Click any part of the photo to zoom in.

Whether you need to know local public holidays or highlights through the seasons, we hope you will find the facts gathered below useful tools for your travel planning. Please feel free to contact us if we can assist you further.

General information

A jewel in the Gulf of Siam off the eastern coast of Thailand, Koh Samui is part of an archipelago of more than 60 islands in the South China Sea. Here you will find a blend of hilltop tropical vegetation, palm-fringed beaches and aquatic wonders. Golden sand, swaying coconut palms and calm waters are emblematic of this quiet and peaceful island, where 45,000 chao samui, as residents call themselves, help create a welcoming village community atmosphere.

In a private cove on the secluded north shore of this tropical paradise, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui welcomes you to experience the many faces of Thailand.

Discover Koh Samui’s endless talcum-sand beaches, most notably Chaweng Beach, which is 7 kilometres (4 miles) long. Enjoy water sports. Experience the widely popular buffalo fights. Travelling by songtow (small, open bus), explore a wide range of attractions, from historic temples to spectacular waterfalls and unusual limestone rock formations.

Koh Samui is also a gourmet paradise, where abundant varieties of fish and shellfish from nearby waters and exotic herbs from local gardens are coupled with Thailand’s sophisticated culinary traditions. You’ll enjoy a profusion of tropical and international fare.

Time zone

GMT +7 hours

Language(s) spoken

Thai is the primary language. Although English is widely understood in Samui, it is useful to learn a few simple Thai phrases.

Electrical system

Local voltage is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Dual voltage (100–110 volts and 220–240 volts) is available at the Resort.

Shopping hours

Stores are usually open seven days a week.
In Nathom, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
In Chaweng and Lamai, 10:00 am to 11:00 pm

Working hours

Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Time and distance to city centre

5 minutes/4 kilometres/2.5 miles

View in–depth travel advice from Frommers.com

Back to top

Seasonal highlights

January

• Watch buffaloes compete at selected stadiums around the island, during the widely popular Buffalo Fighting Festival.
• Children and their families can enjoy many attractions for free on the annual Children's Day, celebrated on the second Saturday in January.
• More than 10,000 people party from dusk until dawn at the monthly full moon party held at Haad Rin Beach, Koh Pha Ngan.

April

• A national water fight traditionally celebrates Songkran, the Buddhist lunar New Year.

May

• Tourists can take part in candlelight processions on May 15 in celebration of Buddha's birthday.
• Keelboats and beach catamarans compete during the International Yachting Regatta.

August

• A colourful firework display marks the Queen's birthday on Thailand's Mother's Day, August 12.
• Live Thai rock bands and tasty cuisine are featured for the five entertaining days of the Fisherman's Village Festival.

November

• Symbolising the call for a happy future, kratong (mini floats) made from banana leaves, flowers and candles float along the water during Loi Krathong, November's full moon festival.

December

• Government buildings, private homes and businesses are illuminated to celebrate the King's birthday on December 5.