Koh Samui is a tiny island off the eastern coast of Thailand’s Malay Peninsula, the island is gorgeous and gets more than a million visitors per year. Tourists would have to take a 90-minute ferry ride from Don Sak ferry terminal in Surat Thani province, or they can get to this island via direct flights from Bangkok, Pattaya, or Singapore. The prime attractions of this region are Ang Thong National Marine Park, Na Muang Waterfall, and so many beaches for crystal-clear snorkeling tours. There are also luxury beachfront villas and hotels for tourists who are wondering where to stay in Koh Samui. But the nightlife of this island is a matter which is discussed rarely in tourism guides. Samui is recognized for its night street bazaars. To have a hassle-free shopping spree, get to know the best night markets in Koh Samui, Thailand.
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1. Fisherman's Village Walking Street
Looking for fun things to do in Koh Samui? Visit the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street located in Bophut. The local vendors of this small island gather here and make this street Koh Samui’s largest night market. Along with the permanent shops on the sides of this street, you can see merchants with stalls, and some even sitting on their floor mats. The items are diverse; they sell clothing, souvenirs, toys, electronics, watches, and items from many more categories.
Muay Thai performers and other street artists further adds to the allure of this Friday night market in Koh Samui. Thai fast food, drinks, and main course items are definitely an attraction. Nearly every visitor is a foreigner, and it’s a good place to meet travelers. But locals do come, as this street sells freshly caught lobsters and fish.
Fisherman's Village Walking Street
Address: Bophut Beach Road, Bophut
Facebook page: Fisherman’s Village Walking Street
Opening hours: Friday 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
2. Chaweng Night Market
Call it a food court, as there are just food-stalls with this market, but this place is the lead attraction of this island and thus worth a visit. One would see many varieties of Thai delicacies at this food market in Koh Samui, from fast food to fruit juices, and every other food you can imagine. You see, basically, it’s a foodie paradise in Koh Samui.
The signature dish of this market has always been Thai, but over the past few years, they have added foreign flavors as well, so now you will see lots of variety. In addition to some of the best street food in Koh Samui, there are also lobster, octopus, shark, and even crocodile on the menu. The rates are fixed and inexpensive, and a foreigner wouldn’t get cheated here, that’s the best part of this market.
Chaweng Night Market
Address: 14/102 Moo 2, behind Star Gym, Chaweng Beach Road, Chaweng
Opening hours: Daily 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
3. Nathon Walking Street
Nathon is the capital town of this island and comprises all the major tourism amenities of Koh Samui. This side of the seashore has three piers, and what’s known as Nathon Walking Street, which is a small grounds by the road on the beach, between the first and second pier. So, technically it’s not a street but just a small lot where local vendors gather. It’s also a food court mainly, with a few merchants selling some dubious stuff and duplicate brands of shoes, purses, and t-shirts. The interesting fact about Nathon Walking Street is that they serve the same varieties as Chaweng Night Market, but this food zone is open only once a week.
Nathon Walking Street
Address: Chonwithi Road, Ang Thong
Opening hours: Saturday 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
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4. Bangrak Night Market
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Bangrak Night Market in Koh Samui is a bustling and vibrant culinary haven that captivates visitors with its sensory delights. Nestled on the northern coast of the island, this lively market comes to life as the sun sets, offering an array of delectable street food, local crafts, and a lively atmosphere.
With an extensive selection of authentic Thai dishes, seafood, grilled meats, and tropical fruits, the market provides an opportunity to savor the diverse flavors of the region. From fragrant curries to savory noodles and sweet treats, the market is a paradise for food enthusiasts seeking an immersive cultural experience.
Beyond the culinary offerings, visitors can explore stalls offering handmade souvenirs, clothing, and accessories. The lively ambiance, combined with the chance to interact with locals and indulge in the island’s culinary delights, makes Bangrak Night Market a must-visit destination in Koh Samui.
Bangrak Night Market
Address: 1522 Soi Charoen Krung 49, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
5. Lipa Noi Night Market
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Visiting Lipa Noi Night Market is a fantastic experience that immerses visitors in the vibrant culture of Koh Samui. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Lipa Noi Beach, this market comes alive in the evening, offering a delightful fusion of local flavors, crafts, and entertainment. Travelers can relish an authentic taste of Thai cuisine, from freshly grilled seafood to flavorful street dishes.
The market’s convivial atmosphere, where locals and tourists mingle, adds to its charm. Exploring the array of stalls featuring handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs provides a glimpse into the island’s artistic talents.
Lipa Noi Night Market
Address: Lipa Noi (41/1 หมู่ 3, ตำบลลิปะน้อย อำเภอเกาะสมุย จังหวัดสุราษฎร์ธานี, 84140 Tambon Lipa Noi, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84140, Таиланд)
6. Lamai Night Plaza
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
This interesting market is the second largest walking street on this island. Here you will notice the food counters like at Chaweng Night Market and random purchasable things that you see in Fisherman’s Village Walking Street. But there is much more.
This market sells a huge amount of knockoff items, like 5 USD Rolex watches, dubious electronics, and bootlegged action figures of superheroes. And then, they also have wide varieties of handicrafts, hilarious keychains/bottle-openers, souvenir t-shirts, and gift items. This market opens every night and it’s a fun place to go.
Lamai Night Plaza
Address: Tailandia, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
Opening hours: Daily 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
7. Sunday Lamai Street Market
Street musicians, grilled octopus, fried insects, exotic fruits, and numerous purchasable mementos on the counters—that, in a nutshell, is what Sunday Lamai Street Market is all about. This shopping destination is neither too big, nor is it small. While it is a popular Sunday night market in Koh Samui, lots of shops are now permanent on this street, thus they open every day. However, the real fun begins when hundreds of stall owners assemble here.
Sunday Lamai Street Market
Address: 139/16 Had Lamai Rd, Tambon Maret, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani
Opening hours: Sunday 5:00 PM onwards
8. Mae Nam Night Market
This street market is the last on our list, also the final night market of this island: it is Mae Nam. You will either love this street market or wouldn’t stay here for more than 10 minutes, there is no in between. This street market is small but organized, the starting stalls are food vendors, with snacks and fast food items.
As you get through, the stalls sell main course dishes, largely hot curries, and rice. Further in there will be sweet corners. A colorful Chinese temple will come next, and island mementos are sold here. You will find handicrafts, toys, knockoff items and more.
Mae Nam Night Market
Address: Tambon Mae Nam (Mae Nam Beach)
Opening hours: Thursday 5:00 PM onwards
Bargain first, pay later
After dedicating your days to some water sports and activities in Koh Samui, which are easily accessible from many dive resorts, be sure to jazz up your nights by strolling around the night markets for some souvenirs. Just be properly guided though. Usually, vendors in street markets do not carry a fixed-rate list. Tourists are clueless in such situations because they do not know the fair price of items. Always bargain and never be quick at payments whenever you go out shopping in such a street market.
If possible, ask some local buyers around you about the price the vendor is charging; locals know the actual prices, and believe me, they would be happy to help you out in such circumstances. And finally, never demonstrate your excitement to vendors when you like something, it will only make bargaining harder. Happy shopping!
Frequently asked questions about the night markets in Koh Samui, Thailand
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