These beautiful islands are located in southern Thailand, less than 400 kilometres apart. Each attracts international and domestic holidaymakers, expats choosing a relaxed and uplifting lifestyle and foreigners seeking investment opportunities. While the islands have similarities, let's explore some differences and which island is more family-friendly.
Location and Size
Phuket is almost twice the size of Koh Samui; however, the population of Phuket, approx 450,000 people, is more than seven times that of Samui. Phuket is in the Andaman Sea, and Samui is on the eastern side of the Thai-Malay peninsula in the Gulf of Thailand.
Climate
The climate on Thailand's peninsula's east and west sides is slightly different. The tropical environment sees an average annual temperature of about 27 °C.
Phuket has more rainfall, with about 2,280 mm per year. It has a short dry season, with the wet season running from May to November. September is the peak month averaging over 300mm.
Samui has a lower annual average rainfall of about 1615mm, and a shorter wet season, peaking in October and November.
Beaches
Both islands boast stunning beaches, with various water sports and activities on offer.
Samui beaches are generally more laid back and chilled with crystal clear waters. Chaweng and Lamai are the most popular and have some excellent beach clubs. The best beaches are on the north and eastern side.
Phuket has over 40 beaches, from the vibrant and bustling Patong to serene and picturesque beaches like Nai Harn and Nai Yang. The west coast features the more beautiful beaches. Many family-friendly activities are available on Phuket's beaches, especially around Karon and Kata.
Things To Do
These paradises both provide a myriad of tropical island fun things to do. Enjoy water sports like parasailing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding; sunbathing on sunloungers; golf; massages and spas to suit all budgets; elephant sanctuaries; adventure tours such as ATV, ziplining, motorbike riding; exploring temples; Muay Thai events; Thai cooking classes and more.
However, with its higher population of residents and visitors, Phuket has more options for couples, singles and families. With three marinas, yachting is a popular pastime. Day trips to beautiful outlying islands like Phi Phi, Similan, Racha and Phangan Bay. Sunset cruises and on-water party boats are also popular.
Samui tends to offer more natural and laid-back activities. Koh Tao is one of Thailand's most popular dive sites, and the Ang Thong Marine Park also makes an incredible day trip. The cluster of Five Islands seen from Samui's south coast is becoming popular for snorkelling day trips. Other options include day trips and sunset cruises to Koh Phangan immediately off Samui's northeast coast.
Dining
Naturally, Phuket, given its size, has a more significant number of restaurants. However, both islands offer everything from great street markets to inexpensive Thai eateries to fine dining options with cuisines from around the world. People moving to Thailand are usually impressed by the freshness and tastiness of Thai cuisine.
Shopping and Entertainment
Phuket has several good-sized shopping centres, international brand luxury, fashion, and homeware stores, and fresh markets across the island. Expats living in Phuket can usually find their favourite imported foods and beverages in speciality supermarkets.
Samui's main Central shopping centre is in Chaweng, and there are other supermarkets and fresh markets mostly around the built-up areas. A good range of imported goods is available, albeit not as extensive as the offerings in Phuket.
Entertainment zones with cinemas, kids' areas, and other recreational amenities are also available in the shopping centres.
Education and Healthcare
Schooling from about age 2 to 18, offering international curricula, is easily accessible on both islands. However, where Samui has five institutions, Phuket has 15. Notably, families with children have an excellent standard of education on offer on both islands.
Quality healthcare options are available on both, from dental and medical clinics, opticians, and specialist services to international standard hospitals. The highly acclaimed Bangkok Hospital is situated on both islands.
Housing and Accommodation
Residences range from condos to luxury sprawling pool villas. And most foreigners are pleasantly surprised at the lower cost compared to their home countries. Likewise, hotels and resorts to suit all budgets are plentiful.
Phuket has accommodations around the coastline and a considerable amount in the interior. Many expats are attracted to Bang Tao in the north, Chalong, Nai Harn and Rawaii in the south. If you are considering moving to Phuket, see our Lazudi Phuket listings.
Samui housing tends to be around the coast and in the hills behind, catching amazing views and sea breezes. The building regulations prevent buildings' taller than a palm tree, resulting in housing blending into the environment. There are also fewer condos and more villas available. Check out our Lazudi Samui homes; perhaps moving to Samui is easier than you thought.
Accessibility
Both islands have an international airport and are approximately a one-hour flight from Bangkok. Phuket receives around 12 million international visitors annually, while Samiu averages under 3 million. On the islands, visitors and expats can hire motorbikes, cars, and taxis to get around. A simple public bus system is inexpensive; however, as routes are restrictive, most people have their own transport.
A critical difference between the two is that Phuket has a bridge from the mainland. Going to Samui by road transport requires catching the vehicular ferry for approximately two hours.
Conclusion
Whether you are a tourist, investor, or considering living in Thailand, you must assess your requirements and preferences.
Phuket, a larger island by land mass with more facilities and services, provides a greater choice for families. In saying that, many families enjoy a quieter lifestyle on Samui with all the trimmings. A more authentic Thai experience may be found in Samui, whereas Phuket provides a great buzz of activity.
If you are considering buying property, Lazudi has offices in both locations and throughout Thailand. Our experienced and reputable team can provide a guide to all your real estate needs.
