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Koh Samui or Phuket for Honeymoon - 7 Reasons from Photographer

Date of publication: 02 Jan 2019 | Updated: 11 Jul 2023

Is Phuket or Koh Samui better for honeymoon?

Often many of my clients, when planning their honeymoon in Thailand face a number of difficulties when choosing one or another direction.

So I decided to make a note, based on my personal preference.

Is Phuket or Koh Samui better for honeymoon?

  • Popularity

    .

    Samui is much smaller than Phuket, and therefore less populated and not as overwhelmed by tourists. If we fancy a nice honeymoon photo shooting, we don't want any weird strangers on the background, do we?

    Winner: Koh Samui – less people, more empty beaches

  • Long flight

    .

    Phuket has a large airport, so getting there is possible via many direct flights. Getting to Samui might be a little bit more complicated. But may be it worth it.

    Winner: 50/50 – You decide.

  • Waves

    .

    For beach lovers Thailand fits like nothing else, the only difference is that Phuket is bordered by the Indian Ocean and the waves are often there. Samui is situated in the Gulf of Thailand Pacific ocean thus here it is mostly calm.

    Winner: Koh Samui – Calm ocean is enjoyable time.

  • Size

    .

    The biggest benefit of small Islands is their compactness. Samui is not difficult to ride around in 60 minutes. While in Phuket with its traffic jams and congestion, especially in peak season. Not less the 3 hours are required to get to the other side of the island.

    Winner: Koh Samui – More productive using your free time

  • Beaches

    .
    Koh Samui or Phuket for Honeymoon - 7 Reasons from Photographer. photographer Dimas Frolov photo 1530
    Photo by Samui Photographer - Dimas Frolov

    Beaches on Koh Samui are very narrow. That means you can easy find place for taking pictures with a coconut tree above water. Phuket is located in Adamant Sea, what is a part of Indian ocean. The width of any random beach there is approximately 10-30m. That looks different, but you have a choice.

    Winner: 50/50 – You decide, but in Phuket very difficult to find a palm above water ;)

    Read related article: Top 10 Locations for Photoshoots on Samui
  • Tropical vibe

    .

    Do you know that Koh Samui is coconut island? This island became famous because of its "coconut fields". Around 60 years ago The King Rama IX shared land on this island for everyone who will do any agricultural works there. Hundreds of people were coming here to plant coconuts and returned only after several years, when trees grew up. Funny story, but this is what made Koh Samui's popularity. So, you won't see as much coconut trees in Phuket as in Samui.

    Winner: Koh Samui – This is definitely tropical island with long beach full of coconut trees.

  • Mood

    .

    Comparing the mood of this two places… Koh Samui is much more peaceful island. You can find here deserted beaches, jungle and a lot of fun. Phuket is a city. Big city. With all meanings of this word. So, for relaxing, enjoyable time going to Koh Samui might be a better option. But if you like night parties and a lot of activities, then you might benefit from going to Phuket.

    Winner: 50/50 – You decide.

  • Rain season (monsoon time)

    .

    Phuket has a half a year rainy time (June-October), and Samui has only a few month (October-December). Of course, you need to look on your plans. And choose the right place for your trip. More detailed you can read at my article: Which season is the best for photo shoots on Samui?

    Winner: 50/50 – Depends on time of year.

Conclusion

In my opinion, Samui is the best choice for a honeymoon trip, especially if you fancy a photo shooting.

photo: Dimas Frolov
About the Author

Portrait photographer based on Samui, Thailand.
Originally from Ukraine, he has over 15 years of photography experience taking pictures around Europe and Asia. Multi-Award winner and author of many articles about photography.
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