Koh Samui, Thailand: A 5-Day Island Adventure

Experience paradise without breaking the bank on a budget-friendly trip to Koh Samui.

21 June 2023

A trip to Koh Samui, Thailand can still be enjoyed even with a limited budget. This beautiful island offers affordable accommodations, delicious street food, and stunning beaches for free. Activities such as visiting temples, hiking to waterfalls, and exploring local markets are also inexpensive options for budget travelers.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arriving in Koh Samui

  • Check in to Weekender Resort, an affordable and cozy hotel located in Chaweng Beach.
  • Stroll around Chaweng Walking Streetthe night market that will awaken your senses with the hustle and bustle of Thai street food, vendors, and performers.
  • Grab a bite at Khao Soy a hidden gem known for its delicious and cheap Northern Thai cuisine.
  • Wind down at the resort's poolside bar with a refreshing cocktail.
Day 2

Exploring the Island

  • Rent a scooter from the resort and cruise around the island, stopping at different beaches such as Lamai and Silver Beach.
  • Arrive at Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocksalso known as Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks that will definitely put a smile on your face.
  • Experience the island's culture by visiting Wat Plai Laemthe temple complex with its stunning statues and serene surroundings offering peaceful refuge for relaxation.
  • Grab some lunch at Samui Crocodile Farma unique location known for its reptilian inhabitants and fresh local seafood dishes.
Day 3

Snorkeling and Island Hopping

  • Take a boat trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park, known for its stunning array of pristine beaches, crystal-clear water and abundant marine life.
  • Relax on the beach and indulge in some water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming.
  • Picnic lunch in the beauty and silence of an untouched beach cove.
  • Visit the Emerald Lagoon a viewpoint that offers a breathtaking bird's eye view of the park.
  • Return to the resort to unwind and wash off the sand and salt water.
Day 4

A Relaxing Day at the Resort

  • Start your morning with a yoga session or massage offered at the resort.
  • Lounge by the pool with a book overlooking a stunning vista.
  • Take a walk along Chaweng Beach promenade to people watch and sample some local cuisine from beach vendors.
  • Visit Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zooa wildlife reserve with some exciting animal shows.
  • Dress up for dinner and try some authentic Thai cuisine at Sawasdee Thai Restaurant which is highly rated for its flavorful dishes and good portions.
Day 5

A Final Day in Paradise

  • Catch a sunrise at Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks for some stunning photographs that capture the essence of Thailand.
  • Fill your belly with a hearty breakfast at the resort's coffee shop before your flight back home.
  • Take some final time for shopping before departing from Koh Samui, with options from branded items or traditional souvenirs to remember the beachside paradise.
  • Leave with a nostalgic, bittersweet heart and a promise of returning to the island again someday.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Koh Samui by plane is to fly into Samui International Airport, which has direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and other cities in Thailand, as well as international destinations. Several airlines like Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Air Asia provide flights to Samui International Airport.

Car

To reach Koh Samui by car, one can drive to Surat Thani, which is the nearest mainland town from the island. From there, one can park their car and take a ferry to Koh Samui. It takes around 10 hours to drive from Bangkok to Surat Thani.

Train

The nearest railway station to Koh Samui is in Surat Thani. One can take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then transfer to a ferry to Koh Samui. Trains like the overnight sleeper train are available between Bangkok and Surat Thani.

Boat

The best way to reach Koh Samui by boat is to take a ferry from Surat Thani. Raja Ferry Port is the most popular port operating ferry services between Surat Thani and Koh Samui. One can take a shared minivan or taxi from the airport or town center of Surat Thani to the port.

Bus

To get to Koh Samui by bus, one needs to take a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then board a ferry to Koh Samui from Surat Thani. There are several bus operators running services to Surat Thani like Lomprayah, Phantip Travel, and Thai Sriram.

Destination

Koh Samui

Welcome to the land of coconuts and cocktails, where the sun is always shining and the beaches are always sandy. If you need a break from adulting, Koh Samui should definitely be on your bucket list.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Chill on a Dime: Koh Samui Day Trip

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Escape for Romance: 5-Day Koh Samui Retreat

Koh Samui, Thailand is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. With its crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, and luxurious resorts, couples can relax and enjoy each other's company in paradise. From sunset strolls along the beach to candlelit dinners under the stars, Koh Samui offers an unforgettable and intimate experience for couples.

The Ultimate 2-Day Adventure in Koh Samui

As a tourist, Koh Samui offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can laze on the picturesque beaches, take a dip in the clear waters, and indulge in local delicacies. Alternatively, they can explore the island's fascinating cultural landmarks, such as Wat Phra Yai and Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks.

The Ultimate 4-Day Koh Samui Adventure

Koh Samui is a popular tourist destination in Thailand famous for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and lush green forests. It offers a variety of activities to keep tourists entertained such as water sports, hiking, and exploring Buddhist temples. The island also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with beach parties and a wide selection of bars and restaurants.