Can You Ever Get Enough Of Koh Samui?

22nd February 2019

As part of our brand new 2020 itineraries, Star Clippers is offering some fantastic 10 and 11-night sailings throughout Thailand. Regardless of which you choose, you will be sailing out of (and returning to) the picturesque port of Koh Samui, where pristine sands and jaw-dropping sunsets await.

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Surat Thani province, this paradisiacal island has plenty to offer and is sure to be a highlight of your cruise. After earning its name as a party destination, Koh Samui is now just as synonymous with relaxation, detoxing and spiritualism. The beaches beckon you to take it easy for a while, but there are still plenty of bars and restaurants along the shoreline for when you want to kick things up a notch.

Breathtaking Beaches

There are so many great beaches in the area, meaning it’s easy to find a patch of sand to suit you, whatever it is you want to do with your time. Chaweng Beach is the most popular option, offering plenty of water sports and restaurants to keep you busy. However, if you’re looking for something quieter, Maenam Beach stretches off into the distance and has a much more natural vibe.

Sitting somewhere between the two, but growing as a hot tourist spot, is Lamai Beach. Things feel slightly more intimate here, but you can still expect a few bustling dining venues and plenty of company. Finally, the best place to soak-up Thai culture is at the Fisherman’s Village. Behind the beach, wooden houses and shops line the streets as locals go about their daily business, making it an authentic place to relax for the afternoon.

Spiritual Discoveries

You don’t have to put your feet up though, if you don’t want to. You could also use them to help you explore some more of Koh Samui, visiting some of the cultural highlights the island has to offer. The most striking of these is the Big Buddha, located on a separate island off the north-east coast and attached to the main island via a small strip of land.

This giant statue, which you may catch a glimpse off as you sail into port, is found within a temple by the name of Wat Phra Yai and is a sight to behold. Hundreds of little statues line the area around its feet and its golden embellishments glisten in the sun. If you do plan to visit, please be respectful and bring clothing to cover up your elbows and knees.

Fiery Food

Besides beaches and Buddhas, Koh Samui can serve up some delicious morsels. Curry and rice is the staple meal in these parts, but there is a wealth of other options too. You’ll find plenty of friendly shacks dishing out their own take on the local food, as well as sit-down restaurants where you can gaze out to sea whilst vibrant flavours delight your tongue. As for discerning where the most delicious options can be found, you can always tell a hidden gem by how popular it is with the locals.

All in all, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in Koh Samui, and enjoy an amazing South-East Asia cruise in between your visits. For more information about our Thailand itineraries, call us on 0845 200 6145 or use our online chat facilities to speak to an advisor.