Extending between the Big Buddha and the beaches of Maenam, Bo Phut is a laid-back village on the north-east coast of Koh Samui. It’s known affectionately as the “Fisherman’s Village” and is one of the oldest settled areas on the island, with high-end boutiques and restaurants occupying its traditional shopfronts.
Spend your days relaxing on Chaweng Beach, a powdery white stretch of sand lapped by the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Framed by rocky headlands, it’s an idyllic spot for swimming and sunbathing and is a popular hub for water sports.
Perched on a rocky island north of Bo Phut is Wat Phra Yai, which is dominated by a 12-metre-tall gilded statue of Buddha in the Mara posture. Coincide your visit to Bo Phut with the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street Market to browse stalls selling everything from local handicrafts to electrical goods.
Getting there
Bo Phut is around 10 minutes’ drive from Samui International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available for getting around Bo Phut, although many of the village’s attractions can easily be accessed on foot.