Koh Samui Islands hotels, Surat Thani

The Gulf Islands lie off the eastern coast of southern Thailand. Having been a popular holiday destination for some years now, it’s home to countless resorts, tourist attractions and developed urban areas over a number of popular islands; namely Koh Samui, Koh Tao and the party island Koh Phangan. Despite all that, the Gulf Islands retains a natural, quiet side that offers a pleasing contrast to the busy beach towns. And with so many fantastic hotels to choose from, you’ll be able to find the perfect accommodation to suit your tastes and budget.

Popular Resort Areas in the Gulf Islands

For travellers seeking sun, sea, sand and the most vibrant beach bars in the islands, Koh Phangan is the place to be. This island is a designated party destination with bars and clubs lining the long coastlines. As a result it’s particularly popular with young backpackers. Meaning you’ll find a good selection of cheap hotels and lively hostels. Oh, and the Full Moon Party too!

Alternatively, opt for the slightly more laid-back resort area of Lamai on Koh Samui, which is also good for more low-key partying and a bit of sunbathing. Explore the island and head to the northern coast instead, and enjoy the island’s quietest beaches and attractions like the Big Buddha.

The Gulf Islands’ Adventure Sport Hotels

The warm, wildlife-rich waters surrounding the Gulf Islands are ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving, even jet skiing, windsurfing and kayaking for the slightly more adventurous. Plenty of hotels on the islands’ coasts offer private beaches and boat tours, as well as water sporting opportunities. For the best diving, though, look into hotels that offer excursions to Ang Thong National Marine Park, which surrounds Koh Samui’s neighbouring islands of Koh Wua Talap and Koh Nai Phut.

Koh Samui is also an excellent place for golf, with excellent courses like Bophut Hills Golf Club located in the northern areas of the island.

The Gulf Islands’ Family-Friendly Attractions

The Gulf Islands might be the ideal spot for a romantic honeymoon or a rowdy week away with friends, but it’s also perfectly suited to families. Find a hotel on the southeastern coast of Koh Samui and you can enjoy easy access to Na Muang Safari Park and its surrounding region of waterfalls and woodland. Activities in this region include hiking and touring the Buddhist temples. Head a little further up the coast to Lamai and enjoy the Coco Splash Adventure & Waterpark and the Wat Lamai Folklore Museum, both of which are perfect for adventurous little ones. Best of all, this region is home to a number of markets, family-friendly restaurants and affordable hotels – not to mention a lovely beach. Or opt for the quiet beaches of Koh Tao.

Travelling around the Gulf Islands

Of course, there’s no need to confine yourself to just one island. There are plenty of boats that travel between each of the Gulf Islands’ tourist hotspots. Because of the size of the islands, it is very easy to travel around each too. That means, no matter where your hotel is located, you get to make the most of this wonderful place.