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October 15, 2025
Phuket and Koh Samui are both popular beach destinations in Thailand, with beautiful scenery, beaches and plenty of activities to keep the whole family occupied, but which should you choose for our next villa holiday?
In this blog we will walk you through their weather, beaches, food, and nightlife to help you decide which destination suits your dream getaway.
VIEW OUR GUIDE TO THAILAND AND OUR AMAZING VILLAS HERE
Located on Thailand’s Andaman Sea, Phuket enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. The dry season is from November to April, generally offering blue skies, warm breezes, and calm seas, making it ideal for those looking to relax on the beach as well as water sports enthusiasts. The wet season is from May to October, bringing heavy showers, overcast skies, and stronger waves. Despite the rain, temperatures rarely dip below 24°C, making Phuket a year-round destination, though beach days become less predictable in the monsoon months.
On the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui’s weather has slightly different seasons. Its dry season runs from December to April, similar to Phuket’s. However, Koh Samui’s rainy season is shorter and less intense, typically from October to December. The island maintains pleasant temperatures averaging between 26°C and 32°C. If you are planning to travel during the European summer (May to September), Koh Samui often enjoys sunnier weather than Phuket, making it a great choice for school holidays.
Verdict: For reliable sunshine between November and April, either island is a good choice. For May to September escapes, Koh Samui’s weather should be great, while Phuket is ideal for late-year getaways.
Phuket’s coastline boasts over 30 beaches, each with its own personality. Patong Beach is quite intense, with bustling crowds, water sports and larger chain restaurants and bars. Kata and Karon beaches are generally quieter, ideal for families and couples. For those looking for true solitude, hidden gems like Nai Harn and Freedom Beach offer powdery white sand tucked away from the crowds. The Andaman waters are known for their clarity, particularly during the dry season, making Phuket a great spot for snorkelling and diving.
Koh Samui’s beaches are known for their gentle slopes and coconut palm lines. Chaweng Beach, the longest and liveliest, is great for relaxed sunbathing but also those looking for a lively atmosphere. Lamai Beach offers a slightly more relaxed vibe with soft sand and sweeping views. For peace and seclusion, Maenam and Bophut beaches are where to go, as well as to enjoy picturesque sunsets. Many of Koh Samui’s beaches are surrounded by lush hillsides, and the Gulf’s calmer waters make swimming enjoyable year-round.
Verdict: Phuket wins for variety and water clarity, while Koh Samui’s beaches have a more laid-back, tropical elegance. Both destinations offer the traditional sand and sea, but Phuket’s hidden coves and Koh Samui’s palm-fringed tranquillity appeal to different tastes.
The culinary scene in Phuket is a real mixture of southern Thai flavours, seafood, and international options. Local markets are a great place to pick up fresh produce and street food, particularly popular is the spicy “mee hoon” noodles, grilled seafood, and “moo hong” (braised pork belly). The old town’s Sino-Portuguese architecture is home to quirky cafés and fusion restaurants. For upscale dining, beachside resorts and fine restaurants serve everything from sushi to pasta. Phuket’s night markets, especially Chillva and Sunday Walking Street, are a food lover’s delight.
Koh Samui’s food scene is equally diverse but leans more towards traditional Thai comfort and beachfront barbecue. Seafood is a real focus here, think grilled snapper, spicy prawn salads, and aromatic curries. The Fisherman’s Village in Bophut offers a blend of trendy bistros and local eateries, ideal for trying authentic southern Thai cuisine. From beach shacks serving pad thai to gourmet spots with international menus, Koh Samui has something for every palate. The island’s coconut plantations infuse local dishes with creamy textures and subtle sweetness unique to Samui.
Verdict: Both islands cater to foodies, but Phuket stands out for its cosmopolitan variety and lively street food culture. Koh Samui’s cuisine is more laid-back, with a focus on fresh seafood and coconut-inspired dishes—perfect for those seeking authentic Thai flavours by the sea.
If you love dancing to loud music, neon lights, and endless entertainment, Phuket is the perfect spot. Patong’s Bangla Road is legendary, packed with nightclubs, rooftop bars, cabaret shows, and street performers. Live music venues and beach bars keep the party going until dawn. For a more relaxed evening, the old town offers jazz clubs and speakeasies in stunning colonial settings. Even outside Patong, places like Kata and Kamala offer relaxed sundowner vibes and casual beachfront cocktails.
Koh Samui’s nightlife is generally more mellow but still has some great highlights. Chaweng Beach has some lively bars and clubs, though the atmosphere is less frenetic than Phuket’s. Lamai Beach mixes reggae bars, fire shows, and live music with laid-back lounges. Fisherman’s Village is perfect for romantic dinners and sunset cocktails. Full moon parties on nearby Koh Phangan attract revellers from Samui, offering a taste of wild island celebrations for those looking for excitement.
Verdict: Phuket’s nightlife can be wild and varied, appealing to party animals and those who love a late night. Koh Samui offers a gentler scene, ideal for couples, families, or anyone seeking a blend of fun and relaxation after dark.
Phuket and Koh Samui are both wonderful places to visit in Thailand, each offering their own interpretation of island paradise. If you are looking for variety, be it in beaches, food, or nightlife, and don’t mind the seasonal rains, Phuket is your go-to destination. Adventurers, foodies, and partygoers love its energy and diversity. Koh Samui, on the other hand, is ideal for those who are after relaxation, reliable weather in our summer, and a gentler pace of life.
Wherever you decide, to really get the most out of your stay, we recommend booking a trip for at least a week and enjoying the comforts of a private villa so you can explore your destination in your own time and then return to a luxurious holiday home to relax. And of course, if you just cannot choose between the islands, why not do both!
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