Anna is a co-founder of Adventure in You and has been traveling the world for the last 9 years. She has spent time living in Thailand, Mexico, Indonesia, and Spain and is our local expert in these areas. Her expertise on travel, gear, and building businesses have been featured on Foundr, Business Insider, Yahoo Travel, and more.
Known as one of the largest islands in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a place that is frequented by many. The beaches are beautiful, the night life is vibrant, and the variety of activities and things to do are many.
Given the rapid development and growth of the island, there is literally no shortage of places to stay in Koh Samui. It can be hard to pick a hotel so we decided to put together a list of our top picks for the best places to stay in Koh Samui for both hotels and hostels.
This budget hostel is perfect for those looking to stay close to the beach without having to pay a lot of money. It’s a short walking distance to the beach, and there are loads of cheap food options around.
The dorm room beds are clean, basic, and has everything you need. This social hostel is awesome for meeting other travelers. Hang out in the lounge, have a drink or two at the bar, or take a dip in the pool — you’re sure to chat with others in the hostel!
And if you’d like your own space while also enjoying the social benefits of a hostel, you can choose one of their private rooms.
Here’s another hostel that’s ideal for you budget beach bums. Located close to Chaweng Beach, UBOX Hostel offers modern dorm-style accommodations at an affordable price.
The rooms are modern and comfortable, and in some rooms, your bed bunk will have its own privacy curtain. Spend your time making the new friends at the bar, chill out in the lounge, or cool off in the pool. Guests also rave about the warm hospitality at this hostel.
This is an awesome place to stay when you’re on a tight budget!
On a budget but still want some privacy? Check out Cheeky Monkey Samui. Although it bills itself as a hostel, they offer double rooms — some even with a balcony!
While the rooms are basic, they are comfortable, bright, and cheerful. Plus, there’s air-conditioning so that you can seek refuge from the hot hot heat of Koh Samui.
The best part is that the hotel has a rooftop pool and bar, complete with sun loungers. You won’t need to go to the beach to catch some rays, but if you want some sea, it’s only a short walk away.
Transportation: We recommend downloading the Skyscanner App and using Bookawayor 12Go website to view bus, boat, and train schedules ahead of time. We’ve used these websites all over Asia and it saves us the hassle of lining up in travel agencies or bus stations.
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If you love a good deal, take a look at Maenam Bay Resort. It’s such a good bargain for the price you pay!
Although it isn’t exactly in the main area, everything including the beach is nearby and isn’t too far. The rooms here are modern, clean and bright and the staff are very helpful. They have a small pool area which is a great area to chill out.
For an island escape that doesn’t hurt your wallet, check out Escape Beach Resort. Located just 100 feet from Mae Nam Beach, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy those island vibes.
All the rooms in the resort are air-conditioned, with nice sitting areas where you can lounge around. But you’ll definitely prefer chilling out on the resort grounds! Their outdoor pool overlooks the sea, and you can lounge poolside all day long. Plus, with an on-site restaurant and bar, you can enjoy a meal without leaving the resort!
Need more stress relief? Then book an appointment at their spa and watch your tension melt away!
This place is excellent value for money for any traveler.
If you’re planning on spending time on the south of the island, The Fisherman’s Chalet is a great mid-range place to stay.
Nestled in nature, each of the 18 chalets here has flat screen televisions, wireless internet and free bottled water upon checking in. Some units have a balcony and seating area which have beautiful views of the ocean!
You’ll enjoy visiting the Samui Butterfly Garden which is only a five-minute walk from the hotel. Children will love the playground, while the adults can savor a cup of tea or coffee from the coffee bar. If you want to stay in, the pool is a great place to relax and unwind.
This place is ideal for those looking to be in nature and enjoy a tranquil stay.
If budget isn’t an issue, this luxury hotel has everything you need and more. You’re sure to have an excellent stay at the Sarann!
The beds are comfortable, the linens are lush, and some rooms even have a private jacuzzi that you can enjoy. Want something even more indulgent? Go for their seafront villa with a private pool! You’ll love the stunning views and having our own pool to soak in!
The resort has a big infinity pool which is a great place to relax and unwind with a drink in your hand. To match the top-notch surroundings, the staff here go above and beyond to make your stay unforgettable.
The Sarann is definitely one of the best places to stay in Koh Samui.
Insider Tip: As well as booking websites, you can also search more specifically if you know what you want. For example, searching  Koh Samui Villa Rental will take you directly to a website that offers numerous luxury villas in Koh Samui. How will you ever choose?
Nikki Beach Resort
Room Type: Family Rooms | Suites | Villas
WI-FI: Yes
Near:Â Beachfront
Price Range: $235-$1,143 a night
No one does luxurious better than the famed Nikki Beach Resort.
Known for their luxurious amenities and friendly staff, a stay here is highly recommended. The rooms are well-decorated and spacious, with dark wood furnishings. They have suites that are cluster units which means this is an awesome spot for an up-scale group holiday. You can also choose from rooms with pool access, with a private pool, or a pool view.
When you can tear yourself away from your ultra comfy room, spend some time in the outdoor pool area which is just beautiful. Arrive early to make sure you get a day bed! And if you want more indulgence, arrange for a massage.
Your stay here won’t be complete without experiencing their famous Sunday Brunch.
Near:Â Beachfront |Â 15-minute drive from Samui Airport
Price Range: $234-$1,075 a night
Relax, unwind, and make the most out of your stay at the Melati Beach Resort and Spa. Located right on the beach, this resort has everything you need for an awesome holiday: two swimming pools, two restaurants, and three bars.
The rooms here are spacious and comfortable, and some even come with an outdoor bathtub! If you really want to make your friends envious, go for one of their pool villas! You’ll have the ultimate privacy and can spend the entire day just hanging about the pool or lounging around the villa.
For a special occassion holiday you’ll remember forever, their Presidential Suite should do the trick!
The entire resort premises are absolutely beautiful, and well worth the steep price tag. The breakfast buffet that comes with the room is plentiful and well-equipped with a variety of choices.
