Koh Samui is one of the most reputed islands in Thailand, similarly to Phuket; it possesses the characteristic beauty and offers a wide variety of activities. Originally, Koh Samui was only the area of coconut plantations, but after being discovered by backpackers who found it a peaceful and magnificent paradise, Samui Island started to be invaded by tourists. For better or worse, its charming beaches together with scenic nature can always attract and enchant people that they cannot help going back there more than once. Here below is the basic information for you to appreciate this appealing island.

Geography

Koh Samui is the third-largest island (247 square kilometers); lying on the eastern coastline of the Gulf of Thailand with a low plain that encompasses the mountainous area in the center. The island is 84 kilometers eastwards from Suratthani, its mainland, and 685 kilometers from Bangkok. Along the coastlines, there are various lovely beaches, fringed with green coconut trees that enhance the picturesque landscape.

Climates

There are four periods of which the temperature is different from one another:

December-April: The temperature gradually rises from 30°C between December and February to 40°C between March and April.

May-June: The temperature dips and there are some rainy periods.

July-September: The temperature rises again to 35°C. There are usually some tropical downpours.

October-November: The temperature dips to around 25°C during these two months, and there are usually rain and wind.

Generally, the high season in in Samui ranges from December 15th to April 30th and from July 15th to September 30th, whereas the low season from May 1st to July 15th and from October 1st to December 15th.

The best time to go there is between January and May. Today, there are an increasing number of tourists coming to Koh Samui during low season months when the heat from the sun is not so intense.

Koh Samui is not only the beach resort, but contains many attractions such as the Waterfalls, Snake Farms, Pearl Farms, Butterfly Garden, and etc.

Nah Muang Falls:
10 kilometers south of Nathon, nature lovers will find Nah Muang Falls. This area is accessible from the village of Ban Thurian via an unpaved road. There are actually two waterfalls: Nah Muang, which is 18 meters high and reachable by vehicle; and Na Muang Two, which is about 80 meters high, requiring a 30-minute walk to get to the top. The waterfalls are the most scenic place on the island and a great place to have a picnic.

Hin Lad waterfall:
Located 2 kilometers south of Nathon on the eastern coast. It takes about a 3-kilometer-walk from the main road. You will be refreshing with its green rain forest and cold water in the large pool below.

Snake farm:
It is located in Taling Ngam Beach; the shows feature snakes indigenous to SamuiIsland, as well as some of the more poisonous and scarier species found throughout Asia. Included are displays of centipedes and scorpions, as well as demonstrations of the famous Thai Cock Fighting show.

Naga Pearl Farm:
This is where you can discover how pearls are cultured, a 30-minute-boat-ride from Thong Krut Beach. There are lots of pearl shops offering many varieties of pearl products as well as special local handicrafts. It is a good idea to go shopping here.

Butterfly Garden:
A must for all visitors. The garden houses numerous species of butterflies, including the rare and endangered species.