Cheap Flights to Samui International Airport

Discover Samui International

Fondly referred to by locals as simply ‘Samui’, Koh Samui is an island off the east coast of Thailand and is the second largest island after Phuket. Blessed with good weather all year round, Koh Samui is a hotspot both for the Thai people as well as international visitors.

What to do and see

The main draw of Koh Samui is undoubtedly its pristine beaches. Though it is debatable, most would say Koh Samui’s most popular beaches are in Chaweng and Lamai. With great popularity comes great crowds, and Chaweng Beach tends to be a tad more crowded (though no less beautiful). The good thing though, is that it has everything you need. Luxury apartments and budget accommodation are all easily found, and you only need to head a short walk outside the residences for food and beverage options.

For a quieter spot, head to Maenam Beach or Crystal Bay, both beaches surrounded by stunning rock formations. Regardless of which area you choose, each beach has its own charm and you can rest assured that you will not be left wanting more with any beach on the lovely island of Koh Samui.

Aside from the beaches, Koh Samui has many other things to do. One notable one would be the Friday Night Market, which happens every Friday night (duh!) at Bophut’s Fisherman. The usually quiet streets of the village come alive at night, with vendors selling everything from drinks, food and clothes. The best part is that it isn’t going to burn a huge hole in your pocket! So head down to the Friday Night Market for a night of guilt-free entertainment and be sure to put your party hat on.

For even more breathtaking beauty, take a ferry out to Angthong National Marine Park. Aside from being completely awestruck by the beauty of the park, you can also engage in various water-based activities such as kayaking and snorkeling. View the amazing limestone formations on the island, and make the trek up the stairs to get spectacular views of the Green Lagoon.

To wind down after a hectic day of tanning and drinks, head to the secluded Magic or Secret Buddha Garden for some calm. Lose yourself in the natural beauty and splendor and take pictures with some of the sculptures in the garden. Check out the waterfall nestled near the centre of the garden and follow the stream that meanders through the garden for a peaceful walk.

For yoga practitioners, make sure you visit The Yogarden in Bophut for a calm oasis in which to practice yoga. With classes for both beginners and advanced practitioners, it offers a sanctuary for people to practice yoga as well as make friends through the sessions.

How to get around

Koh Samui is only 25km long and 21km wide, so it’s relatively easy to get around. Koh Samui also has an excellent public transport network of songthaews - converted pick-up trucks with bench seats, with dozens of them circling the island on various fixed routes all day.

Fares are paid at the end of the journey and there are no fixed stops, so flag one down anywhere and make sure you ring the bell or bang on the roof to let the driver know you want to get off. There are also metered taxis and jeep and motorbike rentals for those who prefer to drive themselves around.

How to get there

Check Skyscanner for your preferred flight from major cities in New Zealand to Samui Airport. From there, if your hotel or hostel does not provide you with an airport transfer service, you can book a private taxi or shared minivan transfers that will take you to the city for a fee.