Koh Samui or Krabi: Which is better for a Beach Holiday?

It is easy to get confused about which places to keep on your exploration list in Thailand. I mean, I can’t blame you. It’s Thailand—a land of beaches, tropical forests, famous Thai cuisine, ancient sites, and more.

Tourists often book Koh Samui family holiday packages and they also desire to spend luxury Krabi holidays to make Thailand’s vacation worth every penny. However, if you’ve time to visit only one of the spots for a beach vacation and are confused about which one is better? Let this article be a guiding light for you.

Basic Details About Krabi & Koh Samui

It’s better to know the basic details about Koh Samui and Krabi before getting into their comparison.  Covering an area of 228.7 sq. km. (88.3 sq mi), Koh Samui is Thailand's second largest island after Phuket. It is situated in the Gulf of Thailand and can be easily accessed by direct flights from Bangkok and other major cities in Asia. You can also reach Koh Samui through ferries that connect it to the inland and neighbouring islands.

Krabi is one of 77 provinces of Thailand located on the Andaman Sea coast. You can easily reach the province as the Krabi International Airport is located here which receives flights from Bangkok and a few other global locations. You can travel to Phuket's nearby islands that are linked to Krabi through ferry services, providing multiple travel opportunities.

Koh Samui & Krabi Beaches: An Overview

Here’s how it works! We’ll share with you what Krabi and Koh Samui beaches are known for i.e., their highlights, activities to enjoy, etc., and give you our honest opinion. Then it’s up to you which place to prefer for your next tour based on your preference. Cool? So, let’s start by comparing the beach life in Krabi and Koh Samui. As they are coastal areas, most activities are linked to the beaches. Here we go:

Koh Samui

• Chaweng Beach: Known for its lively ambience and white powdery sands, Chaweng Beach comprises several zones which are all different. Head to Elephant Beach Club If you want to be in the liveliest area and find peace on the northern side of the beach, dotted with mid to high-end beachfront resorts.
• Things to Do Near Chaweng Beach: There are a lot of activities you can relish in Chaweng Beach. You can soak up the sun on the beach or cool off in the calm waters, savour various cuisines at the local market, or go to the nearby Green Mango Club for music and drinks. Embark on a day trip to Koh Madsum to get up close with the friendly beach pigs, learn to fight Muay Thai at Phetbuncha stadium, or enjoy extreme water sports on a jet ski.
• Lamai Beach: Offering a more laid-back vibe compared to Chaweng, Lamai Beach is situated on the East Coast of Koh Samui. It is ideal for couples and families seeking repose amidst scenic views and gentle waves. The beach area is around 2.5 km and extends to the famous Hin Ta–Hin Yai rock formations in the southern part.
• Things to Do Near Lamai Beach: Trek and explore the Hin Ta–Hin Yai rock formations or ride up to the Jungle Club. Visit the local food market along the main tourist road or get lost in the jungle on an exciting ATV tour. If you’re in the mood to relax then simply set up an umbrella and a chair, and soak up the sun while sipping pricey cocktails. Play water and beach sports with your friends and family, enjoy picnicking with them, or throw a night party on the beach.
• Bophut Beach: Situated along the northern coast, Bo Phut offers beach relaxation along with indulging food options in nearby seafood bistros, stores, and the weekly Friday night market to shop your heart out. The beach directly faces the calm waters while it is dotted with cocktail bars, stylish cafes, and beach lounges. Head to the charming Fisherman's Village area where you can have fun at the old houses converted into play areas and retro dining spaces.

• Things to Do Near Bophut Beach: The beach is magical in the morning so take your dose of Vitamin D at this time. Watch the fire show at nearby Coco Tams in the evening or visit the night market for a fulfilling shopping experience. If you’re on a couple holiday then reserve a romantic evening cruise, or visit the nearby Big Buddha Temple if you’re into exploration. Don’t forget to taste pasta and pizza at Gusto Italiano. They’re simply the best.

Krabi

• Railey Beach: Covered with high limestone cliffs, Railey Beach is part of the Krabi inland and the ideal place to relish snorkelling and swimming. Once a quiet fishing village, the place is now a popular beach spot visited by tourists globally. It is hard to access the beach due to the tall cliffs so the best way to reach its coast is via a quick boat ride from one of the close by local communities.
• Things to Do Near Railey Beach: This beach is known for its rock-climbing opportunities so trek up to the peak of limestone cliffs while basking in the beautiful views of the surrounding areas. Worry about where to stay? Don’t! The beach is hoarded with luxury resorts plus nightlife spots and nearby bistros to fill up your stomach with authentic Thai banquets.
• Ao Nang Beach: For a more serene experience, Ao Nang Beach is a perfect spot. Extending up to 1 km, it offers ample space to enjoy picnicking with your family or solo relaxation. The beach can be directly accessed by road, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer easy access from Krabi Airport. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions by car or motorbike.
• Things to Do Near Ao Nang Beach: The beach is known for stunning sunsets that mesmerize the observers. You can also enjoy these mesmeric views from the lounges of beachfront hotels and resorts while sipping cold brews. For nightlife fun and to satisfy your cravings, you can head to exotic bars and dining spaces lined up along the beach.

Koh Samui or Krabi: How to Get There From London, UK

Travelling from London to Koh Samui or Krabi in Thailand involves a multi-step journey. The most efficient route to either destination typically starts with a long-haul flight from London Heathrow (LHR) to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Several airlines offer direct flights on this route, including British Airways, Thai Airways, and EVA Air, with a flight duration of approximately 11 to 12 hours. From Bangkok, travellers heading to Koh Samui can catch a direct domestic flight operated by Bangkok Airways, with a flight time of around 1 hour.

Alternatively, those travelling to Krabi can opt for a direct domestic flight with Thai Airways, AirAsia, or Nok Air, taking about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, both Koh Samui and Krabi offer a range of local transportation options to reach your final destination, including taxis, shuttles, and ferries for island transfers.

Our Review!

In our honest opinion, both Krabi and Koh Samui beaches offer a perfect vacation in their unique ways. Koh Samui beaches are crowded, offer a vibrant nightlife, and are commercialized with clubs, bistros, shops, and resorts located nearby. Krabi beaches offer a more natural ambience with relatively fewer entertainment zones for daytime and nightlife fun and other islands nearby to hop on.

So, if you need a beach vacation among large crowds, want to enjoy night parties, and access plenty of fun spots, Koh Samui is definitely for you. However, if you want to enjoy isolated time among wild nature, then Krabi beaches are worth your money.

So, which one is it? Krabi or Koh Samui? Ok, let us give you another option. If you still need advice to choose your preferred spot then contact Virikson Holidays. We’re a reliable travel agency so you can trust our agents to give you the right guidance. For a hassle-free vacation, consider our Krabi holiday packages deals or all-inclusive luxury Koh Samui packages; whichever you find suitable.