a wellness-oriented escape, Koh Samui is home to a variety of world-class yoga retreats, where you can recharge your mind and body in a serene and peaceful environment.
Whether you are traveling with your whole family and want to play at the beach with your kids, or you are on a honeymoon or coming to the island as a solo traveling backpacker who wants to find the best outdoor activities available, you can find it all in Koh Samui!
From Nikki Beach Hotel and Spa to the Escape Beach Resort, each hotel offers something different for its guests.
I hope finding the best place to stay in Koh Samui that fits your needs will be no stress at all after reading this article.
Are you planning to travel to Koh Samui?
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