Samui Hotels

Koh Samui is the prime example of the latter. The island that ranks third in size in Thailand had irresistible appeal upon discovery by intrepid backpackers in search of an affordable and rustic escape back in the 1970s. Since then, Samui has undergone a rapid development on par with the resort coastlines of Spain and the French Riviera. As a result, it now trails only Phuket in terms of sheer tourist numbers. Thankfully, portions of the island remain unspoiled.

Attractions

With the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand and hazy archipelagos on the horizon, Samui's magnetic allure has always been gorgeous coastline. The best beaches on the island are Lipa Noi, Maenam, Choeng Mon and Ao Tong Takian. One main road lines the circumference of Samui and offers easy access to sandy points around the island.

The 102 km² network of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand is a phenomenal wildlife and plant conservation park. The boat ride out and subsequent day trip to the marine preserve is well worth the time and effort.

One of the best zoological parks and aquariums in Thailand, with a kaleidoscopic array of endemic fish and an up-close-and-personal Bengal tiger and leopard exhibit.

Life on the coast of Samui is a stark contrast with the interior. Virtually uninhabited, the dense mountain jungle within the heart of the island offers a welcome break from the carefree ease of resort life. Traversable with the aid of a local guide, a trek through the diverse interior landscape doles out a panoply of rewards, from remote waterfalls to brilliant Gulf of Thailand views.

The most notable Buddhist temple on Samui contains the embalmed remains of a venerated monk from the island.

Events

The proximate island of Koh Phangan throws a legendary full moon party every month, an event on every lifelong backpacker's bucket list.

Though not the most conventional mode of transportation for most, elephant treks amid the lush tropical forests of Samui provide unique vantage points of the beautiful island that are otherwise unavailable.

Traditional Thai New Year celebrations in the month of April have a decidedly modern twist in Samui, with a raucous party atmosphere in the towns and resorts.

A major competition in the regatta world, the annual June event draws yachters from around the world to the shores of Samui.

Climate

Like much of Southeast Asia and indeed Thailand, Koh Samui has a wet and dry season. The former generally runs from May to December, although it can begin later in the year. The temperature range is from 23°C and 33°C for the entire year.