From pool parties to fire shows, 6 Instagramable Koh Samui bars that offer it all
Chi Samui
What: Who doesn’t love a good swim-up bar? You’ll find Chi Samui on Bang Rak’s pristine white beach. This beach bar and restaurant serves up Mediterranean vibes, modern cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list. Chi boasts a 25m saltwater swimming pool, lots of live music and DJ sets, and a brilliant fire show. Plus, guests of The Luxe Nomad and Luxury Villas & Homes receive a 10 per cent discount at Chi when reservations are booked through their concierge service.
Find it here: 16/4, Moo 4, Bophut
Stay here: Upni Duniya, 4-9 bedrooms with direct beach access, infinity pool overlooking the ocean, private gym and cinema, and in-villa chef. From US$1,300++/night.
CoCo Tam’s
What: Anyone who has had a good time barhopping in Koh Samui is likely to mention CoCo Tam’s, a rustic beachfront club near Fisherman’s Village. They offer the makings of any young social media-savvy Samui-goer’s haunt with great drinks, beanbags, fire shows and Instagramable spots.
Find it here: 62/1, Moo 1, Bophut
Stay here: Villa M, 2-4 bedrooms with daily breakfast, direct beach access, private pool, rooftop jacuzzi and private chef. From US$630++/night.
On Street Bar
What: This ramshackle bar sets itself apart from other Samui watering holes by maintaining a no-frills experience that’s all about the good drinks, art and music. Where else are you going to find drinks served out of large buckets?
Find it here: 12/7, Moo 2 Chaweng Beach Road
Stay here: Villa Kohia, 4 bedrooms with daily breakfast, ocean views, private pool, and private chef. From US$450++/night.
Ark Bar
What: Day in, day out, you’ll find many bikini-clad or board shorts-wearing tourists lounging by the beach at Ark Bar Beach Club. If you’re not up for the noise, stay clear; otherwise, you’ll love soaking in the pool parties, and fire shows as you sip on a drink from their extensive cocktail menu.
Find it here: 159/89, Moo 2, Chaweng Beach
Stay here: Sangsuri Villa, 1, 2-8 bedrooms + 2 dorms with daily breakfast, private chef, 22m pool, outdoor cinema, yoga studio and direct beach access. From US$1,250++/night.
Tiki Box Bar
What: Some of Samui’s hospitality can be found at Tiki Box Bar, where friendly bartenders wearing floral-print shirts handcraft great cocktails (sometimes served in coconut shells) you’ll definitely be back for. Bar-goers have come away feeling like they’ve had the time of their lives, even though Tiki Box is easy-going – and we guess that’s the point.
Find it here: 25/112, Moo 6, Chaweng Beach
Stay here: Baan Jakawan, 4-7 bedrooms with 39.5-metre infinity pool, ocean views and in-villa chef. From US$745++/night.
Gecko Bar
What: Samui is not just about beaches. High up in the hills is Gecko Bar, which is best enjoyed in the daytime as it provides panoramic views of the island. Food choices include Thai and continental favourites, while the bar serves juices, alcohol and coffee.
Find it here: Bophut Hills, Mae Nam
Stay here: Ban Kinaree, 3-5 bedrooms with expansive open-air terrace, lush tropical gardens, private pool and in-villa chef. From US$580++/night.
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Whether you seek a sophisticated experience with an extensive wine list or a ramshackle bar serving drinks in buckets, the Thai island has great watering holes