Just in time for the third season of The White Lotus, Koh Samui is stepping into the spotlight, revealing a tropical paradise made for beach lovers and foodies alike. From a chic rum library to beachfront fire dance shows, discover the island’s most exciting spots to eat, sip and savour.
All eyes are on Koh Samui as the Thai island takes centre stage in the hotly anticipated third season of HBO's hit series The White Lotus. With filming locations across Koh Samui, Phuket and Bangkok, the Four Seasons Resort Samui has emerged as a key destination, discreetly carved into a former coconut plantation and decked out with sprawling suites, private pools and jaw-dropping vistas. But beyond the property, there’s plenty to do. From souped-up seafood spots to treetop fine dining, these are some of the most showstopping places to eat and drink in Koh Samui.
Long Dtai
@longdtai
Situated on secluded Cape Fahn private island, accessed only by sea tractor or speedboat, Long Dtai offers exceptional dining in one of Samui’s most beautiful locations. Superstar chef David Thompson has curated sublime southern Thai dishes featuring local produce, sustainably sourced seafood and line-caught fish, buoyed by panoramic ocean vistas. Tuck into massaman curry and grilled aubergine salad, followed by palm sugar dumplings in jasmine syrup with perfumed ice.
The Rum Vault
@fskohsamui
Step into an episode of The White Lotus at Four Seasons’ intimate wood-panelled rum library. Master mixologists guide connoisseurs through a mind-boggling collection of the world's finest spirits, sharing tales of distant distilleries while crafting outrageously good cocktails. Destined to be a talking point among Samui’s luxury experiences, it’s a must-visit.
The Nature Samui
Hidden among verdant gardens and lotus ponds near the Samui Elephant Sanctuary, this serene farm-to-table retreat brings sustainable dining to life. Guests can handpick ingredients from the organic gardens, take part in interactive cooking classes, or simply savour beautifully presented local dishes – the coconut milk and banana dessert is pure decadence.
Chi Samui
@chisamui
Chi Samui channels Ibiza's sultry spirit, bringing blissed-out beach club vibes and gorgeous events to Bangrak’s white-sand shores. A 25-metre saltwater infinity pool melts into the horizon, while the swim-up bar serves its legendary Salted Caramel Espresso Martinis. As night falls, the space transforms with cabaret shows, cinema under the stars and resident DJs spinning beats across the moonlit beach.
Kapi Sator
This Michelin Bib Gourmand destination celebrates the fierce, bold flavours of southern Thailand with extraordinary flair. Now in two locations, the kitchen crafts intoxicating dishes such as tender squid swimming in coconut-lemongrass broth and whole pomfret fish in an aromatic curry.
Coco Tam's
@cocotams
As night descends over Fisherman's Village, Coco Tam's springs to life with an enchanting blend of chilled-out luxe and theatrical flair. Twice-nightly shows feature fire dancers illuminating the sky, while guests mingle at the bar or sink into beachfront beanbags, sipping inventive cocktails.
Tree Tops delivers a dining experience like no other from a dazzling position high in a 120-year-old tree. Each of the eight private salas offers breathtaking views and an exquisite eight-course menu, matched with wine pairings from a cellar of more than 170 vintages. Signature dishes include scallops smoked over charcoal with kaffir lime, and braised chicken breast with citrus, pistachio crumble, thyme jus and honey-roasted beets.
The Jungle Club
@jungleclubsamui
Perched high above Koh Samui, this family-run hideaway commands spectacular views across the Gulf of Siam. Here, Chef Wally crafts inspired Thai-Mediterranean fusion cuisine – think rich lobster bisque and crispy skin sea bass with a hoisin glaze – while diners lounge on breezy terraces among swaying palms. Reservations essential.
Bang Por
This locally owned treasure champions Southern Thai seafood from simple wooden beachfront tables. Here, waves provide the soundtrack as chefs work magic with the day's catch, from herb-laden squid to perfectly grilled fish kissed with aromatics. House-made shrimp paste, enriched with coconut and chili, exemplifies the kitchen's dedication to authentic local flavours.
Lay Lagom
This groovy beachfront hangout is a vibrant, unpretentious spot that serves good vibes on tap. Here, perfectly crafted coffees and creative cocktails complement a homely menu of Thai and international favourites, plus what must be the island's finest banoffee pie. Drop in for a celebration of laid-back island life to a soundtrack of ambient beats.
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