We love Koh Samui. It has a great blend of family-friendly activities and accommodation for an easy and fun family adventure. Embarking on a Koh Samui family adventure offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, this tropical paradise boasts pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a myriad of family-friendly activities. Planning your trip requires consideration of the best time to visit, ideal accommodations, must-see attractions, transportation options, and navigating the island’s treasures. Having travelled to the island many times we’ve got you covered to help plan your own Koh Samui family adventure!
When is the best time to visit Ko Samui?
Firstly, timing is key for a seamless experience. The best time to visit Ko Samui is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is sunny and rainfall is minimal. This period ensures optimal conditions for exploring the island’s wonders with your loved ones. The end of this season also marks the Songkran Festival.
Songkran is a traditional Thai New Year festival celebrated in Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia. It typically takes place around mid April each year, marking the beginning of the Thai solar calendar. Songkran is known for its water festival, where huge water fights take place across the country and people splash water on each other as a symbol of washing away the past year’s misfortunes. It’s a lot of fun, especially with kids in tow!
We have also spent weeks during the summer on Ko Samui and the weather has always been glorious. Traditionally this is rainy season however most rains fall on the West coast of Thailand at this time and any storms showers are short lived and freshen up the air.
June is typically the hottest month of the year with an average daily maximum of 33 C and an average low of 24 C. The coolest month of the year is January with an average daily maximum of 29 C and an average low of 23 C.
Where is the best place to stay on Ko Samui?
When it comes to accommodations, choosing family-friendly resorts in key areas ensures convenience and comfort. Chaweng Beach, with its vibrant atmosphere and range of amenities, is an excellent choice for families. The more expensive properties occupy the prime beachfront locations however excellent deals can also be found a street back from the beach.
Lamai is also a popular choice for a Koh Samui family adventure with it’s gorgeous beach, lush setting and in close proximity to the main attractions of the island.
Alternatively, Bophut offers a more laid-back vibe with its charming Fisherman’s Village and diverse dining options, perfect for family dinners. On our last trip, we opted to stay at the the Holiday Inn, Bophut and were incredibly happy with our choice. Our little rascals loved the family room, which provide a jungle themed kids room off the side of the main bedroom. The kids club there is also incredible and the the splash pad, movie evenings and carnival nights were great fun. The Holiday Inn, Bophut has the perfect location right at the end of the Fisherman’s Village and next to the night market. The fireshow is also directly outside the hotel on the beach.
Recommended trips and activities on Ko Samui
Ko Samui offers a plethora of options to suit every family member’s interests. From snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Ang Thong Marine Park to exploring the cultural heritage of Wat Phra Yai, the island caters to diverse tastes.
Trips to Ang Thong Marine Park are suitable for children of all ages and typically involve visiting 2-3 islands and beaches before heading to the main park centre where you can borrow kayaks to explore the limestone cliffs. Sadly children under 6 were not allowed on the kayaks on the day we visited (we’re not sure how striclty this rule is enforced on other days) so one us us stayed swimming with our youngest while the other went off exploring.
Big Buddah (Wat Phra Yai) is also another popular spot to visit whilst on a Koh Samui family adventure. It is easily accessible from Chaweng and Bophut and provides an impressive glimpse into Buddhist life.
For an adrenaline rush, consider zip-lining through the lush jungle for older children or embarking on an elephant trekking adventure with the family. Please remember to research elephant trek companies throughly before booking to ensure ethical practices with these beautiful animals.
Ko Samui: Getting there and away
Getting to Ko Samui is relatively straightforward, with direct flights available from major cities in Southeast Asia. We flew to Ko Samui from Bangkok with numerous flights making the route each day. The airport in Koh Samui has to be one of the prettiest in the world – think open air lounges, lush vegeAlternatively, travelers can take a ferry from nearby destinations like Surat Thani or Koh Phangan. Planning ahead and booking tickets in advance ensures a smooth journey for the whole family.
Ko Samui: Getting around
Once on the island, getting around is easy thanks to various transportation options. Renting a car allows for flexibility in exploring Ko Samui’s attractions at your own pace. Alternatively, taxis and songthaews (shared minibusses) offer convenient transportation options for shorter distances. Songthaews ply the main routes around the island and are a cheap and fun way to travel. Flag one down and hop in the back for the ride!
A Koh Samui family adventure promises unforgettable experiences amidst stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. By considering the best time to visit and choosing family-friendly accommodations, you can create cherished memories with your loved ones in this tropical paradise. So pack your bags, embark on this adventure, and let Koh Samui weave its magic on your family vacation.
Photo Credits
Thank you to Richard Mc, Laydown, Mila Images, and Simon Vetterli for additional photos in this post. Check them out on Pixabay.
