A little local knowledge

Dinner without leaving the sand

Spices Beach Cafe is next door to Swell and a few minutes along the beach from Ona. Settle in for Thai food and an easy first evening. No need to dress up.

Coffee and something freshly baked

Little KOB, opposite Lay Lagom, is where we pick up takeaway coffee and pastries with the girls. There is coffee at the villa, but this is a lovely excuse for a morning wander.

Anything forgotten

Mini Big C is directly across the road from Swell and a short way left from Ona. Further along, you will find a 7-Eleven with Morya Pharmacy beside it.

A lift when you need one

Our drivers, Pon and P'Phanu, know both villas. Message them to arrange a pickup and agree the fare.

A message away

For help with your stay or a local recommendation, send us a WhatsApp. If something is not working as it should, please tell us while you are here so we have the chance to help. A quick description, photo or short video can be useful.

A beach with its own rhythm

Bang Por changes with the tide. The waterline, depth and exposed seabed outside each villa will not look the same throughout the day, and conditions can change with the weather too.

The low does not arrive at the same hour each day. It moves through the lunar month, so a morning that was deep water one week can be flats the next.

If you are wondering where to enter the water, or whether the sea is suitable that day, ask us. We can help with the stretch directly outside your villa rather than give you a general description of the whole beach. Please supervise children closely and do not swim when conditions are unsuitable or warnings are displayed.

When the sea is not inviting

Karma Two Palms is a nearby alternative for a pool afternoon. Our guests are welcome to use the pool, and cabanas can be reserved free of charge. Check with the team when planning your visit.

Spices Beach Cafe An easy evening on the sand

Next door to Swell and a few minutes along the beach from Ona, Spices is one of our favourite places for Thai food close to home. The staff make it especially easy to settle in. Kids eat free with an adult meal, and it is worth asking about the happy hour.

La Villa Luna Dinner, just down the beach

Two doors from Swell, La Villa Luna is one of our nearby favourites for pizza, handmade pasta or a steak dinner. There is a children's menu too. Book through Messenger with Yann, and do tell him Bree and Wes sent you.

Karma Two Palms Stay for a little longer

About 200 yards along the sand from Swell, Karma Two Palms makes a very easy afternoon turn into an evening. There is wood-fired pizza, a happy hour and a changing line-up of live music and beach entertainment. Tuesdays bring movies on the beach, Saturdays a Thai banquet, and Sundays a kids' day. Check the current programme for fire shows and other events.

The large pool is another reason to linger. Our guests are welcome to use it, and the free-to-reserve cabanas are worth booking ahead. Ask for Ed and tell him Bree sent you.

Painting Thursdays Make something to take home

Donna's beachside studio is two doors from Ona. On Thursdays, spend a few hours painting or exploring another medium, with materials supplied. You do not need to arrive knowing what you are doing. Just be willing to give it a go.

Thursday, 10 am to 4 pm. THB 600, with materials included. Message Donna to book and confirm the session.

Wat Noodles and Thai Food Something simple, done well

Beside Mini Big C, this little Thai stall is a good stop for an inexpensive meal. Order noodle soup, chicken fried rice or pad Thai and settle at one of the simple tables. There is not much English spoken, but a little patience goes a long way.

Coco Sunset A front-row seat for the evening

Right next to Ona, Coco Sunset has sunbeds, food and a happy hour that makes it a tempting place to watch the light change. Wander over for a drink and see where the evening takes you.

Thai Mama Your neighbourhood Thai meal

Closer to Ona than Swell, Thai Mama is a friendly, inexpensive option for an everyday lunch or dinner. If you would rather stay in, ask about delivery.

Lay Lagom From morning coffee to evening music

Come for coffee by the beach, then return after dark for low lights and live music. It is a lovely place to enjoy the same stretch of sand at a different pace.

Little KOB The morning pastry stop

Opposite Lay Lagom, Little KOB is our takeaway coffee-and-pastry stop with the girls. Cold brew, matcha, tea and juices give everyone something to choose from, with panini, salads and soup if you stay for more.

Wanngram Worth more than a coffee stop

A small place with plenty going on in the kitchen. Max's menu moves from eggs Benedict at breakfast to more substantial dishes later in the day, and the coffee is a reason to visit in its own right.

Bang Por Seafood Dinner with your feet in the sand

Our nearby seafood recommendation for Southern Thai cooking by the beach. Order a few dishes to share and ask what is fresh that day. It is within walking distance of both villas.

Sasa's Kitchen A good evening in

Min and Sasa make everything from scratch, including their pita, and can deliver to us in Bang Por from their restaurant in Ban Tai. Think daily specials, breakfast, smoothies and hummus. Message Min, mention Bree and ask what is cooking.

Sassys A bottle and something to share

Part wine shop, part place to linger, Sassys works for a bottle to take back to the villa or a glass by the beach. Add the cheese tower and make an evening of it.

Cherish Come for sundowners

A lovely setting for a drink and the view. We would keep this one simple: find a seat, order something cold and enjoy the end of the day.

88% Artisan Bread Follow the cinnamon rolls

Our bakery favourite. The cinnamon rolls are a very good reason to make the trip, and the rest of the counter rarely makes choosing any easier. Pick up a few things to bring back for a slow breakfast.

Swag Bistro An evening around the fire

This is our recommendation for a steak cooked over an open flame, with prices that make it especially good value. It is a dinner to plan ahead for: reservations are essential.

Kobori Let the afternoon become dinner

Head to Nathon for a wander, then settle in for sushi at Kobori. It is one of our favourite ways to combine a little exploring with a good dinner. Arrive with time to enjoy the waterfront rather than rushing straight to the table.

Treehouse Silent Beach No hurry to leave

A long afternoon on the sand, a mojito and very little on the agenda. Treehouse is a local favourite, and the list of mojito flavors gives you something pleasantly unimportant to decide.

Mojos A little Sunday familiarity

If a Sunday roast sounds good, this is one to put on your list. Burgers and tacos give you a reason to visit during the rest of the week too.

The Mud Somewhere a little different

Go for the setting and make time for a drink. This is one we recommend for the atmosphere, especially as the afternoon gives way to evening.

Prime Burger Keep dinner simple

A small burger stop in Fisherman's Village and one of our favourites when that is exactly what you fancy. An easy choice between shopping, wandering and the evening's plans.

Two Sisters A plant-based favourite

Our recommendation when you are looking for vegetarian or vegan food. Message us for the current location and opening details before setting off.

Day & Night An evening in Chaweng

For a change from quieter Bang Por, make a dinner outing of Chaweng. Day & Night is one of the places we recommend on that side of the island.

Tabula Rassa Another Chaweng option

One to consider when you are already exploring the busier side of the island and want somewhere to eat. Ask us if you would like help choosing between our Chaweng recommendations.

Au Bout du Monde Lunch becomes an island day

Take a traditional longtail from Thong Krut to Koh Tan for a day built around a five-course lunch, a wine or non-alcoholic pairing, and time by the beach. This is not a quick restaurant stop: leave the day free and enjoy the slower pace.

The published programme departs at 10:30 am and returns at 4 pm. Boat transfers are included; cocktails and mocktails are charged separately. Book directly and check the menu, dietary requirements and family pricing before confirming.

For December 2026 to February 2027, the published price is THB 5,200 per guest from age two. The venue is closed 20 November to 13 December 2026, reopening 14 December.

BABOU Let dinner lead the evening

For dinner, cocktails and music in one place, BABOU on Chaweng Beach Road makes a different sort of night out. Book a table, arrive for dinner and give yourself room to stay a little longer.

Published opening hours: daily, 6 pm to 12:30 am. Check the current programme and family arrangements when booking.

Nikki Beach A livelier Sunday

For brunch with a beach-club soundtrack, head to Nikki Beach in Lipa Noi. The Amazing Sundays spread brings together Thai and international dishes, live cooking and entertainment. Book ahead and choose the drinks and seating arrangements that suit your group.

Published schedule: Sundays, noon to 4:30 pm. Adults THB 2,990++; children aged 5 to 12 THB 1,000++. Ask for the final inclusive price and confirm what your booking includes.

Kimpton Kitalay Make time for brunch

Kimpton Kitalay in Choeng Mon is one of our picks for a resort dining outing. Its brunch and Sunday dining programmes change, so ask us for the current event or contact the hotel before planning your day around it.

Anantara Choose your occasion

For a resort dining occasion, ask us about the current programme at Anantara. Bophut and Lawana are different properties, with their own restaurants and events; make sure your reservation is for the one you intend to visit.

Wild Child Organic Kitchen Lunch with a rather special view

This is one of the outings we most often recommend: elephant feeding, time in the pool and a delicious lunch. You swim in the guest pool while the elephants carry on below, not in the water with them. Book ahead and confirm the day's programme and children's arrangements.

Meet the elephants, your way

Elephant visits differ considerably. Some include tourist bathing; others deliberately leave bathing to the elephants and focus on feeding and observation. Choose the approach you are comfortable with rather than assuming every sanctuary offers the same experience.

Samui Elephant Sanctuary, feeding and observation, without bathing

For a visit without tourist bathing, Samui Elephant Sanctuary offers feeding and time observing the elephants. It operates at Bophut and Chaweng Noi, so confirm the site when booking. The sanctuary explicitly does not offer bathing or mud bathing with guests.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, a hands-on half-day

For guests specifically looking for bathing, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary's half-day programme includes feeding, a mud spa, bathing and a Thai buffet. It is a different approach from an observation-led visit; read the programme before choosing.

Bring swimwear, a towel, walking shoes and a change of clothes. Ask us or Palm to confirm the meeting point and transfer arrangements for the villa before booking. Check the cancellation policy too: the operator states that rain alone does not cancel its programme.

Fisherman's Village An afternoon that becomes an evening

Browse the boutiques and beachfront shops in daylight, then stay for dinner or street food as the evening gets going. Go hungry, leave room for coconut ice cream and give yourself time to wander.

The village's shops and restaurants are open daily and are separate from the walking-street market, which runs Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evenings. Published schedules sometimes differ, so if the market is the reason you are going, it is worth a quick check that week.

Coco Tam's and Summer Stay for the fire show

For an evening on the sand in Fisherman's Village, choose a drink or dinner at Coco Tam's or nearby Summer. The fire show is a reason to stay, but check that evening's times and arrive early if you want a good spot. Ask about reservations and seating arrangements directly.

Tree Bridge A little adventure above the trees

Our zipline recommendation pairs a jungle outing with a drink at Tree Bridge Café. Join the zipline programme, then take a moment to enjoy the setting rather than hurrying straight back down.

The operator currently lists 9:30 am, 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm sessions at THB 1,900 per person, payable in Thai baht cash, including a café drink. Published eligibility is ages 5 to 70, with a 120 kg maximum. Confirm suitability and Bang Por transport when booking; do not assume a villa transfer is included.

Into the jungle Choose your kind of adventure

For a guided day on the island's inland tracks, ask Tour Goat or Palm about a jungle safari. If you would rather ride an ATV, say so when enquiring: the programme, restrictions and transport arrangements are different. Let them recommend an outing that fits your group rather than booking on the name alone.

Tour Goat Leave the organising to someone else

The tour company we recommend when you would rather have the day arranged for you. The jungle safari is one guests particularly enjoy; ask about the current itinerary, pickup, suitability and what is included.

Palm A little local knowledge goes a long way

Palm is our friend and the person we turn to for tours, boats and days out. Tell him what you enjoy, who is coming and how much of the day you want to spend exploring. Do mention Bree and Wes.

The Xperience A different sort of pool day

Art, an impressive setting and a large pool make this one a change from the beach. Children are welcome according to our host notes; confirm current family access, day-use terms and any minimum spend before visiting.

Jungle Club Lunch above the coast

Make a little occasion of lunch or a drink at Jungle Club, with the coast spread out below you. Reserve ahead and ask the venue or your driver about the hillside approach rather than treating it as a casual scooter detour.

Overlap Stone A viewpoint with a difference

The balancing rock above the Lamai area is a memorable photo stop on a clear day. There is usually an entry charge at the gate, and the approach is a hillside climb rather than an easy flat walk. Check conditions before you set off in wet weather.

WOOBAR at W Koh Samui A drink with a view

For a more dressed-up drink, make your way to WOOBAR at W Koh Samui. Book directly for the seating you want and enjoy a change of scene from our own stretch of beach.

Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem A little island culture

Pair these two temple stops for an introduction to another side of Samui. They sit close together near the airport, so one trip covers both. Dress respectfully, cover shoulders and knees, and follow the on-site signs about shoes and photography.

The quieter south Temples by the sea

If you are exploring the southern part of the island, consider the Red Temple, Wat Sila Ngu, and Laem Sor Pagoda. Build them into one southern itinerary rather than making several separate trips across the island.

A waterfall, with time for a walk

Na Muang 1 is the shorter walk from the car park; Hin Lad is more of a forest trail, with uneven ground. Neither belongs on a wet-weather backup list. Wear suitable shoes and do not assume a natural pool is safe for swimming.

A longtail day, shaped around you

Our favourite boat day is a private longtail, with an itinerary planned around your group. Think island stops, time on the water and snorkelling where conditions suit, rather than following a crowded group from stop to stop. For us, a well-planned private day wins over a standard Pig Island outing.

Ask Palm to put a route together. Southern-island trips around Koh Tan and the dramatic island scenery of Ang Thong are different outings, not interchangeable stops on any longtail route. Confirm the boat, departure point and what is realistic before booking.

Blue Odyssey Make a day of it

For a more expensive boat experience, Blue Odyssey is one of our recommendations. Ask us or Palm to confirm the exact boat, current Samui itinerary and quote for your dates so you book the experience we mean.

Ang Thong Choose the scenery

If your picture of a boat day is islands rising dramatically from the sea, ask about Ang Thong. Treat this as a dedicated itinerary: boat type, sea conditions, travel time and park access all matter. Ask about seasonal access before building your plans around it.

Snorkelling Let conditions lead

For a dedicated snorkelling outing, look at 100 Degrees East's current programmes, including Ang Thong and Koh Tao options. Choose the destination with the operator's advice for your dates, swimming ability and children's ages rather than expecting identical conditions everywhere.

Diving A different view of the island day

Discovery Dive Centre offers training and dive trips, including Sail Rock outings. Ask the team to recommend the right programme for your certification and experience, and follow their medical screening and advice about flying after diving.

Koh Tao A little further north

For diving, snorkelling or an overnight change of scene, ask Palm about Koh Tao. He knows it well and can help choose a suitable service from the Samui side. Confirm the actual pier, route and timetable rather than assuming every boat is direct or takes the same time.

Before you book a boat day

Tell the organiser about children, non-swimmers and anyone who is uncomfortable at sea. Confirm shade, toilets, child-sized life jackets, transfers, food, fees and weather-cancellation terms. Snorkelling visibility and the ride can change with conditions; ask us for a local view before committing.

Silver Beach A little cove to explore

Also called Crystal Bay, Silver Beach is a small cove framed by granite rocks, between Chaweng and Lamai. Go for a change of scenery, and judge the water on the day before swimming or snorkelling.

Choeng Mon A relaxed beach outing

A good option when you want a different bay, a stroll and lunch by the sea. The water is usually gentler here than the open north-west coast, which makes it easier with children.

Lipa Noi Stay for the sunset

Head to the west coast for a slower beach afternoon and stay as the light changes. Use a public entrance; enjoying the beach does not mean using a resort's facilities.

Bang Makham and Nathon An easy evening out

Bang Makham is the sunset stop, a few minutes west of us. For a town wander and a waterfront evening, carry on to Nathon and book dinner at Kobori. Allow time to enjoy the coast without a fixed agenda.

An evening ringside

For a change from beach bars and dinner, spend an evening watching Muay Thai at Phetch Buncha Stadium, our pick for a fight night on Samui. Ask us for help arranging tickets, or check the website for upcoming fights.

Keep the evening close to home

You do not have to cross the island for an evening out. Check the current music and entertainment programme at Karma Two Palms or head to Lay Lagom. For Coco Tam's fire show, allow a little more time and make a Fisherman's Village evening of it.

A pool day

When the sea is not inviting, head along the beach to Karma Two Palms, about 200 yards from Swell. Our guests are welcome to enjoy the pool, and cabanas can be reserved free of charge. Settle in for lunch or a slow afternoon, and tell Ed Bree sent you.

Kids' days and beach movies

Head to Karma Two Palms for kids' day on Sundays, or settle in for a movie on the beach on Tuesdays. A lovely way to round off a family day. Check the current programme before making plans.

Little diners eat free

Right next door to Swell, Spices Beach Cafe makes family mealtimes easy: kids eat free with an adult meal. Ask the team about the offer when ordering.

A little creativity for a rainy Thursday

Head to Donna's studio, just two doors from Ona, for a creative session with materials supplied. Thursdays run from 10 am to 4 pm. Message Donna about the session, your children's ages and availability before going.

Help with the little ones

We can arrange a cot, playpen or high chair, along with a nanny for the day or an evening out. Let us know what you need, ideally before arrival, so we can confirm the arrangements.

For family transport, mention child-seat requirements when requesting your transfer or driver.

Pixel Samui Something for everyone

For an afternoon that keeps different ages entertained, head to Pixel at Haven Samui Community Mall. With bowling, a golf simulator and games, there is room for everyone to find their own kind of fun.

A film, lunch and a little browsing

Make a grey afternoon an easy outing at Central Samui in Chaweng. Settle in for a film, enjoy lunch and browse the shops at your own pace. Check what is showing, and the film's language, before heading over.

A little room to run and play

For younger children with energy to spare, Lollipop Playland inside Lotus's Samui offers indoor soft play, a welcome change of scene when the beach is off the cards.

Step into another world

For older kids and teenagers, Another World Samui VR Club offers a change of scene and a little adventure away from the rain. Call ahead to check availability and participation requirements.

A little taste of Thailand

Spend a few hours cooking at Island Organics Samui, where Chef Lat introduces you to ingredients from the garden before helping you turn them into a Thai meal. Learn to make curry paste and coconut cream, cook four dishes and enjoy your creations together.

For family bookings, check ages before reserving: standard shared classes are generally listed for ages ten and over, with younger children's private arrangements subject to confirmation. Ask how any garden or outdoor portion will run in wet weather.

A slower kind of holiday

Let the rain take care of the plans. Pick up pastries from Little KOB, settle in with a film and have something delicious delivered from Sasa's Kitchen. Sometimes a quiet day together is just what you need.

A little movement, island style

Yoga by the beach or something that leaves you catching your breath. FitKoh has both. Our family has trained here for five years, and it is the people as much as the workouts that keep us coming back.

Drop into HYROX, HIIT or a strength session, find your stretch at yoga, or try Muay Thai, with classes twice a day. Book through the Rezerv app, searching for FitKoh, for the current timetable and prices. You will find prices on the website too.

Across the road, into the ring

You do not have to go far to try Muay Thai. Sor. Dechapant Samui is directly opposite Swell, making it an easy walk from the villa. Contact the gym to find a session that suits you.

A session of your own

If you would prefer personal Muay Thai training, ask us for an introduction to the trainer we recommend. Tell us your experience and what you would like to work on, and we will help arrange it.

An hour to yourself

You will usually find massages on the sand just behind both villas. If you prefer an air-conditioned room, Bang Por Massage is a few minutes away. A simple way to make a little time for yourself.

Your own stretch of sand

Prefer a quieter start? We can arrange a private yoga session on the beach at either villa. Let us know, and we will help organise it.

Reformer Pilates If you would like a class

For a studio session, look at Mudras & Movements' reformer, barre and yoga programme, or Absolute Sanctuary's Pilates studio. These are additional options rather than places we are presenting as our own regular studios. Confirm beginner requirements, external-guest access and the location before booking.

From the airport

Allow around half an hour for the drive, depending on traffic. Send us your flight number if you would like a transfer arranged; payment is made directly to the driver. Grab is another option, subject to availability and pickup arrangements.

Our drivers

Pon and P'Phanu know both houses and can help with journeys around the island. Agree the pickup, fare and return arrangements before setting off.

Your own wheels

We can help arrange a car or scooter delivered to the villa. Tell us what you need and when, and we will confirm availability and the terms.

Only ride a scooter if you are experienced, appropriately licensed and insured. Wear a helmet on every journey and check that your policy covers the vehicle you intend to hire. For an evening out, leave the scooter behind and arrange a driver.

The local way

Songthaews run along the main road. Confirm the destination and fare with the driver before getting in.

Finding the villas

If a map struggles with the address, use the coordinates below. Save the location before travelling so you can find it without relying on a mobile signal.

Swell: 9.578000, 99.939028
Ona: 9.577944, 99.937833

A small thing to pack

Bring an adapter for UK or Singapore three-pin plugs. The villa sockets do not accept those plugs directly.

A few things for the fridge

Mini Big C is directly across the road from Swell and a short walk to the left from Ona. There are two 7-Elevens further along, with Morya Pharmacy beside one of them. For a full grocery shop, Maenam is the nearest town with the larger supermarkets and the banks.

A fresh start

Naemwacha is directly opposite Ona, with self-service machines available around the clock. Prefer to leave the washing to someone else? Drop off a bag for wash-and-fold and agree the collection time with the team.

When you need a doctor

Samui Home Clinic is where we go for non-emergency medical care. Call ahead to arrange a visit and confirm the appropriate branch.

When you need a hospital

Wattanapat Hospital Samui has a 24-hour emergency department. Use the emergency number for urgent hospital assistance and the main line for other enquiries.

Bangkok Hospital Samui is the other hospital we would use.

Help in an emergency

Call the relevant service directly. Please do not wait for a reply from us in an emergency.

Something not quite right?

If something is not working as it should, send us a WhatsApp so we can help put it right. A quick description, and a photo or short video if useful, will help us understand what needs attention. Please let us know while you are here rather than leaving it until checkout.

A little cash comes in handy

Keep some baht with you for smaller cafés, local stalls, beach massages and songthaews. Larger restaurants often accept cards, but it is worth checking. You will find ATMs at Mini Big C and the nearby 7-Elevens; availability can change.

A small thank-you

Tips are appreciated, never an obligation. If someone has looked after you well, rounding up or leaving a little extra is a lovely way to say thank you.

Before the sun goes down

Keep repellent handy for evenings outside, particularly around your ankles and lower legs. Apply it according to the instructions before settling in on the sand.

Amari Carols, dinner and a visit from Santa

Published for 2026

A family-minded Christmas Eve on Chaweng Beach, with a gala buffet, a welcome drink, a live trio, carols by local schoolchildren and a fire-dance performance. Santa is scheduled to visit with gifts for younger guests.

Anantara Lawana Christmas Eve beside the sea

Published for 2026

A Christmas Eve barbecue with the sea in front of you, bringing together festive food, live music and fire performances on Chaweng Beach.

Anantara Bophut A lantern-lit garden evening

Current listing

Lotus Lanterns is a different take on Christmas Eve: a festive market at Lotus Pond Garden, with Thai flavours, Christmas treats, live music and glowing lanterns.

Garrya Tongsai Bay A beach barbecue with carols

Published for 2026

A beachfront evening at Fish Tales with festive roasts, seafood, Thai and international dishes, live music and the Tongsai Carol Singers.

Four Seasons A Christmas Eve occasion

Current listing

Fisherman's Christmas Eve takes place on the Main Beach, with festive roasts, Thai favourites, local seafood, live music, cocktails and fireworks. A lovely choice if you want to make more of the evening.

Kimpton Kitalay A familiar favourite to check

Previous year

Kimpton in Choeng Mon belongs on the shortlist. Previous Christmas Eve celebrations at BoHo have included a buffet, carols, activities and Santa. Check what the hotel is offering for your dates rather than booking from an older menu.

SALA Choeng Mon Another seaside option

Previous year

Previous Christmas Eve celebrations have paired seafood, carving stations and international dishes with candlelit dining and live music. Worth checking for a quieter resort dinner.

Nikki Beach Christmas with a little more energy

Current listing

For a Christmas Day that feels like an occasion rather than a formal lunch, Nikki Beach is one of our picks. The beachfront brunch at Lipa Noi brings festive food stations, a resident DJ, live entertainment and an afternoon by the sea.

Anantara Lawana Christmas lunch overlooking Chaweng

Published for 2026

Ocean Kiss hosts an oceanfront Christmas Day brunch with seafood, festive roasts, desserts, music, carols and entertainment for younger guests.

Garrya Tongsai Bay A longer lunch, without the buffet

Published for 2026

Fish Tales serves a Christmas Day lunch by the sea with a welcome drink and a choice of two or three courses. The alternative if a large brunch buffet is not what you have in mind.

Four Seasons Christmas brunch with a view

Current listing

KOH Thai Kitchen's Christmas Day brunch combines Thai and international favourites with panoramic ocean views. Make it the main outing and leave time to enjoy the setting.

Anantara Bophut A festive brunch to browse

Current listing

The resort advertises Guilty Temptation Brunch as a Christmas brunch stretching across two days. Check the dates and the format before choosing it over a traditional Christmas lunch.

Tree Tops A more intimate Christmas

Published for 2026

If you would rather have a tasting menu than join a big buffet, Tree Tops at Anantara Lawana serves Christmas dining in one of eight private salas under the trees, with a welcome cocktail.

Amari A family countdown on Chaweng

Published for 2026

A gala buffet and welcome drink lead into live music, Thai dance, a Tribe Show, fire dancing, lucky draws and midnight fireworks.

Garrya Tongsai Bay White, gold and a beachfront countdown

Published for 2026

The White Coastal Gala opens with a cocktail reception, then a buffet, live music, lucky draws, fire dancers and a DJ. Stay for the midnight countdown and fireworks.

Anantara Lawana Make a night of it

Published for 2026

Fire & Destiny is the full gala: dinner, live performances, a DJ and a beachfront countdown into 2027.

Tree Tops Dinner above the celebrations

Published for 2026

For an intimate start to the evening, a tasting menu in the canopy followed by the beachfront countdown. A different choice from a whole evening at a gala table.

Four Seasons Choose your evening

Current listing

The festive programme offers New Year's Eve dinner at KOH Thai Kitchen, a six-course Mediterranean dinner at Pla Pla, and A Sea of Wonder party on the Main Beach, with entertainment, DJs, cocktails and fireworks.

Anantara Bophut Heritage to Horizon

Current listing

Heritage to Horizon is the resort's New Year's Eve celebration, bringing together old and new in a festive resort setting.

SALA Choeng Mon and Kimpton Check this year's plans

Previous year

Both have hosted New Year's celebrations before and remain useful alternatives. Their current pages do not set out a complete 2026 dining package, so contact the hotels directly for menus, prices and availability.

Before midnight

Book the return journey as well as the table. Confirm deposits, cancellation terms, children's admission and whether the party you want is included in the dinner. Do not rely on finding a ride after the countdown.

Nikki Beach The first long lunch of the year

Published for 2027

Start 2027 at Nikki Beach's New Year's Day brunch, with food stations, drinks, live music and performances by Lipa Noi Beach.

Four Seasons A slower start by the beach

Current listing

New Year's Day sliders and an Ofyr grill barbecue on the Main Beach. A more relaxed alternative to another gala-style meal.

Chi Samui A Christmas lunch that becomes a party

Current listing

An October 2026 local roundup reports Christmas Day lunch and an afternoon party at Chi, plus a separate New Year's Eve event. Chi's own site promotes New Year's celebrations without a complete year-specific package, so confirm the event date, children's access, final package and booking terms there.

SALA Chaweng Separate from SALA Choeng Mon

Current listing

A local October 2026 roundup reports a tree-lighting evening, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners and two New Year's Eve formats at SALA Chaweng. Ask the Chaweng property specifically, and take care not to book Choeng Mon by mistake.

Santiburi Convenient from the north coast

Published for 2026

The resort has a festive accommodation offer running 20 December 2026 to 10 January 2027 that includes a festive-dining discount. That establishes a current festive offering rather than the menu or admission terms for a particular event, so enquire directly about dining-only options.

Something near home

For a shorter journey, check Karma Two Palms' current programme. Our nearby favourites often publish festive menus as the dates approach. Book directly with the business rather than assuming a special event from an ordinary weekly schedule.

Lanterns, shrines and a different side of the island

Chinese New Year here is more than a busy travel week. The island's Chinese-Thai communities celebrate around their shrines, with lanterns, offerings, lion and dragon dances, firecrackers and community events. The lunar new year falls on 6 February in 2027, and local processions may take place on surrounding days rather than all on that date.

Maenam The closest cultural outing

Start with the Chinese temple in Maenam, Chao Eng Sae Shrine, a focus of local celebrations. A 2026 festival there was documented, but the 2027 procession timetable is not yet set, so look for this year's local programme rather than a previous parade time.

Nathon Make time for the old town

The Hainan Chinese temple is another cultural focus, reflecting Nathon's Chinese-Thai community. Combine a respectful shrine visit with a wander through the town. These are community religious events, not scheduled performances.

Guan Yu Shrine A southern-island alternative

Guan Yu Shrine in Hua Thanon is a further place to explore Samui's Chinese heritage. Check whether a specific event is advertised before travelling for a procession.

Finding the celebrations

The guide below covers the places and traditions around Maenam and Nathon. Treat it as background rather than a 2027 timetable; municipal announcements and shrine notices are the sources closer to the date.

Dress respectfully at shrines, follow local photography guidance, and consider ear protection for young children near firecrackers.

A New Year you are unlikely to stay dry for

Songkran is Thailand's traditional New Year. Alongside temple visits and respectful water rituals, the streets become a celebration of water, music and good humour. The national festival runs 13 to 15 April, and on Samui the 13th is the big day for street celebrations. Not every neighbourhood runs three identical days.

Chaweng Join the lively side

For a busier, more energetic celebration, Chaweng is the main area. Water fights and street activity are the experience, so this is not the outing to choose if you need to arrive somewhere dry.

Lamai and Fisherman's Village Alternatives to explore

Both are listed in published Songkran guidance as celebration areas. The scale and format vary year to year, so check the current local programme rather than expecting a particular parade or stage.

Secret Garden, Bangrak A venue to check directly

Secret Garden runs a recurring Songkran page describing a 13 April beach-road party with music, barbecue, a bar and plenty of water. It is not a year-specific announcement, but it is a direct venue lead.

A resort celebration instead

Four Seasons runs an Easter and Songkran seasonal programme. Use it to check the next offering and whether outside guests can book; do not infer access from in-house family activities.

A little planning makes it more fun

Protect phones and valuables in waterproof pouches, arrange a driver rather than riding a scooter through water fights, and follow the local rules. Choose daylight and a manageable area with younger children. Check journey times and opening changes if you have a flight, appointment or dinner reservation.

A quieter kind of celebration

Decorated krathongs are floated on the water as part of this Thai festival. Choose an organised local celebration or a venue with a published programme, follow its guidance, and do not assume sky-lantern releases are part of the Samui event.

Four Seasons' 2026 festive announcement includes Loy Krathong celebrations; check the resort directly for the bookable experience and outside-guest access. For community events, use current local announcements rather than last year's venue or start time.

Close to home

Coffee and pastries at Little KOB, time on the beach or at the pool at Karma Two Palms, then dinner at Spices or La Villa Luna. Very little organising required.

Fisherman's, from afternoon to evening

Browse the shops, choose dinner or street food, leave room for coconut ice cream and finish with a drink and the fire show. Confirm market and show arrangements for your date.

A quieter west-coast evening

Wander Nathon, enjoy the waterfront and book dinner at Kobori. Allow time for the light to change rather than rushing between stops.

When the forecast changes

Pick a film at Central, book Pixel or choose the indoor activity that fits your children's ages. Or stay at the villa and have Sasa's bring dinner to you.

A day worth leaving open

Let Palm plan a private boat outing around your group and the conditions. Avoid booking a tight onward connection straight after a sea trip.

If your stay has you imagining something a little more permanent, we can help with that too. Alongside Tide Samui, we run SPG, helping people explore property on the island, whether they're planning a move, looking for a holiday home or considering an investment.

Explore the SPG website for more about what we do.