Where to live on Koh Samui in 2024?

Living in Chaweng

Chaweng is Koh Samui’s busiest district, and this is where you’ll find the most health facilities, shops and restaurants.

Beach:

Chaweng has a long beach, beautiful but very popular with tourists. Lined with lively beach clubs, it’s ideal for party-lovers. However, those looking for peace and quiet will prefer other locations.

Activities :

There are numerous bars and restaurants, both local and international. This is also where you’ll find the island’s main “Walking Street”, which is very lively at night, and the biggest shopping malls. On the other hand, prices can be higher than elsewhere on Koh Samui.

Infrastructure :

Chaweng boasts top-quality medical services, with international hospitals such as Bangkok Hospital, as well as numerous shops and supermarkets. Expatriates with families will also find the French school in Chaweng.

Transportation :

The area is well served by public and private transport, and Koh Samui International Airport is nearby.

Real estate in Chaweng :

Villas for sale in the Chaweng district will generally be more expensive, as they are located in a tourist area, close to major infrastructures. Nevertheless, you can make it your business to offer your home for rent in your absence.

Living in Lamai

A good compromise between lively Chaweng and the other quieter districts, Lamai is ideal for families.

Beach:

Lamai beach is more serene than Chaweng, with a few restaurants and bars to enjoy the sunset. Particularly quiet in the off-peak season, it becomes busier in the tourist season.

Activities :

Lamai is famous for its night market, where you can find food as well as a variety of local handicrafts. Nearby, it’s also possible to go on excursions to visit several points of interest and superb viewpoints.

Infrastructure :

Lamai has all the facilities needed for daily life, and also has a French school. In terms of healthcare, you’ll find a variety of clinics, and Chaweng International Hospital is around 20 minutes’ drive away.

Transportation :

Just 20 minutes from Chaweng, Lamai is well connected by road, and can be reached by public transport. The road between Lamai and Chaweng can, however, be busier during the tourist season.

Real estate in Lamai :

Villas in Lamai are a good compromise between price and location. Slightly less expensive than Chaweng, Lamai remains a very good choice for combining personal occupation and rental investment during the tourist season.

Living in Bophut

The picturesque district of Bophut, known for Fisherman’s Village with its traditional houses and cobbled streets, offers a charming, authentic atmosphere.

Beach:

Although less spectacular than some of the island’s other beaches, Bophut is still a pleasant, less crowded spot, ideal for relaxing in one of its typical seaside restaurants.

Activities :

Bophut is widely known for its traditional fishing village and popular Friday night market. For water sports enthusiasts, Bophut is also a starting point for fishing, snorkeling and scuba-diving excursions.

However, Bophut is less dynamic than Chaweng or Lamai in terms of nightlife.

Infrastructure :

Located in the north of the island, Bophut is close to the airport. However, there are fewer shopping centers and shops than in larger towns such as Chaweng or Lamai.

Transportation :

The center of Bophut is well connected by road, despite heavy traffic during the tourist season. Depending on where you live, however, it may be preferable to have a vehicle to navigate around the island.

Real estate in Bophut :

Bophut is a good neighborhood for year-round expatriates. The mountainous topography of this part of the island means that land can be found high up, overlooking the town and the sea. This is where you’ll find villas with some of the finest sea views on the island.

Living in Maenam

Generally less frequented by tourists than other areas of Koh Samui, Maenam offers an authentic atmosphere, for a more immersive experience of Thai life.

Beach:

Maenam beach is long and peaceful. Sparsely occupied by hotels and restaurants, this beach is truly unspoilt, and ideal for walks and relaxation away from the crowds.

Activities :

Despite its tranquil, authentic appearance, Maenam offers many activities for expatriates. The Santiburi golf course to the south of the city, for example, is within easy reach, as are various relaxation centers and water sports facilities.

Infrastructure :

Maenam is equipped with all the essentials, but to find shopping centers or international hospitals, it’s best to head for Chaweng. Note that the cost of living is generally lower in Maenam than in other parts of Koh Samui.

Transportation :

Although served by public transport, Maenam is further away from major infrastructures than Bophut, Chaweng or Lamai. It is therefore preferable here to have a vehicle.

Real estate in Maenam :

In Maenam, you’ll find pretty villas overlooking the sea and the surrounding countryside. Prices are particularly attractive for those wishing to live on Koh Samui in a 2 or 3-bedroom villa with swimming pool, for a quiet, authentic retreat.

Thinking of buying real estate in Koh Samui or elsewhere in Thailand? Our experts will guide you through the process, and put you in touch with our local partners who will take care of you during your stay to visit the homes. Contact us directly or view our selected properties on Koh Samui.