The top holiday spot called Koh Samui is popular for lots of reasons, one being that it is the perfect place to witness breathtaking sunsets in Thailand. There is nothing quite like ending your day outdoors, enjoying the cool breeze and sipping a tasty beverage, while gazing at the magical views of the sky bathed in the golden rays of the setting sun.
More than an attractive sight, the stunning sunsets at this tropical paradise give it a romantic allure that can be hard to resist.
Ready to experience the sunset in Koh Samui? Of course you are! Take advantage of our guide to the island’s best views and make the most of your sunset vacation at this destination.
Why Koh Samui Sunsets Are Unique
How pretty a sunset appears is significantly influenced by geographical location and time of year. Koh Samui lies within the Gulf of Thailand, near the equator where it experiences more intense sunlight; and, as the island has a tropical climate, its atmosphere promotes an optimal dispersal of the sun’s rays almost at all times of the year.
As a result, sunsets in Koh Samui tend to be more vivid and mesmerizing.
Top Spots to Witness Sunset in Koh Samui
There are a good number of cool places where you can witness sunset in Koh Samui, but some are simply more magical than others. Here are our top picks.
Lamai Viewpoint
Lamai Viewpoint is located in a well-developed area, near Lamai Beach. A popular viewpoint frequented by tourists, this spot that offers absolutely impressive views and great photo opportunities is perfect for witnessing sunsets. For a small fee, you’ll also access two other natural attractions – Valentine Stone, Siva Tara Waterfall – and even take an exciting zip-line ride.
Chaweng Viewpoint
A clean, beautiful beach with very white sand and clear water, Chaweng Beach with its relaxed atmosphere is hands-down one of the best spots to be when the sun is setting. This long beach is best visited around April when it is not too busy. If you’d like to take a refreshing swim under the sunset, the central beach area is ideal.
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
One can’t talk about sunset in Koh Samui without mentioning the Big Buddha Temple. Wat Pra Yai is a famous religious landmark and tourist attraction in Bophut, offering beautiful views that become even more breathtaking as the sun dips. Enjoy the panorama from the statue’s terrace, with splendid views of Samui’s northern coastline.
Nathon Pier
Koh Samui boasts four main ferry piers, and Nathon is one. Located between Laem Yai and Lipa Noi beaches on the island’s northwest coast, Nathon Pier with its jetties, bridges, boats, plus small shops and restaurants in the vicinity, is quite a unique place to witness sunsets.
Lipa Noi Beach
Not many beaches on the tropical island of Samui are as clean and gorgeous as Lipa Noi. Featuring clear waters, soft golden sand, fine fauna, plus nice bars and restaurants, it is a long, quiet beach where you can take energizing beach walks, relax in tranquility and, of course, enjoy beautiful sunset views.
Taling Ngam
Taling Ngam is a charming little town on Koh Samui’s southwestern coast. This secluded region is dotted by fishermen’s shacks, and boasts pristine, shallow beaches unlike no others along the island’s shores; so it is quite scenic, especially at sunset. Surprisingly, it is also home to some of the most luxurious hotel resorts and upscale villas.Coral Cove Beach
Yet another great place to witness sunset in Koh Samui, Coral Cove is a small but authentic and quiet beach featuring superb coral gardens with lots of fishes and other sea life. As the water is really clear and beautiful, the beach is a popular snorkeling spot; fresh, delicious food and strong cocktails are also available here.
Secret Buddha Garden
The Secret Buddha Garden is an ancient and awe-inspiring forest housing lots of fascinating traditional Thai statues, little grottos, houses and huts, a creek with a small waterfall, etc. Serene, and very peaceful, this destination is absolutely an ideal place to watch the sun go down – and take cool photos too!
The Overlap Stone
The Overlap Stone can be found at a site near Lamai Beach. Actually this site features two Overlap Stones, but the one at the very top of the hill is the most popular, and cheapest to access. You’d have to climb stone steps up the very steep hill, but the sights from the viewpoint are absolutely worth it, especially in the evenings.
Sunset Cruises in Koh Samui
Another way to enjoy sunset in Koh Samui is to take sunset cruises. Check out our recommended cruises and what to expect.
Ang Thong Marine Park Semi-Private Sunset Tour
Sail in a spacious yacht to the limestone islands of the famous Ang Thong Marine Park while relaxing in tranquility. A sun deck, internal saloon, and hot tub, are available. Savor a light breakfast, fresh fruit, and buffet lunch during your trip.
Koh Tan & Koh Madsum Sunset Trip
Visit the scenic nearby islands of Koh Madsum and Koh Tan via longtail boat; enjoy snorkeling and sunset-watching; then treat yourself to some delicious Thai dinner.
Koh Samui Northern Shores Sunset Trip
The enchanting northern shores await you! Take in the beauty of the tropical island and watch the sun dip below the horizon while being driven in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and a restroom.
Best Time of Year to Experience Sunset in Koh Samui
Different people have their preferred time of the year to witness a Koh Samui sunset, so there may not be an absolute best time to do so. However, for us, the best time to experience sunset on the tropical island is the rainy season (September to November) when there is more moisture and less dust particles in the atmosphere.
For the best sunset times by month, see below:
- January: 6:11 p.m.
- February: 6:26 p.m.
- March: 6:31 p.m.
- April: 6:31 p.m.
- May: 6:11 p.m.
- June: 6:37 p.m.
- July: 6:44 p.m.
- August: 6:43 p.m.
- September: 6:29 p.m.
- October: 6:11 p.m.
- November: 5:57 p.m.
- December: 5:57 p.m.
Sunsets are not just a wonderful sight to behold but also a constant reminder of how awesome nature can be. Having seen our top locations for experiencing a memorable sunset in Koh Samui, it is now left for you to explore each, have a great time, and determine which is the most perfect for you.
Ever witnessed sunset on the tropical island? Comment and let’s hear about it!
