We help you choose between the pearl of the Andaman Sea and the pearl of the China Sea!
Phuket and Koh Samui, the two largest islands in Thailand, are both popular dream destinations. But sometimes we hesitate which to choose between the two. However, their locations, size and deployment in tourist activity, all differ. Yes, each has its own charm. These few tips will help you choose your destination.
To help you make your decision, we have compared the islands according to climate, location, accessibility and prices.
Between Phuket and Koh Samui which has the best climate?
Both islands have a tropical climate. However, the monsoon periods are very different. In Phuket, for example, between September and October, rainfall is copious but brief. At this time, the prices drop. But it is still more pleasant to visit the island between November and March, because the weather is drier then.
On the other hand, Koh Samui has three different seasons. The monsoon season runs from September to November. The dry season begins in December and ends in February, while the hot season runs from March to April. Therefore the best climatic conditions of when it’s best to visit Koh Samui are between October and April.
Phuket and Samui have tropical and warm climates but with slightly different monsoon seasons. The choice of your destination will depend on the weather conditions, but also on the time of the year when you are planning your vacation.
Geographical location:
With a width of 21 kilometers, a length of 48 kilometers and very mountainous terrain, Phuket is classified as the largest island in Thailand. Situated to the south in the Andaman Sea, it is 862 kilometers from Bangkok and is connected to the mainland by a number of modern road bridges. Getting around the main attractions of the island and Patong Airport is fairly easy, due to the presence of some very modern road bridges too.
Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Siam in the northeast of Phuket. It is 25 km long and 21 km wide. Located in the Ang Thong National Marine Park, it is home to some of the best diving sites in the world.
Accessibility to the islands:
Phuket is accessible by air, sea or land. Visitors can access the island at low cost using a bus, train, or vehicle. Air travel to Phuket is also straightforward and direct flights are available every day.
Samui can only be reached by air or sea. Daily flights arrive from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Phuket. The flights are rather expensive by Thai standards. A little less overrun with tourists than Phuket, the hinterland is hilly, which doesn't make it very accessible, yet most of the coastal views are easily accessible. This is what gives you pretty postcards.
What different activities do Phuket and Koh Samui offer?
Tourist activity in Phuket is much more developed than in Koh Samui. On the beaches of Phuket, visitors can enjoy a massage on the beach, a beachside catering service or a vibrant nightlife at beach clubs or bars. The choice of sports activities is very diverse. Phuket captivates with its complex of historical and cultural places. If you want to go shopping, it is in Phuket that you will find the most shopping centers and big brands or to buy small souvenirs.
Koh Samui is astonishing and has a unique authenticity. There are many more panoramic views. Underwater sports activity is more prevalent than land sports activities because of the proximity to the marine park nature reserves. The island of Samui is much less crowded than that of Phuket, the atmosphere is relaxed and the beaches are smaller than Phuket but they have the advantage of being quieter. Both islands are famous for their fresh seafood restaurants. In terms of dining experience, you will find colorful and spicy dishes with varied flavors in Phuket, while in Samui you will come across quaint places on every street corner that offer and serve Thai specialties at all hours, which is very practical.
Which island is the most expensive?
In terms of cost, the two are similar. However, you will spend more in Phuket because it has more shopping centers and more leisure activities. On the other hand, travelers are likely to spend more on their accommodation in Koh Samui than in Phuket, due to the abundance of hotels.
Whether you are going with your family or as a couple, the two islands are perfect destinations for visiting Thailand, all you have to do is plan your vacation.
