Shopping in Koh Samui, Thailand

Shoppers on Koh Samui can now find anything from life's necessities to designer products, from custom tailored cloths to locally-made handicrafts – usually at significant discounts off Western prices.

The primary shopping areas on the island are Chaweng, Lamai and Nathon. Off the beaten path areas like Maenam & Bo Phut should not be overlooked by serious shoppers.

NOTE: Bargaining is expected in shops and stalls around the island. Even shopping centers will sometimes reduce fixed prices for skilled negotiators.

Beware of copies and fakes! Prada bags and Gucci shoes found in stalls and small shops are probably not the real thing.

Cheap DVDs, CDs and computer software are sure to be pirated. Many visitors choose to purchase anyway. Some have items confiscated by customs upon return to their home country.

Shopping on Chaweng Beach

Gifts, traditional Thai handicrafts, even low priced CDs and DVDs can be purchased along Chaweng's beach road. Stalls and shops along the road also carry beautiful wood carvings and lacquer ware, Thai silk scarves and paintings by local artists.

Both old and new Buddha images are available. Travelers are advised to use caution when purchasing Buddhist iconography as Thai law strictly forbids export of many Buddhist relics, particularly antiques.

Tucked in amongst the shops and stalls buyers can find more practical items as well. Tailor-made clothing in high grade cotton, wool, or Thai silk often costs less than mid-range department store items in Western countries.

Local tailors can copy favorite clothing or designer patterns for patrons. Belts, bags, jewelry and shoes are readily available. Optical shops can update a prescription and have a new pair of glasses available for pick-up within a few days.

Talad Laem Din is Chaweng's traditional Thai market and worth a visit for visitors interested in local life. The market is where Thais shop for fresh food items, flowers and their own cheap clothing.

Internationally known convenience stores like Seven Eleven or local convenience shops are scattered around Chaweng along with two modern supermarkets. Tops Market Place sells imported and local items.

Tesco Lotus is a large shopping center that carries a few imported items plus Thai food and groceries as well as household items like dishes and towels or electronic items. Office supplies, car accessories and toys can also be found in Tesco Lotus.

Shopping on Lamai Beach

Lamai Beach has a number of small boutiques plus stalls and shops carrying the same variety of items found at Chaweng beach. Talad Lamai is a smaller version of the traditional fresh food market found in Chaweng.

Two excellent import markets are located in Lamai Beach. Top Harvest sells imported meats and cheeses along with cooking ingredients needed for western recipes. Villa Coco Super Market offers the widest variety of imported foods in Koh Samui with everything from Swiss chocolates and cereals to frozen bagels from America.

Shopping on Nathon Beach

Nathon Beach – where the locals go – does not have the volume or variety of goods offered in Chaweng or Lamai Beach but does have the best deals. The area is full of small shops and stalls selling items for use by locals or as souvenirs. This is the place to find pharmacies, banks, household shops and department stores.

Maenam and Bophut Beach Shopping

Maenam and Bo Phut are primarily residential sections of the island but do have a few shops and convenience stores. Thai furniture shops in Maenam sell beautiful handcrafted pieces. Sellers can help with overseas shipping. The fisherman’s village in Bo Phut has several small souvenir shops.

Video of Shopping in Koh Samui

Buying a jacket in Koh Samui