Thailand’s Koh Samui has, is, and will always be one of The Luxe Nomad’s favourite destinations. It’s a plane ride (or a plane ride and surprisingly comfortable ferry ride) away to the island hailed for its pristine beaches, gigantic villas, spas and authentic Thai cuisine. You may have read about our getaway when we took a look back at our favourite trips of 2016. And as they say, when you work hard, you party hard. Here we list of all the best spots to experience the Koh Samui nightlife (to horrible hangovers the next day).
Editor’s note: Remember, the most important meal of the day is breakfast the one you have right before you go out drinking.
Read also: Quiz: Which Villa in Koh Samui is Perfect for You?
#1 But First, Pre-Drinks at On Street Bar
Get your villa to arrange for your car or cab to drop you off at the main area of Chaweng. There are so many bars around that you’re really looking for the one with a good crowd and music. But keep an eye out for On Street Bar; an unassuming watering hole right next to KC Beach Club. It’s relaxed setting is a great place to meet other travellers. Take it easy here, your night is just beginning.
Address: 12/7 Moo.2 Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Open hours: 7pm-12am
#2 For Fans of (Good) Music: Legends Bar
Keep those glow sticks far away from this small bar located along Chaweng Beach. They’ve got a motto here that’s all you need to know: “No techno, no Spice Girls, no boy bands!” . Instead, expect to be entertained by the sounds of blues, alternative rock and a lot of 90s throwbacks (that aren’t the Spice Girls).
Address: 21 84320 166/21 หมู 2 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Open hours: 12pm-2am
#3 Keepin’ it Classy at Woobar
Get dressed in something fancy and head to the glitzy W (we see girls in tropical maxi dresses here, if that’s any fashion-related help). Woobar is huge, with an outdoor deck and swimming pool that offers some amazing views of the ocean. As sure as it’s gorgeous, camera phones click away all night so try your best not to look drunk in the event of a photobomb.
Address: W Retreat Koh Samui, 4/1 Moo 1 Tambol Maenam Maenam rd., Tambol Maenam, Koh Samui, 84330, Thailand
Open hours: 11am-12am
#4 Starz Cabaret, Because You’re in Thailand
Prepare to be impressed! Have a few drinks in and find yourself at Starz Cabaret, which is one of the best ladyboy bars in all of Thailand. The girls really put in practice to make their sets incredible, and have a little fun bringing members of the audience up on stage to dance. The part that surprised us most is that no one sang ‘It’s Raining Men’.
Address: Chaweng Beach Road, Khun Chaweng Resort, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Open hours: 8.30pm-12am
#5 Dance Under the Stars at Ark Bar
Fire dancers, fairy lights, loud EDM, drinks in buckets (ah, Thailand), and dancing all night. Ark Bar is definitely a top contender for best beach clubs in Asia! The Wednesday and Friday beach parties are similar to full moon parties, except without the debauchery. You might want to test the waters here first before you attempt Koh Phangan-level beach parties. You’ll also see locals selling flower crowns here (of great quality indeed) or coming to you with exotic animals on their shoulders and a camera in their hand. Now, the alcohol in you will tell you to wrap said animal around yourself (resist!) if you do, you’ll need to pay them for any pictures they might take.
Address: 159/ 82 Bontji Moo 4 Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Open hours: 2pm-2am (although the parties carry on till much later)
#6 Getting Really High at Q Bar
This one has two levels and is said to have the best views of Samui. We think that title belongs to Woobar, but we like Q Bar nonetheless. The upper level is a little more subdued and is quiet enough for conversations over cocktails (until the saxophones come out at 11.30pm) and downstairs is dedicated to dancing, EDM, and after parties.
Address: 147/57, Moo 2, Tambon Bo Phut, Amphoe Ko Samui, Surat Thani, 84320, 84320, Thailand
Open hours: 6pm-2am
Life’s one big party, so have fun.
