Koh Samui is renowned for its white sand beaches and emerald waters, and Kerem Villas offers a secluded perch from which to enjoy some of the most idyllic coastline on the island. There is plenty to do and see here in paradise without ever leaving the villa. But while the private beach and terrasse pool at Kerem Villas are ideal for relaxing with family and friends, a true Koh Samui experience isn’t complete without a taste of the local culture, and there’s no better place to find the pulse of Thai lifestyle than Koh Samui island’s many day and night markets.
Whether you’re after amazing local food, shopping for rare finds, a nightlife seeker, or just want a taste of local culture, Koh Samui’s day and night markets offer the most immersive experience of life on the island.
Thai locals on Samui typically work through the day and congregate at the markets for dinner at sunset. In the evening, even the more touristy markets (like Chaweng) are full of locals. In Thai social life, food is almost always the focus. Thai people rarely cook at home. So if you want to go out and experience the real Thailand, make your way to the markets to eat, people-watch, and be merry.
The below guide describes the four best markets on the island. Our recommendations come from our years of exploring Koh Samui. Let us show you around!
Fisherman’s Village Koh Samui Market
Type: Night Market
Hours: 5pm-11pm
Days: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Map:
Located in the quaint Bophut area, Fisherman’s Village is not just a market but a historical and cultural landmark on Koh Samui. There is lots to see and do any day of the week but every Friday evening, the street running through the village comes alive with stalls selling everything from local handicrafts and clothing to delicious street food.
Fisherman’s Village is mostly targeted to tourists. The market stalls are replete with souvenirs and, yes, you’ll find the usual counterfeit goods commonly available in Thailand. It’s also an amazing place to taste various Thai delicacies or see the famous fire shows, and the market area has some of the nicest boutique shopping and best restaurants and nightlife on the island.
Shopping for Treasures
The market at Fisherman’s Village is a treasure trove for those seeking unique souvenirs and gifts. You’ll find handcrafted items such as textiles, ceramics, and jewelry that reflect the island’s artisanal traditions. Bargaining is customary here, so don’t hesitate to haggle for that perfect memento.
Foodie Heaven
Fisherman’s Village is foodie heaven. The many restaurants offer fresh seafood straight from the Gulf of Thailand alongside Thai street food favorites like Pad Thai, Som Tum (papaya salad), and mango sticky rice. It’s great just to wander around and take in the aromas of lemongrass, chilis, and the sizzling grills and select a dinner spot or taste a bit of everything.
A Carnival Atmosphere
At dusk, the market transforms into a lively carnival of sights and sounds as the locals pour in. Among the bustling crowds, fire dancers perform routines and local musicians serenade visitors with traditional Thai music. The ambiance is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner by the sea.
Nathon Koh Samui Market
Type: Night Market
Hours: 4:30pm-10:00pm
Days: Everyday
Map:
Nathon is the ‘Thai town’ tucked away from the touristy area between Chaweng and Fisherman’s village. For those after a more authentic experience, Nathon Market is the destination. The only downside is that it’s across the island from Kerem Villas and many of the island’s hotspots, so some days it may feel a little far away.
Nathon is Koh Samui’s administrative center and main ferry port. Its bustling market is open daily. Situated along the waterfront, it offers a glimpse into the island’s everyday life and provides a convenient stop for those arriving or departing from Koh Samui.
Local Produce and Seafood
Nathon Market is the place to go for fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood sourced directly from local fishermen and farmers. Here, you can taste exotic tropical fruits like rambutan and durian or sample freshly caught fish and prawns.
Shopping for Essentials
Beyond its culinary offerings, Nathon Market features a variety of stalls selling clothing, accessories, and household items at reasonable prices. It’s a great spot to pick up essentials or browse for authentic Thai goods.
Insider Tips
If you want to feel the real Thai experience without traveling so far, try the market on Choengmon Beach. It’s very Thai, but still very central.
If you arrive early in the morning to Nathon Market, you’ll catch the market at its liveliest and be able to snag the freshest produce. Be prepared to navigate through bustling crowds and keep an eye out for occasional local events or performances. You might just find yourself in the middle of a magical spontaneous gathering.
Lamai Koh Samui Market
Type: Night Market
Hours: 3pm-Midnight
Days: Everyday
Map:
Known for its beautiful beaches and nightlife, Lamai Market also boasts a lively night market that attracts both locals and tourists alike. It tends to be more laid back than Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village, so it makes for a nice middle ground between those and Nathon.
Open every Sunday, Lamai Market offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the southern part of Koh Samui while indulging in culinary delights and shopping for souvenirs. As the sun sets, Lamai springs to life with rows of stalls illuminated by colorful lanterns.
Thai Cuisine
Food enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice at Lamai Market. The air is filled with incredible aromas: grilled meats, spices, and freshly brewed Thai iced tea. From savory skewers and crispy spring rolls to decadent desserts like coconut pancakes and mango sticky rice, the market showcases the diversity of Thai cuisine in all its glory.
Shopping for Handicrafts
Beyond food, Lamai Market offers an array of handicrafts, clothing, and accessories. Local vendors display their wares, including handmade jewelry, batik textiles, and intricate wood carvings, making it an ideal spot to find unique gifts or souvenirs.
Live Entertainment
Live performances ranging from traditional Thai dance to modern music add to the market’s festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy cultural shows or even participate in interactive activities, making Lamai Market an awesome spot for entertainment and exploration.
Chaweng Koh Samui Market:
Type: Night and Day Market
Hours: 11am-Midnight
Days: Everyday
Special Expanded Days: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Map:
Chaweng, the island’s most popular and cosmopolitan area, hosts a vibrant night market that caters to both shoppers and diners. Open every night of the week, Chaweng Market is a must-visit if you’re after a lively atmosphere. It’s super touristy with tons of action, restaurants, and nightlife.
On the other hand, as Chaweng is the oldest tourist hub on Koh Samui, it can feel a bit plastic. It’s important to be discerning because there are a lot of sub-par places mixed in with the gems. If you’re looking for tips during your stay, you can always ask us!
Shopping Galore
Chaweng Market offers a massive selection of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. From trendy beachwear and local handicrafts to quirky trinkets and electronic gadgets, shoppers will find plenty of buzzing stalls to explore.
Street Food Paradise
You’ll find an array of foods available at Chaweng Market. From seafood, BBQ, and noodle soups to exotic fruit smoothies and Thai desserts, the market has many options for those eager to sample authentic flavors at affordable prices.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Chaweng is the core of the nightlife on Koh Samui island. Bars and live music venues nearby offer many options to take in the tropical island vibes well into the night.
Insider Tips
Chaweng Market can get crowded, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds. Bargaining is expected here, so be ready to negotiate to get the best deals on everything from souvenirs to street food.
Our Advice: Explore Them All!
Each market on Koh Samui truly has its own unique charm and they’re all easily accessible from Kerem Villas.
Exploring the markets is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant community life. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets of Fisherman’s Village, sampling street food in bustling Chaweng, or browsing handicrafts in laid-back Lamai, each market promises a unique and memorable experience. So, indulge your senses, embrace the local flavors, and discover the heart and soul of Koh Samui through its vibrant markets.
