Bophutfoodmarket
Bophut Food Market is a working local market in the Bo Put area of Koh Samui, drawing both residents and travellers looking for authentic Thai food and fresh produce away from the island's more tourist-oriented dining strips. The market operates seven days a week, giving visitors plenty of flexibility to work a visit into their itinerary. Stalls offer a broad range of options, from raw ingredients and fresh seafood to ready-to-eat Thai dishes prepared on-site. The atmosphere is genuine and unpretentious, with the energy and aromas typical of a functioning community market rather than a curated tourist experience. It serves as a practical snapshot of everyday island life, where local vendors and shoppers go about their routines alongside curious visitors. For the best selection, arriving in the morning is advisable, as fresh stock is at its peak and the market is at its most active. Bringing cash is recommended, as many individual stalls are unlikely to accept card payments. Comfortable, breathable clothing suits the open-air environment, particularly during the warmer parts of the day. Those staying in or around the Bo Put neighbourhood will find it especially convenient as both a daily food source and a worthwhile cultural detour.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Bophutfoodmarket, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Location Info
ตลาด Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand+66 94 542 5855Tips for Visiting Markets & Shopping
Haggle at Markets, Not Malls
Prices at market stalls are negotiable — start at 50–60% of the asking price and meet in the middle. Fixed-price shops and malls don't haggle. Smile and keep it friendly; aggressive bargaining is considered rude.
Arrive Early or Late
Vendors believe the first sale of the day is lucky — you'll often get a better deal if you arrive right when the market opens. Late in the evening, sellers may also discount to avoid packing unsold goods.
Be Cautious with Tailors
Bangkok has excellent tailors, but also many tourist traps. Avoid anyone offering suspiciously cheap suits or who approaches you on the street. Ask your hotel for recommendations, read reviews, and always get two fittings.
Also Popular in Koh Samui
Ko Pha Ngan
White-sand beaches & coconut trees on island known for its monthly Full Moon Party celebrations.
Ko Tao
Island offering scenic white sand beaches, coral reefs & scuba diving, with numerous resorts & bars.
Wat Phra Yai
Massive, circa-1972 gilded Buddha statue at the colorful Phra Yai temple complex.

Hin Ta Hin Yai
Storied natural rock formations known for bearing a resemblance to male & female genitalia.
Similar Markets & Shopping Across Thailand
Chatuchak Weekend Market
One of the world's largest weekend markets with 15,000+ stalls

centralwOrld
Shopping center with stores for beauty, fashion & technology, plus dining & family activities.
Asiatique The Riverfront
Illuminated at night, this sizable Ferris wheel in an open-air mall offers scenic river views.

Siam Paragon
Expansive mall with high-end & mainstream boutiques, dining, an aquarium, bowling & a multiplex.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). Ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs — a cheaper option.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas