If you’re looking for a tropical island getaway fringed with luxury resorts and villas, Thailand’s coastal island of Koh Samui, with its palm-lined, white-sand beaches and lush mountain rainforests, is what dreams are made of. You can count on this year-round beach destination for vibrant bucket-list beaches like Chaweng Beach or more tranquil alternatives like Lamai Beach for a family-friendly vacation. No matter where you land, the turquoise tones of this island paradise are sure to captivate.
Visit Koh Samui: get started
Are you in the mood for an island-hopping adventure? Explore Ang Thong National Marine Park, an exquisite archipelago of 42 islands ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving tours. You can also get your fill of culture and nature exploring the hillside gem, Secret Buddha Garden, or swim in the natural pools surrounding the Na Muang Waterfalls. Make sure to journey to the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), connected to Koh Samui by a causeway, where a 12-metre golden Buddha offers a moment of quiet reflection.
Koh Samui travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Thai
What to bring back
Koh Samui’s night markets are an immersive experience perfect for souvenirs, including hand-carved soaps in coconut shells, elephant pants (wide-leg fishing pants), seashell accessories and more.
What to eat
Chu Chee Pla (fish in a curried coconut sauce), papaya salad, Southern Thai-style seafood, sea urchin salad and kalamae (sticky coconut candy).
Fun fact
Koh Samui was historically known as “Coconut Island” and has over 3 million coconut trees.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.