Where to Stay in Koh Samui 2025: Our Top Areas & Best Hotels

We spent around two weeks on Koh Samui, crossing the island from coast to coast to really get to know it — and honestly, it surprised us in the best way. Every corner felt different: one day we were sipping coconuts on calm, empty beaches, and the next we were surrounded by music, night markets, and beach bars. It’s the kind of island that keeps changing the more you explore, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Before we came, we spent hours trying to decide where to stay in Koh Samui — comparing Chaweng vs Lamai, reading reviews, and wondering if being in the “wrong” area might ruin the trip. It sounds dramatic, but it really can shape your whole experience. The two main spots might only be a short drive apart, yet they couldn’t feel more different once you’re there.

Of course, this island is much more than just Chaweng and Lamai. There are so many other beautiful parts of the island worth considering — from quiet, romantic beaches to small fishing villages that still feel local. Choosing the right area makes all the difference between a good holiday and one you’ll keep thinking about long after you leave.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Koh Samui, share what we personally learned from moving around, and highlight the best hotels in Koh Samui we’d actually book again — no fluff, just real experiences.

Where to Stay in Koh Samui: Our Experience

After a few hours of researching, we decided to stay in Chaweng, close enough to the beach but not too close to the main party street — because if there’s one thing we value, it’s a good night’s sleep. We wanted the best of both worlds: to be near the action, but still able to rest and recharge for another full day of exploring the island. And we got exactly that… well, almost.

Our one mistake? Beach access. Chaweng Beach is lined with large resorts, and many of them sit on private property, meaning public access points are surprisingly limited.

Even though our hotel looked just two minutes from the water on the map, we ended up walking nearly ten minutes each time. It’s one of those small details you don’t realize until you get there, but now you don’t have to make the same mistake we did.

That said, we still loved staying there. We were close to Chaweng’s lively energy — beach bars, cafés, markets — but far enough from the late-night noise to sleep peacefully. It’s a great balance if you want convenience without chaos. We’ll share our tips on where to stay in Chaweng below in a separate section.

After a few nights, we moved up north to Maenam Beach, where we stayed at Explorar Koh Samui, a beautiful adults-only resort right by the sand. The vibe here couldn’t be more different — calm, peaceful, and designed for slow mornings.

It was the perfect reset after Chaweng’s busier rhythm. There aren’t as many restaurants or cafés around, but we didn’t mind since we had a scooter and could easily reach Bophut or even head back to Chaweng in about 15–20 minutes.

We ended our trip in Lamai, because we wanted to see how it compared — and honestly, it was the perfect way to wrap up the stay. Lamai felt like a softer version of Chaweng: still lively with beach bars and restaurants, but more local and less hectic. We spent our last evenings watching sunsets on the beach, already talking about which area we’d stay in next time.

Even though we didn’t stay in every popular area — simply because we didn’t want to change hotels too often — we made sure to explore them all during our two weeks on the island. That way, we could get a real feel for each one and share an honest review of what they’re like, who they’re best for, and which ones are truly worth considering.

Best areas to stay in Koh Samui

Before we dive in, here’s a quick map with marked best places to stay in Koh Samui so you can get a feel for where everything is. It really helps to see how close the main areas are — from busy Chaweng to calm Maenam — and makes it easier to decide which part of the island suits your trip best.

Chaweng

Located on Koh Samui’s east coast, Chaweng is the island’s main hub and the liveliest place to stay. The beach stretches for several kilometers, lined with hotels, beach clubs, and restaurants serving everything from Thai street food to sushi. It’s busy, fun, and full of energy — the kind of place where something is always happening.

We stayed just outside the main nightlife area, and honestly, that was the best decision. It meant we could walk to the shops and bars but still sleep without hearing the party beats until 2 AM. The beach itself is beautiful — soft white sand and shallow water perfect for swimming — but public access can be tricky since many resorts are built right along the shore.

Tip: Our favorite beach bar was Elephant Beach Club, where we saw the best fire show ever — you really can’t miss that!

✅ Pros: Central, lively, easy access to shops, cafés, and nightlife
❌ Cons: Can get noisy, limited public beach access, busy during peak season
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, groups, and anyone who wants to be close to the action

Lamai

Just south of Chaweng, Lamai offers a more relaxed version of the island’s east coast and is easily one of the best beaches in Koh Samui. Lamai Beach is a long, golden stretch that is perfect for swimming and evening walks, with a good mix of beach bars, cafés, and small local restaurants right by the sand. It feels lively but not crowded — the kind of place where you can unwind without feeling cut off.

We stayed here at the end of our trip and loved it. It’s close to great spots like Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks, Wat Sila Ngu Temple, and the Overlap Stone viewpoint, all just a short drive away.

Lamai has enough going on to keep you entertained, but it’s calm enough to really relax. Just around the corner, you’ll find Silver Beach, our absolute favorite beach in Koh Samui — smaller, quieter, and with crystal-clear water that’s perfect for swimming.

Tip: Stop by Baobab Restaurant & Beach Bar for a sunset cocktail — it’s casual, affordable, and the staff are some of the friendliest we met.

✅ Pros: Beautiful beach, relaxed vibe, close to Silver Beach and viewpoints
❌ Cons: Less nightlife, can feel quiet in low season
⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, and travelers who want calm without being isolated

Bophut (Fisherman’s Village)

If you want a mix of beach, charm, and atmosphere, Bophut is hard to beat. Centered around the famous Fisherman’s Village, this northern coastal area feels like a blend of old Samui and modern comfort. Wooden shophouses line the beach road, now home to cozy cafés, boutique hotels, and sunset bars that give the whole area a stylish yet laid-back feel.

We loved spending evenings here — wandering through the Friday Night Market, grabbing seafood dinners by the beach, and watching the sky turn pink over Koh Phangan.

Bophut isn’t the best for swimming, but it’s easily one of the most atmospheric places on the island. Plus, you’re close to top attractions like Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem, and Samui Elephant Haven, all within a 10-minute drive and are on our list of the best things to do in Koh Samui.

Tip: Don’t miss Coco Tams — beanbags on the sand, sunset cocktails, and fire shows that are just the right kind of lively.

✅ Pros: Trendy yet calm, great dining scene, beautiful sunsets
❌ Cons: Beach not ideal for swimming, can get busy on market nights
⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, and travelers who love character and comfort

Choeng Mon

We recommend adding Choeng Mon to your list if you’re still deciding where to stay in Koh Samui. Tucked in the island’s northeast corner, it’s a calm, slightly upscale area that feels far removed from the crowds of Chaweng.

The bay is stunning — soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and a gentle curve It’s ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. We really enjoyed spending a quiet afternoon here, walking between cozy beach cafés and just relaxing on the beach.

The vibe is peaceful but never boring, and during low tide you can even walk over to Ko Fan Yai island, a small offshore islet with a temple on top — it’s a fun little adventure. You’re also just a short drive from Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem, and the island’s scenic viewpoints.

Tip: We suggest stopping by Pi Samui Beach Club and Restaurant for sunset — great cocktails and meals, friendly staff, and amazing vibes.

✅ Pros: Peaceful, safe swimming beach, close to main attractions and Ko Fan Yai
❌ Cons: Limited nightlife, smaller dining scene
⭐️ Best for: Families, couples, and travelers who want calm without being too far from Chaweng

Maenam

We stayed in Maenam for a few days and instantly loved how peaceful it felt. It’s on the north coast of the island and has that calm, local vibe that’s getting harder to find. The beach is long, quiet, and beautiful, with views of Koh Phangan in the distance.

There aren’t many cafés or restaurants right on the sand, so it’s really just about slowing down and enjoying the calm. If you’re staying in one of the beach hotels like we did, you can walk straight from your room onto the sand.

We rarely saw anyone else on the beach, which made it feel like our own private escape, but the beach is long so that might be the reason. Still, it’s only a short scooter ride to Bophut, Fisherman’s Village, and the Chinese Temple viewpoint, so you can easily mix relaxing days with small adventures.

Tip: We recommend About Café Maenam for coffee or brunch — super friendly owners and great food right by the beach.

✅ Pros: Peaceful, local vibe, calm beach with views of Koh Phangan
❌ Cons: Limited nightlife, few beachfront cafés and restaurants
⭐️ Best for: Couples, digital nomads, and travelers who want a quiet, slow-paced stay

Best Hotels in Koh Samui

This list brings together our favorite places to stay around Koh Samui — spots we’ve either stayed in ourselves or would happily book after exploring the island from end to end.

We’ve done the hard research so you can easily decide which of the best hotels fit your needs and preferences.

Best Hotels in Chaweng area

Chaweng is the island’s liveliest area — perfect if you want to be close to restaurants, beach clubs, and nightlife. The beach here is stunning, and while it can get busy, staying slightly away from the main strip gives you the best balance between fun and relaxation.

• Blue Turtle Hotel $
• King’s Garden Resort – SHA Plus $$
• Centara Reserve Samui $$$

Blue Turtle Hotel $

Even though Blue Turtle Hotel it officially a 4-star hotel, you can often get a room here for a budget-friendly price — and it’s a fantastic deal for what you get. The hotel is modern, clean, and well-maintained, with a lovely outdoor pool, spacious rooms, and friendly staff who make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

It’s also in a great spot: easy beach access, a 7/11 and restaurants right across the street, and still within walking distance of Chaweng’s shops and nightlife. The area feels calm and safe, so you really get the best of both worlds here.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want comfort, convenience, and great value close to the action.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

King’s Garden Resort – SHA Plus $$ (Our Top Pick)

King’s Garden Resort – SHA Plus is one of those places that quietly wins you over. It’s tucked along the quieter stretch of Chaweng Beach, surrounded by tropical gardens, and you can walk straight from your room onto the sand. The location is great — super chill, close to restaurants and shops, but far enough from the nightlife to stay peaceful.

The staff is incredibly friendly, the rooms are comfortable, and the breakfast and lunch are both excellent. Having massage tables right between the room and the ocean is unbeatable.

This is our top pick because it strikes the perfect balance — great location, super comfortable, and just the right atmosphere for a relaxing beach stay.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and families looking for a beachfront stay with great food, comfort, and a relaxed island vibe.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Centara Reserve Samui $$$

Centara Reserve Samui is the kind of luxury stay that makes you slow down and enjoy every moment. Set right on Chaweng Beach, it combines elegant design with a calm, tropical atmosphere — a rare mix for this part of the island. The resort has beautiful rooms and villas, a stunning beachfront pool, and lush gardens that create a true resort feel while still being close to Chaweng’s restaurants and shops.

The service here is exceptional, the breakfast buffet is huge and delicious, and there’s even a spa, wellness center, and beach bar for lazy afternoons. Every detail feels thoughtfully designed for comfort and style.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and travelers looking for a luxurious beachfront stay that’s both peaceful and close to Chaweng’s main attractions.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Lamai area

Lamai is perfect if you want a relaxed base with easy beach access and plenty of dining options nearby. It’s lively but not overwhelming — a great mix of comfort, calm, and local charm.

• Bonny Hotel $
• Samui Jasmine Resort – SHA Plus $$
• Ammatara Pura Pool Villa $$$

Bonny Hotel $

Bonny Hotel is a great budget option right in the center of Lamai — simple, spotless, and run by incredibly friendly owners who make you feel right at home. The rooms are comfortable and air-conditioned, with everything you need for a few easy days by the beach. It’s just a short walk to Lamai Beach, and there are plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops right around the corner.

The area is lively but not too noisy, so you can still get a good night’s sleep. Just keep in mind the building has four floors and no elevator, so it’s best to pack light if you’re staying on the upper levels. For the price, though, it’s hard to beat the comfort, location, and warm atmosphere here.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a clean, central stay with friendly hosts and easy access to Lamai Beach.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Samui Jasmine Resort – SHA Plus $$ (Our Top Pick)

We stayed at Samui Jasmine Resort – SHA Plus during our time in Lamai, and it turned out to be exactly what we were looking for. It’s right on the beach, so you can walk straight from the pool to the sand in seconds. The staff are warm and attentive, the rooms spacious and clean, and the pool area overlooks the ocean — perfect for lazy afternoons.

Breakfast here was excellent, and having the beach just steps away made it easy to enjoy quiet mornings before the crowds arrived.

This is our top pick because it has everything we look for in a beach stay — great location, quiet surroundings, and that welcoming, personal feel that makes you want to come back all for a great price

⭐️ Best for: Couples and beach lovers who want comfort, ocean views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Ammatara Pura Pool Villa $$$ (our top pick for luxury lovers)

Ammatara Pura Pool Villa is pure beachfront luxury — a small, elegant resort that feels private and special from the moment you arrive. Each villa comes with a private pool, spacious living area, and beautiful Thai-inspired design, giving it a truly exclusive feel. The location is perfect too: right on the beach, within walking distance to restaurants and shops, but it’s still peaceful.

The service is exceptional, the breakfast is one of the best on the island, and the views from the infinity pool are the kind that make you want to stay all day. Everything here feels refined and personal, from the design to the quiet atmosphere that makes it perfect for unwinding.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and honeymooners who want privacy, comfort, and true beachfront luxury.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Bophut (Fisherman’s Village)

Bophut blends boutique style with a local feel, right by the beach and Fisherman’s Village market. It’s ideal if you love good food, pretty streets, and a more upscale but laid-back vibe.

• Dreamcatcher Boutique Hotel $
• NH Collection Samui Peace Resort $$
• Bo Phut Resort and Spa – SHA Plus $$$

Dreamcatcher Boutique Hotel $

Dreamcatcher Boutique Hotel is a small, cozy place tucked just a short walk from Fisherman’s Village — perfect if you want to stay close to Bophut’s cafés, beach bars, and night market without spending much. The rooms are bright, clean, and decorated with a personal touch that gives the whole place a homely feel.

The owners are incredibly welcoming, always ready to help with local tips or scooter rentals, and the location couldn’t be better for exploring the area on foot. It’s peaceful at night, but you’re still close to everything that makes Bophut special. For the price, it’s a solid choice that feels more like a friendly guesthouse than a hotel.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a clean, charming stay close to Fisherman’s Village and the beach.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

NH Collection Samui Peace Resort $$

Even though NH Collection Samui Peace Resort is a 5-star property, you can often find rooms here for surprisingly great prices, which makes it a real hidden gem in Bophut. The resort stretches along Bophut Beach, surrounded by tall palms and tropical gardens that give it a peaceful, resort-style feel. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning by the beachfront pool and the evening walking to Fisherman’s Village for dinner by the sea.

The rooms are modern and spacious, the staff go out of their way to help, and the whole atmosphere feels calm and effortless. It’s upscale without being overly formal — perfect if you want that little touch of luxury without the usual price tag.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and families who want a beachfront resort with great service, stylish rooms, and easy access to Fisherman’s Village.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Bo Phut Resort and Spa – SHA Plus $$$ (Our Top Pick)

If you’re after something special, Bo Phut Resort and Spa – SHA Plus is the kind of place that quietly impresses you from the start. It’s located directly on the Bophut Beach, surrounded by tropical gardens, with a peaceful atmosphere that feels far away from the crowds and is easily one of the best hotels in Koh Samui.

The rooms and villas are spacious and beautifully designed, with a mix of Thai details and modern comfort. The pool has ocean views, the gardens are perfectly kept, and the staff make everything feel effortless. We also have to mention the spa — easily one of the best in the area — and the beach restaurant, which is perfect for lazy lunches or sunset dinners by the water.

This is our top pick because it’s everything we look for in a perfect stay: quiet, beautiful, and comfortable, with that warm, personal feel that makes you never want to leave.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, and honeymooners who want peace, comfort, and a true beachfront escape.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Choeng Mon

Choeng Mon Beach is small, peaceful, and family-friendly, with calm waters and a handful of lovely beach resorts. It’s perfect if you want a quiet stay but still be close to Chaweng and the island’s main attractions.

• Moon Cottage $
• Paradise Island Estate $$
• SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort $$$

Moon Cottage $

Moon Cottage is one of those quiet, tucked-away places that surprises you with how good it is for the price. It’s a small, peaceful spot surrounded by greenery, just a few minutes’ walk from Choeng Mon Beach. The bungalows are bright, clean, and cozy, each with a small terrace that makes it easy to relax after a day out exploring.

The pool area is lovely, and the staff are genuinely kind and helpful, always ready with tips or a smile. It’s not a resort-style stay, but that’s what makes it feel so personal — it’s simple, charming, and great value for money. Plus, you’re close enough to walk to cafés, restaurants, and the beach, but far enough to enjoy some peace and quiet.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a cozy, relaxed stay close to the beach without spending much.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Paradise Island Estate $$

Paradise Island Estate feels like a quiet little hideaway — tucked just off Choeng Mon Beach but still close to cafés, restaurants, and shops. It offers a mix of private villas and spacious suites, surrounded by lush tropical gardens that make the whole place feel private. Some villas even come with their own pool, which is perfect if you’re after a bit of extra comfort.

This is a great choice for couples, but also for families or groups of friends, since there are 2-, 3-, and even 4-bedroom villas available at incredible prices. The staff are welcoming and helpful, and the location is ideal — only a few minutes from Choeng Mon Beach, with Chaweng and Big Buddha Temple just a short drive away.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, or friends looking for spacious villas, privacy, and comfort near Choeng Mon Beach.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort $$$ (Our Top Pick)

SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort is one of those rare places that gets everything right — from the design to the atmosphere. Set right on Choeng Mon Beach, it combines elegant style with a warm, welcoming vibe that makes it easy to unwind from the moment you arrive. The service is exceptional, the breakfast delicious and varied, and the cocktails beyond great.

Evenings here are unforgettable, with live music or beach performances that make dinner by the sea feel extra special. The rooms and pool villas are beautifully designed, blending modern comfort with Thai touches, and the resort’s two beachfront pools are perfect for lazy afternoons. You’ll find both Western and Thai cuisine on the menu.

This is our top pick because it’s the full package — perfect location, genuine hospitality, and an atmosphere that makes every day feel special.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and honeymooners looking for beachfront luxury with a personal touch.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Maenam

Maenam is all about peace and simplicity — long quiet beaches, sea views, and a local feel. It’s ideal if you prefer slow mornings, space to unwind, and an escape from the busier parts of the island.

• Shangrilah Bungalow $
• The Flow Resort $$
• Explorar Koh Samui $$$

Shangrilah Bungalow $

Shangrilah Bungalow is a hidden gem tucked a minute’s walk from Maenam Beach — perfect for a budget-friendly beach escape. The bungalows are simple, clean, and comfortable, with air-conditioning and terraces where you can relax. The staff is genuinely kind, the tropical garden setting is calm, and the location is ideal: just a short stroll from the sand, yet peaceful enough to unwind properly.

✅ Best for: Travelers who want a very affordable stay on the beach with quiet surroundings.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Flow Beach Resort $$

The Flow Resort is one of those places that instantly gives off the “this is where I want to relax” feeling. It’s set right on Maenam Beach, with a beautiful infinity pool, modern rooms, and that calm, easygoing atmosphere that makes this part of the island so appealing.

The resort offers direct beach access, friendly service, and ocean views from both the pool and several rooms. The restaurant serves Thai and Western dishes, and the sunsets here are some of the best in Maenam. It’s quiet and peaceful, but still within walking distance of local cafés and small restaurants, making it a nice mix of comfort and convenience.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or friends looking for a beachfront stay with modern comforts, great service, and a relaxed feel.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Explorar Koh Samui – Adults Only Resort and Spa $$$ (Our Top Pick)

We stayed at Explorar Koh Samui for three nights, and it quickly became one of the best stays of our entire two-month trip across Thailand. Our beachfront villa with a private pool felt like a dream — the views were unreal, with sunsets and sunrises right from the bed that we’ll never forget.

The food was outstanding, the signature cocktails perfectly mixed, and the atmosphere hit that sweet spot between stylish and laid-back. We also tried a traditional Thai massage at the spa, which turned better than we imagined. The whole resort feels designed for pure relaxation — quiet, elegant, and adults-only, so everything stays calm and peaceful.

This is our top pick because it’s a mix of luxury, comfort, and great vibes — the kind of place that impress you.

⭐️ Best for: Couples looking for a romantic, adults-only beachfront escape with unforgettable sunsets and exceptional service.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ About the best places to stay in Koh Samui

Where should first-time visitors stay in Koh Samui?

For a first visit, we’d recommend Chaweng or Lamai. Chaweng has the most restaurants and nightlife, while Lamai is more relaxed but still lively enough. We stayed in both and think they’re the best areas to get a feel for the island — easy to explore, close to great beaches, and full of local spots to try.

What is the best place to stay in Koh Samui for couples?

We’d definitely recommend Explorar Koh Samui – Adults Only Resort and Spa. We stayed there and absolutely loved it — private villas with pools, incredible food, and the most peaceful beachfront setting.

Where to stay in Koh Samui for nightlife?

If you’re here for nightlife, Chaweng is the place to be. It’s packed with beach bars, clubs, and late-night restaurants — all within walking distance. You’ll find everything from casual spots on the sand to lively party venues.

What is the best place to stay in Koh Samui with kids?

For families, Bophut and Choeng Mon are great choices. Both have calm beaches, family-friendly resorts, and plenty of space for kids to play.

Final thoughts on where to stay in Koh Samui

After spending two weeks exploring the island, we realized that where you stay really shapes your whole trip. If it’s your first visit, we’d start with Chaweng or Lamai — both give you that classic island mix of beach, food, and nightlife.

For something calmer, Bophut is one of our favorites, especially around Fisherman’s Village, while Choeng Mon feels perfect if you want a quiet base that’s still close to everything.

And if you’re here to slow down completely, Maenam is hard to beat. Wherever you end up, each area has its own charm — and honestly, that’s what makes Koh Samui so special.