Koh Samai, Thailand - What to add on?
 

We're going to Koh Samai for five days in March. Want to add on more. Where else should we go from here? We're in our late forties. LIke beach, culture, activities, art - less touristy, lesser known spots are good. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

SassTraveler

kohtao.com
Lotus resort $14/nt for me last
great Scuba diving cheapest in Asia.

You don't say how long you have for this trip. I would think Bangkok should be on your itin for at least a couple of days. You will find more culture there than on the beach IMO.

I agree that Bangkok should definitely be on your itinerary. Koh Tao is primarily a diving spot, beach isn't very good, as noted above, very low-end accommodation, no culture to speak of, etc.

Thank you. Yes, sorry, should have included more info. Looking at tacking on another 4-7 days depending on what we decide to do. We have been to Bangkok already. I'm thinking maybe Adaman Islands?

Are you only looking for more beach destinations?

Koh Tao is I agree maninly for those keen on diving, scuba + snorkeling.
There are though quality accommodations such as Koh Tao Montra Resort and Pool villas, Jamahkiri Resort & Spa, pool villas at Haad Tien Beach Resort, you will not find Sheratons or Hyatts, but there are plenty of places if you want nice comfort.

If you want more culture then Khanom in Nakhon Si Thammarat ( which is very close in fact to Don Sak pier which is the place the large varies operate to and from Koh Samui )which you can see easily from this map:
http://www.rachakiri.com/location.php

has quiet beaches but some luxury places to stay, for example the AAva Resort with bungalows and villas, another is the famous Racha Kiri which is all-suite resort
http://www.rachakiri.com/facilities.php

http://www.rachakiri.com/gallery.php

Nakhon Si Thammarat is a provincial place but you will find temples

You can also look at Hua Hin after Koh Samui if you want cultural sights, temples and others, historic sights etc. Busy, but has a lot of sights and attractions, that puts you just a limo / cab ride back to Bangkok or Bangkok Airport, or, for something different you train take the train. Hua Hin is busier but does have the chance to enjoy a Thai otwn on the coast with lots to see and go, from budget range accommodation, mid range hotelsto plenty of 5 star resorts

From Koh Samui to Hua Hin you can if your budget allows arrange for a car with a driver, or you can ferry to mainland and take the train.
From Koh Tao it is an easy ferry and bus to Hua Hin ( journey time total about 6 hours )

There are quiet islands in far south, Koh Ngai, or even the larger Koh Lanta may be of interest.

The Aava Resort in Khanom
http://aavaresort.com/index.php?lg=_en

Thank you! All good ideas!

The Aava Resort looks absolutely amazing.

The location may be a little quiet for us, but if it certainly seems to tick all your boxes.

A few days there, in combination with 5 days in Samui would give you an excellent contrast without having to travel too far,