Samui Airport
This scenic island airport with tropical decor & gardens has a thatched roof & no walls.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Samui Airport, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Despite being quite small, it’s incredibly well designed and feels very cozy and relaxed. The open-air layout, tropical scenery, and thoughtful architecture make the whole experience feel more like a resort than an airport. Everything is very walkable, so getting around is effortless and stress-free. The shops are cute and unique, and it’s actually a really nice place to arrive early and spend some time walking around, browsing, and enjoying the atmosphere. Instead of rushing through, you can genuinely enjoy being there. Overall, an amazing airport that perfectly reflects the charm of Koh Samui. A great first and last impression of the island
One of the most unique airports I’ve seen. Instead of the typical closed terminals, everything is open-air and surrounded by tropical gardens, which makes the whole place feel more like a resort than an airport. The airport is quite small but very well organized. Check-in, security, and boarding are usually quick and efficient, which makes the whole experience very smooth. There are also some small shops and places to grab a drink or a snack while waiting for your flight. Overall, a very pleasant airport experience and a great way to start or finish your trip to Koh Samui. Definitely one of the most charming airports in Thailand.
My Review of Koh Samui Airport (04/01/2026) Samui International Airport is a wonderful and small yet beautiful airport. I really loved the infrastructure — it feels more like a tropical resort than an airport. The open design, greenery, and relaxed atmosphere make the whole experience very pleasant. The check-in process was quick, and the staff were very kind and welcoming. Overall, it’s one of the most unique and charming airports I’ve visited. Traveling through this airport feels calm and enjoyable rather than stressful.
Location Info
99, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand+66 77 428 500www.samuiairport.com/Tips 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