Koh Samui Nightlife: 11 Best Things To Do at Night

Wondering what to do in Koh Samui at night? This guide breaks down the best things to do after dark, from beach bars and fire shows to night markets, live music, and late-night bites.

Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island and one of the most developed, which means nightlife here is more varied than most Thai islands.

While you’ll find some nightclubs, the island is more about laid-back nights by the beach, cocktail lounges, and local evening experiences.

In fact, with all the lights, restaurants, and late-night action, parts of Koh Samui can feel more like a coastal city than a tropical island, especially in hotspots like Chaweng and Lamai.

And during the day, the island is just as lively, with plenty of Koh Samui day tours taking travelers to waterfalls, remote beaches, and nearby islands to keep in mind.

If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to Koh Samui nightlife, you’re in the right place.

Explore Fisherman’s Village After Dark

The Fisherman’s Village is one of the most popular areas in Koh Samui, known for its stylish mix of boutique shops, upscale restaurants, beach clubs, and laid-back resorts lining Bo Phut Beach.

The whole area has a well-designed, charming atmosphere that makes it perfect for an evening stroll. If you’re not sure what to do at night in Koh Samui, wandering Fisherman’s Village is a great way to stumble upon something memorable.

On select nights, the famous Fisherman’s Village Night Market sets up along the walking street, offering food stalls, souvenirs, live music, and a festive local vibe.

Two of the most iconic beachside spots here are The Deck Beach Club and Coco Tam’s, both ideal for cocktails, fire shows, and relaxing by the water.

If Chaweng feels a bit too rowdy, this is your go-to alternative for a more relaxed, upscale night out.

Bar Hopping Around Chaweng Beach

If bar hopping is high on your list, there’s no better place than the Chaweng Beach area. This is the nightlife hub of Koh Samui, packed with boutique bars, lively sports pubs, and energetic beach clubs all within walking distance.

Most bars here are open-air, letting you peek in and feel the vibe before deciding where to stop.

With so many places lined up along the main road and beachfront, it’s easy to hop between three or more spots in a single evening.

As the night goes on, many beach bars set up bean bags and low tables right on the sand, creating a laid-back setting for cocktails by the waves.

If you’re planning your nights around bar hopping, staying in Chaweng is your best move.

And if you’ve got extra time in your itinerary, consider taking a trip to the neighboring island of Koh Phangan, which is known for its vibrant party scene and endless lineup of beach bars.

Watch the Fire Show at Coco Tam’s

A stunning bohemian-chic decorated restaurant along Bo Phut Beach with great on-beach seating and a lovely rooftop.

In the evening, they host an elaborate fire show with several performers. With the comfortable bean-bag seating on the beach, a table for some food, and a fire show on the beach shoreline, Coco Tam’s delivers a full experience!

This is one of the most popular spots on the island. You may have to wait a bit on weekend nights to get seated, but it’s worth it; the restaurant is beautifully decorated, and the food is excellent!

CoCo Tam’s is also located right before the Fisherman’s Night Market. You can always come by for a bit at Coco Tam’s and then follow your evening at the famous Fisherman’s Night Market if it’s open!

Another alternative is Choeng Mon Beach; if CoCo Tam’s is too busy, it’s a great place to watch the sunset, but they don’t have a fire show performance.

Party at ARK Bar on the Beach

If you’re looking to party on the beach in Koh Samui, Ark Beach Bar is the place to be.

Located right along Chaweng Beach, this hotel and beach club regularly hosts energetic beachfront parties that attract big crowds.

On party nights, expect live DJ sets, colorful light displays, and even fire performances. The vibe is high-energy, and the beach fills up with travelers dancing, mingling, and enjoying the night under the stars.

There’s also plenty of seating on the sand if you’d rather kick back and watch the action.

During the day, Ark is more relaxed and serves as a casual beach club where you can grab a drink, lounge by the water, and enjoy light bites with a view.

And if you’re in Thailand during the full moon, consider a trip to the iconic Full Moon Party on nearby Koh Phangan. Tours run directly from Koh Samui, making it easy to experience one of Southeast Asia’s wildest beach parties.

Set Sail on a Sunset Dinner Cruise Around Koh Samui

For a romantic and relaxing evening, hop aboard the Red Baron, a luxurious traditional Thai sailing junk that offers a scenic sunset dinner cruise around Koh Samui.

This experience stands out from the typical beach bars and nightlife with its slow, elegant pace and stunning ocean views.

As the boat sails along the island’s coastline, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared Thai buffet dinner, free-flowing drinks, and unbeatable sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand.

The Red Baron cruise includes round-trip hotel transfers, making it convenient and hassle-free.

This is a perfect nighttime option if you’re traveling as a couple or just want to enjoy something calmer and more scenic while still soaking in Koh Samui’s magic after dark.

Catch the Sunset at a Scenic Viewpoint

Koh Samui’s vibrant sunsets are best enjoyed from higher ground, where you can soak in sweeping views of the coastline and jungle. Instead of heading to a beach bar, consider catching golden hour from one of the island’s scenic viewpoints.

Lad Koh Viewpoint, just south of Chaweng, is one of the most accessible and offers a stunning elevated view over the Gulf of Thailand.

It’s free to visit, and locals often stop by with takeaway snacks to enjoy the view. Another great option is the Secret Buddha Garden viewpoint in the hills, especially if you’re already visiting the nearby attractions.

Whether you’re with friends or solo, grabbing some food and drinks from 7-Eleven or a night market and heading to a quiet overlook is one of the most peaceful ways to enjoy Koh Samui at night.

• Overlap Stone Viewpoint – A lesser-known spot with expansive vistas over Lamai and beyond.

• Lad Koh Viewpoint – The most accessible spot just outside Chaweng with panoramic ocean views.

• Secret Buddha Garden Viewpoint – Hidden in the hills with mystical sculptures and jungle surroundings.

• Big Buddha Hill – Offers sunset views with a cultural touch near the famous temple.

Visit the Fisherman’s Village Night Market

Night markets are a staple of Thai culture and one of the best things to do in Koh Samui at night.

These bustling markets offer a mix of shopping, street food, and a vibrant local vibe that’s perfect for an evening stroll.

The Fisherman’s Night Market in Bo Phut is the largest and most well-known night market on the island.

Lined with stalls selling handmade souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and more, the market eventually opens into a lively food court area.

Here, you’ll find dozens of vendors cooking up Thai street food favorites, grilled seafood, fresh juices, and desserts, plus plenty of seating, which is rare for Thai markets and a huge bonus.

Open hours: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Other Koh Samui night markets worth visiting:

• Lamai Night Market — smaller but great for food and local vibes.

• Central Samui Night Market — outside the island’s biggest mall, perfect for combining dinner and shopping.

Go Go-Karting Under the Lights

One of the most underrated things to do in Koh Samui at night is go-karting along scenic Chaweng Lake.

If you’re in the mood for something different from the usual beach bars and parties, hitting the track is a thrilling way to spend your evening.

Right near Central Samui, the island’s main mall, you’ll find EasyKart, a spacious go-karting complex with karts and tracks for all levels.

The track loops around the lakeside, creating a unique backdrop of water reflections and city lights that adds to the experience.

Whether you’re racing friends or just want to switch up your night plans, go-karting here is a fun way to do it.

This is one of the reasons Koh Samui stands out from other Thai islands; you’ll find exciting options like this that go beyond just nightlife and beaches.

See a Live Muay Thai or Boxing Match

Two of the best cultural experiences to have in Thailand at night are visiting a night market and watching a live Muay Thai fight at a stadium.

Muay Thai is Thailand’s national sport and a massive part of the local culture. I know this firsthand because I train Muay Thai in Thailand every year.

Many fighters begin training as children, and the country also attracts international fighters who move to Thailand to train, fight, and immerse themselves in the sport.

In Koh Samui, the two most popular venues to catch a live Muay Thai event are Phetchbuncha Stadium in Chaweng and Lamai Boxing Stadium. Fights are typically held on Friday and Saturday nights around 9:00 PM, though times can vary.

The easiest way to know when fights are happening is to look for trucks driving around the island with posters and loudspeaker announcements.

These mobile promotions will let you know the next fight nights and where they’re being held. It’s a loud but classic part of the local scene.

Catch a Movie at Central Festival Cinema

What better way to spend a rainy evening or change things up than by watching a movie? Koh Samui has two cinemas where you can unwind indoors and catch the latest releases.

You’ll find movie theaters at Tesco Lotus Complex and Major Cineplex Central Samui, both showing a mix of Western blockbusters and some Thai films. Most movies are in English with Thai subtitles.

Cinemas in Thailand are modern, affordable, and come with all the usual snacks like popcorn, soda, and candy. One unique experience is that before the film begins, the Thai national anthem plays and everyone in the theater stands out of respect. Be sure to join in.

Also, a quick tip, the AC tends to be set relatively low, so bring a hoodie or light jacket to stay comfortable.

Drink at Lamai’s Beer Bars

The heart of Lamai Beach comes alive at night with its famous cluster of open-air beer bars, stretching across more than 2,000 square meters in the beach town center.

This area is a favorite for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a casual night out.

Unlike typical indoor pubs, these are outdoor bars where you can grab a seat, order a drink, people-watch, and easily hop between bars just steps apart.

The setup is lively and social, making it a great place to mingle or simply relax with a cold drink.

There are more than 10 different bars serving everything from local Thai beers to imported spirits. On Saturday nights, stick around for live Thai boxing matches held in a small on-site ring, a unique and free event that adds excitement to the night.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink or spontaneous conversation with fellow travelers, Lamai’s beer bar scene offers something refreshingly local and laidback.

Getting Around Koh Samui at Night

While Koh Samui is easy to explore during the day, getting around in Koh Samui after dark requires a bit more planning.

Depending on where you’re staying and how far you want to go, here are the best transportation options at night:

• Grab or inDrive – The easiest and safest way to get around at night using a rideshare app. Fares can spike after midnight or during rain, so plan ahead.

• Songthaews – These shared red pickup taxis operate less frequently at night and often switch to private fare mode with higher prices.

• Local taxis – You’ll find taxis in Chaweng and Lamai, but always negotiate the fare in advance or use Grab to compare pricing.

• Walking – If you’re staying near nightlife hotspots like Chaweng Beach or Fisherman’s Village, walking is a safe and easy option.

• Scooter rentals – Not recommended at night unless you’re an experienced rider, as some roads can be dark and unlit.

Best Areas to Stay in Koh Samui for Nightlife

Where you stay can make or break your nightlife experience in Koh Samui. Choosing the right beach town puts you closer to the action, whether that’s bars on the sand or upscale cocktail lounges.

If you want to be close to the island’s after-dark energy, here are the best areas to consider:

• Chaweng Beach – The undisputed nightlife hub. Packed with beach clubs, cocktail bars, live music, and late-night eateries. Stay here if you want it all within walking distance.

• Lamai Beach – More laid-back than Chaweng but still active after dark, especially around Lamai Beer Bars. A solid pick for a social but chill vibe.

• Bo Phut (Fisherman’s Village) – Known for stylish bars and upscale beachside dining. Perfect for couples or anyone looking for something quieter and more scenic.

Koh Samui Nightlife: Final Thoughts for Travelers

There you have it, the best things to do in Koh Samui after dinner. From fire shows on the beach to bar hopping in Chaweng or wandering through a night market, your nights here can be as lively or laid-back as you like.

While many travelers come to Thailand chasing big parties, Koh Samui offers a more polished and relaxed nightlife scene, perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a balanced island experience without sacrificing fun.

If you’re deciding where to stay, Chaweng Beach is the top choice for nightlife. It’s packed with beach bars, live music, late-night eats, and energetic spots that are all walkable and easy to explore.

During my visit, I enjoyed going out a few nights, but I will say that how Koh Samui nightlife compares to Phuket’s nightlife is worth noting. Phuket is louder and more chaotic, while Koh Samui feels more relaxed and beachy with pockets of energy.

Also, nightlife expenses can add up fast. For tips on budgeting your evenings (and days), take a look at my Koh Samui Cost Guide to plan better and avoid surprises.

If you live in Koh Samui or have favorite nighttime spots I didn’t mention, drop a comment below and let me know what to check out next time.