If you fly into Koh Samui, you’ll find yourself at Bophut, the island’s largest town and principal hub, which encompasses the northeastern peninsular. You might be tempted to head straight to the beach—Chaweng Beach on the south shore and Bophut Beach to the north are both popular choices—but there are plenty of other things to do in Bophut. Marvel at the 40-foot (12-meter) tall Big Buddha statue that stands sentry on its own mini island, stroll around the old Fisherman’s Village, and browse the Friday night market.
The sun is always shining on this tropical island, but with hot weather comes high humidity and seasonal monsoons (typically from September through November). Bophut is best during the dry season of December through February when the temperatures are more enjoyable, but this is also the busiest—and most expensive—season. For the most festive atmosphere, come during annual events like Christmas, Songkran (Thai New Year), or Chinese New Year.
While you can get around parts of Bophut on foot, its sprawling sights and many beaches are too far apart to walk. If you don’t have your own wheels, you’ll never be far from a songthaew (shared taxi) or a motorcycle taxi, which will happily whisk you between the beaches and sights. Or, if you’re looking to rent a car, Bophut is the place to do so—better yet, rent a moped and zip around the island like a local.
The mesmerizing, pink-hued sunsets at Bophut Beach come with an extra-special headline act—the distant outline of Koh Phan Ngan island on the horizon. The trendiest spot to watch the sunset is Coco Tam's Beach Club, but equally glamorous is Chi Samui, with its infinity bar and swim-up bar. Or, head to the breezy seafront terrace at Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa.
