A greyscale sky begins to brighten over the tranquil Gulf of Thailand, with sunshine piercing the clouds that moments before delivered a burst of tropical rain to Koh Samui's north-east coast. This iconic island, a staple for travellers since the backpacker boom of the 1980s, is revealing a different, more serene charm in its quieter months.
The Affordable Renaissance of a Thai Icon
Koh Samui is currently enjoying a significant resurgence in popularity. The destination has been singled out by travel giant Expedia as one of its 'hottest islands to visit', with consumer interest soaring by 55% year-on-year. A major driver behind this renewed appeal is striking affordability, particularly outside the peak tourist season.
This value becomes immediately apparent in simple pleasures. Expecting to pay around 100 Thai Baht (roughly £2.35) for a pot of coconut ice cream scattered with peanuts, visitors are often delighted to be charged a mere 20 Baht – just under 50p. As local guide Irene explains while touring the eastern coast from bustling Chaweng to the peaceful fishing hamlets beyond Hua Thanon, the quieter the location, the more likely you are to secure a genuine 'local price'.
Savour the Flavours and Serenity of Quieter Shores
The island's culinary scene is where its off-season value truly shines. The essential balance of Thai cuisine—punchy spices, zingy citrus, sweetness, and salt—is readily available without the premium. Sheltering from a seasonal downpour, a vast portion of fragrant massaman curry, rich with cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, can be enjoyed for about £7. For the ultimate budget experience, street food in towns like Nathon and Chaweng offers delicious options like sticky coconut rice in banana leaf for under £1.
This affordability extends far beyond food. According to Expedia data, September, which marks the start of the rainy season, ranks among the cheapest months to visit. Accommodation rates can be around 40% lower than in peak December. For example, a September 2026 stay at the InterContinental Koh Samui Resort can be found for approximately £282 B&B, compared to £393 just a week later. Numerous other hotels offer rooms from just £50 per night.
The reduced crowds transform the experience of Koh Samui's famous landmarks. At Wat Phra Yai, the renowned Big Buddha Temple, visitors can approach the magnificent 12-metre statue without navigating throngs of tourists. Similarly, the striking 18-armed Buddhist icon at Wat Plai Laem can be admired in peaceful contemplation. Further south, the Na Muang Waterfalls cascade beautifully without the backdrop of crowded photo shoots.
Island Hopping and the Local Pulse
Venturing further afield is effortless and rewarding. A 90-minute speedboat journey leads to the pristine waters of Koh Tao, where the most significant crowds are often shoals of vivid fish darting below the surface. Days can be spent blissfully bobbing in the warm sea before returning to Samui for a sunset Chang beer on Chaweng beach.
As evening deepens, the nightlife awakens with techno beats and affordable drinks, proving the island never feels deserted. A local bartender summarises the off-season sentiment perfectly: while the community relies on tourism, the quieter months allow locals to catch their breath and enjoy their home—a respite they happily share with visitors.
TRAVEL FACTS: Expedia offers packages including five nights at Code Samui Hotel with return flights from London from £770.60 per person. Extras include private island tours from £118.50pp, boat trips to Koh Tao from £48.22pp, Thai cooking classes from £55pp, and spa treatments from £34pp.
