1. Weather on Samui

When is the rainy season on Samui?

The rainy season on Samui is less pronounced than on other Thai destinations and falls in late autumn (October–November). Even during this period, rain usually falls at night and briefly, while daytime is mostly sunny.

The rainiest month is November. The driest months are February, March, and April.

Temperatures stay around +30°C year-round, water +27–29°C.

How does Samui weather differ from Phuket?

Samui doesn't have the sharp seasonal contrast that Phuket does. Rainfall is more evenly distributed, and water and air temperatures are more stable.

2. Getting to Samui

By air: - Bangkok Airways: Bangkok (BKK) → Samui (USM) — 1 hour 10 minutes, from 5,000 THB one way - Thai Airways: Bangkok → Samui - Direct flights: Singapore (Scoot, Bangkok Airways), Hong Kong (Bangkok Airways), Kuala Lumpur (Batik Air, Malaysia Airlines)

By ferry (budget option): - Ferry from Surat Thani: from 200 THB, 1.5–3 hours - Lomprayah catamaran: from 800 THB, 1 hour 45 minutes - Seatran: from 300 THB

Night bus + ferry: - From Bangkok: bus to Surat Thani (8–10 hours) + ferry to Samui. Total travel time ~12–14 hours. Cost from 800 THB.

3. Sea and Beaches

Why doesn't Samui have tsunamis?

Due to its geographic location in the Gulf of Thailand, Samui is protected from ocean waves. The island is surrounded by Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and the mainland, creating a natural barrier. Tsunamis are not possible on Samui.

Which beaches are best?

  • For swimming with children: Choeng Mon, Bophut, Lipa Noi
  • For walks and parties: Chaweng (7 km of white sand)
  • For a quiet holiday: Maenam, Taling Ngam
  • For snorkeling: northeast beaches (near The Tongsai Bay hotel)

4. Accommodation

What's better — hotel or villa?

It depends on your needs: - Hotel: convenient for short stays (up to 7 days), no worries about cleaning or meals - Villa/apartment: better for longer stays (from 2 weeks), kitchen access, more space, often with private pool

What options are available on Samui? - Villas with private pool - Apartments in residential complexes - Houses and bungalows near the beach - Studios and rooms for budget travelers

Continued in part 2 — transport rental, money, internet, food, and more.