Where to Stay in Koh Samui (Best Areas)

Koh Samui Travel Guide

Picking the right area matters more than picking the “perfect hotel”. Here’s a simple breakdown of Samui’s main zones—who they’re for, what it feels like, and what to book.

Chaweng Bophut Lamai Maenam Choeng Mon

Quick answer: best area for most people

Bophut (Fisherman’s Village) is the easiest “one-and-done” base for first-time visitors. It’s walkable, has good restaurants, a relaxed beach vibe, and is central enough for day trips.

If you want lively nights: stay in Chaweng (but choose a hotel a little off the main strip for better sleep).

Area-by-area: what to expect

Bophut (Fisherman’s Village)

Best for: couples, families, first-timers who want restaurants + easy evenings.

• Walkable dining and beach bars without feeling chaotic
• Great for sunset dinners and a “nice but not too fancy” vibe
• Central location for tours and transfers

Chaweng

Best for: nightlife, lots of hotel choice, people who want action.

• Biggest beach and most busy area
• Choose hotels on the edges (north/south) for quieter nights
• Easy to find tours, malls, and late-night food

Lamai

Best for: a calmer version of Chaweng with enough places to eat and drink.

• Good mid-range stays and beach life
• Still has nightlife, but smaller and more relaxed
• Great if you’re staying longer than 3–4 nights

Maenam

Best for: quiet beach time, remote-work stays, low-key travellers.

• Less traffic and fewer crowds
• Most places require taxis/scooter to move around
• Good value resorts and beachfront bungalows

Choeng Mon

Best for: short stays, nice beach, close to the airport.

• More “resort” feel and generally calmer
• Good for families and couples
• Easy airport transfers

How to choose the right area (quick checklist)

No scooter, no stress:
Stay in Bophut or Chaweng. Both areas are walkable and have plenty of restaurants, taxis, and shops nearby.

Quiet beach time:
Choose Maenam or the calmer parts of Lamai for a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere.

Nightlife and variety:
Chaweng offers the widest choice of bars, restaurants, and nightlife. For better sleep, stay a little away from the main strip.

Short stay (2–3 nights):
Choeng Mon is close to the airport and easy to get around, making it a convenient base for a quick trip.