Koh Samui has seen a recent development in tourism

Koh Samui along with 40 other unpopulated islands makes up the Ang-Thong Archipelago, a chain of islands north-east of Surat Thani. Since the construction of the airport on Koh Samui, this island has seen a steep rise in the number of tourists. One can also take a bus from Surat Thani to Dan Sak and from here boat to Koh Samui. The best time to visit Koh Samui is between February and April, as in the following months the Gulf of Thailand is subject to heavy monsoon storms.

The chief town of the island is Nathon where there are fine beaches and some hotel and villa complexes. Other beaches with reasonable accommodation are Ao Maenam, Ao Bo Phut (with an enormous statue of Buddha), Ao Cherngmon, Chaweng Noi Beach and Chaweng Yai Beach (the two longest beaches on Koh Samui). Motorcycles and bicycles can be rented and are a good way of exploring the island.

The fishing villages in Koh Samui together with coconut and durian plantations and waterfalls hidden in the dense jungle among the 600-m (1968-ft) high mountains are the main attractions of this island. Besides, Koh Samui offers every kind of water sport: diving, snorkeling, windsurfing. It is advisable to check that the diving school belongs to one of the two international associations that regulate the safety standards of the equipment and quality of instruction.