Koh Samui
Thailand's wellness island offering laid-back tropical lifestyle with tight-knit expat community
Surat Thani ProvinceDifferent monsoon season than Phuket. When Phuket rains (May-October), Samui often enjoys sunshine. Main rainy season: October-December.
Overview
Thailand's second-largest tourist island retains more coconut-plantation heritage while offering modern conveniences. The expat community is smaller and more tight-knit than Phuket's, centered around Bophut's Fisherman's Village with its famous Friday market. The thriving wellness industry attracts yoga retreats, meditation, and health-conscious living.
Highlights
- Thriving wellness/yoga scene
- Tight-knit expat community
- Different monsoon pattern than Andaman coast
- Ang Thong Marine Park access
- More relaxed than Phuket
Best For
Wellness EnthusiastsDigital NomadsCouplesThose Seeking Community