It’s a short hop from Phuket to the island of Koh Samui, just about a 40 minute flight. The airport is one of the smallest we’ve been to (and we lived in Kona!). They have cute little trolleys that meet you at the airplane and take you over to the main airport, which is all open air. A very quaint and easy place to get in and out of.

We were only here for five nights so wanted to see what we could, and also just enjoy the beaches. I’m not sure, but it seems like this island is about 80% sandy beaches all around. Resorts everywhere, but all beaches are public so you can enjoy the beach at any resort.

We took just one day trip while we were here - a boat that took us to visit the National Marine Park at Koh Ang Thong. With dozens of limestone islands jutting out of the sea, this is a beautiful place for snorkeling, swimming and kayaking. We did all three and saw some incredible coral and fish, even snorkeling through some caves.

After some snorkeling and a photo op near Monkey Island (looks like King Kong staring off into the distance), we did some kayaking and hand a nice lunch on the beach. While we didn’t see much of any wildlife, our friends Kiran and Neeraj from Australia did happen onto a very cool monkey family. (Wish I could say it was my picture.)

This was a great day trip, but long - 10 hours or so. Back to our hotel - the Sheraton Ko Samui Resort - for a few days of relaxing on the beach.

One afternoon we went into town to visit the area called Fisherman’s Village. A nice place to shop for trinkets and a good place to get a foot massage as well. There is also a night market here a couple times a week, and it was fun to wander through to see the local art and food. It is beautiful here at night with many little restaurants right on the beach, and you can see the green lights of the fishing boats in the distance.

It’s our final day in Koh Samui, but before we go…it’s “Songkran” festival here. Songkran is Thailands New Year’s festival. Billed as the “biggest water fight in the world”, water is traditionally used to wash away the past and start the new year refreshed. But over time it has evolved into water being thrown on anyone and everyone! The streets are full of people ready to throw (or shoot) water on cars and even scooters. It was a fun time for sure. Luckily in Samui, they celebrate with just one day as the main event. In Bangkok, it’s about a weeklong festival of water. Next stop…uh-oh!

That’s it from the beautiful island of Koh Samui. Take care and enjoy the rest of the photos.

All the best,

Tim & Eileen (a little wet, but it’s Songkran)