Koh Samui sits at the center of a cluster of islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Within 30 minutes to two hours by speedboat, several islands await — each with a completely different character and mood. Each deserves a day or more.

Koh Tao — The Diver's Island

Koh Tao is located 55 km northwest of Samui. The fast catamaran takes about 1.5–2 hours. Koh Tao is a global centre for diving instruction: hundreds of dive centres, some of the world's cheapest PADI certification courses, and outstanding underwater life.

Why people go to Koh Tao:

  • Diving for all levels: beginner sites near the shore and advanced spots like Sail Rock and Chumphon Pinnacle
  • Snorkeling off the island's coast: blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, tropical fish
  • Non-touristy atmosphere: a small island with a relaxed backpacker community
  • Dramatic sunsets from the island's western shore

Time needed: 2–4 days minimum for diving with a course, 1 day for a day trip. An Open Water course takes 3–4 days.

Koh Phangan — Two Islands in One

Koh Phangan lies between Samui and Koh Tao, 18 km north of Samui. The ferry from Samui takes 30–40 minutes by speedboat, around 1.5 hours on the local ferry. The island is world-famous for the Full Moon Party — a monthly beach gathering at Hat Rin that draws 10,000–30,000 people.

But Koh Phangan is also one of Thailand's most beautiful and tranquil islands outside of party week.

The quiet side of Koh Phangan:

  • Northern beaches (Thong Nai Pan, Bottle Beach) — semi-empty, pristine, with crystal-clear water
  • Yoga and retreats — the island has become Asia's yoga tourism hub, with dozens of ashrams and retreat centres
  • Nature: waterfalls (Than Sadet Falls — historically a royal site), jungles, walking trails
  • Fishing villages on the west coast — quiet life away from tourist infrastructure

When to go for Full Moon Party: dates are the full moon night each month. Typically starts at 21:00 and runs until dawn. In peak months (December–January) — up to 30,000 attendees. Book accommodation in Hat Rin 1–2 months in advance.

Time needed: 1 day for sightseeing, 2–3 days for relaxation, 5–7 days for a retreat.

Ang Thong National Marine Park

Ang Thong is an archipelago of 42 limestone islands, 30 km northwest of Samui. The principal natural attraction of the Gulf of Thailand, designated a national park in 1980.

What you can do in Ang Thong:

  • Snorkeling: crystal-clear water, shallow reefs teeming with tropical fish — one of the best snorkeling experiences in Thailand
  • Kayaking: through lagoons and sea caves — included in most tour programmes
  • Trekking: the climb on the main island (Ko Mae Ko) to the emerald interior lake
  • Viewpoints: 360-degree panoramas over the entire archipelago from the summit

Standard visit format: day trip from Samui. Boat arrival at 9:00–10:00, programme runs until 15:00–16:00, return to Samui. Tours typically include snorkeling gear, kayak use and a meal.

Important: the park closes November–December (rainy season — unsafe surf). Season runs December through October.

Koh Matsam and Koh Tan — Islands Off Samui's Shore

Two small uninhabited islands off Samui's southern coast, reachable by boat in 20–30 minutes.

Koh Matsam: good snorkeling reef, uncrowded beach, a few bungalows for overnight stays. A good option for a secluded day or night away from tourist infrastructure.

Koh Tan: slightly larger than Matsam, with a small village. Clear water, colourful fish right off the beach, snorkeling from the shore. Day trips from Samui typically combine both islands.

Practical Logistics

Ferries from Samui depart mainly from Nathon pier (west coast) and Ban Rak (northeast). Schedules vary by operator. Tickets can be bought at the pier or online. Day trips to Ang Thong, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are organised by island tour agencies — more convenient than independent logistics, especially for short stays.