A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Samui vs. Pattaya for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Food

Should you visit Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Koh Samui or Pattaya? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a laid back, beautiful, and tropical resort island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a high energy, colorful, and active resort city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui and Pattaya: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Pattaya are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pattaya is known for its museums and shopping. Koh Samui is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Pattaya is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation.

How is Koh Samui different from Pattaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pattaya and Koh Samui. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Pattaya is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Pattaya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Pattaya can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Pattaya makes for a great culinary experience. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both Koh Samui and Pattaya.

Koh Samui has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Pattaya is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its resorts.

Koh Samui is a world class resort vacation destination. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

There are plenty of resorts in Pattaya to choose from. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.


Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui is a great resort island for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Koh Samui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui is terrific for the beache. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for the beach.

Koh Samui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Many people visit Pattaya for it's beautiful beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui is a great resort island for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Pattaya is a great resort city for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Pattaya. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Families?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Pattaya.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Pattaya is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Couples?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui is a great resort island for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Pattaya is a good resort island for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.


Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui is a great resort island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui and Pattaya both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Pattaya has a few public transit options. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Is Koh Samui or Pattaya a more walkable city?

Koh Samui
Pattaya

Koh Samui and Pattaya are decent when it comes to walkability.

Koh Samui is generally not a very walkable resort island. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.


For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Pattaya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pattaya or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Samui and Pattaya. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than in Pattaya. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pattaya.

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Pattaya. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Koh Samui, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Samui than Pattaya. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Samui that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Pattaya if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Koh Samui.


  • How many days in Koh Samui or Pattaya? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koh Samui 3-7 
    Pattaya 2-3

One day in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

In Koh Samui, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the resort city of Pattaya. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

In Koh Samui, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the colorful destination of Pattaya. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort city has to offer. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Koh Samui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Samui has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active resort city of Pattaya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Koh Samui or Pattaya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. In Koh Samui, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Pattaya is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.


Which place is cheaper, Pattaya or Koh Samui?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Koh Samui is $56, while the average daily cost in Pattaya is $67. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Koh Samui and Pattaya in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koh Samui $24
    Pattaya $24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koh Samui $48
    Pattaya $48
Compare Hotels in Koh Samui and Pattaya

Looking for a hotel in Koh Samui or Pattaya? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Koh Samui


Hotels in Pattaya


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Koh Samui Hotel Prices and Pattaya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koh Samui $17
    Pattaya $12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Koh Samui

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Koh Samui:


  • Scooter Rental
    $2.07
  • Gas for Scooter
    $1.10
  • Airport Taxi
    $12
  • Taxi- Na Thon Pier to Lamai Beach
    $12
  • Minibus- Airport to Chaweng
    $3.31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Koh Samui

Also for Koh Samui, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • The Red Baron Luxury Yacht Cruise from Koh Samui with Return Transfer: $149
  • ATV And Zipline Experience on Koh Samui with Transfer: $112
  • Ethical Elephant Home Guided Tour with Transfers: $83
  • Flyboard 15 minutes in Koh Samui beach + Roundtrip Transfer: $81
  • Private Transfer from Ko Samui Airport to Ko Samui Port: $75
  • Private Transfer from Ko Samui Cruise Port to Ko Samui Hotels: $75
  • Private Transfer from Ko Samui Port to Ko Samui Airport (USM): $75
  • Guided Zipline Adventure in Ko Samui with Round Trip Transfer: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Koh Samui Airports to Hotel by Minivan: $70
  • Private Transfer from Ko Samui Port to Ko Samui Island Hotels: $67
  • Private Transfer from Ko Samui Port to Ko Samui Airport (USM): $67
  • Private Transfer from Taling Ngam to Samui (USM) Airport: $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pattaya

Also for Pattaya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Surat Thani Hotel Transfer: to/from Bangkok Hotel Transfer: $429
  • Skydive from 13,000 Feet with Hotel Transfers: $234
  • Paramotor Experience in Pattaya Include Pickup Transfer: $178
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Hua Hin: $171
  • Pattaya Hotel Transfer: to/from Hua Hin Hotel Transfer: $163
  • Full Day Catamaran Tour with Lunch & Transfer: $156
  • Pattaya Hotel Transfer: to/from Hua Hin Hotel Transfer: $144
  • Bangkok Private Transfer from Pattaya city to Bangkok (BKK) Airport: $144
  • Private Transfer from Pattaya to Don Mueang (DMK) Airport: $143
  • Pattaya Hotel Transfer: to/from Hua Hin Hotel Transfer: $132
  • Private Transfer from Rayong to Don Mueang (DMK) Airport: $121
  • Private Transfer from Laem Chabang to Don Mueang (DMK) Airport: $113

Is it cheaper to fly into Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Prices for flights to both Pattaya and Koh Samui change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Koh Samui $20
    Pattaya $22
Typical Food Prices in Koh Samui

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Koh Samui:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $5.93

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Koh Samui

For Koh Samui, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Romantic 4-Course Dinner for Two on the Beach by the Amari Samui: $44
  • Cooking Class with Herbal Garden by Amari Koh Samui: $52
  • Koh Samui Sunset Dinner Cruise by RED BARON: $61
  • Thai Cooking Class with Local Market Tour in Koh Samui: $69
  • Thai Cooking Class & Organic Micro Farm Experience - Farm to Table. Since 2015: $71
  • Thai Cooking Class with Local Market Tour in Koh Samui: $71
  • Koh Samui Sunset Dinner Cruise: $73
  • Cooking Class in Ko Samui for Small Group : $73
  • Thai Cooking Class with Local Market Tour: $73
  • Koh Samui Jungle Kitchen - Half Day Cooking Class: $79
  • Thai Cooking Class in Koh Samui: $80
  • Red Baron Romantic Sunset Dinner Cruise: $90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pattaya

For Pattaya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pattaya Night Guided Tour with Dinner: $47
  • Thai Cooking Class in Pattaya: $60
  • Islands Hopping Tour by Catamaran with Dinner Buffet in Chon Buri: $60
  • From 3 Island Catamaran Tour with Dinner Buffet: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koh Samui $11
    Pattaya $21

Tours and Activities in Koh Samui

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Koh Samui.

  • 4WD Buggy RZR. Tour 3 hrs. for 1-2 people per Buggy: $247
  • 6 Hrs Off Road 4x4 Adventure of Hidden Gems In Koh Samui Hills 1 - 4 persons: $120
  • 6 Hrs Off Road 4x4 Adventure of Hidden Gems In Koh Samui Hills 5 - 8 Persons: $148
  • Koh Samui Island ATV Quad Bike Adventure: $51
  • Koh Samui Nauti Ark Bar Boat Party Cruise: $70
  • Pig Island Experience By Speed Boat, Snorkeling, Kayaking Relaxing on the Beach: $50
  • Private Tour in Koh Samui Waterfall And Mummified Monk Temple: $198
  • koh samui island and water fall tour: $44
  • zip line adventure on mountain (8 Platforms 1200 m.): $51
  • 2 Day Halfmoon Festival Experience General Admission Pass: $62
  • 2-Hour Koh Samui ATV Quad Tour: $52
  • 2.5-Hours ATV Jungle Adventure Experience from Koh Phangan: $108

Tours and Activities in Pattaya

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pattaya.

  • Amazing Pattaya Experience Tour to All Famous Points in One Day: $56
  • 1 Hour ATV Off Road Adventure In Pattaya: $63
  • 3 Days Thailand Motorcycle Coastal Tour: $1,079
  • 5 Days – Motorcycle tour to River Kwai and Khao Yai: $1,798
  • 6 Hour Private Selfie City Tour in the Landmark of Pattaya: $91
  • A Superstar Model Experience in Pattaya with Photo Expert: $114
  • ATV & Buggy Off-Road Adventures in Pattaya: $97
  • Admission Ticket to Ramayana Water Park in Pattaya: $34
  • Adventure Coral Island Koh Larn Pattaya with Indian Lunch: $7.98
  • Alcazar Cabaret Show Tickets: $21
  • All Star Cabaret Cruise Pattaya with Indian Buffet Lunch: $43
  • Amazing Discovery Pattaya Tours with Floating Market & Lunch : $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koh Samui $4.68
    Pattaya $8.27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Pattaya, we can see that Pattaya is more expensive. And not only is Koh Samui much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Samui would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Samui and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Pattaya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pattaya than you might in Koh Samui.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Samui Expensive? and Is Pattaya Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Pattaya has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Pattaya, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Koh Samui or Pattaya?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Pattaya in the Summer?

Both Pattaya and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In July, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Pattaya. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Pattaya. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Pattaya fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Koh Samui 24°C (76°F) 
    Pattaya 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Koh Samui or Pattaya in the Autumn?

Both Pattaya and Koh Samui during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round.

December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya. Pattaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pattaya. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Samui is cooler than Pattaya in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Pattaya fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Koh Samui 24°C (75°F) 
    Pattaya 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Koh Samui or Pattaya in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Pattaya. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. In January, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Pattaya. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Koh Samui is cooler than Pattaya. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Pattaya averages at about 27°C (80°F).


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Koh Samui 22°C (72°F) 
    Pattaya 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Koh Samui or Pattaya in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Pattaya. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year.

Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Pattaya. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Pattaya. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Pattaya fluctuates around 30°C (86°F).


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Koh Samui 24°C (76°F) 
    Pattaya 30°C (86°F)

Typical Weather for Pattaya and Koh Samui

Koh Samui Pattaya
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 22°C (72°F) 51 mm (2 in) 27°C (80°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Feb 22°C (72°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 28°C (82°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 29°C (85°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 24°C (76°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 30°C (86°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 25°C (77°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 30°C (85°F) 202 mm (7.9 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 29°C (85°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 24°C (76°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 29°C (84°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 24°C (76°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 29°C (84°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 196 mm (7.7 in) 28°C (83°F) 232 mm (9.1 in)
Oct 24°C (75°F) 240 mm (9.5 in) 28°C (82°F) 258 mm (10.2 in)
Nov 23°C (74°F) 335 mm (13.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 23°C (73°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 27°C (80°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)