Koh Samui or Koh Phangan: Which one to choose?

Can't decide between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan for your trip to Thailand? From activities, ambiance, to accommodation, let’s dive into the features and highlights of these two southern islands to help you make the right choice.

Visiting Koh Samui: what to expect

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South. Covering an area of 228.7 km², it’s the country's second-largest island. Koh Samui attracts tourists worldwide with its fine sandy beaches, extensive infrastructure, and diverse activities.

What to see and do in Koh Samui?

Here are the main activities to enjoy in Koh Samui:

• Relax on the beaches
• Engage in water sports (jetski, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, foiling…);
• Snorkel and scuba dive around Koh Samui or nearby
• Hike to waterfalls like Hin Lat and Na Muang;
• Take a day trip to Ang Thong Marine National Park, an archipelago of 42 protected virgin islands, featuring breathtaking viewpoints, an emerald water lagoon, kayaking, and snorkeling;
• See elephants in humane conditions at the Samui Elephant Sanctuary;
• Visit the island's temples, such as Khao Chedi perched on a hill, Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha) known for its 12-meter-tall Buddha statue, Wat Plai Laem renowned for its 18-armed Guanyin statue, and Wat Khunaram with its mummified monk;
• Explore the Secret Buddha Garden, featuring stone sculptures of Buddhas and animals;
• Shop in the island’s shopping centers or at markets like the Lamai Sunday Market;
• Try Thai street food specialties at markets like Fisherman’s Village or dine at one of the island’s fine restaurants;
• Attend a Thai boxing match;
• Join a Thai cooking class;
• Party on Chaweng or Lamai Beach.

Who is Koh Samui best suited for?

Thanks to its range of infrastructure, Koh Samui appeals to families, couples, and friends looking to enjoy a relaxed yet lively island vibe. With its luxury accommodations and numerous gourmet restaurants, it’s also an ideal destination for travelers seeking an enjoyable getaway at reasonable prices.

Visiting Koh Phangan: what to expect

Located right next to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is smaller, spanning only 125 km². Famous worldwide for the Full Moon Party, the island has managed to retain its charm and laid-back lifestyle. It even attracts a significant community of yoga enthusiasts.

What to see and do in Koh Phangan?

Here are the main activities to enjoy in Koh Phangan:

• Relax on the beaches;
• Discover the island’s nature and enjoy panoramic jungle views with some of Koh Phangan's best hikes;
• Cool off at the waterfalls (especially during or just after the rainy season) such as Than Sadet and Phaeng Noi Falls;
• Practice yoga and meditation;
• Shop and sample Thai culinary specialties at the Thong Sala Saturday Walking Street Market or Chaloklum Market;
• Engage in water sports (jetski, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, foiling…);
• Explore the island’s marine life and nearby areas through snorkeling or scuba diving (Sail Rock is one of Thailand’s top diving spots);
• Take a day trip to Ang Thong Marine National Park, a protected archipelago of 42 virgin islands featuring stunning viewpoints, an emerald lagoon, kayaking, and snorkeling;
• Visit temples such as the Chinese Guan Yin Temple or Wat Pho;
• Party through the night at the Full Moon Party or one of the island's numerous events;
• Attend a Thai boxing match;
• Join a Thai cooking class.

Who is Koh Phangan best suited for?

While Koh Phangan attracts numerous partygoers and backpackers for the monthly Full Moon Party, it’s also a popular destination for those seeking nature and tranquility. Most partygoers are concentrated in the south of the island near Haad Rin and Ban Tai, while yoga enthusiasts, families, couples, and travelers seeking relaxation are more likely to visit the west, north, and eastern coastlines.

Koh Phangan vs. Koh Samui: The comparison

Which island has the best beaches?

Both islands boast stunning beaches, some of which rank among Thailand’s most beautiful. However, if you had to choose, we recommend Koh Phangan. Here, you’ll find a variety of idyllic beaches with different atmospheres, each one as beautiful as the last.

Top Koh Phangan beaches include:

• Haad Salad for its emerald-colored water,
• Bottle Beach for its secluded setting (accessible only by boat or hiking),
• Thong Nai Pan for its tranquility,
• Chaloklum for its authenticity,
• Secret Beach for its charm.

Which island offers the most activities?

Both islands offer a wide range of similar activities. For nature and hiking, Koh Phangan is ideal, while Koh Samui offers better options for shopping and cultural visits (notably temples). Both islands provide excellent scuba diving spots and trips to Sail Rock. If you want to see elephants, head to Koh Samui, and for a yoga retreat, Koh Phangan is the better choice.

Which island has the best nightlife?

Both islands are known for lively nightlife, but with its world-renowned Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan is the more festive. There’s hardly a night without an event on the island.

Discover the best places to party in Koh Phangan and Koh Samui.

Which island has the best accommodations?

Koh Samui once stood out for its luxury resorts and 5-star hotels, while Koh Phangan was known for budget options popular with backpackers. Today, high-end hotels are increasingly common on Koh Phangan, though Koh Samui still offers a wider range of accommodations. In other words, you’ll find the right place on either island, regardless of your expectations and requirements.

Which island is more touristic?

Koh Samui is the more touristy of the two. That said, Koh Phangan has been drawing more visitors since Covid, especially in peak season. However, it’s still possible to have a beach to yourself in the low season, especially in April and May.

In summary: which island to choose between Koh Phangan and Koh Samui?

Both islands are quite similar in terms of landscapes and activity options, making it a tough choice! Only the ambiance varies between them: Koh Samui is more family-oriented and attracts wealthier tourists, while Koh Phangan draws more yoga practitioners, backpackers, and party enthusiasts.

For a quieter experience, consider Koh Phangan (outside of peak season and avoiding Full Moon periods). Additionally, if you prefer a smaller, more manageable island, Koh Phangan is easier to navigate due to its smaller size.

Why noot visit both?

Instead of choosing one, why not visit both islands during your stay? They’re close enough for a quick ferry ride from one to the other. You can book a ticket with several companies: Seatran Discovery, Lomprayah, or Songserm, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the company. You can also arrange for transfer to your accommodation when purchasing tickets.

Florine Dergelet