Is Samui Expensive? Let’s Break it Down

Lifestyle

Ask five people and you’ll get five different answers. Some say Samui is a luxury paradise with overpriced wine and boutique resorts. Others say it’s a budget-friendly island if you know where to look.

So… what’s the truth?

Let’s break it down without the spreadsheets — just island reality.

Accommodation

Luxury Resorts: 5,000–15,000 THB/night
Nice Hotels & Villas: 1,500–4,000 THB/night
Guesthouses & Hostels: 300–1,200 THB/night

Food & Drinks

Local Thai meal: 60–160 THB
Western dish: 180–400 THB
Craft coffee: 80–150 THB
Cocktails: 150–450 THB

Want to live cheap? Street food and 7-Eleven snacks are your best friends.

Getting Around

Scooter rental: 150–250 THB/day
Taxi across the island: 300–1500 THB
Songthaew (local truck taxis): 50–250 THB (if you’re lucky)

A scooter = freedom + savings. Just wear your helmet and make sure you have a valid driving licence

Shopping & Souvenirs

Beach dress or elephant pants: 100–250 THB
Handmade soaps & coconut oil: 100–200 THB
Designer sunglasses on the beach: you can get 3 copies for 500 THB

Haggling is expected, just smile while you do it.

Activities

Snorkeling tour: 800–1,500 THB
Cooking class: 1,200–2,000 THB
Entry to waterfalls or gardens: 0–100 THB
Beach nap with a coconut: Priceless (or 50 to 150 THB for the coconut)

So… Is It Expensive?

Yes — if you want five-star pampering every day.
No — if you eat local, ride a scooter, and don’t shop like it’s Bangkok Fashion Week.

Samui can be a holiday baller’s paradise or a backpacker’s dream. It’s all about how you roll.

Don't forget, Samui is an island, prices are higher than the mainland, however, still very affordable if you know where to look!

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Is Samui Expensive? Let’s Break it Down