Koh Samui is a large island located in the Gulf of Thailand and is part of Surat Thani Province. In the past, Koh Samui was a quiet island where local communities lived mainly from fishing and coconut farming. For a long time, the island remained relatively isolated, which helped preserve its natural beauty and traditional lifestyle.

Originally, Koh Samui had limited infrastructure and transportation around the island was slow. Travel between villages was mostly done by boat or small paths. As access to the island improved, tourism gradually increased, and Koh Samui began to develop into a major travel destination.

Koh Samui is one of the largest islands in Thailand, covering an area of approximately 228 square kilometers. The island has a diverse landscape, with sandy beaches along the coastline and mountainous terrain in the central area. Coconut palms are found throughout the island, which is why Koh Samui was once known as an important center for coconut production.

The geography of Koh Samui can be divided into coastal lowlands and higher inland regions. The central part of the island is mountainous and covered with tropical forest, while beaches, resorts, and towns are mainly located around the coast. The island is surrounded by scenic roads that offer beautiful sea views.

Today, Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach are lively areas with many hotels, restaurants, shops, and nightlife. In contrast, areas such as Maenam, Bophut, and Taling Ngam are quieter and more suitable for travelers who prefer relaxation and a peaceful atmosphere.

Fun Facts & Things to Do on Koh Samui

1. Koh Samui was once one of Thailand’s major coconut-producing islands 

2.  Chaweng Beach is the most popular and lively beach on the island

3. Visit the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai), one of Koh Samui’s famous landmarks

4.  Koh Samui is a gateway to nearby islands such as Koh Phangan and Koh Tao

5.  The west coast of the island is known for beautiful sunset views

Koh Samui offers a wide range of experiences, from beach relaxation and nightlife to cultural sites and natural attractions, making it an island that appeals to many different types of travelers.

Photo by Antonio Araujo on Unsplash