Where to Stay in Koh Samui? 8 Best Places to Stay in Koh Samui

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Situated in the Gulf of Thailand is Thailand's second-largest island, the tropical paradise of Koh Samui. This destination is one of the most stunning places to visit in the world and has things for every traveler to enjoy. From beaches and temples to bustling markets and Full Moon parties, you won't get bored while here!

However, when planning a trip to this Thai island, it can be challenging to choose where to stay. Should you opt for the party area of Chaweng? Or maybe the tranquil Maenam is more your style. To help you decide which part of the island is for you, keep reading for eight of the best places to stay in Koh Samui.

🛏️ Best budget hotel:	Samui Star Guesthouse
🏨 Best mid-range hotel:	Melia Koh Samui
🏖 Best family-friendly hotel:	Samui Star Guesthouse
💕 Best romantic hotel:	Centara Reserve Samui
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Centara Reserve Samui

Where to Stay in Koh Samui, Thailand?

Best Areas to Stay in Koh Samui, Thailand

Choeng Mon (Choengmon)

Choeng Mon is nestled in the northeastern corner of the island. It is a peaceful coastal area and the ideal place for vacationers looking to relax. The most popular thing to do here is to spend time at Choengmon Beach. If this beach gets crowded, you can find others nearby, like Thongson Bay Beach.

Diving and snorkeling are also excellent activities to enjoy, with multiple dive tour operators and snorkel rental spots available. At the end of the day, you can enjoy a waterfront meal or unwind with drinks at one of many beach bars.

Best of all, Choeng Mon suits a range of budgets. You can find affordable vacation cottages, mid-range hotels, and luxurious, high-end resorts with numerous amenities.

The one downside to this location is that it's a little far from other popular areas and top landmarks. However, nothing is ever that far away in Koh Samui! For example, you can reach Lipa Noi, all the way on the other side of the island, in under an hour by car from Choeng Mon.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Choengmon Beach

• Moon Cottage (low nightly prices)
• Samui Mekkala Resort (budget option)
• Choengmon Residence (highly rated)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Choengmon Beach

• Sea Dance Resort (mid-range)
• Deva Beach Resort Samui (mesmerizing waterside views)
• Paradise Island Estate (4-star rating)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Choengmon Beach

• Moon Cottage (cheap for the area)
• Samui Mekkala Resort (affordable)
• Sea Dance Resort (value for money)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Choengmon Beach

• Moon Cottage (low nightly price)
• Samui Mekkala Resort (budget friendly)
• Sea Dance Resort (good value rooms)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Choengmon Beach

• Kimpton Kitalay Samui (well-rated)
• Royal Muang Samui Villas (rated very highly)
• Melia Koh Samui (gorgeous waterside views)

Chaweng

Chaweng, which is located on the eastern coast of Koh Samui, is a bustling area with beautiful beaches and lots of activities. Chaweng is the best area to stay on Koh Samui if you want to be where everything is happening.

The most famous beach is the area's namesake Chaweng Noi Beach, the largest in Koh Samui. Along the beach, you'll find trendy beach clubs where you can party all day and into the night. Chaweng is also known for its Full Moon parties. An array of bars and some nightclubs are in the area as well, making it a popular party and nightlife spot.

Other activities include snorkeling and diving, participating in water sports like paddleboarding, and shopping at markets and local shops. There are also some food markets to try affordable local dishes. Access to other parts of the island and Thai landmarks, like Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), is easy via bus, taxi, or bike.

Accommodation here ranges from affordable resorts to higher-end options. However, even the luxurious resorts won't break the bank, making this a perfect place for travelers of all budgets and tastes. Almost all options are on or very close to the beach as well.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• Montien House (budget option)
• Papillon Resort (budget option)
• Samui Natien Resort (cheap option)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach (good value)
• Baan Samui Resort (value for money)
• Casa de Mar (spectacular waterside views)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• Montien House (affordable)
• Papillon Resort (low-priced rooms)
• Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach (good value)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach (good value)
• Baan Samui Resort (good value)
• Casa de Mar (near the waterside)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort (well-regarded)
• Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort (stunning waterside views)
• Sareeraya Villas & Suites (rated 5-stars)

Taling Ngam

Taling Ngam is located on the serene southwest coast of Koh Samui. This part of the island is often referred to as the "Virgin Coast" because of its untouched natural beauty. The vibe in Taling Ngam is chill and luxurious, making it a particularly great spot for couples. This area is also perfect for travelers seeking solitude and an escape from bustling tourist spots.

As with many other parts of Koh Samui, you can find scenic beaches to relax on here, such as Thong Krut Beach. You can also visit places like the Chinese Temple of Guanyin and Laem Sor Pagoda. Landmarks like Tarnim Magic Garden and the Na Muang Waterfalls sit just on the edge of Taling Ngam as well.

If you want to do something a little different, you can easily take a tour of Ko Mat Sum or have a relaxing spa day. In the evening, you can admire the area's renowned sunsets and enjoy a meal at fantastic waterfront eateries.

All of this may come at a bit of a cost, though. The area primarily offers high-end and luxurious beach resorts and villas. However, if you're on a budget, Taling Ngam isn't totally off-limits. There are some affordable options, but they book up quickly, so be sure to plan ahead.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Taling Ngam

• Silent Palm Samui (affordable)
• At Samui Haus (low-priced rooms)
• Samui Hills (rated highly)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Taling Ngam

• Am Samui Resort Taling Ngam (well-priced)
• Lipa Lodge Beach Resort (good value)
• Viva Vacation Resort (good value)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Taling Ngam

• Silent Palm Samui (cheap for the area)
• At Samui Haus (budget friendly)
• Viva Vacation Resort (good value)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Taling Ngam

• Lipa Lodge Beach Resort (good value rooms)
• InterContinental Koh Samui Resort (top-rated)
• Avani Plus Samui Resort (stunning waterside views)

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Taling Ngam

• InterContinental Koh Samui Resort (rated highly)
• Avani Plus Samui Resort (beautiful waterside scenery)
• Conrad Koh Samui (5-star rating)

Lamai

Stunning Lamai is located on the southeast coast of Koh Samui. It is known for Lamai Beach, which is the second-largest on the island. A calmer area compared to its neighbor Chaweng, Lamai is the best area in Koh Samui to stay for families and those looking for a perfect mix of fun activities, landmarks, and relaxing beaches.

You can swim and sunbathe at the beach or enjoy more exciting activities like snorkeling or jet-skiing. When you need a break from the beach, you can visit places like Wat Lamai Temple or Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks (Hin Ta Hin Yai). Lamai Viewpoint & Valentine Stone is also a must-visit, offering stunning views and a fun bar. To see other areas, just get a taxi or catch the bus.

On Sunday evenings, you can wander around the bustling Lamai Walking Street. This market has an array of street food stalls, plus some craft and souvenir offerings. Every other night, you can dine at great eateries and also find fun bars, but the nightlife isn't as full-on as in other areas like Chaweng.

Accommodations are very affordable here, yet don't lack amenities. You can find beautiful resorts with pools and luxurious rooms, including those with direct beach access, for under one hundred dollars. A few higher-end options are also on offer.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Lamai Beach

• Three Trees Samui Resort - Sarocha Villa (budget option)
• Asian Secret Resort (low nightly prices)
• Green Canyon Resort (affordable)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Lamai Beach

• Samui Jasmine Resort (good value)
• Lamai Buri Resort (value for money)
• Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort (value for money)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Lamai Beach

• Three Trees Samui Resort - Sarocha Villa (affordable)
• Asian Secret Resort (cheap for the area)
• Green Canyon Resort (budget option)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Lamai Beach

• Asian Secret Resort (cheap for the area)
• Samui Jasmine Resort (well-priced)
• Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort (well-priced)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Lamai Beach

• Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort (good value rooms)
• Pavilion Samui Villas & Resort (rated highly)
• The Lamai Samui - Formerly le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa (loved by guests)

Maenam (Mae Nam)

Maenam is one of the lesser-known parts of Koh Samui for tourists; however, if you want a tranquil and relaxing getaway, it's one of the best places to stay in Thailand! Situated on the island's northeastern coast, this area has a breathtaking beach, Maenam Beach, which stretches for kilometers. It's an especially excellent place for a morning or sunset stroll.

On top of going to the beach, you can take in fantastic views of Ko Pha Ngan from Maenam Viewpoint and visit temples like Wat Na Phra Lan and Wat Phu Khao Thong. You could even take a Thai cooking class or play golf at Santiburi Samui Country Club.

As with all other places to stay, no other parts of the island are that far away. For example, Taling Nam on the south coast is only 40 minutes away when driving.

Because the vibe in Maenam is quiet and laid-back, with a focus on relaxing by the water, it's popular with couples and families seeking peace and quiet. Conveniently, there are places to stay for every budget, from affordable small resorts to luxurious villas and beachfront spa resorts.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Maenam Beach

• Shangrilah Bungalow (low nightly price)
• Baan Boom Boxes Eco Friendly Resort (affordable)
• Samui Zenity (top-rated)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Maenam Beach

• Mantra Samui Resort (good value rooms)
• Samui Blue Bird (good value rooms)
• Mimosa Resort & Spa (loved by guests)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Maenam Beach

• Shangrilah Bungalow (affordable)
• Baan Boom Boxes Eco Friendly Resort (budget option)
• Samui Blue Bird (value for money)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Maenam Beach

• Mantra Samui Resort (mid-range)
• Napasai, A Belmond Hotel (highly rated)
• Mimosa Resort & Spa (top-rated)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Maenam Beach

• Mantra Samui Resort (good value)
• Napasai, A Belmond Hotel (loved by guests)
• Santiburi Koh Samui (beautiful waterside scenery)

Bangrak (Bang Rak)

The beautiful Bang Rak area is located on the northeastern coast of Koh Samui. Notably, Bang Rak is the best place in Koh Samui to stay to see the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), which features a stunning 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue.

Other attractions include Bo Phut Beach, Bangrak Temple, and many beachfront bars and restaurants. In addition, you can check out Fisherman's Village, which has a bustling night market, plus bars and unique shops. For a fun day or overnight trip, hop on a boat at Bo Phut Pier (Big Buddha Pier) to reach Ko Pha Ngan.

While not as vibrant at night as Chaweng, this area still has excellent nightlife. There are also budget eateries and very affordable accommodations, making it a fun spot for younger travelers and those on a budget. From Bangrak, you can easily access neighboring Choeng Mon and Maenam. The rest of the island's landmarks and places to stay are within an hour away at most.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Bangrak Beach

• So KohKoon Beach Resort (affordable)
• Bee Nat Garden Resort (low-priced rooms)
• The Shore Samui (beautiful waterside views)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Bangrak Beach

• U Samui (well-priced)
• Samui Pier Beach Front & Resort (good value)
• Bangrak Pier Bungalow (highly acclaimed)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Bangrak Beach

• So KohKoon Beach Resort (affordable)
• Bee Nat Garden Resort (low nightly price)
• U Samui (good value)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Bangrak Beach

• So KohKoon Beach Resort (low-priced rooms)
• U Samui (value for money)
• The Privilege Hotel Ezra Beach Club (exceptional rating)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Bangrak Beach

• U Samui (good value)
• The Privilege Hotel Ezra Beach Club (5-star rating)
• Nora Buri Resort & Spa (loved by guests)

Lipa Noi

If you're looking for the perfect beach vacation destination, Lipa Noi might be for you! The area is especially perfect for families and couples wanting a peaceful getaway.

This tranquil area is located on the western coast of Koh Samui. It's popular for its unforgettable beaches and calm atmosphere as it is further away from the busier areas on the island. Tropical weather all year round means that you can sit back and relax on the sand at Lipa Noi Beach no matter when you visit.

You don't have to spend every day at the beach if you don't want, though. Other attractions include the Dusit Dheva Cultural Center and the Lat Wanon Waterfall, with other waterfalls like Hin Lat Waterfall on the edge of Lipa Noi.

Additionally, you can take a short drive to Nathon Pier in the neighboring Nathon Town to catch a boat for a day trip to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park. You can also reach Taling Ngam and its many attractions in just 25 minutes.

There is more of a luxury vibe here, meaning accommodation options suit a higher-end budget. However, you can find some more affordable options that are comfortable and offer everything you need.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Lipa Noi

• At Samui Haus (affordable)
• Silent Palm Samui (budget friendly)
• Chill Inn Lipa Noi Hostel & Beach Cafe (mesmerizing waterside views)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Lipa Noi

• Viva Vacation Resort (good value)
• The Mud Certified (well-priced for the area)
• Anahata Resort (top-rated)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Lipa Noi

• At Samui Haus (low nightly price)
• Silent Palm Samui (affordable)
• The Mud Certified (mid-range)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Lipa Noi

• Sea Valley Resort (well-rated)
• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui (5-star rating)
• InterContinental Koh Samui Resort (exceptional rating)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Lipa Noi

• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui (5-star rating)
• InterContinental Koh Samui Resort (5-star rating)
• Avani Plus Samui Resort (5-star rating)

Bo Phut (Bophut)

Bo Phut is a relatively large area and technically includes other places to stay, like Bangrak and Choeng Mon. However, when talking of Bo Phut as a destination, most refer to the area around Bo Phut Beach on the northern coast.

Along with enjoying beach activities and watersports, you have easy access to Fisherman's Village and its walking street market and other unique attractions. Bangrak is just a short drive away, or you could even walk there in around 40 minutes.

While this area has fewer attractions than some areas, the tranquil atmosphere makes up for that and means that Bo Phut is the best location to stay in Koh Samui for families and couples wanting a quiet getaway. The area also offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets, with many beachfront options.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Bo Phut Beach

• Eden Bungalows Fisherman's Village (low-priced rooms)
• Us Hostel Samui (budget option)
• Baan Yaimai Boutique Samui (scored highly by guests)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Bo Phut Beach

• Hacienda Fisherman's Village Koh Samui (good value)
• La Sirène Lovely Apartment Fisherman Village (good value)
• Avocado Koh Samui (good value)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Bo Phut Beach

• Eden Bungalows Fisherman's Village (cheap for the area)
• La Sirène Lovely Apartment Fisherman Village (good value)
• Avocado Koh Samui (well-priced for the area)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Bo Phut Beach

• Hacienda Fisherman's Village Koh Samui (good value)
• Hansar Samui Resort & Spa (loved by guests)
• Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort (5-star rating)

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Bo Phut Beach

• Hansar Samui Resort & Spa (highly rated)
• Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort (5-star rating)
• Mantra Samui Resort (value for money)

Where to Stay on Koh Samui, Thailand

Where to stay in Koh Samui with family?

Almost all parts of the island are ideal for families, possibly with the exception of Chaweng due to its party atmosphere. For families that want to enjoy beaches and other activities and attractions, Choeng Mon, Lamai, or Lipa Noi are recommended.

They all have excellent beaches with calm waters and are also near kid-friendly attractions like Samui Football Golf in Choeng Mon or Lamai Mini Golf in Lamai. Additionally, from Lipa Noi, your family can easily spend a day exploring Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park.

Bo Phut and Maenam are good options for families wanting to spend most of their time at the beach. As these areas don't get overcrowded or have much nightlife, they're great for those with younger kids who don't do well with crowds or lots of noise.

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Choeng Mon

• Moon Cottage (budget friendly)
• Samui Mekkala Resort (budget friendly)
• Paradise Island Estate (well-priced for the area)

Where to stay in Koh Samui for couples?

Koh Samui is a fun destination for a romantic vacation. However, the best place to stay in Koh Samui for couples will depend on what kind of getaway you want.

Couples that like to party will want to stay in Chaweng or Bang Rak. When not partying at night, you can unwind on the beach or at one of many romantic resorts, which are abundant in both areas.

Those looking for the opposite, a more quiet and tranquil break, will be interested in Maenam, Taling Ngam, or Bo Phut. Lastly, choose Lipa Noi or Lamai if you want the best of both worlds, with good evening dining and bar options, relaxing beaches, and lots of other attractions.

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort (well-rated)
• Hansar Samui Resort & Spa (rated 5-stars)
• Bo Phut Resort & Spa (rated 4-stars)

Where to stay in Koh Samui for honeymoon?

When planning a honeymoon in Koh Samui, you'll probably be looking for two things: a tranquil and scenic location and luxurious and romantic accommodations. Conveniently, many parts of the island offer these things!

You can find numerous luxury resorts around Choeng Mon Beach with beach access, pools, and spas. The area also has waterfront eateries for romantic dinners. For somewhere a little quieter, opt for Lipa Noi or Maenam. The former has access to outdoor activities like hiking, while the latter is ideal for a relaxing beach getaway.

Best of all, as Thailand is one of the cheapest places to stay in Asia, you'll be able to book luxurious accommodations for your honeymoon no matter what your budget.

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Choengmon Beach

• Sea Valley Resort (rated highly)
• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui (breathtaking waterside views)
• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui (5-star luxury)

Where to stay in Koh Samui for Full Moon Party?

If experiencing a legendary Full Moon Party is on your Thailand bucket list, Chaweng is the best area to stay in Koh Samui. This lively area is the heart of Koh Samui's nightlife, pulsating with energy and excitement. Of course, it also hosts monthly Full Moon parties.

You can also easily reach Ko Pha Ngan from Koh Samui to experience that island's world-renowned Full Moon Party. To do so, you need to get the ferry from Nathon Pier. The closest places to stay near the pier are Nathon Town and Lipa Noi.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• Montien House (low nightly price)
• Papillon Resort (low-priced rooms)
• Samui Natien Resort (low nightly price)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach (mid-range)
• Baan Samui Resort (good value)
• Casa de Mar (mesmerizing waterside views)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort (rated very highly)
• Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort (stunning waterside views)
• Sareeraya Villas & Suites (rated 5-stars)

Where to stay in Koh Samui for outdoor activities?

Outdoor attractions, like beaches, are the primary draw of most parts of the island. However, a few locations offer some additional outdoor activity options. Lamai is a popular choice for outdoor activity lovers.

It has a beautiful beach and warm waters, where you can snorkel or enjoy other activities like jet-skiing or kayaking. Additionally, you can explore Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks (Hin Ta Hin Yai) or even take an ATV Tour, among other activities.

Choeng Mon and Taling Ngam are also good choices, with numerous water activities available at the beach. Alternatively, if you want to hike around lots of waterfalls, opt for Lipa Noi, which also offers quick access to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Lamai

• Shangrilah Bungalow (cheap for the area)
• Baan Boom Boxes Eco Friendly Resort (cheap for the area)
• Harry's Bungalows (unwind poolside)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Lamai

• Mantra Samui Resort (good value)
• Code (value for money)
• Samui Blue Bird (well-regarded)

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Lamai

• Mantra Samui Resort (value for money)
• W Koh Samui (highly rated)
• Santiburi Koh Samui (rated highly)

Where to stay in Koh Samui for nightlife?

If your idea of a perfect holiday includes vibrant nightlife, then Bang Rak or Chaweng will be the best place to stay on Koh Samui for you.

Chaweng is known for its Full Moon Party and also has many exciting bars and clubs to enjoy the rest of the time. At these venues, you can get cheap drinks, party until late, and meet new people. Bang Rak, while not as much of a party destination as Chaweng, still has lots of lively bars and other nightlife spots to suit all tastes. There's also the Fisherman's Village night market.

Both locations additionally offer beach access and fun daytime activities for those that haven't partied too hard and want to do memorable things during the day as well.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• So KohKoon Beach Resort (budget option)
• Bee Nat Garden Resort (low nightly prices)
• The Shore Samui (gorgeous waterside views)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• The Privilege Hotel Ezra Beach Club (well-priced)
• Bangrak Pier Bungalow (rated highly)
• Secret Garden Beach Resort (breathtaking waterside views)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Chaweng Beach

• The Privilege Hotel Ezra Beach Club (good value)
• U Samui (rated 5-stars)
• Amari Koh Samui (rated very highly)

In Conclusion

Koh Samui has something for everyone, from partiers to beach lovers and outdoor activity enthusiasts. When planning a trip, deciding where to stay will mainly depend on what activities you want to enjoy. Hopefully, this list has highlighted what each part of the island offers, allowing you to choose which area to stay in Koh Samui for your tropical getaway!

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